Europe: A joint statement by Cefic, Cembureau, Eurofer, Eurometaux and WindEurope has called for accelerated wind deployment as part of a new industrial deal to further support the Green Deal in the European Union (EU).

The organisations say that Europe's energy-intensive industries, like cement and steel, are vital for the wind energy supply chain. However, they assert that current policies lack frameworks that effectively support these industries, which have faced production curtailments due to the energy crisis. Addressing these challenges is fundamental to a new Industrial Deal for Europe, aimed at boosting renewable energy deployment to reduce energy costs. According to the International Energy Agency, the growth in solar photovolatics and wind capacity from 2021 to 2023 helped keep electricity prices lower than they would have been otherwise. Coupling the EU Green Deal with an industrial deal is seen as a strategy to provide regulatory stability, encourage investments in decarbonisation, and enhance competitiveness.

Koen Coppenholle, CEO of Cembureau, said "Cement is a critical component in the construction of wind turbine foundations and their recycling, while the growth of renewable energy is indispensable to achieve the cement sector’s net zero ambition. We look forward to a good cooperation with the wind energy sector to support a strong EU industrial policy and help building the business case for decarbonisation investments," said Coppenholle.

Philippines: Cemex has sold its Philippine cement brands to the Consunji family for US$12.55m. Cemex Holdings Philippines revealed that APO Cement and Solid Cement repurchased the brands from Cemex Innovation Holding in Switzerland. APO Cement, based in Naga, Cebu, acquired the ‘Apo Cement’ brand for US$8.2m, while Solid Cement, located in Antipolo, bought the ‘Rizal’ and ‘Island’ trademarks for US$4.53m. This follows Cemex's strategic withdrawal from the Philippines, completing the sale of Apo Cement and Solid Cement to DMCI Holdings, Dacon and Semirara Mining and Power of the Consunji family for US$305.6m in April 2024.

India: Adani Cement is upgrading its facility in Himachal Pradesh by installing a new 7800t/day double-stage cooler grate. This upgrade aims to increase efficiency, lower power consumption and clinker temperature and enhance waste heat recovery system performance, according to the company. The project involves replacing the first and second grates of the existing IKN pendulum cooler.

Vietnam: Export prices for clinker and cement in Vietnam have dropped significantly in May 2024, impacting the construction industry and raising concerns among exporters. This decline is due to decreased international demand, intense competition, and evolving trade policies, according to the Vietnam News Brief Service. The Ministry of Construction noted that after a decade of growth, export volumes have fallen sharply since 2022, with exports dropping to 10.9Mt in 2023 from 15.2Mt the previous year. Only 5.4Mt is expected to be exported in the first half of 2024.

The Vietnam Cement Association (VNCA) has highlighted ongoing challenges, particularly influenced by the downturn in China’s real estate market and competitive pressures from Chinese cement surpluses. The VNCA has urged Vietnamese exporters to explore new markets, improve product quality and increase production efficiency. Additionally, the VNCA recommends that the government consider eliminating export taxes on clinker to mitigate these challenges.