DTI Imposes ₱14 safeguard duty on imported cement for three years

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will impose a safeguard duty of ₱14 per 40-kilogram bag of imported cement over the next three years, following the recommendation of the Tariff Commission.

DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said the measure covers Ordinary Portland Cement Type 1 and Blended Cement and is meant to “level the playing field between domestic manufacturers and importers.” She emphasized that the safeguard duty applies only to imports and is *not expected to be passed on to consumers*, as it represents just about 3 to 4 percent of current retail prices.

Roque assured that the safeguard duty will be “dynamically monitored and reviewed” to ensure stable prices and sufficient supply. She added that any excess cash bond or difference between the provisional and final duty assessed will be refunded once the corresponding Department Order is issued.

Citing recent earthquakes that damaged several areas nationwide, Roque underscored the importance of maintaining affordable and available cement for rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.

“The DTI will actively regulate the effects of safeguard tariffs to maintain a balanced environment where both local manufacturers and importers can adapt, compete, and thrive—especially during calamities or supply disruptions,” she said.