The cement industry in Pakistan has grown significantly since the country's inception. Production has increased from 300,000 tons per year in 1947 to over 45 million tons currently. The major reasons for the industry's existence are the abundant local reserves of limestone and clay raw materials. China is currently the world's largest cement producer, with annual output of 2,500 million metric tons. The top cement producers in Pakistan include DG Khan Cement, Lucky Cement, and Maple Leaf Cement. The industry continues to grow steadily due to strong demand from public and private construction projects.