Cement Sales in Pakistan Rise by 15% in October 2025 | APCMA Report

Cement dispatches in Pakistan showed a strong recovery in October 2025, as total domestic sales surged 15.17% year-on-year, reaching 3.926 million tons compared to 3.409 million tons in the same month last year, according to the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA).

Overall Cement Dispatches Show Growth

The total cement dispatches, including domestic and export markets, stood at 4.754 million tons in October 2025 — up 5.87% from 4.490 million tons in October 2024. This increase highlights renewed strength in the construction and infrastructure sectors, supported by public and private development projects.

However, despite the domestic growth, the export segment of the cement industry faced significant challenges, recording a 23.44% decline year-on-year. Export volumes fell from 1.081 million tons in October 2024 to 0.827 million tons in October 2025.

Domestic Demand Drives Recovery

The cement industry’s recovery is largely attributed to the surge in local construction activity, driven by residential and infrastructure development across Pakistan. The demand spike in northern regions, particularly Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has helped offset the fall in exports.

According to the APCMA, North-based cement mills dispatched 3.525 million tons in October 2025, up 15.03% from 3.064 million tons last year. Conversely, South-based mills recorded a 13.81% drop, dispatching 1.23 million tons compared to 1.425 million tons in October 2024.

Export Decline Raises Concerns

While domestic growth is encouraging, the persistent decline in exports remains a major concern for the sector. Exports from North-based mills dropped 27.79%, totaling 146,478 tons, while South-based mills reported a 22.43% decrease, falling to 680,903 tons.

The APCMA warned that if the export slump continues, it could affect the industry’s overall profitability and hinder hopes for a complete recovery. The association urged the government to implement export-friendly policies to make Pakistani cement more competitive in international markets.

Four-Month Performance Overview

During the first four months of the fiscal year 2025–26, North-based mills reported a robust 18.15% rise in total dispatches, reaching 12.547 million tons, while South-based mills saw an 8.92% increase to 4.718 million tons.

These figures show that despite regional disparities, overall cement demand in Pakistan continues to strengthen. The increase in local infrastructure projects, including highways, housing, and dams, is expected to sustain the upward trend.

Industry Outlook: Challenges and Opportunities

Industry experts remain optimistic about the sector’s future, noting that Pakistan’s domestic market has shown resilience even amid global economic uncertainty. The construction boom, supported by government infrastructure programs, is likely to drive further growth in 2026.

However, challenges remain — including rising fuel costs, foreign exchange pressures, and the declining export demand due to reduced global construction activity. The APCMA emphasized the need for policy reforms, including better logistics, reduced taxes, and easier access to export markets.

APCMA Calls for Government Support

An APCMA spokesperson highlighted the urgent need for government assistance to help stabilize the industry. “If the export decline continues, it may dent hopes of the cement sector’s revival,” the spokesperson said, calling for incentives to boost production efficiency and global competitiveness.

Experts suggest that trade diversification, regional partnerships, and adopting sustainable cement manufacturing technologies could strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global market.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s cement industry continues to demonstrate resilience with solid domestic demand and overall growth in October 2025. Yet, the decline in exports underscores the need for immediate policy action to maintain the sector’s momentum. With strategic reforms and investment in sustainability, Pakistan’s cement sector can achieve long-term stability and growth.