Pakistan’s cement sales rose 6.02 percent year-on-year to 4.48 million tons in July 2026, as robust domestic consumption more than compensated for a steep drop in exports at the start of the new fiscal year.

Data released by the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA) showed total dispatches reached 4.476 million tons during the month, compared with 4.222 million tons in July 2025.

Domestic cement sales surged 17.28 percent to 3.771 million tons, up from 3.215 million tons a year earlier. Exports, however, tumbled 29.95 percent to 705,341 tons, against 1.007 million tons in the same month last year.

North-based mills dispatched 3.092 million tons, a 9.46 percent increase from 2.825 million tons in July 2025. South-based manufacturers saw a marginal decline of 0.95 percent, with dispatches slipping to 1.383 million tons.

The domestic picture was particularly bright in the northern region, where local dispatches jumped 19.25 percent to 3.092 million tons. South-based mills also posted a 9.07 percent rise in domestic sales, reaching 678,147 tons.

On the export front, the outlook was less favourable. North-based mills reported zero exports during July 2026, compared with 231,985 tons in the corresponding month last year. Exports from the south also fell, declining 8.98 percent to 705,341 tons.

An APCMA spokesperson said domestic cement consumption could rise further if the government reduces duties and taxes on the commodity, arguing that cement is an essential item rather than a luxury good.

The association also called on the government to provide relief for the rehabilitation of areas battered by heavy monsoon rains, noting that such support could bolster construction activity and cement demand.