South Korea's cement exports expected to rise 52% YOY in 2025

South Korea's cement exports are expected to rise 52% year over year to 4.5 million mt in 2025, according to Dec. 8 data from the Korea Cement Association.

Producers are increasingly turning to overseas markets to counter weak domestic consumption and higher input costs. Meanwhile, domestic shipments are forecast to drop 16.5% to 36.5 million mt, the lowest level in 34 years, according to the data.

The data also noted that Halla Cement boosted exports by 63% year over year, widening its footprint beyond Latin America to African markets, including Cameroon and Guinea. SAMPYO Cement also secured additional export contracts with South American buyers in Q2 2025. The association expects domestic demand to soften further in 2026, projecting a decline to 36 million mt, down 1.3% from 2025, as construction activity remains sluggish.

An Asia-based trader said, "South Korea has been exporting more cement and clinker this year; their domestic demand is lower as most infrastructure projects are completed."

Another trader said, "South Korea may be a competitor for cement and clinker exporters across Asia like Vietnam, Indonesia, and China."

Platts, part of S&P Global Energy, assessed cement (ASTM type I) FOB Vietnam at $36.5/mt on Dec. 4, up from $36/mt the previous week. Platts also assessed cement clinker FOB Vietnam at $31/mt on Dec. 4, up from $30.75/mt FOB the previous week.