Gianyar, Bali (ANTARA News) - PT Holcim Indonesia Tbk.`s plant in Tuban, East Java, is projected to be able to increase its production capacity by up to 15 percent.

"We are projecting production capacity in Tuban of up to 1.7 million tons a year," the company`s relationship management director, Rusli Setiawan, said here on Saturday.

Holcim`s total cement production from two plants in Cilacap, Central Java, and Narogong, Bogor, West Java, at present reaches 8.3 million tons a year. With the increased production in Tuban there would be an increase of around 15 percent in total production capacity.

Holcim`s cement production plant in Tuban was built on December 15, 201 with an investment of US$450 million. "It is hoped in the fourth quarter, the plant would be operational so that we could expand markets in Bali," he said when met on the sidelines of the launch of a concrete tile plant in Banjarbatu, Gianyar.

Rusli said cement demand in Bali reaches 120,000 tons a month or 1.5 million tons a year. Of the total market Holcim controls 16 percent with supply from Cilacap.

"Cement needs in Bali are strong. We do not only offer cement in bags but also other cement products such as concrete tiles, concrete materials and other ready-used construction materials," he said.

Holcim Concrete president director, Derek Williamson, earlier officiated at the opening of batching plant on Jalan By Pass in Ngurah Rai, Denpasar. The plant is able to produce concrete materials up to 60 meter cubic per hour.

Holcim meanwhile has also set up a "Simple House Solution" outlet to help people with consultation service in building healthy low cost homes.

Holcim`s cement sales nationally are ranked third after PT Semen Gresik and PT Indocement. Around 77.33 percent of the company`s shares are held and managed by Hoderfin BV Ltd., a subsidiary of Holcim Ltd. based in Switzerland.
(T.M038/H-YH/HAJM)

Editor: Priyambodo RH
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