Shipbuilding Market Size, Share, and Growth Analysis, By Ship Type (Cargo Ships, Container Ships), By Process (Designing, Production Planning), By Propulsion, By End-User, By Region - Industry Forecast 2025-2032

Shipbuilding Market size was valued at USD 118.23 billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 123.43 billion in 2024 to USD 174.19 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period (2025-2032).

The shipbuilding industry is evolving with a significant shift towards cost-effective maritime transport solutions, driven by increasing global population demands, particularly in emerging markets. As of October 2023, China has overtaken South Korea in compensated gross tonnage (CGT), securing over 22.8 million CGT in new orders and a total of 45.7 million CGT. Modern shipyards are emphasizing the use of prefabricated components, with substantial efficiencies gained from pre-installing machinery and systems. Notably, the European Union accounts for approximately 15% of global goods trade, with import tonnage increasing steadily by 5%. With 75% of these goods arriving by sea, shipping remains the most economical logistics solution for connecting suppliers to European markets, underscoring the sector's vital role in global commerce.

Top-down and bottom-up approaches were used to estimate and validate the size of the Shipbuilding market and to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets. The research methodology used to estimate the market size includes the following details: The key players in the market were identified through secondary research, and their market shares in the respective regions were determined through primary and secondary research. This entire procedure includes the study of the annual and financial reports of the top market players and extensive interviews for key insights from industry leaders such as CEOs, VPs, directors, and marketing executives. All percentage shares split, and breakdowns were determined using secondary sources and verified through Primary sources. All possible parameters that affect the markets covered in this research study have been accounted for, viewed in extensive detail, verified through primary research, and analyzed to get the final quantitative and qualitative data.

Shipbuilding Market Segments Analysis

Global Shipbuilding Market is segmented by Ship Type, Process, Propulsion, End-User and region. Based on Ship Type, the market is segmented into Cargo Ships, Container Ships, Tankers, Passenger Ships, Naval Ships and Offshore Vessels. Based on Process, the market is segmented into Designing, Production Planning, Cutting and Processing, Assembling and Launching and Outfitting. Based on Propulsion, the market is segmented into Conventional Propulsion (Diesel Engines), Gas Turbine Propulsion, Nuclear Propulsion and Electric and Hybrid Propulsion. Based on End-User, the market is segmented into Commercial and Military. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.

Driver of the Shipbuilding Market

The shipbuilding market is significantly influenced by the aging global fleet, which necessitates both replacement and modernization efforts. As ships reach the end of their operational lifespan, they become increasingly inefficient and expensive to manage. This prompts shipowners and operators to invest in new vessels that not only enhance fuel efficiency but also incorporate cutting-edge technologies and conform to the latest environmental regulations. Consequently, the pressing need to retire outdated ships drives the demand for the construction of new vessels, ensuring that the fleet remains competitive and environmentally compliant while meeting evolving industry standards.

Restraints in the Shipbuilding Market

The shipbuilding sector experiences significant cyclical fluctuations, characterized by alternating phases of prosperity and decline. Changes in global trade dynamics, economic conditions, and volatility in financial markets can significantly affect the volume of shipbuilding orders, often resulting in overcapacity situations. When overcapacity occurs, shipbuilders encounter fierce competition along with downward pressure on prices, ultimately leading to diminished profit margins. This inherent unpredictability in the market creates challenges for shipbuilders as they navigate through periods of reduced demand and strive to maintain profitability amidst a competitive landscape. Therefore, the cyclical nature of the shipbuilding industry serves as a notable restraint on its growth potential.

Market Trends of the Shipbuilding Market

The shipbuilding market is witnessing a notable trend driven by defense and naval shipbuilding programs, as nations globally enhance their military capabilities amid increasing geopolitical tensions. The modernization of aging naval fleets and the consistent investment in advanced naval vessels, submarines, and aircraft carriers underscore governments' commitment to ensuring national security. This trend is particularly pronounced in countries with substantial defense budgets, where naval shipbuilding contracts have become pivotal for sustaining the industry. Consequently, the shipbuilding landscape is evolving, focusing on innovative technologies and enhanced maritime warfare capabilities to meet the demands of modern naval operations.