Key facts
- US cement imports from Vietnam reached a record high in the first half of 2026.
- Vietnamese cement shipments increased by 20pc year-on-year to 3.08 million tonnes.
- Vietnam's share of US cement imports rose to 26% from 21% a year earlier.
- Imports from Egypt nearly doubled, making it the fourth-largest supplier.
- US imports from Turkey, the largest supplier, decreased by 6%.
US cement imports from Vietnam reached a record high in the first half of 2026, with shipments increasing by 20% year-on-year to 3.08 million tonnes. This surge strengthened Vietnam's position as the second-largest cement supplier to the US, capturing nearly 26% of the market, up from 21% a year prior. The growth occurred despite tighter spot availability from Vietnam and rising freight costs, suggesting a reliance on contractual sales finalized last year. The increase in Vietnamese imports helped offset lower supply from Turkey and the Middle East.Imports from Egypt nearly doubled, reaching 853,200 tonnes and making it the fourth-largest supplier, even as the Egyptian government aimed to limit exports. Algeria, the fifth-largest supplier, saw a 30% increase to 489,600 tonnes, while Pakistan's imports quadrupled to 208,400 tonnes. Canada remained the third-largest supplier with 1.89 million tonnes, a 4% increase, but a new 50% US tariff on Canadian cement, effective August 22, is expected to impact future demand. Trade talks between the US and Canada ended abruptly, leading Canada to announce retaliatory tariffs on US steel and aluminum.Meanwhile, imports from Turkey, the largest supplier, decreased by 6% to 3.73 million tonnes, reducing its market share. Deliveries from the UAE and Saudi Arabia saw sharp declines of 50% and 85% respectively, attributed to war-related disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Imports from Greece, Colombia, and Mexico also declined. Overall, total US cement imports fell by approximately 1% year-on-year to 11.88 million tonnes.