The cement industry of Pakistan has reached a critical juncture where strong international demand is meeting the harsh reality of rising global commodity prices. The latest industry report highlights a commendable 6.56% growth in cement exports for March 2026, yet the celebratory mood is tempered by warnings of an impending supply chain crisis.
In March, the industry managed to export 0.648 million tons of cement, contributing to a cumulative 69.4 lakh (6.94 million) tons exported over the last nine months. This 6.25% year-on-year growth in exports proves the resilience of Pakistani cement in the competitive global market. However, the association has raised a red flag regarding the soaring prices of coal and oil.
“The supply chain is currently vulnerable,” the association stated in its latest communique. Since cement production is energy-intensive, any spike in international coal prices directly impacts the cost of production. Furthermore, rising oil prices affect inland and outward transportation costs. If these trends continue, the competitive edge that allowed for a 6.5% export jump in March could be eroded.
Industry experts suggest that while the 9.8% overall growth in the first nine months is encouraging, the final quarter of the fiscal year will be a test of how well manufacturers can manage their input costs without passing the burden entirely to consumers.
| Total Despatch (March) | 3.745 Mn Tons (+0.91%) |
| Local Consumption (March) | 3.097 Mn Tons |
| Exports (March) | 0.648 Mn Tons (+6.56%) |
| 9-Month Total (FY26) | 38.54 Mn Tons (+9.8%) |
| 9-Month Local Sales | 31.60 Mn Tons (+10.61%) |
| 9-Month Exports | 6.94 Mn Tons (+6.25%) |