Cement stocks recorded broad gains. At the time of writing, CNBM (03323) rose 2.8% to HK$5.88; HX BLDG MAT (06655) climbed 1.91% to HK$17.09; CONCH CEMENT (00914) increased 1.4% to HK$23.18; and CR BLDG MAT TEC (01313) advanced 0.59% to HK$1.71. Market sentiment was lifted by reports indicating that cement prices are being raised in multiple regions across the country, reflecting strong pricing intentions among producers. Following the Lantern Festival, workers have gradually returned to construction sites, and with recent favorable weather conditions, project starts have accelerated significantly. This has led to a steady recovery in cement demand. With current prices remaining in a low range and rising production costs in some areas, companies have shown a strong willingness to increase prices. Starting around March 12, major producers in several cities in Anhui, including Hefei, Wuhu, Tongling, Chizhou, Xuancheng, and Ma’anshan, began notifying the market of cement and clinker price increases of approximately RMB 20 per ton. Other regional competitors are expected to follow suit gradually. In addition, parts of Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Henan, and Qinghai have also joined the upward price adjustment trend.