GENERAL NEWS
Global metal fabrication market trends
According to market analysis in October 2025 from The Business Research Company, the global metal fabrication market size has grown steadily in recent years. Asia-Pacific was the largest region in the metal fabrication market in 2024, it confirmed in its‘ Metal Fabrication Global Market Report 2025’.
“ It will grow from US $ 21.7 billion in 2024 to US $ 22.55 billion in 2025 at a compound annual growth rate( CAGR) of 4 %. The growth in the historic period can be attributed to agricultural machinery manufacturing requirements; renewable energy sector growth; increasing urbanisation; growth in marine and shipbuilding sectors [ as well as ] demand for metal furniture and fixtures,” said the analyst.
The metal fabrication market size is expected to see steady growth in the next few years. The analyst forecasts growth to US $ 26.17 billion in 2029 at a compound annual growth rate( CAGR) of 3.8 %.
“ The growth in the forecast period can be attributed to increasing demand from the automotive industry; demand for metal signage and advertising materials; replacement demand for ageing infrastructure and demand for metal enclosures in the electronics industry. Major trends in the forecast period include integration of the Internet of Things
( IoT) in fabrication processes; the expansion of manufacturing industries; technological innovation in metal alloys; infrastructure development and construction sector expansion,” added the analyst.
Its forecast of 3.8 % growth over the next five years reflects a modest reduction of 0.5 % from its previous estimate for this market.“ This reduction is primarily due to the impact of tariffs between the U. S. and other countries. This is likely to directly affect the U. S. through higher costs for laser cutting and Computer Numerical Control( CNC) machinery from China and Taiwan, reducing productivity in structural steel and sheet metal operations. The effect will also be felt more widely due to reciprocal tariffs and the negative effect on the global economy and trade due to increased trade tensions and restrictions,” explained the analyst.
Growth of the construction industry is expected to drive the expansion of the metal fabrication market. Metal fabrication plays a crucial role in construction by providing essential structural and aesthetic components for buildings, offering versatility and customisation options.
Key players in the metal fabrication industry are strategically focusing on innovative advancements to stay competitive and meet evolving market demands. Primary categories
in metal fabrication encompass cutting, machining, welding, bending and additional processes.
Supply chain in focus
“ The sharp rise in U. S. tariffs and the resulting trade tensions in Spring 2025 are having a significant impact on the metals and minerals sector, disrupting supply chains for automakers, appliance manufacturers and infrastructure projects,” explained the analyst in its report.
“ With reduced competition from imports, domestic mills have increased price, yet capacity limitations hinder their ability to fully meet demand. At the same time, mining companies are facing challenges from retaliatory tariffs on key mineral exports, especially lithium and rare earth elements,” it continued.
“ In response, industry participants are ramping up investments in scrap metal recycling, seeking tariff exemptions and forming joint ventures with international producers to ensure a more reliable supplychain,” concluded the analyst’ s report. n
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. thebusiness researchcompany. com
Making new connections
Southern Manufacturing & Electronics is an annual industrial exhibition in the UK and a major pan-European showcase for new technology in machinery; production equipment; electronic production and assembly; tooling and components as well as subcontract services across a wide range of industry. It will be held in Hall 1 of the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre in the UK from 3-5 February 2026. ISMR is a media partner at the event.
According to the show organiser, it attracts around 10,000 visitors and 500 + exhibitors. Now owned and managed by Easyfairs, the industrial trade show is a major platform for new technology in production and inspection equipment, components and subcontract services across a wide spectrum of industries. Professionals engaged in design, manufacturing and procurement can explore a wide array of equipment including machine tools; tooling; workholding; production hardware; automation and robotics; test and measurement equipment; quality control solutions; engineering software; materials supply and other technologies.
In addition, the exhibition showcases a range of more general products and services including oil and coolant supply; workshop equipment; dust and fume extraction; humidity control; workplace storage systems; bespoke case and foam manufacture; injection moulding; hand tools; adhesives; waste removal and recycling; training; freight services and financial consultancy. Attendees and exhibitors will have access to Easyfairs’ event app and smart badge technology. The event includes a free technical seminar programme over the three days. Two dedicated seminar theatres, one focused on‘ Manufacturing’ and the other on‘ Electronics’, will host a full programme of CPD-accredited sessions throughout the trade show.
“ Visitors will see live demonstrations of new technologies and innovations, as well as expert insights and seminars from thought leaders across manufacturing and electronics. These sessions are designed to help visitors streamline production, enhance their digital capabilities and unlock new opportunities for growth. They will learn how to integrate digital tools and systems to drive efficiency and productivity, positioning their businesses for long-term success,” explained trade show organiser, Easyfairs. n
REGISTER HERE
www. southern-manufactu ring-electronics. com
ISMR December 2025 / January 2026 | ismr. net | 9