Cement sales rise 8% in 1QFY27 as exports fall 11.31%

Total cement despatches increase 4% to 13.141 million tonnes in July-September; capacity utilisation reaches 51% in September Pakistan's domestic cement sales increased 8% YoY to 10.845 million tonnes during the first quarter of FY27, compared with 10.062 million tonnes in the same period last year, indicating an improvement in local construction activity. Export despatches, however, declined 11.31% to 2.296 million tonnes during July-September from 2.589 million tonnes in 1QFY26. As a result, total cement despatches, including domestic sales and exports, rose 4% to 13.141 million tonnes during the quarter. According to data released by the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA), local cement despatches stood at 3.788 million tonnes in September, up 7.35% from 3.529 million tonnes in the corresponding month last year. Exports remained almost unchanged at 832,173 tonnes compared with 831,966 tonnes in September 2025. Overall cement despatches increased 6% YoY to 4.621 million tonnes in September from 4.361 million tonnes a year earlier. An APCMA spokesperson expressed concern over the decline in exports and continued volatility in energy prices, while expressing hope that an easing of geopolitical tensions would improve conditions for cement and allied industries. Topline Securities estimated total cement capacity utilisation at 51% in September, compared with 50% in September 2025 and 47% in August 2026. Average retail cement prices increased 10% YoY to Rs1,550 per bag in September from Rs1,408 per bag a year earlier, mainly due to higher fuel and transportation costs.