EU27 cement and clinker imports fell to approximately 5Mt in the first half of 2026, from about 6.3Mt a year earlier, according to Cement Europe’s latest trade report. Exports declined more sharply, from around 4.7Mt to 3.2Mt, leaving a slightly wider trade deficit of approximately 1.8Mt.

Türkiye remained the leading external supplier, accounting for 48.2 per cent of imports. Algeria supplied 14.8 per cent, followed by Ukraine with 9.9 per cent, Tunisia with 7.9 per cent and Egypt with six per cent.

The UK was the largest destination for EU cement and clinker exports, receiving 40 per cent of the total. The USA accounted for 12.2 per cent and Bosnia and Herzegovina for 8.1 per cent.

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The longer-term figures show a marked reversal in the EU’s trading position. Annual imports increased from approximately 2.4Mt in 2016 to 14Mt in 2025, while exports fell from around 24.5Mt to 9Mt.

The data cover the first six months of the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism’s definitive regime, which began on 1 January 2026. Importers will begin purchasing certificates for 2026 emissions in February 2027.