Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Type (Standard Pipes, Pressure Tubing, Others), By Material (Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel, Others), By Application (Oil & Gas, Automotive, Construction, Power Generation, Chemical Processing & Mining, Others), By Region, and By Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

The Global Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes Market was valued at USD 80.48 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 109.51 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.11% during the forecast period.

The global Electric Resistance Welded (ERW) Pipes and Tubes market has witnessed steady growth in recent years and is projected to expand further due to increasing demand from various industrial and infrastructure sectors. ERW pipes and tubes are produced by welding metal plates or coils longitudinally without using filler material, which makes them cost-effective and suitable for a broad range of applications including oil and gas transportation, construction, automotive, water and wastewater management, and mechanical structures. Among these, the oil and gas industry represents the largest consumer, primarily due to the need for pipelines that are durable, efficient, and economical for both upstream and downstream applications. The construction sector follows closely, with growing urbanization and infrastructure development across emerging markets driving the need for structural and plumbing components made from ERW pipes.

Material-wise, carbon steel holds the largest share due to its affordability and suitability for low- to medium-pressure applications, while stainless steel ERW pipes are gaining traction in industries requiring corrosion resistance and hygiene, such as chemicals and food processing. Technological advancements such as high-frequency (HF) welding and improved non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques have also contributed to higher-quality output, enabling wider adoption in critical applications. Moreover, growing environmental regulations and sustainability goals have pushed manufacturers to invest in more energy-efficient production processes and recyclable materials.

Key players in the global ERW pipes and tubes market include Vallourec S.A., Welspun Corp Ltd., Interpipe Group, Surya Roshni Ltd., and Jindal Pipes Ltd., among others. These companies are focusing on product innovation, capacity expansion, and geographic diversification to strengthen their market positions. Overall, the global ERW pipes and tubes market is expected to benefit from ongoing industrial development, urban expansion, and infrastructure upgrades, making it a vital segment within the broader metal pipe and tube industry.

Key Market Drivers

Surge in Infrastructure Development and Urbanization

The growth of urban populations and infrastructure modernization initiatives across developing and developed economies is a key driver of ERW pipes and tubes demand. Governments globally are prioritizing robust urban transit systems, water networks, and public utilities, all of which rely on reliable piping solutions. In India, over 80,000 kilometers of new highways are under development by 2025, requiring large quantities of steel tubes and drainage piping. In China, over 55% of new building structures are adopting pre-engineered frameworks, utilizing ERW steel components for columns and conduits. The United States allocated over USD 1.2 trillion toward infrastructure repair and renewal by 2026, and ERW tubes are playing a crucial role in water, sewage, and gas pipelines under this initiative. In Africa, 70% of planned urban expansion projects through 2030 require basic utility networks, stimulating regional demand for durable welded steel pipes. Additionally, Southeast Asia has committed to over 500 smart city projects, all of which require extensive structural and piping support using ERW formats. The high speed of production and lower costs of ERW tubes make them ideal for large-volume deployment in public infrastructure. Their availability in various diameters and strengths makes them versatile for plumbing, scaffolding, HVAC systems, and more. As construction activities rise, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, the demand for high-volume, affordable tubing solutions like ERW is expected to rise proportionately.

Energy Sector Expansion: Oil, Gas, and Hydrogen

The energy industry’s continual expansion is heavily fueling demand for ERW pipes and tubes, especially for pipeline and processing infrastructure. More than 60% of global oil and gas pipelines constructed between 2020–2024 utilize ERW pipes due to their strength, low cost, and production speed. In the U.S., over 400,000 kilometers of natural gas pipeline are scheduled for upgrade or replacement, favoring ERW variants for midstream operations. The Middle East has initiated over 70 energy infrastructure projects valued at over USD 400 billion, a significant portion of which includes ERW-based transport and casing pipes. With global hydrogen pipeline projects expected to reach 20,000 kilometers by 2030, demand for pressure-rated ERW pipes is rising as they can handle controlled-pressure environments. Latin American countries are developing new LNG terminals and over 150,000 kilometers of distribution pipelines, many of which specify high-grade ERW tubing. Additionally, energy companies are now focusing on dual-material pipelines—60% ERW carbon steel and 40% corrosion-resistant alloy layers—to optimize cost-performance. The increasing emphasis on safe, scalable, and affordable energy infrastructure gives ERW pipe manufacturers long-term growth opportunities, especially as conventional and renewable energy sources both depend on efficient piping systems for transmission and processing.

