Asia-Pacific Escalators Market By Type (Parallel Escalators, Multi-Parallel Escalators, Spiral Escalators, Crisscross Escalators, Step Type Escalators, Moving Walkways/Travelators), By Service (New Installation, Maintenance & Repair, Modernization), By End-Use Industry (Commercial Buildings, Public Transportation Infrastructure, Institutional Buildings, Residential Complexes, Industrial Facilities), By Country, Competition, Forecast and Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

The Asia-Pacific Escalators Market was valued at USD 8.31 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 12.35 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 6.67% during the forecast period. 

The Asia-Pacific Escalators market is witnessing significant growth driven by rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and rising demand for mobility solutions in the region’s bustling metropolitan areas. Escalators, essential for efficient vertical transportation in high-traffic locations, are becoming increasingly important in public transportation systems, shopping malls, airports, and commercial and residential buildings. As countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea continue to urbanize, the demand for escalators is expected to remain robust. This growth is also supported by the increasing focus on developing smart cities and sustainable infrastructure in many Asia-Pacific nations.

In China, urban expansion, coupled with the development of metro networks, has fueled the demand for escalators, while in India, growing infrastructure projects, including the expansion of metro systems and commercial complexes, is boosting market growth. Japan, with its aging population, has placed a strong emphasis on automation and mobility solutions, contributing to escalator demand in public places and residential buildings. Additionally, South Korea’s focus on enhancing its transportation infrastructure, including subway systems and modernizing existing public transit facilities, is further driving the market. The rising adoption of automation and smart systems in escalators, such as energy-efficient models and predictive maintenance technology, is also propelling growth in the market.

The increasing emphasis on safety and reliability in escalator design is another key trend shaping the Asia-Pacific market. Innovations like sensor-based control systems, earthquake-resistant escalators, and advanced safety features are gaining traction. Additionally, the rising demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient escalators is contributing to the development of energy-saving solutions and machine-room-less (MRL) designs. As the demand for customized solutions grows, manufacturers are focusing on providing flexible designs to meet the varied needs of customers, ranging from commercial complexes to airports.

Furthermore, the rise of e-commerce and the subsequent expansion of malls and retail spaces in the region is creating new opportunities for escalator manufacturers. Overall, the Asia-Pacific escalator market is expected to grow rapidly over the coming years, fueled by technological advancements, infrastructure projects, and urban development.

Key Market Drivers

Urbanization and Infrastructure Development

Urbanization across the Asia-Pacific region has been a major driving force behind the growth of the escalator market. With rapid population growth and the expansion of cities, the demand for efficient transportation solutions, especially in high-traffic areas, has increased. According to the United Nations, more than 50% of Asia’s population now resides in urban areas, and this percentage is expected to rise further. As cities expand and vertical construction becomes more common, escalators are becoming essential in public transportation systems, shopping malls, and office buildings to manage high foot traffic. In countries like India and China, the construction of metro rail systems and multi-story commercial buildings requires the integration of escalators to ensure smooth flow of passengers. For example, China’s urbanization rate has been growing steadily at around 2.5% annually, spurring demand for escalators in newly developed cities.

Expansion of Public Transportation Networks

The rapid expansion of public transportation networks, including metros, railways, and airports, is driving the demand for escalators in the Asia-Pacific region. Many countries are investing heavily in modernizing their transport systems to meet the needs of growing urban populations. For instance, India has seen significant investment in metro systems, with over 400 kilometers of metro rail projects under construction or planned across multiple cities. In Japan, the Tokyo metro system, one of the busiest in the world, continues to expand, requiring modern escalators to ensure smooth passenger movement. As metro and railway stations become more sophisticated, the demand for efficient and space-saving transportation solutions like escalators is increasing.

Growing Commercial and Retail Infrastructure

The rapid growth of the retail sector, including shopping malls, supermarkets, and multi-functional commercial spaces, is significantly contributing to the demand for escalators in the Asia-Pacific region. Retail spaces in cities like Singapore, Hong Kong, and Seoul are becoming larger and more complex, leading to an increased need for vertical transportation solutions. In fact, the number of shopping malls in China has more than doubled over the past decade, with more than 4,000 malls currently in operation. Escalators provide a crucial solution to managing the high volume of customers in these large spaces, helping shoppers move between floors quickly and safely. Similarly, e-commerce and the growth of brick-and-mortar stores are pushing retailers to enhance the in-store experience with high-quality escalators for ease of access.

