Global Steel for Bridge Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By Application (Highway Bridges, Railway Bridges, Pedestrian Bridges, Flyovers, Overpasses), By Construction Technique (Prefabricated Construction, Cast-in-situ Construction, Composite Construction), By Steel Type (Carbon Steel, Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel), By End Use (Public Infrastructure, Private Infrastructure, Commercial Projects), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Steel for Bridge Market is projected to grow from USD 48.7 Billion in 2025 to USD 79.2 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.2% from 2026 through 2035. This market encompasses the production, distribution, and utilization of various steel types specifically engineered for bridge construction across diverse applications, construction techniques, and end uses. Key market drivers include the accelerating global infrastructure development, particularly in emerging economies, alongside a significant push for upgrading and replacing aging bridge infrastructure in developed nations. Governments worldwide are prioritizing resilient and long lasting infrastructure, fueling demand for steel's inherent strength, durability, and cost effectiveness. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of prefabrication and modular construction techniques, which leverage steel's versatility, is contributing to market expansion. However, the market faces restraints such as volatile raw material prices, particularly for iron ore and coking coal, which can impact profitability. Environmental regulations and concerns surrounding the carbon footprint of steel production also pose challenges, pushing manufacturers towards sustainable practices.
Global Steel for Bridge Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035
2025 - 2035
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A significant trend observed in the market is the increasing focus on high strength and weathering steels to enhance bridge lifespan and reduce maintenance costs. There is also a growing emphasis on digital construction technologies, including Building Information Modeling BIM, to optimize design, fabrication, and construction processes, leading to greater efficiency and precision. Opportunities abound in the development of innovative steel alloys with superior corrosion resistance and enhanced fatigue performance, catering to bridges in harsh environments. Furthermore, the expansion of railway networks and the development of high speed rail corridors globally present a substantial opportunity for specialized steel bridge solutions. The market is segmented by Application, Steel Type, Construction Technique, and End Use, with Carbon Steel holding the dominant share due to its balance of cost and structural properties, making it a ubiquitous choice for various bridge types.
Asia Pacific stands as the dominant region in the global steel for bridge market, primarily driven by rapid urbanization, significant investments in infrastructure projects like highways, railways, and urban connectivity, and robust economic growth across countries in the region. This region is also projected to be the fastest growing due to continued government initiatives for infrastructure expansion, particularly in countries with large populations and developing economies, coupled with increasing adoption of advanced construction techniques. Key players such as ArcelorMittal, Nippon Steel Corporation, POSCO, Tata Steel, and United States Steel Corporation are strategically focusing on expanding their production capacities, investing in research and development for advanced steel products, and forging partnerships with construction firms to secure major bridge projects. Companies are also prioritizing sustainable production methods and developing green steel solutions to meet evolving environmental standards and gain a competitive edge in this dynamic global market.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 48.7 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 79.2 BillionLeading Segment:
Carbon Steel (72.8% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
Asia Pacific (55.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
6.2%
What is Steel for Bridge?
Steel for bridges refers to specialized steel products engineered for robust structural support in bridge construction. It encompasses specific grades and material properties designed to withstand immense static and dynamic loads, fatigue, and environmental corrosion. The core concept involves selecting steels with high strength to weight ratios, ductility for earthquake resistance, and weldability for fabrication. This specialized steel ensures the long term integrity, safety, and durability of bridges, accommodating various designs like suspension, cable stayed, or truss structures. Its significance lies in enabling critical infrastructure projects globally.
What are the Trends in Global Steel for Bridge Market
Sustainable Steel Solutions for Bridge Infrastructure
Smart Bridges and IoT Integration in Steel Construction
Advanced High Strength Steel Adoption in Bridge Design
Modular Prefabricated Steel Bridge Components Gain Traction
Digital Twin Technology for Steel Bridge Lifecycle Management
Sustainable Steel Solutions for Bridge Infrastructure
Sustainable steel solutions are a growing force in global bridge infrastructure. Engineers and municipalities increasingly prioritize environmental impact alongside structural integrity. This trend drives demand for lower carbon footprint steel, often achieved through electric arc furnaces utilizing recycled content or innovative production methods that reduce emissions. Beyond manufacture, sustainability extends to the entire lifecycle, encompassing design for durability, ease of maintenance, and ultimately, recyclability at end of life. This shift promotes circular economy principles within bridge construction. Innovations in high strength steels and corrosion resistant alloys further contribute by extending service life, reducing material consumption and subsequent resource depletion. Overall, the focus is on achieving resilient, long lasting bridges with minimal environmental burden throughout their existence.
