The India cement market is ranked second in the world, falling just behind China for production. With steady increases in production and government approved projects requiring the use of cement, cement consumption is expected to steadily rise over the next few years.

Reports indicate India’s cement production showed a 13% increase from December of 2008 to December of 2009. Most impressive, however, is the fact that over 90% of production is done with modern technology and is focused on environmentally friendly practices. Additionally, the cement industry will continue to grow steadily due to many investments in the industry, and major projects including additional cement production locations, and projects both private and government driven. Although currently ranked lowest in “in house” consumption due to the vast rural population, these new projects and investments will help the market grow within India to match the consumption worldwide. From building foundations to road construction, cement is a commodity that has long been looked at as a good indicator of a country’s economic standard and growth.

Although now dominated by only around 20 companies, the Indian cement industry actually started in the late 1800s, taking formidable shape in the early 1900s when India Cement Company, LTD was established. The cement industry is one of the few markets that has had steady growth since its inception, with the biggest boost coming during World War I.