Technological Advancements in Escalators

Technological advancements in escalator design and functionality are becoming a key driver for market growth. With the advent of energy-efficient escalators, manufacturers are now offering eco-friendly solutions that consume less power and reduce operational costs for building owners. Modern escalators now come with advanced features such as automatic speed control, energy-saving sensors, and machine-room-less designs that save valuable space in commercial and residential buildings. In 2023, a major player like Schindler launched its new energy-efficient escalator models, capable of reducing energy consumption by up to 30%. This focus on green technology aligns with regional government mandates in countries like Japan and South Korea to promote energy efficiency in urban infrastructure. The growing adoption of smart escalators with predictive maintenance capabilities also minimizes downtime and extends the lifespan of the equipment, creating value for customers and contributing to overall market growth.

Government Initiatives for Smart Cities

Government initiatives aimed at the development of smart cities are a significant driver for the escalator market in the Asia-Pacific region. Countries like India, China, and Singapore are at the forefront of developing intelligent infrastructure to improve the quality of life for their citizens. Smart cities incorporate advanced transportation systems, including automated escalators, to manage urban mobility more efficiently. For example, Singapore’s Smart Nation initiative focuses on integrating technology into urban infrastructure, including automated escalators in its growing number of public buildings and transport stations. Similarly, India’s Smart Cities Mission aims to transform urban areas into sustainable, technologically advanced hubs, with infrastructure projects incorporating escalators as essential mobility solutions. These initiatives are expected to continue driving the demand for escalators as governments push for smarter, more efficient urban designs that prioritize ease of movement and accessibility for all citizens.

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Key Market Challenges

High Installation and Maintenance Costs

One of the major challenges in the Asia-Pacific escalator market is the high installation and maintenance costs. Escalators are capital-intensive assets, and the cost of installing them, especially in high-rise buildings and large infrastructure projects, can be prohibitively expensive for many developers. Additionally, the maintenance of escalators, which includes routine inspections, repairs, and part replacements, further adds to operational costs. Escalators require specialized components, such as motors, belts, and handrails, which may have a high procurement cost, especially for premium models. For instance, maintaining escalators in busy locations such as airports and shopping malls often requires frequent attention, which can significantly increase operational costs. In emerging markets like India and Southeast Asia, where construction budgets are tight, these costs can hinder the growth of escalator installations. Moreover, there is a shortage of skilled labor to maintain escalators, which can lead to prolonged downtimes and increased repair costs.

Space Constraints in Older Infrastructure

Many cities in the Asia-Pacific region are characterized by rapidly expanding urban populations and dense, older infrastructure. The existing buildings and transportation facilities, particularly in metropolitan cities like Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Mumbai, were often constructed without the consideration of modern vertical transportation solutions. This poses a significant challenge to installing escalators in older infrastructure. Retrofitting these older buildings to accommodate escalators requires costly and complex structural modifications to comply with modern regulations. The installation of escalators in tight, limited spaces often leads to complications such as space management, electrical wiring, and ventilation, further driving up costs and extending project timelines. Retrofitting escalators in such buildings may also not be feasible in all cases, particularly if the building's existing layout restricts the required space for safe and efficient escalator operation.

Safety and Regulatory Compliance

Ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory standards is a key challenge for the escalator market in the Asia-Pacific region. Different countries in the region have varying safety standards and regulations for elevator and escalator installations. Compliance with these regulations, such as the need for regular safety checks and certifications, can lead to additional costs and complexities for manufacturers and contractors. For example, in Japan and South Korea, regulations are stringent regarding escalator speed, weight limits, and emergency safety measures, which can complicate the manufacturing and installation processes. Additionally, despite regulatory frameworks in place, escalator accidents still occur in some high-traffic areas, mainly due to poor maintenance practices or outdated technology. These safety concerns can negatively impact public perception and, in turn, hinder the growth of the market. Manufacturers and service providers must invest in regular training, technology upgrades, and quality control measures to meet safety standards and ensure customer satisfaction.

