South Korean Ready-Mix Concrete Shipments Expected to Drop by 18% in 2025

In a recent update, South Korean ready-mix concrete shipments are anticipated to decline by 18% year-on-year in 2025, reaching approximately 93 million cubic meters. This projection stems from a report by Chosun Biz News, which attributes the decrease to stagnant commercial construction and delays in infrastructure projects[1].

The expected drop represents a significant decline from the 2021 high of 146 million cubic meters, marking a year-on-year reduction of 36%. The Sampyo Market Research Centre (SMRC) previously forecasted full-year 2025 shipments at 96 million cubic meters, but this estimate was revised following the outbreak of a political crisis in December 2024.

This downturn in ready-mix concrete shipments reflects a broader trend in South Korea's construction industry, which has been facing challenges in recent years. Despite the decline, the global ready-mix concrete market continues to grow, driven by factors such as the increasing demand for sustainable and cost-effective building materials, as well as advancements in concrete technology[3].

The global market is projected to experience robust growth, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7.3% from 2025 to 2035. This expansion is fueled by various factors including the growing preference for pre-mixed concrete, technological advancements, and increased infrastructure development projects worldwide[3].

Key Points:

• Projected Decline: 18% year-on-year drop in ready-mix concrete shipments to 93 million cubic meters in 2025.
• Attribution: Stagnant commercial construction and infrastructure project delays.
• Previous Forecast: Revised from 96 million cubic meters due to political crisis.
• Global Market Growth: CAGR of 7.3% from 2025 to 2035.
• Factors Driving Growth: Sustainable building materials, technological advancements, and increased infrastructure projects.

The South Korean construction sector's challenges, coupled with the global industry's growth, highlight the complexities and opportunities within the ready-mix concrete market. As the industry navigates these dynamics, it remains clear that the demand for high-quality, efficient, and sustainable concrete solutions will continue to shape the future of construction projects worldwide.