Technological Advancements in Manufacturing and Quality Control

Technological innovation in ERW pipe manufacturing processes has enhanced quality, productivity, and application scope. High-frequency (HF) induction welding has become the industry standard, reducing energy usage by 25% compared to older methods. Fully automated ERW production lines can now deliver over 150 meters of pipe per minute, boosting output and meeting large infrastructure demands. Advanced real-time defect detection systems, using ultrasonic and electromagnetic testing, can now identify micro-level faults with 95% accuracy, significantly reducing failure rates. Modern CNC-based pipe forming machines ensure dimensional precision within ±0.2 mm, critical for aerospace, automotive, and pressure-sensitive industries. Furthermore, inline annealing and stress-relieving technologies have been integrated to maintain metallurgical uniformity, extending product lifespan by 30–40%. The adoption of robotics and AI-driven quality analytics in some facilities has cut human error by 60% and reduced production downtime by 18%. These innovations have allowed ERW pipe producers to expand into high-performance applications such as structural frames for earthquake-resistant buildings, pressure vessels, and deep-sea pipelines. Enhanced welding and inspection precision has improved customer trust and broadened the scope of ERW tube use from general construction to critical industrial environments.

Preference for Lightweight and High-Strength Materials

The global push for efficient material use and cost reduction in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and heavy machinery is fueling the use of high-strength, lightweight ERW pipes. High-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel is now used in over 30% of ERW pipe production for applications that demand strong but lightweight components. Automotive manufacturers have reported a 20% reduction in vehicle frame weight by switching from traditional round bars to square-section ERW tubes. In the renewable energy sector, especially in solar farm mounting structures, ERW tubes with strength-to-weight ratios exceeding 350 MPa/kg are now standard. Furniture and shelving manufacturers have reduced raw material costs by 15–18% by switching to custom-profile ERW tubes instead of solid steel sections. Construction projects are now adopting ERW tube trusses that reduce structural weight by 25% while maintaining equivalent load capacity, minimizing the need for heavier reinforcements. Additionally, ERW pipes in HSLA and dual-phase steels have shown fatigue life improvements of over 40% in dynamic loading conditions. These benefits are pushing engineers and architects to specify ERW tubing over heavier, more expensive alternatives. The combination of affordability, performance, and material efficiency gives ERW pipes a strong competitive edge in modern, weight-sensitive engineering projects.

Growth of Automotive and Industrial Machinery Sectors

ERW pipes are increasingly critical in automotive and machinery manufacturing due to their precision, strength, and customization potential. In the automotive sector, over 65% of chassis and structural elements in commercial vehicles now use welded tubular components, primarily ERW. Global truck production crossed 4 million units in 2023, with each vehicle using an average of 120–150 kilograms of welded tubing. In passenger cars, over 30% of the exhaust systems are manufactured using thin-wall ERW tubes due to their corrosion resistance and low weight. Agricultural and earthmoving machinery industries consume over 1 million metric tons of ERW tubing annually, used in hydraulic systems, frames, and tool arms. The HVAC and refrigeration sectors are also growing, where ERW tubes are used in over 75% of compressor and condenser assemblies. Even consumer durables—such as home appliances—are increasingly using ERW tubes in skeleton structures and support frames, contributing to a 12% annual rise in industrial ERW tube consumption. Manufacturers benefit from lower machining costs, greater design flexibility, and faster assembly times by using ERW tubes over solid steel bars. As global automotive electrification and industrial automation trends continue, the need for cost-effective yet robust tubular components like ERW pipes is accelerating significantly.