Limited Awareness of Advanced Escalator Technologies

While technological advancements have improved the performance and energy efficiency of escalators, there is still limited awareness and adoption of these technologies in some parts of the Asia-Pacific region. Many customers and developers in emerging markets, such as India, Indonesia, and the Philippines, often prefer traditional escalator models due to the lack of awareness regarding the benefits of energy-efficient and automated systems. Advanced features, such as regenerative drive systems, smart escalators with predictive maintenance capabilities, and energy-saving modes, can offer long-term cost savings and reduce carbon footprints, but the initial investment cost is often perceived as too high. As a result, many customers opt for older, less-efficient escalator systems, which can deter growth in the long term. Furthermore, the lack of skilled labor and expertise in newer technologies also restricts the adoption of advanced solutions, which could otherwise enhance operational efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.

Supply Chain and Logistics Disruptions

The escalator market in the Asia-Pacific region faces challenges related to supply chain disruptions, particularly in the procurement of key components like motors, gears, and control systems. The COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions have exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, which has led to delays and increased costs for both manufacturers and consumers. Supply chain disruptions can result in project delays, higher shipping costs, and longer lead times for escalator installations. For example, China, a major producer of escalators, faced significant disruptions in its production and export activities during the pandemic. This affected the availability of parts and materials for escalator manufacturers in the region. Additionally, global shipping bottlenecks and the rising cost of raw materials like steel and aluminum have further compounded these challenges. With escalators being capital-intensive products requiring precise manufacturing, any supply chain disruptions can severely affect delivery timelines and project execution. Manufacturers need to adopt more resilient and diversified supply chains to mitigate these risks and ensure timely deliveries to meet market demand.

Key Market Trends

Adoption of Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Escalators

Machine-room-less (MRL) escalators are gaining traction in the Asia-Pacific market due to their space-saving design, energy efficiency, and reduced maintenance requirements. In densely populated urban areas where space is at a premium, the compact design of MRL escalators allows for easier integration into buildings without the need for separate machine rooms. This makes them an attractive choice for both new constructions and retrofitting projects in older buildings. In countries like Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, MRL escalators are being installed in high-rise buildings, commercial complexes, and transportation hubs to maximize space utilization. Moreover, the MRL escalators are becoming more advanced in terms of energy savings and operational efficiency, which further drives their adoption. As more developers and building owners seek to optimize space while maintaining high functionality, the demand for MRL escalators is expected to rise, contributing to the growth of the Asia-Pacific escalator market.

Urbanization and Growing Infrastructure Development

The rapid urbanization in the Asia-Pacific region is a significant driver of the escalator market. Cities like Beijing, Mumbai, and Jakarta are experiencing an influx of population, leading to an increased demand for urban infrastructure. Escalators are integral to modern transportation systems in metro stations, airports, malls, and office buildings, especially in high-traffic areas where elevators alone cannot handle the volume of people. Governments and private developers are investing heavily in large-scale infrastructure projects to accommodate the growing urban population, further spurring the demand for escalators. In countries like China and India, which are undergoing rapid infrastructural development, escalators are essential for providing smooth, efficient, and safe transportation solutions in these newly constructed or renovated spaces. The need for mobility solutions that can handle the rising number of passengers in public transportation systems, as well as in commercial and residential developments, is expected to continue to fuel the growth of the escalator market in the region.

Focus on Safety and Enhanced Features

Safety remains a top priority in the escalator market, particularly in densely populated areas where escalators experience heavy usage. Manufacturers are incorporating advanced safety features, such as step-level sensors, emergency stop buttons, anti-skid surfaces, and lighting systems to reduce accidents and enhance user safety. In countries like Japan and South Korea, where escalator safety is taken very seriously due to high usage in public places, there is a growing emphasis on maintaining the highest safety standards. Additionally, some escalator models now feature enhanced lighting, which improves visibility, especially during nighttime or in low-light environments. The focus on safety is also aligned with increasing government regulations that mandate regular checks and compliance with safety standards. Escalator manufacturers are incorporating intelligent diagnostic systems that alert operators when maintenance or repairs are needed, ensuring that safety is maintained at all times. This trend toward enhancing safety features will continue to drive the adoption of escalators in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in high-traffic areas such as airports, metro stations, and shopping malls.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Parallel Escalators segment dominated in the Asia-Pacific Escalators market in 2024 due to several key factors driving their widespread adoption, particularly in high-traffic public spaces such as airports, metro stations, and shopping malls. These escalators, which are installed in parallel to each other, provide efficient transportation solutions for large volumes of people, ensuring a smooth flow and reducing congestion, especially in busy locations.

