THE Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) said it supports the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) decision to conduct a dumping investigation into cement imports.
PCCI President Enunina V. Mangio said the government needs to protect cement producers against unfair competition.
“The cement industry has been facing challenges from increasing imports, dumping from other countries and struggling demand,” Ms. Mangio said in a statement Thursday.
“Despite having surplus production — more than enough to meet market demand — imports continue to flood the market, threatening the viability of the industry,” she added.
On Oct. 31, the DTI issued a notice of preliminary safeguard measures investigation on a motu proprio basis into imports of cement from various countries.
The investigation covered the imports of cement classified under ASEAN Harmonised Tariff Nomenclature Codes 2523.29.90 and 2523.90.00 between 2019 and 2023.
In its preliminary report, the DTI said cement imports are projected to increase 4.96% year-on-year to 7.36 million metric tons this year.
Cement imports grew 10.34% in 2020 and 17.2% in 2021, then dropped 2.89% in 2022. They rose 4.74% in 2023.
According to the PCCI, the cement industry is a significant contributor to the economy, accounting for at least 1% of gross domestic product, employing an estimated 130,000 staff, with a multiplier of around 3x to the economy.
“Additionally, it generates more tax revenue for the government than importers of cement. These could be jeopardized if we allow the influx of imported cement without considering the current production capacity of our manufacturers,” it added.
Ms. Mangio added: “We champion the prioritization of local products that meet global quality standards . Let us protect the future of Philippine-made cement. Let us foster a sense of pride in our homegrown brands,” she added. — Justine Irish D. Tabile