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Key Market Challenges

Fluctuations in Raw Material Prices

Volatility in steel prices presents a significant challenge for ERW pipe manufacturers since raw material costs often account for 60 to 70 percent of total production expense. Sharp swings of 10–20 percent in global steel prices over six‑month periods can erode profitability if contracts cannot be adjusted quickly. For instance, a 15 percent rise in hot‑rolled coil costs may immediately reduce margins by several dollars per ton, forcing producers to delay orders or renegotiate terms. These fluctuations also make it difficult to project budget for multi‑year infrastructure contracts where steel prices may shift between ordering and delivery. This volatility can trigger inventory bottlenecks: if steel prices drop, manufacturers face holding losses; if prices spike, buyers delay procurement. Contractual fixed‑price terms expose both suppliers and buyers to risk. Moreover, sudden increases in logistics costs—such as a 25 percent jump in freight charges—compound these raw material price swings, impacting landed cost. Smaller regional manufacturers with limited hedging capabilities are disproportionately affected; they may see a 30 percent erosion of operating margin during peak volatility. In essence, price instability of inputs creates risks in cash flow, contract fulfillment, and supply‑chain coordination, undermining the stability of ERW market growth.

Stringent Regulatory Compliance and Certifications

Navigating differing regional regulation frameworks poses a formidable challenge. ERW pipe producers targeting global projects must obtain multiple certifications such as API 5L for pipeline use, EN 10217 in Europe, BIS standards in India, and ASTM specifications in North America. Each certification process typically requires multi-stage testing, documentation, and audits that may take three to six months per standard, delaying product rollout. Compliance with environmental regulations also demands investment in emission‑control equipment, water treatment systems, and energy‑efficient furnaces. Meeting these standards may increase compliance costs by 8–12 percent relative to non‑certified production lines. In emerging markets, regulatory enforcement is inconsistent; unauthorized low‑cost imports that lack certifications undercut compliant producers by 15–20 percent in price. Companies must continuously monitor updates in industry codes, like hydrogen pipeline standards or revised structural steel classifications, requiring dedicated engineering teams and technical staff. Non‑compliance can result in rejection of entire shipments worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, or bans from public tenders. The need for multilingual documentation, traceability protocols, and customer audits also places a bureaucratic burden on ERW manufacturers, especially smaller firms that lack specialized compliance departments.

Intense Competition and Price Pressure

The global ERW pipes market faces intense competition from both large integrated steelmakers and regional fabricators, leading to downward pressure on pricing. Large multinational producers can leverage economies of scale and vertical integration, reducing per‑unit costs by 15–25 percent over smaller competitors. Regional fabricators may offer locally sourced products at discounts of up to 10 percent but may compromise on uniform quality and certification. To win large contracts, producers often bid at razor‑thin margins, with incremental bidding reducing prices by 5–7 percent each round. Competition also arises from alternative pipe technologies such as seamless, spiral‑welded, or even HDPE piping in certain applications, eroding ERW’s share in non‑specialized applications. The presence of excess production capacity in some countries—running at 80–90 percent utilization—forces capacity to be filled aggressively, intensifying price competition. Logistics arbitrage also allows low‑cost producers to enter neighboring markets, undercutting regional incumbents on transport‑inclusive pricing. Overall, this intense pricing pressure squeezes margins, reduces investment in capacity expansion, and leads to consolidation or exit of smaller players, especially in fragmented markets.

