Asia-Pacific Sandwich Panels Market By Material (Polyurethane, Polyisocyanurate, Expanded Polystyrene, Mineral Wool, Others), By Skin Material (Steel, Aluminum, Others), By End-Use Industry (Commercial, Industrial, Residential, Cold Storage), By Country, Competition, Forecast and Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Asia-Pacific Sandwich Panels Market was valued at USD 0.89 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1.56 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 9.65% during the forecast period. 

The Asia-Pacific sandwich panels market refers to the industry involved in the production, distribution, and installation of composite building materials composed of a core insulating layer typically made from polyurethane, polystyrene, or mineral wool sandwiched between two outer metal sheets, often steel or aluminum. These panels are widely used in the construction of industrial buildings, warehouses, cold storage units, commercial complexes, and increasingly in residential structures due to their superior insulation, lightweight properties, and ease of installation.

This market is gaining traction across the Asia-Pacific region due to several interconnected factors. Firstly, rapid urbanization and industrialization in emerging economies such as India, China, Vietnam, and Indonesia are generating strong demand for quick-to-build, cost-effective, and thermally efficient building materials. Sandwich panels, by reducing construction time and labor costs, align perfectly with these demands. Secondly, there is growing awareness and regulatory pressure concerning energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Sandwich panels help reduce energy consumption in buildings by enhancing insulation, which supports national and regional goals for carbon footprint reduction.

Additionally, technological advancements in panel manufacturing, such as improvements in fire resistance, soundproofing, and design flexibility, are further encouraging adoption. The expansion of the logistics and cold chain industries, especially in response to the e-commerce boom and pharmaceutical sector growth, is also fueling demand for high-performance insulated structures, driving the use of sandwich panels in cold storage and transport facilities.

Furthermore, government investments in infrastructure development and construction-friendly policies across the Asia-Pacific region are facilitating the entry of both domestic and international players into this market, enhancing competition and innovation. Rising construction activities in smart cities, special economic zones, and industrial corridors are further contributing to the momentum.

Key Market Drivers

Rapid Urbanization and Infrastructure Development

Urban growth across Asia-Pacific is rising fast, with more than 2.2 billion people living in cities in 2024. This shift creates steady pressure for new homes, offices, and public facilities because of expanding economic activity and a regional population of about 4.8 billion. Sandwich panels fit well with this pace because they support energy-efficient construction in cities that need quick delivery and reliable quality.

These panels help builders meet tight timelines because their structure supports strong thermal performance with less onsite work. As a result, they help lower energy use in residential and commercial spaces while supporting low-carbon goals set by national and city programs. Their use is growing as large transportation links, smart-city plans, and other urban projects move forward across the region.

Developers prefer sandwich panels because they offer flexibility and save time while meeting energy standards that guide many urban plans in Asia-Pacific. Their performance aligns with the shift toward sustainable building materials in projects of different sizes across dense cities.

Asia’s population remains near 4.8 billion in 2024, and projections point to another 1.2 billion urban residents by 2050. This rise supports continued need for practical, energy-efficient construction solutions such as sandwich panels..

Emphasis on Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Construction

As environmental concerns rise, many countries in Asia-Pacific are setting clear goals for energy-efficient and sustainable buildings, with ASEAN outlining steps for 2025 and 2030 toward net-zero carbon construction. Sandwich panels support these goals because they offer strong thermal insulation that aligns with regional plans for better building envelopes and green building standards. Their insulation helps reduce the use of heating and cooling systems, lowering energy use through improved fabric performance and passive design. These panels also help keep indoor temperatures stable, which leads to sustainable and cost-efficient structures that fit APAC green building priorities.

Governments across the region are guiding this shift through strict energy codes and incentives that promote efficient construction materials, as seen in Hong Kong’s Energy Saving Plan for the Built Environment 2015-2025+. China’s action plan from March 2024 also stresses stronger conservation measures in buildings. The ASEAN Roadmap for Energy-Efficient Buildings and Construction outlines staged actions for 2025 and 2030, with a focus on high-performance envelopes that speed up the use of insulated systems in both new and older buildings.

The move toward greener buildings, combined with the clear benefits of sandwich panels, positions these materials as a practical solution for reducing energy use and carbon footprints in a region expected to gain about 1.2 billion more urban residents by 2050. As a result, these panels are gaining space in residential, commercial, and industrial projects that follow long-term net-zero pathways..

