In this paper a generalized predictive controller (GPC) for effective control of clinkerization temperature in a cement rotary kiln is designed. By using methods for identification of dynamic systems a mathematical model of the plant under study is obtained, whose validation results showed a high adequacy degree. The design of the GPC controller is performed based on the mathematical model obtained. It is shown that the designed controller allows controlling the plant under study with a high accuracy considering different real industrial operation scenarios. The comparative simulation results of the control system with PID and GPC controllers showed a better performance when the GPC controller is applied.