Cement Sales Surge 16% in First Quarter of FY26: APCMA Reports Strong Growth. Pakistan’s cement industry has shown remarkable growth in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, posting a 16.25% year-on-year increase in total dispatches, according to data released by the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA).
The industry dispatched 12.161 million tonnes in this period, compared to 10.461 million tonnes in the same quarter last year, reflecting a robust recovery and strong demand in both domestic and export markets.
Domestic Sales Lead the Growth
Domestic sales were the main driver of growth, rising 15.08% to reach 9.573 million tonnes, up from 8.319 million tonnes a year earlier. This shows strong construction activity across Pakistan, with local demand driving the majority of industry performance. Export volumes also increased significantly, posting a 20.81% rise to 2.589 million tonnes from 2.143 million tonnes in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year.
Monthly Performance Highlights
Monthly data for the first quarter reveals that momentum was strongest at the beginning of the period:
- July 2025: Dispatches surged 31.24% month-on-month
- August 2025: Growth continued with 13.47% increase
- September 2025: Growth moderated to 7.05% year-on-year, with total dispatches reaching 4.25 million tonnes, up from 3.97 million tonnes in September 2024
Breaking down the September numbers:
- Local dispatches were 3.418 million tonnes, a 14.38% increase
- Export dispatches fell 15.25% to 831,966 tonnes from 981,646 tonnes in September 2024
Regional Performance: North vs South
North-Based Mills Continue to Dominate
North-based cement mills dispatched 3.162 million tonnes in September, up 16.41% from 2.717 million tonnes a year earlier. Within the domestic market, north-based mills supplied 2.941 million tonnes, a 17.02% increase from 2.513 million tonnes in 2024. Exports from the north rose 8.84% to 221,252 tonnes in September.
South-Based Mills: Mixed Performance
South-based mills saw a decline in total dispatches, falling 13.23% to 1.09 million tonnes from 1.253 million tonnes last year. Domestic dispatches increased only marginally by 0.41%, reaching 476,465 tonnes, while exports dropped sharply 21.54% to 610,714 tonnes from 778,366 tonnes in September 2024.
Quarterly Dispatch Analysis (July–September FY26)
For the first quarter, north-based mills:
- Domestic dispatches rose 13.65% to 8.010 million tonnes
- Exports surged 30.49% to 661,866 tonnes
- Total dispatches increased 14.78% to 8.672 million tonnes
South-based mills also reported growth:
- Domestic dispatches rose 22.99% to 1.562 million tonnes
- Exports increased 17.8% to 1.926 million tonnes
- Total dispatches climbed 20.07% to 3.489 million tonnes
Industry Outlook and Government Support
An APCMA spokesperson noted that the cement industry could perform even better if the government provided relief on duties and taxes, which would ultimately benefit consumers and stimulate construction. “Significant rehabilitation work is required following the devastating floods, and we expect cooperation from the government,” the spokesperson added.
Analysts expect that post-flood reconstruction and ongoing infrastructure projects will drive demand for cement in the coming months. Regional strategies, particularly for north-based and south-based mills, will remain key to maximizing domestic and export sales.
Key Takeaways from FY26 Q1 Cement Performance
- Total dispatches increased 16.25% year-on-year, reaching 12.161 million tonnes
- Domestic sales grew 15.08%, export sales rose 20.81%
- North-based mills dominate both domestic and export markets
- South-based mills show strong growth in exports but slower domestic sales increases
- Post-flood reconstruction and infrastructure projects expected to further boost demand
Conclusion
Pakistan’s cement industry started FY26 with strong momentum, driven by robust domestic demand and healthy export growth. North-based mills continue to lead in both domestic and export markets, while south-based mills contribute significantly to overall sector growth, particularly in exports. With government support on duties and taxes, ongoing construction projects, and post-flood rehabilitation work, the cement industry is expected to maintain its growth trajectory, supporting economic development and infrastructure recovery across Pakistan.
