Cement companies to increase prices from April onwards
Cement

Cement companies to increase prices from April onwards

Cement producers throughout the country are planning to increase prices by an average of Rs 10-15 per bag this month. This decision comes despite subdued demand due to a slowdown preceding general elections.

Dealers anticipate that while price increases may be more pronounced in certain regions, particularly in southern India, they don't foresee these hikes being sustained. Instead, they expect increases of only around Rs 10-20 to persist.

For the past five months, cement prices have been decreasing consistently. Average prices for the March quarter are now 5-6% lower compared to the December quarter, with the most significant price cuts occurring in east and south India.

Despite expectations of a 6-8% year-on-year growth in volumes during the January-March period, which is typically robust, cement manufacturers have been unable to raise prices.

Kotak Institutional Equities stated that competitive pressure among major players to expand their market share and cost deflation have been the primary factors contributing to the weakness in prices.

Analysts suggest that with price hikes in April, cement producers might mitigate some of the impact of lower volumes during the quarter. However, they emphasize the critical importance of the sustainability of these price hikes, especially considering the tepid demand. If demand remains weak, there's a risk of either partial or complete rollback of these hikes.

Ravi Sodah, an analyst at Elara Securities, anticipates a moderation in demand due to the upcoming general elections. He suggests that cement firms may need to control prices to safeguard against a significant decline in margins.

"Join industry leaders at RAHSTA Expo, India's premier platform for roads, highways and traffic infrastructure. Register now to explore innovations, network with experts and shape the future of mobility."

Cement producers throughout the country are planning to increase prices by an average of Rs 10-15 per bag this month. This decision comes despite subdued demand due to a slowdown preceding general elections. Dealers anticipate that while price increases may be more pronounced in certain regions, particularly in southern India, they don't foresee these hikes being sustained. Instead, they expect increases of only around Rs 10-20 to persist. For the past five months, cement prices have been decreasing consistently. Average prices for the March quarter are now 5-6% lower compared to the December quarter, with the most significant price cuts occurring in east and south India. Despite expectations of a 6-8% year-on-year growth in volumes during the January-March period, which is typically robust, cement manufacturers have been unable to raise prices. Kotak Institutional Equities stated that competitive pressure among major players to expand their market share and cost deflation have been the primary factors contributing to the weakness in prices. Analysts suggest that with price hikes in April, cement producers might mitigate some of the impact of lower volumes during the quarter. However, they emphasize the critical importance of the sustainability of these price hikes, especially considering the tepid demand. If demand remains weak, there's a risk of either partial or complete rollback of these hikes. Ravi Sodah, an analyst at Elara Securities, anticipates a moderation in demand due to the upcoming general elections. He suggests that cement firms may need to control prices to safeguard against a significant decline in margins.

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Noida Airport Fuels NCR Realty Growth

The start of commercial operations at Noida International Airport has recently emerged as a major trigger for real estate growth across Noida, Greater Noida and the Yamuna Expressway region. The airport is expected to improve regional connectivity and support the next phase of development in eastern NCR.The airport, inaugurated on 28 March, has begun passenger services, while cargo operations are also expected to strengthen its role as an economic and logistics hub. Its operationalisation is expected to reduce dependence on Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport for residents and busine..

Next Story
Technology

thyssenkrupp and GlobalLogic Form AI Alliance

thyssenkrupp AG and GlobalLogic, a Hitachi Group company, have recently formed a strategic alliance to deploy autonomous robotics and Physical AI across heavy industry operations. The partnership aims to improve safety, reduce engineering bottlenecks and accelerate industrial transformation at scale.The alliance brings together thyssenkrupp’s industrial expertise with Hitachi’s innovation capabilities. It includes GlobalLogic, Method and Hitachi America R&D, creating a “Lab-to-Scale” pipeline that connects research, digital strategy, design and enterprise software engineering for i..

Next Story
Real Estate

Platinum Corp Launches Luxury Suites in Santacruz

Platinum Corp has recently launched Platinum Stellar: Bespoke Presidential Suites, a premium residential project in Santacruz West, Mumbai. The development is positioned as a boutique luxury offering for homebuyers seeking expansive layouts, privacy and personalised living experiences.Located on Main Avenue, the project has been designed as a low-density, high-end residential address with spacious homes starting from 2,500 sq ft and extending to full-floor residences. The project targets HNIs, business owners and legacy residents from the Bandra-Khar-Santacruz belt.Platinum Stellar has been de..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement