The Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) welcomed the issuance of a government circular enforcing safeguard duties on imported cement to protect the local industry from a surge in foreign products.
Customs Memorandum Circular 42-2026 implements Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Administrative Order 25-15, which imposes definitive general safeguard measures on imports of ordinary Portland cement and blended cement for three years.
The first year of implementation sets a duty of P14 per 40-kilogram bag, or P349 per metric ton.
CeMAP expressed appreciation to the DTI, Tariff Commission, Department of Finance and Bureau of Customs for ensuring the timely implementation of the measures. The group said the duties are necessary to address an import surge that has caused serious injury to the domestic industry.
The association said the safeguard duties woulod help restore fair competition, sustain the viability of local manufacturers, protect thousands of jobs and support continued investments in environmentally responsible and energy-efficient production.
CeMAP executive director Renato Baja said the group remains committed to supporting national development by ensuring a reliable supply of high-quality cement for infrastructure, housing, and broader economic growth.
Baja said the association would continue to work closely with government agencies and industry stakeholders to promote a competitive, sustainable and resilient cement sector.
Source: https://manilastandard.net/business/314707387/local-cement-manufacturers-laud-new-safeguard-duties-on-imports.html