Expansion of Cold Storage and Logistics Sectors

The growing prominence of e-commerce, the increasing demand from the pharmaceutical industry, and the need for effective food preservation are key factors driving the expansion of cold storage infrastructure across the Asia-Pacific region. As temperature-sensitive goods such as perishable foods, vaccines, and biopharmaceuticals become more prevalent in supply chains, the importance of maintaining consistent and controlled environmental conditions has surged. Sandwich panels have emerged as a critical component in the construction of these cold storage facilities due to their superior thermal insulation properties, which help in maintaining stable internal temperatures while optimizing energy consumption.

These panels, often composed of insulating cores such as polyurethane or mineral wool, significantly reduce heat transfer and ensure operational efficiency, making them ideal for refrigeration and cold chain environments. Furthermore, the rise in international and domestic trade of perishable goods has intensified the demand for efficient and scalable logistics networks. As a result, businesses and governments alike are investing in advanced cold storage solutions to support growing volumes and to comply with stringent safety and hygiene standards. This ongoing development continues to fuel the adoption of sandwich panels, reinforcing their position as an essential material in the expansion of cold chain logistics and temperature-controlled infrastructure throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

India plans to invest INR 21,000 crore (approximately USD 2.53 billion) over the next 4-5 years to establish or upgrade cold storage facilities, highlighting the significant investment in infrastructure that utilizes sandwich panels. ​

Technological Advancements in Panel Manufacturing

Recent advancements in manufacturing technologies have significantly enhanced the performance and appeal of sandwich panels in the construction sector. Manufacturers are now able to produce sandwich panels with superior attributes such as heightened fire resistance, enhanced acoustic insulation, and greater environmental sustainability. These improvements are largely driven by the integration of advanced core materials, including polyurethane, mineral wool, and expanded polystyrene, which offer unique benefits tailored to various building requirements.

The adoption of these advanced materials allows for better thermal regulation, noise control, and safety in both residential and commercial construction projects. As a result, sandwich panels are no longer confined to industrial use but are increasingly being incorporated into a broader array of applications, including high-rise buildings, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. These panels also contribute to energy efficiency goals by reducing the need for external insulation and helping maintain indoor climate control, thereby lowering overall energy consumption.

Furthermore, the shift toward eco-friendly construction has increased the demand for materials that meet green building standards. The ability of modern sandwich panels to combine structural strength with sustainability features makes them an ideal choice for future-ready infrastructure. As innovation in manufacturing continues, the role of sandwich panels in shaping the next generation of buildings in the Asia-Pacific region is set to expand even further.

In June 2024, Tata Steel Limited announced a USD 13.01 million investment in its Corby tube-making works, aiming to develop a logistics hub featuring over 18,000 m² of Trisomet insulated panels for faster installation and enhanced performance

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Key Market Challenges

High Initial Costs and Investment in Sandwich Panels

Despite the significant long-term benefits of using sandwich panels in construction, their initial investment remains a key challenge. Sandwich panels often come with higher upfront costs compared to traditional building materials such as concrete or steel. This cost disparity is primarily due to the advanced materials and manufacturing processes involved in producing sandwich panels, which are designed to provide superior insulation and durability. For construction companies and developers, especially in emerging markets within the Asia-Pacific region, the higher initial costs can be a deterrent.

In many cases, smaller or budget-conscious construction projects may opt for cheaper materials, bypassing the long-term energy efficiency benefits of sandwich panels. Additionally, the cost of transportation and installation, especially for large-scale projects, can add to the overall expense. Although the energy savings and reduced maintenance costs of sandwich panels can offset the initial cost over time, many stakeholders, particularly in developing markets, are reluctant to make the significant upfront investment.

This challenge can be mitigated by greater awareness of the long-term savings associated with energy efficiency, as well as government incentives or subsidies to offset the cost of purchasing and installing sandwich panels. However, until these financial obstacles are addressed comprehensively, the high initial cost of sandwich panels will remain a significant challenge in the region.

Limited Awareness and Adoption of Sandwich Panels

Another significant challenge in the Asia-Pacific region is the limited awareness and adoption of sandwich panels in the construction industry. Despite their many benefits, including superior thermal insulation, fire resistance, and environmental sustainability, many construction companies are still unfamiliar with the advantages of using sandwich panels over traditional materials. This is especially prevalent in smaller markets and regions with a history of relying on conventional building methods.

