Local cement manufacturers applaud the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for bolstering the Philippine manufacturing sector through its recent enforcement action against non-compliant cement importers.
The Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS) recently suspended the permit and issued a Show Cause Order to Newgate Import Export Corporation, relative to their importation of Blended Hydraulic Cement under Bill of Lading No. N23.2/23. This recent action of the DTI-BPS sends a resounding message that non-compliance and unfair trade practices will not be tolerated. This suspension was made after the DTI’s action in Iloilo to conduct an intensified monitoring of cement imports coming in to the country.
The impact of the DTI’s actions extend beyond the cement industry itself. A strong and competitive local cement sector is vital in supporting the Philippines’ continued infrastructure development and economic growth.
For years, the Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CEMAP) has been sounding alarms about the excessive and unfairly priced volume of cement importation that heavily harms the already beleaguered local cement industry.
Philippine manufacturers have invested Billions in ensuring local construction and cement products meet the highest quality and safety standards, as mandated by Philippine regulations. Furthermore, the manufacturing sector generates more than 1% of the country’s GDP, providing 130,000 direct and indirect jobs to Filipinos across various sectors.
However, the influx of substandard, carbon-intensive cement products from cement importers has undermined the industry’s progress, creating an uneven playing field, stifling economic growth, and endangering countless livelihoods and end-users.
The Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) and Regional and Provincial Offices regularly conduct market surveillance and enforcement to ensure compliance with the trade and industry laws. These decisive measures are critical steps toward forging a fair and competitive market environment in the country.
CeMAP member companies commend the DTI’s resolute actions against exploitative cement importers. By enforcing regulations and upholding fair trade practices, the country is not only supporting the local cement industry but also ensure the safety and quality of the nation’s construction projects.
As the Philippine economy continues to recover and accelerate post-COVID-19 pandemic, a robust and competitive cement industry will be a key pillar of its success. With the government’s infrastructure programs in full swing, local cement manufacturers ensure the industry has adequate supply to meet the nation’s demand for high-quality cement products that are compliant with national regulations.
Local cement manufacturers join DTI’s commitment to ensuring a fair and competitive market and trade practices, emphasizing a shared vision of a stronger, more resilient, and self-sufficient Philippines.
