Study of the Metal Powders Market for Additive Manufacturing in China

Eurasia Development Group: sales of metal powders exceeded 57,000 tonnes, with a 30% CAGR and growing interest in green technologies.

Additive manufacturing technologies are developing rapidly in China, covering the automotive, aerospace, energy and medical industries. Metal powders are a key component of 3D printing, determining the quality and performance of final products.

The study provides an analysis of metal powder production and sales volumes, an overview of technological processes and materials, as well as an assessment of the potential applications of green powders and their role in the sustainable development of industry.

Key Findings

• Sales of metal powders in China reached 57,000 tonnes in 2020, predominantly steel powders, which accounted for 90% of the total volume.
• China ranks second globally in metal powder sales, behind only the United States (≈ 30%).
• Revenue of Chinese additive manufacturing companies reached USD 3.9 billion in 2021, with a 30% CAGR over the previous four years.
• The share of metal powders used for additive manufacturing in China is 22% higher than the global level (≈18%).

Market Drivers

Growing demand from the automotive and aerospace industries, as well as the energy and biomedical sectors, is driving increased investment in additive manufacturing technologies. The transition to green materials is also increasing attention to environmentally friendly powders.

What This Means for Russian Players

• Supply of high-quality steel-, aluminum- and copper-based metal powders to Chinese 3D manufacturers.
• Joint R&D projects to develop green powders with a low carbon footprint.
• Participation in the localization of powder production through joint ventures and licensing agreements.

Expert Comment “China’s metal powders market demonstrates maturity and dynamism at the same time — it offers an opportunity to adopt advanced developments and implement them in Russian projects, particularly in the green materials segment,” notes Konstantin Matveyenkov, Head of Analytics at Eurasia Development Group.