The High Economic Council (HEC) has decided to re-announce the contract of Jabul Saraj Cement Factory. President Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai rejected the previous contract of Jabul Saraj Cement Factory due to some problems highlighted by the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum.The president ordered the ministry to invite bids for the contract again.The winning company will have to invest US$170m into the project to build 1Mt/yr plant. Previously, a local company won the tendering process to renovate the unit but the High Economic Council has decided to find a company with more industry experience.(20180429)

Background:
The Jabal Saraj cement plant in Parwan has reopened after 20 years. The plant originally closed in 1996 due to the civil war in the country. Local officials have stated that the plant can now produce 100t/day of cement. Provincial governor’s spokesman Wahid Sediqi said the government has invested more than US$1m to help restart operations at the plant. More investment will be required to increase the plant’s production output.(20160411)