US$100 million cement factory to be constructed on E’bo Coast

Jun 24, 2021 News

By Romario Blair

CEO of Go-Invest, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop [left] and CEO, Mr. Vijay Sukhdeo [right] turning the sod.

Kaieteur News – A new variety of cement will soon be added to the Guyanese market, following the construction and commissioning of a proposed Cement Plant on the Essequibo Coast. During the sod turning for the plant yesterday, the brand ‘Hydraulic Cement’ was unveiled.Kaieteur News understands that the plant will operate under the Georgetown Cement Company, for which Mr. Vijay Sukhdeo is the Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Sukhdeo, who hails from Wakenaam Island, migrated to the United States at the age of 17 and has some 30 years of experience in his business.
During yesterday’s ceremony, which was hosted at the proposed site at Maria’s Delight, Essequibo Coast, it was revealed that the project is pegged at US$100 million. Kaieteur News was told that the project should commence later this year and is expected to be completed within a year’s time.The company’s CEO revealed that the plant will be producing both white and grey cement in an unprecedented quality at 50,000 metric tons per month.

The proposed site for the plant.

He added, “Once completed, the plant will utilise both French and German technology, producing grey and white cement. Our aim is to complete within 12 to 13 months so we can start grinding cement right after.”
The Prime Minister’s representative to Region Two, Arnold Adams, said that the plant will be the first mega investment in the Region within the manufacturing sector. Adams pointed out that the project will have multiple economic advantages to the Region.
The CEO, Mr. Sukhdeo, stressed on the economic advantages, noting that cement within Guyana will be much more affordable.
It is expected that residents will benefit tremendously as they will benefit from cement at a cheaper price. “We decided to step in because of the cement demand and price for the product presently. Instead of importing the finished product, we will be importing the ingredients like iron ore and line stone gypsum. The entire process will be done locally, and since the cost of production is cheaper in Essequibo, we will be able to produce at an affordable price, thus selling for an affordable price.”
Commenting on the quality of the cement, Sukhdeo said, “Hydraulic Cement is great for sea defence and stands up longer to salt air… it’s trying time is 30 minutes longer than that of all-purpose cement, but it allows for the cement to have a better bonding.”
The Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, was also present at yesterday’s sod turning. During his remarks, the High Commissioner also focused on the economic advantages and the development of local content. “Guyana is set for a take-off. If you look at the cost of importing cement to Guyana, you will realise that there’s an excess drain on your country. But in producing, you will not only be saving foreign exchange but also earning. Also, this project will create employment for some 200 persons right here in your Region.”
Kaieteur News understands that the plant will not only be supporting all of Guyana with Hydraulic Cement but will also be supplying other Caribbean countries, including Suriname. Also present at yesterday’s sod turning was CEO of Go-Invest, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop.

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