Africa's Construction Materials Market Booms in 2024: Steel Demand Surges 40%, Chinese Supply Chain Becomes Top Choice

With Africa's rapid urbanization and major infrastructure projects underway, the continent's construction materials market is experiencing explosive growth in 2024. Industry data shows steel demand in Africa has surged by 40% year-on-year, with Chinese suppliers emerging as the preferred partners for developers and contractors due to their cost competitiveness and reliable delivery capabilities.

1. Soaring Demand for Construction Materials: Steel, Tiles, and Sanitary Ware Lead the Market

Africa is undergoing an unprecedented construction boom in 2024:

-Urbanization Drives Housing Demand: Africa's urban population is growing at 3.5% annually (World Bank data), with countries like Nigeria and Ethiopia requiring millions of new housing units each year.

-Major Infrastructure Projects Kick Off: Examples include Egypt's New Administrative Capital ($45 billion project) and Kenya's Mombasa Special Economic Zone (demanding over 1 million tons of steel).

-Chinese Suppliers Dominate: China's construction material exports to Africa grew by 25% in 2023, accounting for over 60% of Africa's total steel imports (China Customs data).

-Top Procurement Categories:

2. Why Do African Buyers Prefer Chinese Construction Materials?

Compared to European and Indian suppliers, Chinese supply chains offer three key advantages:

- Cost Competitiveness: 30%-50% Cheaper Than Europe

- Reliable Delivery: Reducing African Project Delays

- Africa-Specific Customization

Data sources:

· www.shihang.org

· www.customs.gov.cn

· www.caetp.net.cn（ADMA）