Pakistan’s cement dispatches rise 8.57% in May

Pakistan’s cement dispatches in May increased by 8.57%, totaling 4.651 million tons, compared with 4.284 million tons dispatched during the same month last fiscal year, according to data released by the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA).

Local cement dispatches in May 2025 reached 3.662 million tons, up 8.93% from 3.362 million tons in May 2024. Export dispatches also rose 7.27%, increasing from 0.922 million tons in May 2024 to 0.989 million tons in May 2025.

During the first 11 months of the current fiscal year, total cement dispatches (domestic and exports) reached 42.764 million tons, a 2.46% increase from 41.739 million tons during the same period last fiscal year.

Domestic dispatches during this period fell 1.94% to 34.419 million tons, down from 35.102 million tons the previous year. However, export dispatches saw a significant 25.73% increase, rising to 8.345 million tons from 6.637 million tons in the same period last fiscal year.

An APCMA spokesman said the 1.94% decline in domestic demand during the first 11 months of the fiscal year warrants serious examination. He emphasized that domestic demand is crucial for utilizing the sector’s idle capacity and supporting the country’s overall economic growth.

"The cement industry supports many allied industries, such as steel, paint and electrical goods, and increased construction activity would boost the economy as a whole," he said.

The spokesman expressed optimism that the government would consider the industry’s concerns in the upcoming budget and announce measures to reduce duties and taxes on cement, making it more affordable for consumers.