Cement industry leaders across Asia gathered in Manila last week for the 71st Asia Cement Producers Amity Club (ACPAC), with focus placed on advancing sustainable practices and confronting shared regional challenges such as climate responsibility and market overcapacity.

Hosted by the Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP), the conference drew nearly 90 delegates from member associations in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines.

CeMAP Chairperson Roberto Martin Gerardo Javier opened the summit by stressing the importance of collaboration in the face of evolving industry demands.

“The conference is a space to listen, learn, and lead together—to hear and learn from what each is doing in their respective countries—what’s working, what’s evolving, and where to collaborate,” Javier said.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Joselin Marcus Fragada delivered the keynote address, urging industry players to adopt sustainable mining practices, utilize alternative fuels, and explore alternative raw materials in order to help curb climate change impacts.

CeMAP President and 71st ACPAC Conference Chair John Reinier Dizon presented the Philippines’ Country Report, outlining local market drivers and capacity expansions. However, he also warned of persistent headwinds such as continued imports despite local overcapacity.

“Majority of the ACPAC members are also facing a slowdown of demand in their markets and facing low utilization,” Dizon noted.

He cited Indonesia’s moratorium on new cement capacity projects as a policy response to declining demand, while Taiwan shared its success in imposing anti-dumping duties on cement exports from Vietnam. Thailand, meanwhile, showcased its Net Zero roadmap and encouraged other members to adopt similar strategies.

“As we face regional volatility in demand, climate responsibility, rising energy costs and urban growth, ACPAC’s collaborative spirit is more vital than ever,” Dizon added.

The event concluded with a symbolic turnover to next year’s host country, Taiwan. Member nations reaffirmed their commitment to shared climate goals and reinforced the economic importance of cement in sustainable nation-building across Asia.

CeMAP expressed gratitude to all participants for making this year’s ACPAC conference a “resounding success.”