U.S. Cement Industry Statement on Trump Administration’s Proposed Tariffs

Washington, D.C. (February 3, 2025) – In response to a pause on the imposition of 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, Mike Ireland, President and CEO of the Portland Cement Association, which represents America’s cement manufacturers, released the following statement:

“While the U.S. cement industry agrees with the President’s objectives of bolstering American manufacturing, increasing border security, and advancing the country’s energy independence, the industry believes 25% tariffs on cement imported from Canada and Mexico could adversely affect energy and national security while delaying infrastructure projects and raising their costs.

The availability of affordable cement and concrete is vital to meet our country’s infrastructure needs and for the oil and gas sector’s expansion. Mexico and Canada play a crucial role in stabilizing U.S. supply, so we appreciate that the Administration is open to negotiations and taking a flexible approach to implementing trade policy.

PCA looks forward to working with the Trump Administration to achieve its manufacturing priorities and ensure potential tariffs do not result in unintended consequences.”

Background information

• Canada and Mexico account for 27% of U.S. cement imports and nearly 7% of U.S. cement consumption.
• The U.S. imported 5 million metric tons (MMT) of cement from Canada and 2 MMTs from Mexico in 2023.
• Texas and Arizona each represents roughly 30% of Mexican imports’ port of entry followed by California and Florida (20% each), reflecting 5% of cement consumption in these states.
• Canadian imports enter through New York (28%), Washington (14%) and New England (11%) with the remaining 20% spread across Montana, North Dakota, and other Great Lakes states.
• Canadian imports may account for up to 36% of cement consumption in these combined states.