China’s construction machinery industry continued its strong recovery momentum in the first five months of 2026, with both domestic sales and international exports achieving solid growth. Industry data shows that demand for traditional equipment and new energy machinery remained robust across global markets.
According to the latest statistics, China sold 126,875 excavators from January to May 2026, representing a 24.7% year-on-year increase. During the same period, total sales of wheel loaders reached 67,162 units, up 27.3% year-on-year.
Notably, both product categories recorded double-digit growth in domestic sales and overseas exports, highlighting the continued expansion of the construction equipment market both at home and abroad.
New Energy Construction Equipment Gains Momentum
The new energy construction machinery segment maintained particularly strong growth. Electric wheel loaders emerged as one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.
From January to May:
- 20,819 electric wheel loaders were sold, up 90.9% year-on-year
- 1,232 units were exported, an increase of 208% year-on-year
The rapid growth reflects rising demand for low-emission and energy-efficient equipment as global markets accelerate their transition toward greener construction practices.
Domestic Recovery and Overseas Expansion Drive Growth
According to the China Construction Machinery Industry Association (CCMIA), the latest sales figures indicate two key trends:
- The domestic construction machinery market continues to recover steadily.
- International demand remains stable, supported by the ongoing expansion of Chinese manufacturers' overseas operations.
As Chinese equipment manufacturers continue to optimize their global distribution networks and service capabilities, the growth potential of overseas markets is being further unlocked.
At the same time, demand for new energy equipment, particularly electric construction machinery, is increasing significantly in both domestic and international markets.
Innovation Accelerates Industry Transformation
Su Zimeng, President of the China Construction Machinery Industry Association, noted that the industry remains committed to the development of high-end, intelligent, green, and integrated technologies.
Continuous innovation has significantly enhanced the industry's technological capabilities, while the adoption of intelligent and electric equipment is accelerating the replacement of traditional machinery. Today, China's construction machinery products, technical performance, and after-sales service capabilities are increasingly able to meet the requirements of customers worldwide.
Positive Outlook for 2026
Looking ahead, CCMIA expects the construction machinery industry to maintain stable growth throughout 2026.
Industry revenue and export value are forecast to continue increasing, while the penetration rate of new energy construction equipment is expected to rise substantially. Production volumes and application scenarios for products such as electric excavators are also projected to expand further, reinforcing the industry's transition toward sustainable and intelligent development.
