Government set to impose higher rates on energy intensive industries.

First quarter earnings for cement companies in the region increased 16.9%.

May dispatches fell by 1% as transport woes crept up.

Province still dealing with excess output, amid sagging demand.

Volume of exports increased by double digits in the first four months of the year.

First quarter numbers better year on year.

Country is now fourth largest producer of cement in the world.

No shortage noted in Chlef, but prices on the rise.

Cement sales suffered on seasonality, industry says.

Recovery in demand reflected in May numbers.