Smart Bridges and IoT Integration in Steel Construction
Smart bridges, a burgeoning trend in steel construction, leverage Internet of Things integration to enhance performance and safety. Steel fabricated bridges are now equipped with an array of embedded sensors monitoring critical parameters like stress, strain, temperature, and corrosion. This real time data collection allows engineers to remotely assess the structural health and integrity of bridges.
IoT integration also facilitates predictive maintenance. By analyzing the sensor data, potential issues can be identified before they escalate into major problems, enabling timely repairs and preventing costly disruptions. Furthermore, smart bridges can communicate with autonomous vehicles, optimizing traffic flow and improving safety. This technology optimizes resource allocation, extends the lifespan of bridges, and ensures their reliable operation in a world increasingly dependent on interconnected infrastructure.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Steel for Bridge Market
Government Infrastructure Investment & Policies
Urbanization & Population Growth Demanding New Infrastructure
Advancements in Steel Technology & Engineering
Increased Focus on Sustainable & Resilient Infrastructure
Replacement & Rehabilitation of Aging Bridge Infrastructure
Government Infrastructure Investment & Policies
Government infrastructure investment and policies are pivotal in the global steel for bridge market. As governments worldwide prioritize enhancing transportation networks and replacing aging infrastructure, their direct financial commitments to new bridge construction and extensive rehabilitation projects directly fuel demand for structural steel. These investments stem from long term national development plans, economic stimulus packages, and public safety mandates. Furthermore, supportive government policies, including standardized building codes that often favor steel for its strength and durability, streamlined permitting processes, and public private partnership initiatives, create a stable and predictable environment for bridge development. Such policies encourage investment in manufacturing capabilities and project execution, significantly boosting the market for steel suppliers and fabricators.
Urbanization & Population Growth Demanding New Infrastructure
Rapid urbanization and expanding global populations are creating unprecedented demands for new infrastructure, directly fueling growth in the global steel bridge market. As cities swell, the need for efficient transportation networks escalates, requiring more bridges to connect communities, alleviate traffic congestion, and support economic development. This demographic shift necessitates investment in modernizing existing structures and constructing entirely new ones. Increased population density also drives the expansion of industrial and commercial zones, all reliant on robust transport links. Steel, known for its strength, durability, and versatility, becomes the material of choice for these vital connectivity projects, underpinning the sustained demand for steel bridges worldwide.
Advancements in Steel Technology & Engineering
Innovations in steel technology and engineering significantly propel the global steel market for bridges. Modern steel boasts superior strength to weight ratios, enabling the construction of longer, lighter spans with fewer supports. Enhanced ductility and toughness improve seismic resistance and overall structural integrity, making bridges more resilient to extreme weather and natural disasters. Advances in corrosion resistant steels, like weathering steel and duplex stainless steel, reduce maintenance needs and extend service life, lowering lifecycle costs. Improved fabrication techniques, including advanced welding and modular construction, accelerate project timelines and enhance construction efficiency. These metallurgical and engineering advancements offer cost effective, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solutions, driving the preference for steel in contemporary bridge infrastructure projects worldwide.
Global Steel for Bridge Market Restraints
Volatile Raw Material Prices & Supply Chain Disruptions
Unpredictable raw material costs significantly hinder the global steel for bridge market. Iron ore, coking coal, and scrap metal prices fluctuate due to global demand shifts, geopolitical events, and currency volatility. This instability makes accurate project budgeting nearly impossible for fabricators and contractors. Furthermore, disruptions in the supply chain, such as port congestion, labor shortages, and unexpected transportation delays, exacerbate these challenges. These issues lead to extended lead times, increased logistics costs, and a higher risk of project overruns. Consequently, participants face reduced profit margins and difficulty in fulfilling contracts on time and within budget, impacting market growth and stability.
