Naung Min Thu, Narinjara News, 27 January 2025 

Traders report that the cost of a cement bag in Arakan State has notably dropped from more than 100,000 kyats to between 55,000 and 65,000 kyats. 

"The need for cement in Arakan is significant. As we are unable to source it from the mainland, we must import it from Bangladesh and India. However, as prices decline, traders are encountering losses," stated one trader. 

A community member stated, "In our neighborhood, a bag of cement currently costs just 55,000 kyats. Only a few months back, it exceeded 100,000 kyats.“

The increase in imports is linked to the extensive devastation of homes, structures, and infrastructure in communities throughout the area due to recent combat. This has resulted in a heightened need for cement for reconstruction efforts.

Despite the devastation, a local person mentioned that inhabitants are still reluctant to fix their houses because of the persistent danger of junta airstrikes. This uncertainty has resulted in a demand for cement that is below expectations. 

"They fear airstrikes and hesitate to fix their houses. That's the reason cement prices are decreasing," the local stated. 

Cement exports to Arakan State have experienced a notable rise, with 236 tonnes of cement worth 11.3 million taka exported in the 2023-24 fiscal year, as reported by BD News 24 from Bangladesh. 

Likewise, 291 tonnes of cement worth 28.5 million taka were exported during the 2024-25 fiscal year, as reported by BD News 24.