International cement association and representative body the World Cement Association (WCA), celebrated its tenth anniversary on May 18, 2026, stating that this milestone was achieved during a decade of “profound transformation” for both the global cement industry and the wider economy.

Founded in 2016 to provide an “independent international platform” for cement producers and industry stakeholders, the WCA has grown into a global network promoting cooperation, innovation, sustainability and operational excellence across the sector.

The association noted that its first decade has coincided with “one of the most turbulent and transformative periods in modern history”, citing the Covid-19 pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, energy crises, supply chain disruption, accelerating climate change, inflationary pressures and rapid technological advancement driven by digitalisation and AI.

“These developments have reshaped global trade, manufacturing, construction and industrial policy, while placing increasing pressure on heavy industries to adapt and decarbonise.
“Against this backdrop, the global cement industry has undergone significant structural change. Markets have shifted geographically toward Asia and emerging economies, sustainability has become central to corporate strategy, and innovation in low-carbon technologies, alternative fuels, digital manufacturing and circular economy practices has accelerated at an unprecedented pace.”

WCA president Dr Wei Rushan reflected on the anniversary and emphasised that “throughout this period, the WCA has served as a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation across borders”.

Further, with AI, digitalisation, circular economy models and breakthrough low-carbon technologies expected to fundamentally reshape cement production and construction materials over the next ten years, the WCA remained committed to supporting its members and the wider industry through this evolution, WCA CEO Philippe Richart added.

New Member

Meanwhile, in April, the WCA welcomed one of the Republic of Guinea’s leading cement producers Ciments de Guinée as its newest corporate member.

Originally founded in 1977 as SOPROCIMENT, the company entered a new phase of development following its acquisition in 2025 by UK-based investment and holding company Hillside Triumph, part of the Hillside Group. Its parent company is supporting Ciments de Guinée by aiding its repositioning as a leading industrial player.

Operating a cement plant in Sonfonia and a dedicated terminal at the Port of Conakry for the receipt of raw materials, the company has an installed production capacity of about one-million tonnes a year.

“Joining the WCA reflects our ambition to strengthen Ciments de Guinée’s position within the global cement community,” said Ciments de Guinée CEO Mohamed Deen Toure.

He added that, with its new membership, Ciments de Guinée looked forward to contributing to discussions around efficiency, innovation and sustainable development in cement production.