Cement industry must innovate faster to tackle climate pressures: WCA

The global cement industry must accelerate innovation and cross-border collaboration to navigate mounting climate, geopolitical and technological pressures as the sector grapples with persistent overcapacity and a shifting demand landscape, President of the World Cement Association Wei Rushan said, according to an April 29 press release.

Global cement production edged lower to 3.8 billion tons in 2025, even as international trade expanded, reflecting increasingly globalized supply chains, Rushan said at the association's annual conference in Bangkok, Thailand, held over April 19-22.

But, with worldwide capacity reaching 6.8 billion tons, Rushan urged producers to maintain market discipline amid volatility and avoid irrational expansion.

"Our only choice is to face challenges head-on...to strive and thrive amid adversity," Rushan said in his keynote address at the event.

The remarks come as the cement sector confronts a fragile macroeconomic backdrop, with the International Monetary Fund forecasting slower global growth and persistent inflation. Rushan highlighted geopolitical instability and climate disruption as additional headwinds, while noting that Asia -- led by China and India -- continues to anchor the industry's center of gravity.

Rushan outlined six pillars for industry transformation, including the development of low-carbon cement products, wider use of alternative fuels, deeper integration into the circular economy, and the adoption of digital and intelligent technologies. He also pointed to carbon regulations a critical area for innovation.

The focus on decarbonization comes as cement producers face intensifying pressure to reduce emissions from one of the world's most carbon-intensive industries. The sector accounts for roughly 7% of global CO2 emissions, according to the International Energy Agency.

Post-conflict reconstruction efforts -- particularly in the Middle East -- are expected to drive short-term demand for cement, Rushan said, cautioning, however, that such spikes do not reflect long-term market fundamentals, suggesting producers should not base capacity decisions on temporary surges.

Rushan also called for greater openness and cross-border resource integration to address shared challenges, stressing the importance of aligning technological advancement with sustainability goals while fostering inclusive growth.