Intensified Competition from Alternative Construction Materials
The global steel market for bridges faces a significant restraint from intensified competition offered by alternative construction materials. Concrete, for instance, is a well-established and often cost effective option, particularly for shorter spans and certain aesthetic preferences. Composite materials, combining strengths of different substances, are also gaining traction for their lighter weight and enhanced durability. Furthermore, timber, especially engineered wood products, presents a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing alternative for pedestrian bridges and some vehicular structures. These alternatives offer advantages in various aspects such as initial cost, maintenance requirements, construction speed, or environmental impact, thereby diverting demand that would otherwise go to steel. This diversification of material choices directly limits the expansion and market share of steel in bridge construction globally.
Global Steel for Bridge Market Opportunities
Global Infrastructure Renewal: Supplying High-Performance, Sustainable Steel for Next-Generation Bridges
The global push for infrastructure renewal presents a monumental opportunity for steel suppliers. Nations worldwide are addressing aging bridges, necessitating replacements and upgrades designed for enhanced longevity and resilience against modern environmental stresses. This paradigm shift demands high performance steel solutions capable of withstanding extreme conditions, offering superior strength, durability, and corrosion resistance for next generation bridges. Concurrently, there is an escalating imperative for sustainable construction practices. Steel manufacturers can capitalize by developing and supplying advanced materials with reduced environmental footprints, leveraging innovations in production processes and recyclable content. The Asia Pacific region, experiencing rapid urbanization and significant infrastructure development, is a prime driver for this demand, seeking modern, efficient, and environmentally conscious bridge construction. Suppliers who offer specialized, high strength, and sustainably produced steel will secure a pivotal role in shaping the future of global bridge networks, aligning with both performance and ecological mandates, thus ensuring safe, durable, and environmentally responsible transportation infrastructure for decades to come.
Modular Steel Bridge Construction: Capturing Demand for Faster, Cost-Efficient Project Delivery
Modular steel bridge construction presents a compelling opportunity within the global steel for bridge market. This innovative approach involves fabricating standardized bridge components offsite in controlled factory settings, ensuring precision and quality. These pre engineered sections are then transported and rapidly assembled at the construction site. This methodology significantly accelerates project delivery timelines, a critical advantage for governments and developers facing urgent infrastructure demands. It also drives substantial cost efficiencies by reducing onsite labor requirements, minimizing disruptions, and optimizing material use. Regions experiencing rapid development, such as Asia Pacific, are particularly keen on solutions that expedite bridge projects without compromising structural integrity or budget. By embracing modularization, steel manufacturers and construction firms can capture this growing demand for quicker, more economical, and predictable bridge solutions. This strategic shift empowers stakeholders to meet ambitious infrastructure targets effectively, delivering essential connectivity faster and more reliably across diverse geographies, securing a competitive edge.
Global Steel for Bridge Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Application
- •Highway Bridges
- •Railway Bridges
- •Pedestrian Bridges
- •Flyovers
- •Overpasses
By Steel Type
- •Carbon Steel
- •Alloy Steel
- •Stainless Steel
By Construction Technique
- •Prefabricated Construction
- •Cast-in-situ Construction
- •Composite Construction
By End Use
- •Public Infrastructure
- •Private Infrastructure
- •Commercial Projects
Segment Share By Application
Share, By Application, 2025 (%)
- Highway Bridges
- Railway Bridges
- Pedestrian Bridges
- Flyovers
- Overpasses
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Why is Carbon Steel dominating the Global Steel for Bridge Market?
Carbon steel holds a significant majority share due to its optimal balance of strength, ductility, and cost effectiveness, making it the most preferred material for a vast array of bridge projects worldwide. Its widespread availability, ease of fabrication, and proven performance over decades contribute substantially to its dominance, providing a reliable and economical solution for critical infrastructure development across all application types.
Which application segments are primarily driving the demand for steel in bridge construction?
Highway bridges and flyovers are likely the primary drivers of steel demand within the application segment. The sheer scale and number of these projects, driven by expanding road networks and urban infrastructure needs, necessitate large volumes of structural steel. These segments often involve extensive spans and high load bearing requirements, where steel's strength to weight ratio and durability offer distinct advantages, sustaining high consumption.
