Cement despatches rise 6% in July

Local sales up 17% as exports plunge nearly 30%

LAHORE:

Cement despatches increased by 6.02% in July 2026, with total volumes reaching 4.476 million tonnes compared to 4.222 million tonnes during the same month last year, according to data released by the All-Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA).

Local despatches by the industry rose 17.28% to 3.771 million tonnes in July 2026 from 3.215 million tonnes in July 2025. However, exports fell sharply by 29.95% to 705,341 tonnes from 1.007 million tonnes in the same period last year.

North-based mills despatched 3.092 million tonnes in July 2026, up 9.46% from 2.825 million tonnes a year earlier. South-based mills despatched 1.383 million tonnes, down 0.95% from 1.397 million tonnes.

In domestic markets, North-based mills despatched 3.092 million tonnes in July 2026, showing an increase of 19.25% against 2.593 million tonnes in July 2025. South-based mills despatched 678,147 tonnes in local markets during July 2026, up 9.07% from 621,744 tonnes in July 2025.

Exports from North-based mills, which stood at 231,985 tonnes in July 2025, were completely absent in July 2026. Exports from the South fell 8.98% to 705,341 tonnes from 774,966 tonnes during the same month last year.

A spokesman for the All-Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association said local uptake could further boost if the government reduces duties and taxes on cement, which would benefit end consumers. He said cement is not a luxury item but an essential commodity for the masses, and with heavy rains affecting most parts of the country, the government should provide necessary relief for rehabilitation of affected areas.