Call for help : Eastern cement imports are killing EU industry

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The Cement Industry’s Environmental Impact

The cement industry is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for around 8% of global emissions.

The Ukrainian government has been actively promoting the export of cement to the region through various initiatives and incentives.

  • Ukraine exported 1,713,000 tonnes of cement to Poland in 2024.
  • The private plant in Ivano-Frankivsk is providing nearly two million tonnes per year.
  • The Ukrainian government has been promoting the export of cement to Poland through various initiatives and incentives.
    Benefits of Cement Exports to Poland

    • The export of cement to Poland has several benefits for Ukrainian producers. Some of the key advantages include:

  • Increased revenue: The export of cement to Poland has provided a significant source of revenue for Ukrainian producers.
  • Diversification of exports: Cement exports to Poland have helped Ukrainian producers diversify their exports, reducing their dependence on traditional markets.
  • Economic growth: The export of cement to Poland has contributed to the economic growth of Ukraine, creating jobs and stimulating economic activity.
    Challenges and Opportunities

    • Despite the benefits of cement exports to Poland, there are also challenges and opportunities that Ukrainian producers need to address.

    The European Union will lose 3.5 billion euros in revenue per year. The loss of these cement plants would be felt across all sectors, including construction, infrastructure, and building development. The production of cement is a vital component of many construction projects. Cement is the binding agent that holds the structural components of buildings and infrastructure together. The loss of cement production capacity in the EU would have significant implications for the construction industry.

    The sector is already under pressure due to the increasing demand for cement, which is a key component in the construction of new buildings and infrastructure projects. The cement industry is facing a perfect storm of challenges that threaten its very existence. The European cement industry is under pressure from various factors, including the increasing demand for cement, the uncontrolled flood of cement from the East, North Africa and Turkey, and the sector’s high energy consumption. The European cement industry is heavily reliant on imported cement from Eastern Europe, North Africa, and Turkey. This reliance has created a significant challenge for the sector, as the imported cement is often cheaper and of lower quality than the European-made cement. The uncontrolled flood of cement from these regions has put pressure on the European market, making it difficult for European cement producers to compete. The European cement industry is also facing significant costs under the Emissions Trading System. The sector is required to purchase carbon credits to offset its greenhouse gas emissions, which is a costly and complex process.

    The cement industry is a significant contributor to the Polish economy.

  • The cement industry in Poland generates approximately 3.2 billion złoty annually for the public finances.
  • The sector employs around 10,000 people directly and indirectly.
  • Cement production in Poland accounts for about 30% of the country’s total industrial production.
    Challenges Facing the Cement Industry

    • The cement industry in Poland is facing several challenges, including:

  • High energy costs: The cement industry is a high-energy-intensive sector, and Poland’s energy prices are among the highest in the EU.
  • Raw material shortages: Poland is heavily reliant on imported raw materials, such as limestone and clay, which can lead to supply chain disruptions and price volatility.
  • Environmental concerns: The cement industry is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, and Poland has implemented various regulations to reduce its environmental impact.
    Government Support

    • Local governments in Poland are calling for protection for the cement industry.

    EU’s Cement Tariff Proposal: A Step Towards Environmental Sustainability

    The European Union’s (EU) proposal to impose a tariff quota on cement imports from Ukraine and set an annual limit on imports to Poland is a significant move towards environmental sustainability.

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