How do different construction techniques influence the adoption of various steel types?
Construction techniques such as prefabricated and composite construction significantly influence the choice of steel types. Prefabricated construction, valuing speed and efficiency, often favors standard steel sections that can be quickly assembled. Composite construction, integrating steel with concrete, leverages the strengths of both materials, potentially allowing for specialized alloy steels in certain high stress components for optimized performance and longer lifespans, while cast in situ methods might allow for more flexibility in steel use.
What Regulatory and Policy Factors Shape the Global Steel for Bridge Market
The global steel for bridge market operates within a intricate regulatory and policy framework. National and international standards organizations establish stringent guidelines for steel quality, fabrication, and structural design, including Eurocodes, ASTM, and ISO, which are crucial for ensuring bridge safety and longevity worldwide. Governments implement specific building codes and infrastructure development policies that influence material choice, construction methods, and project timelines. Environmental regulations, particularly those concerning carbon emissions and sustainable sourcing in steel production, are increasingly impacting supply chains and procurement decisions. Furthermore, trade policies, including tariffs and anti-dumping measures, significantly affect steel prices and international market access. Public procurement rules often prioritize local content or sustainability, guiding tender processes for major infrastructure projects. Labor laws and safety regulations also govern site operations and manufacturing practices. This diverse regulatory landscape necessitates continuous adaptation from manufacturers and constructors to remain compliant and competitive across different regions.
What New Technologies are Shaping Global Steel for Bridge Market?
The global steel for bridge market is undergoing a significant transformation driven by pioneering innovations. Advanced high strength low alloy HSLA and ultra high strength UHSS steels are emerging, enabling lighter, more durable, and corrosion resistant bridge designs. These materials promise extended service life and reduced maintenance needs, significantly enhancing asset value.
Digital fabrication techniques, including robotic welding and sophisticated additive manufacturing, are revolutionizing component production. This leads to unparalleled precision, reduced waste, and accelerated assembly times. Modular and prefabricated construction methods are also gaining prominence, allowing large bridge sections to be manufactured offsite. This approach minimizes onsite disruption, improves safety, and shortens construction schedules.
Furthermore, smart bridge technologies are integrating real time structural health monitoring systems. These sensors provide critical data on performance, stress, and potential fatigue, allowing for predictive maintenance and proactive interventions. The push for sustainable steel production, focusing on lower carbon emissions and increased recycled content, also represents a major innovative shift, aligning with global environmental goals and market demands for greener infrastructure solutions.
Global Steel for Bridge Market Regional Analysis
Global Steel for Bridge Market
Trends, by Region
Asia-Pacific Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
Asia Pacific · 55.2% share
Asia Pacific firmly dominates the global steel for bridge market, holding an impressive 55.2% share. This significant lead is propelled by extensive infrastructure development across the region. Rapid urbanization and economic growth in countries like China and India fuel a continuous demand for new bridges and the refurbishment of existing ones. Government initiatives to upgrade transportation networks and increase connectivity also play a pivotal role. Major investment in high speed rail, expressways, and urban transit systems consistently drives the demand for structural steel in bridge construction. The sheer scale of ongoing and planned projects positions Asia Pacific as the undeniable leader in this specialized market segment.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 6.8% CAGR
Asia Pacific emerges as the fastest growing region in the global steel for bridge market with a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate of 6.8% from 2026 to 2035. This accelerated expansion is primarily fueled by extensive infrastructure development initiatives across emerging economies like India and Southeast Asian nations. Rapid urbanization and increasing government investments in modernizing transportation networks are creating significant demand for steel in bridge construction. Furthermore population growth and the need for improved connectivity are driving numerous new bridge projects and extensive rehabilitation of existing structures. This consistent push for advanced infrastructure positions Asia Pacific as the leading growth engine for steel demand in the bridge sector.
Top Countries Overview
The U.S. plays a limited but growing role in the global steel bridge market, primarily due to domestic infrastructure needs. While not a major exporter, its demand for high-strength, weather-resistant steel for bridge construction is substantial. Innovation in domestic steel production, coupled with federal funding for infrastructure, is driving demand for domestically sourced steel, impacting global supply chains.