One of the primary reasons for the dominance of parallel escalators in the region is the increasing demand for high-capacity and high-efficiency vertical transportation systems. With rapid urbanization and the growth of megacities in the Asia-Pacific region, there is a rising need for solutions that can handle heavy foot traffic. Countries like China, India, and Japan, with their densely populated cities, require escalator systems that can efficiently move large numbers of people, making parallel escalators an ideal choice.

Parallel escalators are also particularly suitable for locations where there is a need to transport people in both directions, such as in transportation hubs (airports, metro stations) where passengers need to ascend or descend at the same time. This flexibility in direction, combined with their high throughput capacity, makes them the preferred solution for these spaces.

Moreover, parallel escalators are often seen as a cost-effective option when compared to other elevator systems, as they require less floor space than vertical lifts and provide more efficient movement of people over long distances. Their durability and ability to operate continuously without significant maintenance also contribute to their dominance, particularly in commercial and public infrastructures across the region.

The growing focus on smart and sustainable infrastructure also plays a role in their dominance, as modern parallel escalators come equipped with energy-saving features like regenerative drives and automatic operation, reducing energy consumption and costs, which is crucial in the Asia-Pacific region's sustainability efforts.

Service Insights

Maintenance & Repair segment dominated the Asia-Pacific Escalators market in 2024 due to the increasing demand for efficient, safe, and long-lasting escalator systems across the region. As escalators are integral to the daily operations of high-traffic infrastructure, including shopping malls, airports, metro stations, and office buildings, the need for regular maintenance and repair services has grown significantly. This is particularly true in the Asia-Pacific region, where rapid urbanization and the expansion of commercial and transportation hubs have led to an increase in escalator installations.

One of the major drivers of the maintenance and repair segment's dominance is the focus on minimizing downtime and ensuring the safety and reliability of escalators. Escalators are often used continuously in high-traffic areas, making regular maintenance essential to avoid operational disruptions. Maintenance services help identify wear and tear, prevent potential malfunctions, and ensure that escalators meet safety standards. As a result, building owners and facility managers are increasingly investing in comprehensive maintenance programs to extend the lifespan of escalators and reduce long-term replacement costs.

Furthermore, the rapid expansion of urban infrastructure and the growth in the number of escalator installations across the region have resulted in a greater need for repair services. Many escalators in the Asia-Pacific market are subjected to heavy usage, especially in densely populated countries like China and India, leading to a greater likelihood of mechanical issues, which, in turn, fuels the demand for repair services.

Another factor contributing to the dominance of the maintenance and repair segment is the adoption of advanced technologies such as predictive maintenance. This technology leverages sensors and real-time data to predict potential failures before they occur, allowing for more efficient and timely repairs. This proactive approach not only improves system reliability but also helps to reduce operating costs, making maintenance and repair services a critical segment for escalator operators in the region.

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Country Insights

Largest Country

China dominated the Asia-Pacific Escalators market in 2024 due to its rapid urbanization, substantial infrastructure development, and increasing demand for vertical transportation solutions. As the world’s most populous country, China is experiencing an exponential growth in both residential and commercial sectors, which drives the need for efficient and reliable vertical transportation systems like escalators.

One of the key reasons for China's dominance in the market is its large-scale infrastructure projects, including the expansion of metro systems, shopping malls, airports, and office buildings. The country’s ongoing urban development initiatives, particularly in tier-1 cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, have led to a significant rise in the number of public transportation facilities and commercial establishments that require escalators. China is investing heavily in public transport systems, such as subway lines, which often incorporate escalators for better passenger flow management, particularly during peak hours.

Additionally, China is home to some of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of escalators, making it a hub for production and technological innovation. The country’s strong manufacturing capabilities allow it to meet the increasing domestic demand while also positioning itself as a key exporter of escalators to other regions, further enhancing its market leadership.

