Pakistan’s cement consumption rises over 7% in FY2025-26 despite decline in exports

Pakistan's cement industry recorded steady growth during the fiscal year 2025-26, with domestic demand driving an increase

Pakistan’s cement industry recorded steady growth during the fiscal year 2025-26, with domestic demand driving an increase in overall cement consumption despite a slight decline in exports

The industry body reported that total cement dispatches and consumption during FY2025-26 reached 50.515 million tonnes, representing a 7.21 percent increase compared to the previous fiscal year. The figures reflect improved activity in the country’s construction and infrastructure sectors, which continued to support higher demand for cement throughout the year.

According to the APCMA, the rise in overall consumption was largely fueled by strong domestic sales. Local cement consumption increased by 9.5 percent, reaching approximately 41.5 million tonnes during the fiscal year. The association said the increase indicates a gradual recovery in the construction industry, with both public and private sector projects contributing to higher demand for building materials.

The growth in domestic dispatches comes as Pakistan continues to invest in infrastructure development, housing schemes, and commercial construction projects. Industry analysts believe that improved economic activity, along with renewed construction work in several parts of the country, has played a significant role in boosting cement sales within the local market.

However, while domestic demand strengthened, Pakistan’s cement exports experienced a modest decline during the same period. According to the APCMA, cement exports fell by 2.19 percent, with total overseas shipments standing at 9.008 million tonnes during FY2025-26.

The association did not specify the reasons behind the decline in exports, but industry experts often attribute fluctuations in overseas shipments to changing international demand, increased competition from regional exporters, freight costs, and economic conditions in key export markets.

Despite the slight reduction in export volumes, Pakistan’s cement manufacturers continued to maintain a significant presence in international markets, supplying cement and clinker to several countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Export sales remain an important source of revenue for the industry and help manufacturers diversify beyond the domestic market.

The latest figures suggest that the local construction sector is becoming the primary driver of growth for Pakistan’s cement industry. Increased domestic consumption has helped offset the impact of lower export volumes, enabling the sector to register positive overall growth during the fiscal year.

The APCMA regularly monitors cement production, dispatches, and market trends to provide insights into the performance of one of Pakistan’s key industrial sectors. Cement consumption is widely regarded as an important indicator of economic activity, as it reflects investment in housing, infrastructure, commercial development, and public works projects.

Industry stakeholders remain optimistic about future growth, provided economic conditions remain stable and development projects continue at the current pace. They also stress the importance of maintaining competitive export policies to help Pakistani manufacturers strengthen their position in international markets.

Overall, the latest APCMA statistics present a positive picture for Pakistan’s cement sector. While exports witnessed a marginal decline, the strong rise in domestic consumption resulted in a notable increase in total cement dispatches during FY2025-26, underscoring the industry’s resilience and the growing demand generated by the country’s construction and infrastructure activities.