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Some construction companies in Fiji have had to temporarily lay off staff with cement shortage still being felt by the industry.
At least for one company, Raghwan Construction, about six projects are on hold as a result.
According to Deo Construction Limited, two major projects on Denarau Island are on hold and the company has sent 30 workers home.
Fiji Master Builders Association president Vijay Raghwan said the matter was under control to some extent but it has to be addressed hastily.
He said while the bigger construction companies were managing, smaller companies had resorted to laying off staff and recalling them later when the cement arrives.
The industry has sent 70 workers home with 100 more to go home next week until cement supply normalises.
Raghwan said cement was a necessity for any construction company.
Prasad Home Builders director Birendra Prasad said all workers who dealt with cement were told to take time off and focus is right now on other material like roofing and electrical.
Meanwhile Fiji Industries Limited, a subsidy of Fijian Holdings Limited, said cement supply would normalise by July 25.
The next clinker shipment arrives on July 23 and milling will commence as materials are discharged.