In some parts of the Asia-Pacific region, such as rural areas or developing nations, the construction industry is often slow to adopt newer technologies due to a lack of understanding, training, and expertise. Contractors may also prefer traditional materials because they are more familiar or readily available. Additionally, there are challenges in terms of the limited availability of skilled labor to properly install sandwich panels, which requires specific expertise to ensure optimal performance.

Furthermore, while large cities in countries such as China, India, and Japan may be more open to new materials, smaller towns or regions that focus on cost-effective solutions might be slower to adopt sandwich panels, despite the long-term cost savings they offer. Overcoming this challenge will require substantial efforts in raising awareness, providing training for professionals, and ensuring that the benefits of sandwich panels are effectively communicated to potential users. Increased collaboration between manufacturers, governments, and industry leaders will be crucial in promoting the widespread adoption of sandwich panels across the region.

Key Market Trends

Growing Demand for Energy-Efficient Construction Solutions

Growing attention to efficient building materials is shaping the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels sector, as cities already host more than 2.2 billion residents and may add about 1.2 billion more by 2050. Governments are raising performance rules through measures such as Shanghai’s Green Building Regulations from 2025, Hong Kong’s Energy Saving Plan for the Built Environment 2015–2025+, and ASEAN’s roadmap with actions for 2025 and 2030 that highlight high-performance envelopes. Sandwich panels support these goals because PIR cores show thermal conductivity near 0.021–0.026 W/m·K and mineral wool near 0.036–0.045 W/m·K, with common wall assemblies of 80–120 mm reaching heat transfer levels in the 0.2–0.4 W/m²·K range. Their insulation cuts the need for heating and cooling, and dry installation helps shorten project timelines.

Developers are adopting these panels to comply with rising efficiency rules, and scale in India is visible through urban housing programs with about 12 million homes sanctioned and more than 9.5 million delivered under PMAY-Urban. Uptake is set to grow as low-energy buildings expand under national certification systems, including China’s green building program with more than 25,000 certified projects by mid-2022 and active pipelines in Singapore and India. Panel service lives often reach 30-40 years, with limited maintenance needs, supporting long-term savings for owners.

Countries such as China, India, and Japan are pushing sustainable construction through national codes and pathways that favor insulated, factory-made envelopes in sectors like logistics, healthcare, and data infrastructure. These measures reflect awareness of the environmental effects linked with older construction methods, guiding new projects toward efficient systems. Sandwich panels, with their strong insulation and energy-saving qualities, are becoming common in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, including temperature-controlled sites and retrofit programs that need fast, low-disruption upgrades.

Asia-Pacific cold storage real estate is projected to exceed USD 2 billion by 2030, rising from USD 948 million in 2021, as investors respond to the growing need for specialized facilities that depend on high-R-value insulated panel systems..

Rise in Prefabricated and Modular Construction

The shift toward prefabricated and modular construction is shaping the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels sector, supported by China’s 48 national prefabricated building demonstration cities and 328 industrial bases that strengthen offsite manufacturing. Prefabrication shortens project timelines, improves cost control, and raises quality by assembling components in controlled settings, with Singapore reinforcing this approach through mandated PPVC use on selected non-landed residential Government Land Sale sites and its PPVC Manufacturer Accreditation Scheme. Sandwich panels fit well into these systems because they are lightweight and durable, making them a dependable option in PPVC and panelized factory-build programs across the region.

This shift is most visible in fast-growing countries such as China and India, where there is strong need for quick and scalable development backed by national demonstration cities, industrial bases, and India’s six Lighthouse Projects that use advanced construction technologies. Prefabricated sandwich panels suit these needs because they are easy to transport, simple to install, and strong for their weight, reflected in Chennai’s Lighthouse Project, which delivered 1,152 houses with supporting infrastructure within 12 months. The move is also supported by demand for fast-track projects in commercial and residential segments and city-level acceptance rules that promote modular housing.

Prefabrication is also expanding in the industrial segment, where sandwich panels are used for warehouses, factories, and storage facilities alongside China’s prefab industrial base designations and India’s national technology demonstration efforts. Modular construction improves material use and reduces on-site work, which is important as governments support rapid development through streamlined approvals and standardized offsite systems. As this shift continues, adoption of sandwich panels is expected to grow across residential and commercial construction through active policy backing and large demonstration programs in several APAC regions..

