In a noteworthy development for the construction industry, cement prices in Pakistan have experienced a downward trend in the past week, as reported by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics.
The dip in prices is anticipated to have a positive impact on the construction sector, providing potential relief to builders and developers across the country.
In the northern regions, the average retail price per sack of cement saw a modest 0.57% decrease, settling at Rs 1238 compared to the previous week's Rs1246.
A similar trend was observed in the southern regions, where the average price per sack stood at Rs 1191, reflecting a marginal 0.07% decrease from Rs 1192 in the preceding week.
A detailed breakdown of prices in various cities reveals a dynamic pattern, showcasing the diversity in cement pricing strategies. Islamabad and Rawalpindi both recorded prices at Rs 1216, while Gujranwala reported Rs 1260, and Sialkot at Rs 1280. The bustling city of Lahore observed a rate of Rs 1300, with Faisalabad following closely at Rs 1260.
Southern regions displayed a similar fluctuation, with Multan recording Rs 1234, Bahawalpur at Rs 1250, Peshawar at Rs 1200, Bannu at Rs 1180, Karachi at Rs 1171, and Hyderabad at Rs 1180. These variations underscore the dynamic nature of cement prices, indicating a complex interplay of factors in different parts of the country.
Industry experts believe that the decline in cement prices could stimulate construction activities, encouraging new projects and contributing to the overall economic growth. Builders and contractors are optimistic about the potential cost savings, which may be instrumental in mitigating some of the challenges faced by the construction sector.