The growing demand for smart and energy-efficient escalators in China is another significant factor. With the increasing focus on sustainability and energy savings, Chinese cities are adopting energy-efficient escalator systems equipped with regenerative drives and other eco-friendly features. These innovations not only reduce operational costs but also meet the government’s stringent environmental standards.

Furthermore, China’s rapidly expanding commercial sector, including malls, hotels, and entertainment complexes, is contributing to the demand for escalators. As these sectors grow, the need for vertical transportation solutions in high-traffic environments becomes crucial, solidifying China's position as the dominant player in the Asia-Pacific escalator market in 2024.

Emerging Country

Japan was the emerging country in the Asia-Pacific Escalators market in the coming period due to its aging population and the subsequent demand for efficient vertical transportation systems in public spaces like hospitals, airports, and train stations. The country’s focus on infrastructure modernization and the need to accommodate increased foot traffic in urban centers further drives escalator installations. Additionally, Japan’s emphasis on smart and energy-efficient solutions, including IoT-enabled escalators, aligns with the global shift towards sustainability. Japan’s commitment to technological innovation and high-quality standards makes it an attractive market for both local and international escalator manufacturers.

Recent Developments

• In February 2025, BOCA Group, a prominent vertical transportation consultancy, announced a strategic partnership with AuditMate, a pioneering elevator auditing and management platform. This collaboration integrates BOCA’s consulting expertise with AuditMate’s advanced technology, aiming to streamline elevator and escalator oversight. The joint offering is set to enhance service quality, reduce operational inefficiencies, and provide building owners and managers with comprehensive transparency and performance insights across their vertical transportation assets.
• TK Elevator (TKE), a global vertical mobility leader, and Alat, a Public Investment Fund-backed Saudi company, established a euro 160 million (USD 181.71 million) joint venture in February 2025. The initiative aims to localize the development, manufacturing, and deployment of advanced mobility solutions in Saudi Arabia. This partnership will include the establishment of a domestic product development center, supporting national industrialization efforts and aligning with Vision 2030’s localization and infrastructure goals.
• In March 2024, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) awarded a Letter of Acceptance to Johnson Lifts Private Limited for escalator enhancement works in Phase-1 and its extension. The project aims to improve commuter convenience and operational efficiency in Chennai’s mass transit system. Johnson Lifts will deliver upgraded escalator systems as part of a broader strategy to modernize urban mobility infrastructure in South India.
• In April 2025, Schindler Elevator Corporation unveiled the Schindler 5000, a machine-room-less (MRL) elevator tailored for low- to mid-rise buildings. Engineered for efficiency and space optimization, it offers increased load capacity (up to 5,000 lbs), higher speeds (up to 350 fpm), and larger cabin configurations. The model is now available across most U.S. markets and is positioned to address evolving demands in commercial and residential developments.

Key Market Players

• OTIS International Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.
• KONE Asia Pacific
• Schindler Lifts (S) Pte Ltd
• Hitachi, Ltd.
• Thyssenkrupp Elevator Asia Pacific Limited
• Mitsubishi Electric Asia Pte Ltd
• Fujitec Co. Ltd.
• Hyundai Elevator Co., Ltd
• Shanghai SANEI Elevator Co., Ltd.
• Sanyo Yusoki Kogyo

Report Scope:

In this report, the Asia-Pacific Escalators Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Asia-Pacific Escalators Market, By Type:

o   Parallel Escalators

o   Multi-Parallel Escalators

o   Spiral Escalators

o   Crisscross Escalators

o   Step Type Escalators

o   Moving Walkways/Travelators

• Asia-Pacific Escalators Market, By Service:

o   New Installation

o   Maintenance & Repair

o   Modernization

• Asia-Pacific Escalators Market, By End-Use Industry:

o   Commercial Buildings

o   Public Transportation Infrastructure

o   Institutional Buildings

o   Residential Complexes

o   Industrial Facilities

• Asia-Pacific Escalators Market, By Country:

o   China

o   Japan

o   India

o   South Korea

o   Australia

o   Singapore

o   Thailand

o   Malaysia

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Asia-Pacific Escalators Market.

Available Customizations:

Asia-Pacific Escalators Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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