NEW DELHI: Due to the looming implementation of GST bill , the Union Budget made little changes to the tax structure. This could boost housing projects and cement demand.“It will drive housing higher demand. All these developments are expected to boost cement demand.There was no mention of reduction in excise duties. Cement sector attracts higher excise duty at around 12.5 per cent compared with about 6 per cent attracted by other core industries. This had made the outlook of an associate sector, cement, looks all gloomy.Average cement price rose 1.9 per cent YoY, but declined 1.1 per cent sequentially in the December quarter.

Source: Economic Times February 02, 2017 12:35 UTC