India’s Construction Equipment Sector Set for Strong Comeback as JCB India Seeks Sustained Infra Push and Export Support

India’s construction equipment industry is preparing for a strong revival, with JCB India CEO and Managing Director Deepak Shetty emphasizing that consistent government focus on infrastructure development and dedicated export-support schemes will be essential to unlock long-term growth. Speaking at a press briefing, Shetty noted that India has the capability to surpass China and become the world’s second-largest construction equipment market by 2030, provided the policy environment continues to stay supportive.

Currently, the Indian construction equipment market stands at about 95,000 to 1,00,000 units annually, while China and the United States record nearly 1.75 lakh and 2.5 lakh units respectively. This year, however, the industry faced volume pressures due to export disruptions, particularly shipments to the US affected by tariff complications. Domestic volumes also saw a mild decline, with demand slowing in several pockets.

Shetty said sustained infrastructure investment, especially in rural India, remains the industry’s strongest growth driver. Nearly 70 per cent of JCB’s machines are sold in rural markets, making monsoon performance and government spending patterns critical factors. He urged the Centre to introduce a motivating scheme for exporters, highlighting that exporters faced significant challenges due to tariff-related uncertainties with the US. A supportive incentive framework, he said, would help companies counter the impact of recent trade hurdles.

Despite the short-term challenges, JCB India expects a double-digit growth trajectory in both domestic sales and exports next year. Last year, the company sold around 50,000 machines in India and exported 14,000 units. This year’s overall volumes are estimated to dip, but Shetty said the company remains confident of a sharp rebound in 2025 as demand strengthens across both local and global markets.

He also highlighted the company’s focus on future readiness, including hydrogen-compatible products and specialized equipment for Railways and defence sectors. JCB is preparing to unveil a 52-tonne excavator, the largest machine ever designed in India, underscoring the country’s growing role in global manufacturing.