DTI to impose temporary safeguard duty on imported cement

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will impose a temporary safeguard duty of P349 per metric ton on imported cement for three years, following a recommendation from the Tariff Commission.

This duty is equivalent to P14 per 40-kilogram bag of ordinary Portland cement Type 1 and blended cement.

Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque stated that the safeguard duty will be dynamically monitored and reviewed to ensure stable prices and sufficient supply.

The DTI believes this measure will level the playing field for domestic cement manufacturers and does not anticipate the extra cost being passed on to consumers.

Any excess cash bond paid by importers will be refunded once the DTI issues the corresponding order.

The DTI emphasizes the importance of an adequate and affordable cement supply, especially in light of recent earthquakes, and will regularly review the duty based on market conditions.