Will Cement Volumes in India Grow by 6-7% in FY27?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Indian cement industry is poised for a 6-7% growth in FY27.
- Ongoing demand from housing and infrastructure sectors remains strong.
- Capacity additions are expected to reach 42-44 million MTPA.
- Average cement prices are likely to increase by 2-4%.
- The outlook for the domestic cement sector remains Stable.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) The cement sector in India is anticipated to experience a growth of 6-7 percent in volume for FY27, driven by ongoing demand from the housing and infrastructure industries. This follows a growth forecast of 6.5-7.5 percent for FY26, based on a higher benchmark from the second half of FY25, according to a report released on Tuesday.
The industry is expected to augment its capacity by 42-44 million MTPA in FY27, following a 43-45 million MTPA increase in FY26.
ICRA, a rating agency, noted that cement demand is robust, with volumes increasing by 8.5 percent during the first eight months of FY26, bolstered by vigorous construction activities.
With the construction sector anticipated to gain momentum post-monsoon, a sequential rise in demand is expected in the second half of FY26.
Moreover, a reduction in GST on cement and the Government's persistent focus on infrastructure investments are likely to enhance demand trends through FY26 and FY27.
In light of the positive demand outlook, leading cement firms are expanding their production capacities through both organic and inorganic means to further solidify their market presence.
“Profitability in FY26 is expected to significantly improve, with OPBITDA per metric ton projected to rise to Rs 900–950 from Rs 810 in FY25, aided by improved pricing and increased volumes,” stated Anupama Reddy, Vice President and Co-Group Head of Corporate Ratings at ICRA.
As FY27 approaches, the industry is set for steady growth of 6–7 percent, supported by ongoing demand from the housing and infrastructure domains,” she added. Some regions, particularly in northern and central India, are likely to see higher capacity utilization than the national average of approximately 70 percent, while the southern regions may face moderate utilization levels due to existing capacity challenges.
ICRA foresees an average cement price increase of 2-4 percent in FY27, following a 3-5 percent rise in FY26, driven by strong demand.
The rating agency has a ‘Stable’ outlook for the domestic cement sector.