Philippines Imposes Safeguard Duties on Cement Imports from China and Indonesia
DTI slaps duties on cement from China, Indonesia
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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of the Philippines has implemented a P349-per-ton safeguard duty on cement imports from China and Indonesia due to exceeded import thresholds. This measure aims to protect the local cement industry, which has been adversely affected by rising imports.
- 01The DTI's Department Administrative Order No. 26-03, effective May 20, imposes a safeguard duty on cement from China and Indonesia.
- 02China's cement import share rose to 23% and Indonesia's to 8% in early 2026, surpassing the 3% exemption threshold.
- 03The safeguard duty amounts to P14 per 40-kilogram bag during the first year.
- 04The Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) supports the duty as a necessary correction to protect local jobs and manufacturing.
- 05Despite investments, the Philippine cement industry operates at only 53% capacity.
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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Philippines has introduced a safeguard duty of P349 per ton on cement imports from China and Indonesia. This decision follows a significant increase in import shares from these countries, with China's share climbing to 23% and Indonesia's to 8% in early 2026, both exceeding the 3% exemption threshold. The DTI's Department Administrative Order No. 26-03, effective May 20, aims to protect the local cement industry, which has faced challenges due to rising imports. The new duty will result in an additional P14 charge per 40-kilogram bag of cement in the first year. The Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) has welcomed this move, stating it removes the unfair advantage previously held by imports and supports local manufacturing and job preservation. The local industry has been struggling with low utilization rates of 53%, despite significant investments.
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The safeguard duty is expected to stabilize the local cement market, potentially improving job security and production levels for Filipino manufacturers.
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