Mexico's construction materials giant CEMEX Cemex announced that its consolidated net sales for the third quarter of 2003 were US$1.8 billion, increasing 7% in dollar terms compared with the same period in 2002. The company said the growth was due to higher sales in Mexico, Spain, Colombia, Egypt, Central America, and the Caribbean as well as in Asia.

The company's consolidated cement sales volume during the quarter was 16.9 million metric tons, up 5% with the third quarter of 2002, while ready-mix volumes were 10% higher, at 5.6 million cu yd. Free cash flow for the third quarter was US$384 million, up 77% in dollar terms. EBITDA increased 13% to US$570 million.

Cemex's Mexican operations reported net sales of US$663 million in the third quarter, a 5% growth. Domestic gray cement sales volumes increased 1% for the quarter. In the United States, Cemex's net sales were US$471 million, 1% lower than the third quarter of 2002. Cement sales volumes increased 3% due mainly to pent up demand built during the previous quarter as a result of bad weather in the Southeast, combined with strong Midwest sales.

Cemex Colombia's net sales were US$59 million, up 19% versus the year-ago period. The company's operations in Central America and the Caribbean reported quarterly net sales of US$151 million, up 4%.

Herdon, Va.-based LAFARGE NORTH AMERICA reported a third-quarter 2003 net income of $225.3 million, which include $78 million from cement-related divestment gains and discontinued operations of its Florida cement operations in August. The results compare with third-quarter 2002 results of $142.9 million.

All business segments reported higher operating income year-over-year as volumes rebounded in response to more seasonal weather conditions, many product lines saw price gains, and cost performance continued to improve. In addition, the company's gypsum operations returned to profitability during the quarter. Net sales from continuing operations were up 8% over last year to $1.163 billion.

Operating income during the third quarter from cement and cement-related product improved 2% to $138 million. The results are said to reflect increase sales volumes, decreased fixed manufacturing costs, and a stronger Canadian dollar. Net sales, excluding Lafarge Florida, were $414 million, up 7% from the previous year's third quarter.