Japanese cement company Taiheyo Cement Corp. expressed its gratitude to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) over its decision to impose provisional safeguard duties on cement imports that were found to be harming the local industry.
Japan's Taiheyo expands in Philippines with new Luzon terminal, eyes greener cement
In February, the DTI imposed duties of ₱400 per metric ton or ₱16 per 40-kilogram bag in the form of a cash bond on imports of ordinary Portland cement and blended cement.
An earlier investigation of the agency found that these imports were affecting the domestic industry, which is evident in the decrease of its market share between 2019 and 2024.
In a statement, the DTI said Secretary Cristina Roque met with senior executives of Taiheiyo in Tokyo, Japan on Monday, May 19.
The company welcomed the agency’s measure in providing this policy support, as it strives to sustain a robust and competitive domestic cement sector.
“This engagement is a testament to our shared commitment to sustainable industrial development,” said Roque.
The meeting also revolved on Taiheiyo’s ongoing construction of a ₱3.72 billion Luzon Distribution Terminal in Calaca City, Batangas.
The facility, which is scheduled to begin operations in early 2026, can supply up to 700,000 tons of cement annually to Luzon.
Taiheiyo aims to utilize this terminal to distribute blended cement, which is an eco-friendly alternative that uses industrial by-products such as fly ash, slag, or pozzolana.
The company said the shift to blended cement is not only a response to the rising market demand, but also as part of its broader carbon reduction roadmap.
Taiheiyo Cement Philippines, Inc. (TCPI), the group’s local subsidiary based in Cebu, currently operates at a production capacity of three million tons annually.
TCPI is looking to increase output to 5 million tons and reach a 10 percent market share by 2030.
The company is also planning to invest in sustainability initiatives and community support programs, including local scholarships and health services.
“Investments like these are cornerstones of our Build Better More infrastructure push. They deliver not just materials for nation-building—but livelihoods, innovation, and inclusive progress for our people,” said Roque.
The DTI chief has assured Taiheiyo of the government’s continued backing, in recognition of the multiplier effect of its investments on jobs, skills development, and regional economic growth.