Pakistan's cement industry has reported a significant uptick in export performance for the first five months of the current fiscal year, signaling positive momentum for a key industrial sector. Official data reveals a double-digit growth in dollar terms compared to the same period last year.
Strong Five-Month Performance
According to the latest figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the country's cement exports reached $151.133 million during the period from July to November in the 2025-26 fiscal year. This marks a substantial increase of 11.48 percent when measured against the export earnings of $135.574 million recorded in the corresponding months (July-November) of the previous fiscal year, 2024-25.
The growth story is also reflected in the quantity shipped overseas. In terms of volume, cement exports rose by 3.12 percent, climbing from 3,739,387 metric tons last year to 3,855,975 metric tons in the current fiscal year's first five months.
Monthly Fluctuations Present a Mixed Picture
While the cumulative data is encouraging, a month-by-month analysis shows considerable volatility. The PBS data highlights a sharp year-on-year decline of 46.32 percent for the single month of November 2025. Exports for that month stood at $16.617 million, a significant drop from the $30.957 million achieved in November 2024.
However, the monthly trend shows a strong sequential recovery. On a month-on-month basis, cement exports in November 2025 witnessed a robust increase of 53.21 percent compared to the exports of $10.845 million in October 2025. This indicates a potential rebound from a lower base in the previous month.
Implications for Trade and Industry
The overall growth in cement exports for the five-month period is a positive development for Pakistan's trade balance and its industrial sector. The cement industry is a major employer and a barometer for construction activity, both domestically and in key export markets. The increase in export value, which outpaces the growth in quantity, suggests possible improvements in product mix, pricing, or market diversification.
Nevertheless, the severe year-on-year contraction seen in November 2025 serves as a cautionary note. It underscores the sector's susceptibility to global market demand fluctuations, logistical challenges, and competitive pressures. Industry stakeholders and policymakers will need to monitor these trends closely to sustain the positive five-month trajectory and address the underlying causes of monthly volatility.
The data, compiled and verified by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, remains the authoritative source for the country's trade and economic metrics.
