The Pakistan Government is keen to bring cement prices down to Rs 280 per bag to give relief to consumer. This was said by Kamran Rasool Secretary Ministry of Industries, Production and Special Initiatives in a meeting with All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA) here Tuesday.

He explained that due to increase in prices of cement, the entire reform process of the government is being hurt. He further said that Government intends to provide relief to the common man that’s why the Government has allowed import of cement at zero customs duty as well as without withholding tax. In addition, freight subsidy of Rs. 60 per bag has also been allowed for import of cement. The Secretary urged APCMA to increase supply of cement in the local market so that cement prices be stabilized.

APCMA also agreed to keep moratorium on export of cement even beyond 30th April 2006. APCMA informed the meeting that they plan to set up some new plants in next 18 months. However, APCMA expressed apprehensions regarding some decisions of ECC. The secretary assured that the Government will continue to protect local cement industry and it will be fully supported in setting up new plants.