Growing Use in Cold Storage and Refrigerated Warehousing

The growing demand for cold storage facilities in the Asia-Pacific region has become a significant trend influencing the sandwich panels market. The rise in e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and the food industry, particularly the need for refrigerated goods and temperature-sensitive products, has led to a surge in demand for cold storage and refrigerated warehousing. Sandwich panels, with their superior thermal insulation properties, are highly effective in maintaining controlled temperatures within cold storage facilities, making them an essential component for these applications.

In countries like India, China, and Malaysia, the increasing trade in perishable goods and the expanding food and pharmaceutical sectors are directly contributing to the growth of cold storage facilities. The Asia-Pacific region, which is home to a large portion of the world’s population, has seen rapid urbanization and an increase in the consumption of fresh food and pharmaceutical products. This, in turn, has created a growing need for efficient and energy-saving cold storage solutions. Sandwich panels, which help minimize heat loss and reduce energy consumption, are the ideal choice for cold storage construction.

Furthermore, as the logistics and supply chain industries in the Asia-Pacific region evolve, the demand for temperature-controlled warehouses is expected to rise. Cold storage facilities need to maintain precise temperature controls to preserve product quality and ensure regulatory compliance. As a result, sandwich panels will continue to play a pivotal role in the development of the cold storage sector, facilitating more sustainable and energy-efficient solutions across the region.

Segmental Insights

Material Insights

​Among the various materials used in sandwich panels, polyurethane was expected to dominate the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels market in 2024 and maintain its dominance during the forecast period. Polyurethane is favored for its exceptional thermal insulation properties, offering superior energy efficiency and fire resistance compared to other materials. The demand for energy-efficient building materials is growing rapidly in the region, driven by government regulations, building standards, and increasing environmental awareness.

Polyurethane sandwich panels help reduce energy consumption by minimizing heat loss or gain, making them highly suitable for use in commercial, residential, and industrial buildings. These panels are also lightweight yet durable, which adds to their popularity in construction projects that require ease of handling and quick installation. Additionally, polyurethane panels are cost-effective, which appeals to developers looking for affordable yet high-performance materials. As urbanization and infrastructure development continue at a rapid pace in countries like China, India, and Japan, the need for energy-efficient solutions remains strong, further bolstering the demand for polyurethane-based sandwich panels.

Polyurethane’s versatility and superior insulation performance are key reasons for its dominance in the market, particularly in projects where sustainability and energy efficiency are top priorities. With ongoing advancements in material technology, the demand for polyurethane sandwich panels is projected to continue growing, solidifying its leadership position in the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels market during the forecast period.

End-Use Industry Insights

Among the various end-use industries in the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels market, the commercial segment was expected to dominate in 2024 and maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period. The growing demand for energy-efficient and cost-effective building materials in the commercial construction sector is a key driver for this trend. As urbanization accelerates across the region, countries such as China and India are witnessing a surge in commercial real estate developments, including office buildings, retail centers, and hospitality establishments.

Sandwich panels, particularly for their superior thermal insulation properties and ease of installation, are becoming increasingly popular in these commercial projects. They offer significant advantages, including reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling, which aligns with the region’s growing emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency in construction. Additionally, the commercial sector is heavily influenced by building codes and government policies that promote environmentally friendly building practices, further boosting the adoption of sandwich panels.

The demand for faster construction times and lower labor costs also contributes to the growing use of sandwich panels, as they facilitate quicker assembly compared to traditional building materials. With the rise in commercial construction activities and an increased focus on energy efficiency, the commercial segment is expected to continue leading the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels market in the coming years. The segment’s growth is also driven by the continuous technological advancements in material performance, which make sandwich panels an increasingly attractive choice for a wide range of commercial applications.

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Country Insights

Largest Country

In 2024, China was expected to dominate the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels market and maintain its leadership throughout the forecast period. As the most populous country and the world’s second-largest economy, China is undergoing rapid urbanization and extensive infrastructure development. This growth is driving significant demand for building materials, including sandwich panels, in both residential and commercial construction projects. The country’s commitment to sustainable development and energy efficiency has spurred the adoption of energy-efficient building solutions, where sandwich panels, known for their superior thermal insulation properties, have become a preferred choice.

