UK: 18 May 2026 marks the 10th Anniversary of the World Cement Association (WCA), a milestone that the WCA says reflects a decade of profound transformation for both the global cement industry and the wider world economy. Founded in London, UK, in 2016 to provide an independent international platform for cement producers and industry stakeholders, the WCA has since grown into a global network that promotes cooperation, innovation, sustainability and operational excellence across the sector.
WCA said that its first decade has coincided with one of the most turbulent and transformative periods in modern history. Over the past 10 years, the world has faced the Covid-19 pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, energy crises, supply chain disruption, accelerating climate change, inflationary pressures, and rapid technological advancement driven by digitalisation and AI. These developments have reshaped global trade, manufacturing, construction and industrial policy, while placing increasing pressure on heavy industries to adapt and decarbonise. At the same time, the global cement industry has undergone significant structural change. Markets have shifted geographically toward Asia and emerging economies, sustainability has become central to corporate strategy and innovation in low-carbon technologies, alternative fuels, digital manufacturing, and circular economy practices have accelerated at an unprecedented pace.
As the WCA enters its second decade, the Association reaffirmed its commitment to the principle of ‘openness, inclusiveness, sharing and win-win’ and to advancing sustainable development, fostering innovation, encouraging international collaboration, and supporting the cement industry’s long-term transition toward a lower-carbon and more resilient future.
