PPC CEO warns of cement import threats to South Africa

PPC, a South African cement manufacturer, has issued a warning regarding the rising imports of cement, which could jeopardize local producers and undermine domestic production and investment. CEO Matias Cardarelli made these remarks on September 29, 2026, indicating that the growth in cement imports, particularly from Mozambique and Vietnam, is exerting additional pressure on local manufacturers.

PPC reported weaker cement sales volumes in South Africa and Botswana during the five months leading to August 2026, attributing this to elevated diesel costs, weak demand, and aggressive price discounting by competitors. Cardarelli expressed concerns that if the trend continues, local manufacturers might shift production and investment to neighboring countries with more favorable operating conditions, ultimately bringing cement back to South Africa.

The warning coincides with an investigation by ITAC into allegations of cement dumping from Mozambique and Vietnam, which could lead to additional trade measures to protect local manufacturers.