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Pakistan’s ceramics industry grew rapidly during the middle of last decade, followed by a period of declining demand. However, just like its economy, a boom-and-bust pattern has characterised the country’s ceramic industry during the past 15 years.

In the past decade, ceramic production in the domestic market has been relatively uncompetitive due to huge imports from China, Iran and ASEAN countries. However, Pakistani authorities intervened in 2018 to establish a level playing field between domestic and imported ceramics by imposition of antidumping duties.

Despite COVID-19, unprecedented floods in 2022, and the Ukraine war, there is hope for the ceramic industry in the country. Although the ceramics industry in Pakistan is experiencing a difficult time at present, Yogender Singh Malik, in his insightful article in our pages inside, predicts that it will continue to grow over the long run. His argument is based on several factors, chief among them being an increase in housing unit requirements and an upward trend, which should propel the country to the top of ceramics production relatively soon.
If we talk about ceramics, it is hard to imagine a world without Ukrainian clay. Known for its high quality and environmental friendliness, Ukrainian clay is widely used in the manufacture of ceramic tiles and sanitarywares around the world today. Manufacturers prefer this clay for its whiteness and strength. Sadly, the war in Ukraine forced major European multinational mineral suppliers, who had purchased mines in Ukraine following the collapse of the Soviet Union, to suspend operations there. Nevertheless, recent developments in the Ukrainian clay export industry have enabled new routes for shipments. Businesses have rebounded, showing resilience and agility. This is indeed good news for Ukraine and for tile manufacturers across Europe, who heavily rely on it both for quality and quantity. Rohan Gunasekera provides an overview of the country’s progress.

The sanitaryware product market in North Africa accounts for one third of Africa’s GDP over the last 10 years. A decade ago, most of this sub-segment’s demand came from imported products from European producers, Turkey or Egypt, but today, a significant part is met by domestic producers. As a result of the high demand for residential and commercial spaces in the region coupled with a relatively low per capita consumption of sanitarywares, Yogender Singh Malik believes the region’s sanitaryware industry has a strong future.

Taking place from 19 to 22 June, Ceramics China 2023, organised by Unifair Exhibition Service Ltd and sponsored by China Ceramic Industrial Association, will take place at the Canton Fair Complex, Guangzhou. A key international platform for technological exchange and trade cooperation in the ceramics industry, the event brings together global innovations, promotes industrial improvement, and is a recognised brand event. See you there.