An advocacy group is raising concerns about a potential cement supply crunch in the U.S. as federally funded infrastructure projects ramp up, warning that marine and ferry construction could face increased competition for materials in the coming years.
American Foundations, an initiative of Common Sense America, is urging lawmakers to expand Buy America provisions to include cement and other building materials in the upcoming Surface Transportation Authorization bill. The push follows what the group describes as a decline in domestic production paired with rising imports and a surge in construction demand.
“There is substantial evidence that these nations are intervening in markets by maintaining production levels that far exceed domestic demand,” said Steve Crim, president of Common Sense America, in a letter to congressional leaders. “This excess material is subsequently dumped into foreign markets, including the U.S., eroding the autonomy of our own cement producers and harming America’s workforce.”
According to the group, U.S. cement production has declined in recent years while imports now account for roughly one-fifth to one-quarter of domestic supply. Major sources include Turkey, Vietnam and Greece, with additional concern about potential future volumes from China.
At the same time, demand for cement is expected to increase as infrastructure funding flows into projects across multiple sectors, including ports, ferry terminals and other marine construction, as well as highways, airports, and data centers.
While there is no indication of widespread project delays tied to cement shortages today, the group says the combination of reduced domestic capacity, reliance on imports, and growing demand could create supply constraints if disruptions occur.
In that scenario, marine infrastructure projects could face challenges securing materials as suppliers prioritize higher-volume or higher-priority sectors. Ferry projects in particular could fall behind competing uses if supply tightens.
The group’s proposal would extend existing Buy America requirements — currently applied to materials like steel and iron — to cement used in taxpayer-funded projects. Provisions in current law allow for waivers if domestic supply is insufficient or if costs rise beyond certain thresholds.
“National security starts with strong foundations, and that means every bag of cement used in our public works is manufactured right here at home,” Crim said.
