News Analysis |
The All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA) is gearing up for a three-day conference titled “INTERCEM” to be held next month from November 12 to 14. The international cement production and trading conference will feature major cement industry brands, products and technologies in an exhibition taking place for the first time ever in Pakistan.
While speaking to media last Saturday, the Senior Vice Chairman in the APCMA management, Farid Fazal said that high-ranking representatives from the global cement sector are expected to participate in the mega event. INTERCEM would provide the businessmen to meet, discuss, debate with and learn from some of the most renowned and qualified industry leaders.
Cement factories were drawing out deep ground water at unprecedented levels and a solution is in the works after the factory’s activities were shut down earlier.
He also added that INTERCEM would include a broad range of market analyses, interactive presentations and forums for discussion covering the latest advancements in cement production and trade. Industry professionals from both Pakistan and other key regional markets can be able to interact and exchange ideas on best practices, business dealings and other information.
Read more: Rise in Exports reinvigorate Pakistan’s Cement Industry
Pakistan happens to be one of the world’s best performing cement markets in terms of demand growth (up by 15.42% during the fiscal year of 2017). Farid Afzal pointed out how that growth had led to major cement manufacturers around the country to investment heavily in expanding industrial capacity across the country.
Moreover, apart from a burgeoning domestic market, Pakistan’s manufacturers have seen steady success in exporting cement where companies from both North and South regions are supplying 17 countries across South and Central Asia, the Indian Ocean, the GCC and East Africa.
INTERCEM would provide the businessmen to meet, discuss, debate with and learn from some of the most renowned and qualified industry leaders.
However, all is not smooth sailing when it comes to market expansion. Demand is only one side of the equation. And while there has been a boom in housing and infrastructure projects are only expected to raise the figures, there have been supply-side issues in production especially from the Southern regions. Lucky Cement and even DG Khan Cement have experienced decline in profits as compared to last year’s profits. Reasons range from the general elections that were held this year to rising energy costs and low utilization.
Read more: Exceptional growth makes Pakistan’s cement industry eye increased export
Other issues may be environmental, such as the activities of Maple Leaf cement which the Chief Justice of Pakistan had notice of. Located in the proximity of the Katas Raj Temples, locals who consider the temple’s pools to be sacred exhibited alarm over the declining water levels. Nearby cement factories were drawing out deep ground water at unprecedented levels and a solution is in the works after the factory’s activities were shut down earlier.
Pakistan’s passage through a tough year has already pushed the new government towards the IMF after a gas price hike that came steadily on the heels of a severe water crisis. With expanding markets and an economy that left much to desire in terms of stability, this market-leading conference for one of Pakistan’s major sectors provides a much-needed source for opportunities and contacts. By hosting the three-day event, APCMA not only accredits Pakistan but ensures its smart growth in the near future.