The World Cement Association (WCA) will host its 2026 Annual Conference from 19–21 April at The Athenee Hotel in Bangkok. Held under the theme of shaping a sustainable future through digitisation, innovation and performance, the event will bring together global cement industry leaders, policymakers, technology providers and stakeholders. The programme will present strategic, operational and sustainability perspectives intended to inform the sector's next phase of transformation.

The programme will open with a comprehensive assessment of the global economic environment and its impact on cement markets, accompanied by regional outlooks across Asia and Europe. Discussions are scheduled to examine regulatory developments, including carbon border adjustment mechanisms in Europe, developments in China's carbon trading system and market dynamics across Thailand and South East Asia. Industry specialists are due to outline practical decarbonisation pathways that maintain competitiveness, spanning the use of alternative fuels, next generation supplementary cementitious materials, developments in calcined clay and AI enabled kiln optimisation. Sessions will also consider manufacturing efficiency and the role of digital tools in performance improvement.

The second day will focus on addressing overcapacity and industry restructuring with case studies and regional perspectives to provide delegates with operational insights. Additional sessions will explore digital maturity and AI driven plant operations, manufacturing optimisation, sustainable building solutions and circular concrete models, while examining evolving customer requirements across the construction value chain. An awards ceremony on 20 April will recognise excellence in sustainability, innovation, safety and leadership across the global cement sector.

Registration is now open and tickets include admission to all sessions, refreshments and lunch, exhibition access and the Awards Gala Dinner. Further information on the programme and practical details is available via the WCA Annual Conference 2026 event page, and enquiries regarding sponsorship or exhibition opportunities may be directed to the association's events team. The WCA reiterated that the conference aims to encourage collaboration and share practical solutions to accelerate decarbonisation while safeguarding competitiveness.