Additionally, China’s ambitious plans for green building initiatives and the construction of smart cities further boost the demand for sandwich panels, as these materials meet the growing need for sustainable and cost-effective solutions in the construction sector. The country’s strong manufacturing capabilities, coupled with government incentives for environmentally friendly construction practices, provide an ideal environment for the growth of the sandwich panels market.

Furthermore, as the construction industry in China continues to expand rapidly, especially in urban areas and for large-scale infrastructure projects, the demand for sandwich panels is expected to remain robust. With ongoing developments in transportation networks, commercial complexes, and residential buildings, China is poised to maintain its dominance in the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels market throughout the forecast period. The continued urban expansion and the increasing focus on sustainable construction will ensure that China remains at the forefront of the region’s sandwich panels market.

Emerging Country

In the forecast period, India was emerging as a key region for the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels market. India’s rapid urbanization, growing population, and strong government support for infrastructure development are creating substantial demand for construction materials, including sandwich panels. The country’s construction sector is witnessing exponential growth, driven by large-scale projects such as smart cities, industrial parks, commercial buildings, and residential complexes.

As the government continues to promote sustainable construction practices through initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission and the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation, there is an increasing demand for energy-efficient and eco-friendly building materials. Sandwich panels, known for their excellent thermal insulation properties and ability to reduce energy consumption, are becoming a popular choice in India’s growing construction industry. Additionally, the Indian government’s push for green building certifications and incentives for using energy-efficient materials further propels the demand for sandwich panels.

Moreover, India’s expanding cold storage sector, driven by the increasing need for food preservation and pharmaceutical storage, is another significant factor contributing to the growing adoption of sandwich panels. The country’s strong focus on improving infrastructure in both urban and rural areas, combined with the increasing trend towards energy-efficient buildings, positions India as an emerging region in the Asia-Pacific sandwich panels market during the forecast period. As a result, India is expected to experience substantial growth in demand for sandwich panels, making it one of the most promising regions for market expansion.

Recent Developments

• In March 2025, BASF's commitment to innovation is evident in its 2024 research and development investments, amounting to USD 2.3 billion. This stable investment underscores the company's dedication to advancing technologies that support sustainable and energy-efficient building practices
• In February 2025, Kingspan’s 2024 report noted a larger APAC presence supported by new facilities and acquisitions, with insulated panel launches such as PowerPanel planned for early 2025.
• In June 2024, Kingspan Group completed its acquisition of Kingspan Insulated Panels (Thailand) Co., Ltd., strengthening its insulated panels capabilities in Southeast Asia.
• In April 2024, Kingspan acquired Thai panel producer Fatek Advance Insulation Co., Ltd., and confirmed commissioning of its Phu My greenfield plant in Vietnam at the end of April to supply high-performance envelope systems in Southeast Asia.
• In October 2024, Kingspan Group launched eco-friendly sandwich panels with enhanced insulation properties, aligning with global sustainability goals. Tata Steel also introduced new sandwich panel solutions tailored for industrial buildings, focusing on improving durability and cost-efficiency. These innovations cater to the growing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable building materials in the region.
• In May 2024, ArcelorMittal Construction India made its debut at the Roof India 2024 exhibition, the largest roofing and allied products event in Asia. This participation marked a significant milestone in the company's dedication to the Indian market, showcasing strong interest in its sandwich panels and profiles. The event provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with potential customers and highlight the company's commitment to sustainable building solutions.

Key Market Players

• Kingspan Group
• ArcelorMittal
• Tata Steel
• Metecno
• Isopan
• U.S. Steel Corporation
• BASF SE
• Jindal Steel & Power Limited

Report Scope:

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

•   Asia-Pacific Sandwich Panels Market, By Material:

o   Polyurethane

o   Polyisocyanurate

o   Expanded Polystyrene

o   Mineral Wool

o   Others

• Asia-Pacific Sandwich Panels Market, By Skin Material:

o   Steel

o   Aluminum

o   Others

• Asia-Pacific Sandwich Panels Market, By End-Use Industry:

o   Commercial

o   Industrial

o   Residential

o   Cold Storage

• Asia-Pacific Sandwich Panels Market, By Country:

o   China

o   Japan

o   India

o   South Korea

o   Australia

o   Singapore

o   Thailand

o   Malaysia

o   Rest of Asia-Pacific

Competitive Landscape

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

Available Customizations:

Asia-Pacific Sandwich Panels 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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