Cement prices in Punjab rise after trade suspension

After the suspension of trade between India and Pakistan on 10 August, the price of cement in Punjab has increased by almost INR100/bag (US$1.38/bag), according to the Hindustan Times. Therefore, the price of a cement bag has risen from INR260-275 to INR360-375.

"Since Pakistan suspended trade with India, comparatively cheaper Pakistani cement has triggered a price rise in the domestically manufactured cement," said MPS Chatha, president of the All India Cement Importers Association.

Before the bilateral trade suspension, Pakistan was exporting 70,000-80,000 bags of OPC per day through the Attari international check post, until 16 February 2019, a day before India increased the customs duty to 200 per cent on all Pakistani imports.