Journalists

The new Bazian plant, inaugurated on April 8th, 2009, is located in the Iraqi Kurdistan region and results from the acquisition of Orascom Cement. With an annual capacity of 2.5 million tons of cement, it meets the country's growing need for building materials: the cement market is growing by 15% per annum in Iraq. We examine the state of the Iraqi market and the challenges of emerging markets for the Group...

Emerging countries account for 80% of the world's cement consumption and are a key development priority for the Group. Focus on the acquisition of Orascom Cement, 1 year after; on Egypt and its intense urbanization; on the United Arab Emirates and their ambitious projects of architecture.

On the occasion of the 2008 third quarter results, the Group announced:

• a costs reduction by 400 million euros for 2009-2011,
• the limitation of total capital expenditure to 2 billion euros in 2009,
• a divestment program beyond the 1 billion euros target by the end of 2009.

On December 2007, Lafarge acquired Orascom Cement, the leading cement group in the Middle East and the Mediterranean Basin. This operation is a decisive acceleration of the Group's strategy in fast-growing, highly profitable emerging markets.

In 2007, 80% of the world's cement market is consumed in emerging countries. In response to the 5% world's annual growth, Lafarge launched an ambitious program to increase its cement capacities as part of its "2008 Excellence" strategic plan. Besides this economic development, Lafarge has been pursuing a strategy of sustainable development with local communities. Kenya and Uganda are two examples of high-potential markets.

At a conference day devoted to Group analysts and investors, Bruno Lafont, Chairman and C.E.O. of Lafarge, presented a progress report on the 2008 Excellence strategic plan, a year after its launch. The report focused on health and safety goals, cost reduction, innovation, value-added products and business development.

Lafarge aspires to rank alongside the world's most efficient industrial groups in terms of sustainable development. Learn about our objectives and indicators.

Cost reductions, a strategy for sustainable growth and work safety are the commitments set forth in the 2008 Excellence plan. Launched in 2006 by Bruno Lafont, this plan expresses the Group's determination to be the best in its sector.

Find out about Lafarge's activities in China, including its main corporate locations and key dates.

High-growth markets are one of the main vectors of the Group's development. From acquisitions to the development of new production capacities: learn about Lafarge's investment strategies in these countries.

The Lafarge Shui On Cement joint venture between Lafarge and S.O.C.A.M., announced the acquisition of Shuangma Investment Group in August 2005. This purchase reinforces Lafarge's position in the province of Sichuan.

Lafarge and Shui On Construction and Materials Limited (S.O.C.A.M.), a leading cement manufacturer in southwest China, have concluded a joint venture agreement. The 2 partners are combining their cement plants and their production capacities. Lafarge is contributing its expertise and know-how in building materials, while S.O.C.A.M. brings its reputation and experience in the Chinese market. This strategic alliance is set to create the leader in cement in southwest China and rank among the top 3 cement producers in the country.