Overview: Mixed Cement Price Trends Across Pakistan
The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) released its weekly data on cement prices for the week ending October 2, 2025, showing a mixed regional picture. While the national average for a 50-kg bag suggests stability, price movements across northern and southern markets reveal heterogeneity driven by supply dynamics, fuel costs, and recent flood-related disruptions.
National Snapshot: Stability Amid Local Fluctuations
Across the country, the average retail price for a 50-kg bag stood at Rs 1,381 in northern cities, marking a marginal decrease of 0.10% from the prior week’s Rs 1,382. In southern cities, the price remained steady at Rs 1,449 per bag. This juxtaposition indicates overall price stability at the national level despite regional volatility.
Northern Region: Subtle Shifts by City
Within the north, city-level prices varied slightly, highlighting localized supply conditions. Key figures include:
- Islamabad: Rs 1,357
- Rawalpindi: Rs 1,361
- Gujranwala: Rs 1,420
- Sialkot: Rs 1,380
- Lahore: Rs 1,428
- Faisalabad: Rs 1,380
- Sargodha: Rs 1,370
- Multan: Rs 1,416
- Bahawalpur: Rs 1,450
- Peshawar: Rs 1,350
- Bannu: Rs 1,280 (lowest in the region)
The spread underscores how market dynamics—ranging from trucking costs to local demand—can produce noticeable price differences even within relatively close geographic areas.
Southern Region: Higher Averages, but with Variability
In the south, consumers encountered a different price trajectory, with a higher regional average and distinct city-level variations. Reported prices include:
- Karachi: Rs 1,367
- Hyderabad: Rs 1,427
- Sukkur: Rs 1,500
- Larkana: Rs 1,407
- Quetta: Rs 1,510
- Khuzdar: Rs 1,483
These figures reflect a general uptick in several southern markets, potentially tied to logistics, weather-related reconstruction needs, and regional demand cycles.
What Is Behind the Regional Variations?
Experts point to a mix of factors influencing the regional disparities observed in PBS data. Flood-related disruptions earlier this year disrupted manufacturing and distribution networks in multiple provinces, increasing transport costs and delaying delivery times. Temporary supply constraints in northern hubs, coupled with ongoing reconstruction projects in flood-affected areas, may also contribute to the uneven pricing landscape.
Implications for Builders, Homeowners, and Policymakers
For builders and homeowners budgeting for projects, the PBS report suggests:
- Expect minor price volatility within cities, with potential spikes in southern markets where demand is steadier or reconstruction activity is higher.
- Factor in regional transport costs and potential supply delays when sourcing cement for large-scale projects.
- Policymakers may monitor price stability indicators closely to prevent price shocks, especially in flood-affected regions that rely on timely construction inputs.
Looking Ahead
As reconstruction efforts continue in flood-affected regions, cement supply chains are likely to adapt. While the PBS data show overall price stability, regional fluctuations may persist in the near term, underscoring the importance of robust logistics planning for construction projects across Pakistan.
