The cement shortage in Pakistan resulted in a 6.81% drop in July 2024 sales, with a total of 3,010,000 tons sold.
The All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association noted that July’s figures mark a significant decline from the 3,230,000 tons sold in July 2023. Domestic sales this July reached 2,463,000 tons, down 11.41% year-on-year. In contrast, cement exports saw a 21.65% increase to 547,162 tons from 449,792 tons in the previous year.
A spokesperson from the association highlighted the impact of escalating taxes and operational costs on the cement industry, calling on the government to revise its taxation policies. This plea comes as local cement demand falls for the 11th consecutive month, attributed to sluggish economic conditions.
The industry supports the government’s efforts to formalize the economy but criticizes the push to involve small retailers in a complex sales tax framework, arguing that it won’t significantly boost revenue. Cement, classified as a third schedule item, includes sales tax in its retail price, which manufacturers already pay.
