Cement prices are declining in most markets due to the monsoon, according to a research report by Jeffries. The all-India average prices are currently below the January 2022 average, when the cost pressure was less. The report has also cautioned that high input costs and soft pricing may further weaken the second quarter of the financial year for the sector. The recent price hike comes after a fall in cement prices by Rs.40 to Rs.60 per bag since May 2022. The dealers have also indicated that there is pressure on prices due to the newly commissioned clinker capacity by Shree Cement, UltraTech and Dalmia.