Study of China’s Steel Construction Market

Eurasia Development Group: China produced 104 million tonnes of steel structures in 2022, while the floor area of prefabricated buildings has increased fourfold since 2020.

Prefabricated steel structures are playing an increasingly important role in construction due to faster installation and lower costs.

The study analyzes the production and use of steel structures in China, assesses the market structure by segment, and identifies the key drivers of its growth.

Key Findings

• In 2021, the floor area of prefabricated buildings in China exceeded 740 million m², accounting for 24.5% of all newly started projects.
• In 2022, China produced 104 million tonnes of steel structures, equivalent to 10% of total steel production.
• The share of steel structures in construction has increased fourfold in recent years and is expected to reach 15% by 2025.
• Key segments include industrial facilities — 39%, public buildings — 20%, bridges — 12%, and residential buildings — 5%.

Market Drivers
Rising labor and energy costs, together with energy-efficiency and environmental objectives, are encouraging the adoption of steel structures and prefabricated construction technologies.

Government support at both the national and provincial levels includes regulatory measures, tax incentives, and subsidies that support further market growth.