Cement sales in Pakistan saw a significant rise in October 2025, with local dispatches increasing by 15.17% year-on-year, reaching 3.926 million tons compared to 3.409 million tons in the same month last year, according to data released by the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA).
Total cement dispatches for October 2025, which includes both domestic and export volumes, amounted to 4.754 million tons, reflecting a 5.87% increase from 4.490 million tons in October 2024. The surge in domestic sales was driven by robust local demand, although the export sector continued to struggle.
Export Sales Drop Significantly
Despite the overall increase in cement dispatches, export volumes fell sharply. Cement exports saw a 23.44% decline year-on-year, dropping from 1.081 million tons in October 2024 to just 0.827 million tons in October 2025. The APCMA expressed concern that if this decline in export performance continues, it could jeopardize the sector’s recovery.
“If the decline continues, it may dent hopes of the cement sector’s revival,” an APCMA spokesperson warned, urging the government to introduce measures that would make the sector more competitive in international markets.
Regional Performance Overview
Regionally, North-based cement mills saw a strong performance, dispatching 3.525 million tons in October 2025, which represents a 15.03% increase from the 3.064 million tons dispatched in October 2024. In contrast, South-based mills experienced a decline in dispatches, with volumes dropping by 13.81% to 1.23 million tons, compared to 1.425 million tons in the same month last year.
Exports from the North-based mills also suffered, with a 27.79% decrease in shipments to just 146,478 tons, while South-based mills saw a 22.43% drop in exports, falling to 680,903 tons.
Year-to-Date Performance
Looking at the first four months of the current fiscal year, North-based mills have reported an 18.15% increase in total dispatches, reaching 12.547 million tons, while South-based mills saw a more modest 8.92% increase, dispatching 4.718 million tons.
The APCMA is calling on the government to take immediate steps to revive the export sector and help mitigate the challenges posed by the ongoing decline in foreign shipments. Without measures to enhance the competitiveness of Pakistani cement in global markets, the industry may face significant hurdles in its recovery.
The sector’s performance remains a crucial barometer of economic health, with both domestic demand and export capabilities playing key roles in the overall success of the cement industry in Pakistan.