Pakistan cement prices rise by PKR5/bag

Cement prices in Pakistan have increased by PKR5/50kg bag to PKR440-445 (~US$4.6) in various areas of the country,  the Pakistan Observer reports.

The rise is being attributed to a recent hike in coal prices which have seen an increment of around 10 per cent over the last three weeks."Cement industry experts said that during FY12, cement prices have followed an upward trend and posted an increase of nine per cent.

Moreover, the Lahore High Court has ordered the construction of much delayed and debated Kalabagh Dam (KBD), in light of the decision of the Council of Common Interests (CCI). If construction kicks off, the project would require 8-10Mt of cement over a of 6-7 years period. With their close proximity to the proposed construction site, they believe that Maple Leave Cement, Pioneer Cement, DG Khan Cement and and Bestway Cement would emerge as the major beneficiaries if the KDB gets the green light.