DTI adopts safeguard duty on imported cement products

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will implement a safeguard duty on imported cement following the recommendation of the Tariff Commission (TC), according to Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque.

The three-year measure imposes a temporary duty of PHP 14.00 per 40-kilogram bag or PHP 349 per metric ton on Ordinary Portland Cement Type 1 and Blended Cement, identified under AHTN 2022 Subheading Nos. 2523.29.90 and 2523.90.00.

Secretary Roque said the safeguard duty will be subject to dynamic monitoring and review to ensure that supply remains sufficient and prices remain stable.

The DTI emphasized that the safeguard duty rate represents only around 3–4% of current retail prices and is not expected to be passed on to consumers, as it applies solely to imported cement.

The department clarified that any excess cash bond paid by importers, or the difference between provisional and final duties, will be refunded once the final Department Order is issued.

Roque highlighted that the DTI remains attentive to the recent earthquakes that have severely impacted several areas of the country, underscoring the urgent need for cement in reconstruction efforts.

In response, the department is committed to closely monitoring cement supply and prices nationwide to prevent any unwarranted price increases.

“The DTI will regularly review the safeguard duty to adjust its scope and intensity in response to market conditions,” Roque said.

She added, “The Department will actively regulate the effects of safeguard tariffs to maintain a balanced environment where both local manufacturers and cement importers can adapt, compete, and thrive, particularly during periods of calamities or supply disruptions.”

The DTI reiterated that the safeguard measure is temporary and intended to restore fair competition while protecting consumer welfare.