The recent announcement by the GST Council to reduce the tax slab on cement from 28 per cent to 18 per cent marks a decisive step towards unlocking greater efficiencies across India’s construction and infrastructure ecosystem. For years, the cement industry has sought this correction, arguing that a product so fundamental to national development should not be taxed at the highest slab. The timing of this reform is particularly significant, given that the sector is aggressively ramping up capacity in anticipation of robust demand from housing, infrastructure and industrial projects.
The direct benefits are already apparent—lower construction costs, improved affordability for homebuyers and a likely fillip to affordable housing projects. Moreover, by narrowing the cost gap between economy and premium offerings, the reduction may accelerate the shift towards branded and higher-value products, enabling leading players to consolidate market share.
At the same time, caution remains warranted. Rising input costs—particularly pet coke and gypsum—are likely to weigh on near-term profitability, while the removal of the Rs 400/tonne coal compensation cess will offer only marginal relief on power and fuel costs. Industry watchers are therefore closely tracking the interplay between policy-led cost reductions and market-led pricing challenges as we move into the second quarter of FY26.
Against this backdrop of regulatory reform and evolving market dynamics, the Cement Expo and ICR Conference & Awards gain even greater relevance. These platforms are uniquely positioned to bring industry stakeholders together to discuss how the GST cut can be translated into sustainable growth, innovation and competitiveness. The Expo will spotlight cutting-edge technologies and solutions, while the Conference will foster dialogue on strategy, policy, and demand trends. The ICR Awards, meanwhile, provide an opportunity to celebrate excellence, innovation and leadership at a pivotal moment for the industry.
We invite you to be a part of this landmark edition—explore, engage and put forward your nominations for the ICR Awards. The cement sector is on the cusp of transformative change and your participation will help shape its future.