Pakistan cement dispatches grow in July

In Pakistan, domestic cement sales volumes reached 1.8 million t in July, up from 1.73 million t in July 2014 thanks to increasing construction activity in the country. Even more growth had been expected but wasn’t realised due to heavy rains in many parts of the country.

Exports were down at 465 000 t from 503 000 t, a decline of 7.45%. The All Pakistan Manufacturers Association (APCMA) attributed this decline to non-tariff barriers erected by Indian authorities and an increase in exports from Iran to Afghanistan, one of Pakistan’s key markets. Exports to Afghanistan fell by 6000 t to 178 000 t, while exports to India dropped by 20 000 t or around 32%. Increases in import duty on coal and higher taxes are also putting a strain on producers.

Edited from various sources by Katherine Guenioui

Sources:

• Daily Times
• The Nation
• The Tribune
• Pakistan Observer

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/asia-pacific-rim/10082015/pakistan-cement-dispatches-grow-in-july-296/