The World Cement Association (WCA) has announced that its Founder and Director, Emir Adiguzel, has warned of significant financial and structural transformations in the cement industry due to rising carbon costs. Speaking at the World Cement’s Envirotech 2025 Conference in Athens, Adıguzel emphasized the growing financial strain on the sector.
This striking forecast highlights that decarbonisation costs are no longer just an operational expense but a key factor shaping market dynamics. As carbon costs take centre stage in pricing strategies, cement prices are expected to rise, fundamentally altering the global production landscape.
In addition to this major projection, Adiguzel outlined several key industry challenges:
• Overcapacity remains one of the most pressing issues facing the cement sector.
• Despite having a net production shortfall, the US is imposing tariffs on cement imports from Canada, Mexico, and Europe. While this will not cause supply shortages, it will lead to price increases due to logistical constraints.
• Carbon capture technology is becoming the defining factor in global cement production. Small and mid-sized firms are at risk of being pushed out, while large multinationals with substantial capital will dominate the market.
• The European cement industry is already facing the threat of plant closures due to rising carbon costs.
• The EU Commission has proposed a €100 billion industrial decarbonisation fund, but uncertainties remain about its distribution. Will all industry players receive equal support? Will small and mid-sized companies get a fair share?
These developments indicate that the cement industry is entering a critical phase with long-term financial and structural consequences.
