Concerns over a possible Seychelles cement shortage were raised in the National Assembly, with the government saying it will inform the public if supplies run low and take steps to restock.
The issue emerged on Tuesday 31 March during a session of the National Assembly. The Leader of the Opposition, Bernard Georges, questioned the Minister for Finance, Economic Planning, Trade and Investment, Pierre Laporte, on the availability of cement in the country.
“Is there cement in the country? Is there a shortage of cement?” Mr Georges asked.
He raised the matter as a supplementary question following an earlier urgent question.
During the session, several observers noted a tense exchange between the two politicians. There were repeated attempts by Mr Georges to seek clarification on the issue.
In response, Mr Laporte said discussions are ongoing with suppliers. However, he did not give a direct answer on current stock levels.
“We are in discussion with companies that import cement into the country. It is not a surprise that there are certain commodities which, when a crisis arises, such as oil, require us to take the necessary steps to ensure there is no shortage in the country,” Mr Laporte said.
He confirmed that the government is also in talks with shipping lines. In addition, he said there are arrangements with the governments of India and Mauritius to help replenish commodities such as cement and fertilisers if stocks fall.
Mr Laporte added that Seychelles is being affected by the crisis in the Gulf. He said this situation is not unusual.
Earlier, Mr Georges had asked whether the government plans to support tourism-related businesses. He referred to the impact of the ongoing war in the Gulf and a reported reduction in tourist arrivals.
Minister Laporte said the situation is affecting small businesses, including taxi operators, car hire services, guesthouses and restaurants.