China dominates the global steel market for bridges, a sector witnessing significant expansion. Its integrated steel mills benefit from economies of scale and advanced technology, enabling competitive pricing and efficient production of high-grade structural steel. Chinese companies are not only supplying raw materials but also increasingly involved in design and construction of bridges worldwide, cementing their influential position in this critical infrastructure market.
India, a growing force in global steel, eyes the lucrative bridge market. Domestically, infrastructure push fuels demand. Globally, Indian steelmakers leverage cost-itiveness and improving quality. While facing competition from established players, India's expanding production capacity and strategic focus on value-added products, including high-strength steel, position it for a significant role in future bridge projects worldwide.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical tensions directly impact the global steel for bridge market. Trade wars, tariffs, and protectionist policies disrupt supply chains, raising the cost of imported steel. Conflict zones require significant infrastructure rebuilds, potentially increasing demand, but also introduce immense project risk and material acquisition challenges. Resource nationalism in key iron ore and coking coal producing regions can restrict exports and drive up raw material prices, making steel production more expensive and unpredictable. Sanctions on major steel-producing nations or their raw material suppliers create artificial shortages and divert trade flows.
Macroeconomic factors exert considerable influence. Global economic growth dictates overall infrastructure spending; recessions lead to project deferrals and reduced demand. Inflation, particularly in energy and raw material costs, directly impacts steel production expenses and thus bridge construction budgets. Interest rate hikes increase the cost of capital for large infrastructure projects, making them less financially attractive. Government fiscal policies, including infrastructure spending packages and stimulus measures, are crucial demand drivers. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates affect import/export competitiveness for steel manufacturers and project developers alike.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
ArcelorMittal announced a strategic initiative focused on developing ultra-high-strength steel grades specifically for long-span bridge construction. This initiative aims to reduce material usage and construction time, enhancing the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of future bridge projects.
- September 2024
Nippon Steel Corporation completed the acquisition of a specialized fabrication plant from a smaller European competitor, expanding its capacity for pre-fabricated steel bridge components. This acquisition strengthens Nippon Steel's global supply chain and ability to deliver complex bridge structures on a larger scale.
- February 2025
POSCO launched a new range of weathering steel products designed for enhanced corrosion resistance in diverse climatic conditions, particularly suited for bridge decks and supporting structures. This product launch directly addresses the increasing demand for low-maintenance and durable steel solutions in infrastructure development.
- July 2024
Thyssenkrupp AG entered into a partnership with a leading additive manufacturing firm to explore 3D printing applications for intricate bridge connection elements and prototypes. This collaboration aims to innovate design possibilities and accelerate the development cycle for bespoke bridge components.
- November 2024
Tata Steel announced a significant strategic initiative to invest in green steel production technologies, specifically targeting structural steel for major infrastructure projects like bridges. This move aligns with global decarbonization goals and positions Tata Steel as a key supplier for environmentally conscious bridge construction.
Key Players Analysis
Leading players like ArcelorMittal, Nippon Steel Corporation, and Tata Steel dominate the Global Steel for Bridge Market, focusing on high strength, weather resistant steel production. POSCO and Thyssenkrupp AG are significant for advanced materials and innovative fabrication techniques, crucial for complex bridge designs. Strategic initiatives include increasing R&D for more sustainable and durable steel, driven by global infrastructure development and the need for seismic resistant structures. Key technologies include advanced metallurgy and precise rolling mills, ensuring quality and performance. Market growth is fueled by massive government investments in transportation infrastructure worldwide.
List of Key Companies:
- POSCO
- Gerdau S.A.
- Thyssenkrupp AG
- Steel Authority of India Limited
- ArcelorMittal
- Tenaris S.A.
- United States Steel Corporation
- Nippon Steel Corporation
- SSAB AB
- Tata Steel
- Hyundai Steel
- JFE Steel Corporation
- China Steel Corporation
- Voestalpine AG
- China Baowu Steel Group
- Severstal
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 48.7 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 79.2 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 6.2% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Steel Type, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Construction Technique, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Steel Type, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Construction Technique, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Steel Type, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Construction Technique, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Steel Type, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Construction Technique, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Steel Type, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Construction Technique, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Steel Type, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Construction Technique, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Steel for Bridge Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035