Non‑Tariff Barrier from Europe: Lack of SKDM Inspector Pressures Cement Sector

What is SKDM?
On January 1, 2026, the Border Carbon Adjustment Mechanism (SKDM) came into force, imposing a carbon cost on the production of imported high‑carbon‑intensity products.
The European Commission has not yet designated an inspection firm.
Inspector Shortage and Order Delays Because no inspector has been appointed, firms exporting to Europe are delaying the submission of their carbon‑emission reports while awaiting official approval.
This has caused order delays among exporters of cement, glass, ceramics, and clay products.
Impact on the Cement Sector Ender Şahin, President of the Turkish Cement and Concrete Industry Association (ÇCSİB), said: “Our European customers are in a difficult position due to the carbon‑emission obligations and rising taxes.
The appointment of an inspection firm is expected, but the process could extend until January 2027.
As a result, we have lost many customers in Europe.” Şahin also noted that rising energy and logistics costs, a 40 % increase in coal prices, and freight charges are squeezing export prices.
Alternative Markets and the Future Thanks to Turkey’s geopolitical position and strong infrastructure, some shipments have been redirected to markets such as Vietnam, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.
Preparations are also underway for new markets in Syria, Ukraine, and Libya.
In particular, Turkish contractors are turning to Libya, where orders have increased.