Bolu Cimento in Turkey reported that full-year 2008 profits declined to 39,3 million liras ($22 million) from 48,4 million liras in 2007, according to a statement on the Istanbul Stock Exchange’s Web site, Bloomberg reported.

Italcementi-controlled Ciments Francais reported a 44% decline in 2008 net profits and said that the company expects 2009 to be another difficult year. Emerging market segment only ray of light in the fourth quarter last year.

Holcim announced that it will mothball two additional cement plants in the US as well as accelerating capacity reductions worldwide to offset slumping demand. Cost cutting to continue and investments to see drastic cuts.

Holcim provided a gloomy outlook after reporting a 54% drop in 2008 net profits on a dramatic collapse in demand worldwide. Profits missed analyst estimates and the company said that it has no plans to acquire HeidelbergCement.

Vicat reported on Monday an 18% decrease in net profits for 2008, hit by declining sales and prices, a rise in energy costs and an increase in financial expenses on a higher debt-load.

Essroc’s Bessemer (Pennsylvania), USA, plant has been idled and may be closed down permanently. Employees were told on Monday that the shutdown process will start at the end of April.