HS Code:
Portland cement, classified under HS Code 2523.29, is a type of hydraulic cement made by heating limestone and clay in a kiln and pulverizing the resulting clinker. It is the most common type of cement used worldwide in construction for concrete, mortar, and other building materials due to its strength and durability. The global trade of Portland cement is influenced by regional construction booms, infrastructure development projects, and raw material availability.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $12 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$1.5 billion USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.2 billion USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$900 million USD
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$800 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$700 million USD
5.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (imposed by certain African countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU and ASEAN)
Rising demand in Asia-Pacific due to urbanization
Increased exports from Vietnam and India to meet infrastructure needs in countries like Bangladesh and Indonesia
2021-2023
Shift toward sustainable cement production
Growing preference for low-carbon Portland cement variants, pushing exporters to adopt greener technologies
2020-2023
Fluctuating energy costs affecting production
Higher production costs in energy-dependent countries like Turkey, impacting export competitiveness
2022-2023
Vietnam has invested in new cement plants to boost production, targeting markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
March 2023
Expected to solidify Vietnam's position as the top exporter, potentially increasing global supply and lowering prices.
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring imported cement to meet stringent carbon emission standards.
January 2023
Exporters from high-emission countries may face higher compliance costs or restricted market access.
The U.S. imposed anti-dumping duties on cement imports from certain Middle Eastern countries to protect domestic manufacturers.
September 2022
Reduced imports from affected countries, redirecting trade flows to other markets like Africa and Latin America.