Energy Consumption and Environmental Footprint

Energy intensity is a substantial challenge for ERW producers as the welding and forming processes require continuous electrical and thermal energy. Energy accounts for about 15–20 percent of production cost, and spikes in electricity or gas rates—sometimes by 30 percent—can significantly increase input costs. Environmental regulations related to CO2 emissions, particulate discharge, and wastewater treatment are tightening in major markets, requiring capital investments in scrubbers, filtration systems, and renewable energy integration. These upgrades may add 5–8 percent to capital expenditure and increase operating expenses by 3–5 percent annually. In regions with carbon pricing or energy surcharges, compliance costs may double over a decade. Some countries mandate green steel sourcing or low‑carbon certification, requiring traceable supply chains and renewable inputs, adding administrative complexity. Uncertainties surrounding future environmental policy—for example, upcoming pipeline decarbonization standards including hydrogen compatibility—mean manufacturers must remain agile, investing in costly retrofits or dual‑process capabilities. For smaller producers, the burden of meeting sustainability criteria can be disproportionately high and may limit participation in international tenders.

Supply Chain Disruptions and Logistics Constraints

Global ERW pipe supply is vulnerable to disruptions in the steel coil and logistics supply chains. Shipment delays of raw coils by even two weeks can halt production lines, especially in just‑in‑time operations. Port congestions, customs hold-ups, or export bans can cause delays of 10–14 days, impacting delivery schedules tied to infrastructure projects. Rising freight costs—sometimes increasing by 40 percent seasonally—inflate landed cost and erode margins. The ERW industry also faces shortages of specialty coatings and ancillary products, at times delaying coated or epoxy‑lined finished tubes by weeks. Furthermore, the global steel scrap market volatility can disrupt steel sourcing for regional mills, forcing shifts to more costly billet or virgin steel inputs. Cross-border regulatory changes, such as sudden export tariffs or restrictions, can block access to low‑cost suppliers, forcing on‑shore procurement at elevated prices. Such logistics and supply chain uncertainties lead to inventory buildup or stock-outs, both of which harm cash flow and client trust, particularly in large, time‑sensitive contracts for oil, gas, or infrastructure applications.

Key Market Trends

Expansion into Renewable Energy Infrastructure Applications

ERW pipes are increasingly being specified in renewable energy installations—particularly solar mounting frameworks, wind turbine towers, and biogas pipelines. In solar farms, tubular frames using ERW steel now account for 35–40 percent of total structural components thanks to their light weight and modular fabrication. Wind tower producers have shifted to ERW tubes for nacelle supports and transition pieces, citing 20 percent reductions in structural weight compared to alternatives. Biogas and hydrogen distribution projects are starting to leverage ERW pressure tubes, where durability and weld integrity are essential. As global renewable energy capacity expands annually by double digits, the share of ERW consumption in these sectors is steadily climbing, creating diversified demand pathways beyond traditional oil and gas.

Regional Diversification and Localization of Production

To reduce logistics costs and tariff exposure, ERW pipe manufacturers are increasingly establishing regional production hubs. In recent years, capacity investments of USD 300–400 million have been made in South East Asia, Middle East, and Latin America to supply local infrastructure and energy projects. Local mills now deliver finished tubes within 3–5 days instead of multi‑week imports, improving responsiveness. This localization reduces transportation cost burdens by 15–20 percent, avoids import duties, and shortens lead times. Moreover, regional hubs allow customization to local standards and certifications, boosting competitiveness in public tenders. As a result, global firms are shifting from centralized export models to multi‑hub production plans, tailoring product configurations to individual market needs.

Emphasis on Circular Economy and Green Steel Sourcing

Environmental sustainability is prompting adoption of circular-economy principles in the ERW segment. Manufacturers are increasingly sourcing recycled content steel—up to 25–35 percent scrap usage in coil feedstock—to reduce carbon footprint. Steel suppliers offering low-CO2 input grades capable of yielding 20 percent lower emissions are gaining traction. Some ERW producers now provide traceable “green tube” lines with documented energy intensity and carbon audit compliance. Recyclability content in finished tubes is emphasized—products that can be fully recycled at end of life gain preference in eco-aware tenders. As governments implement net-zero policies and introduce carbon pricing, customers are favoring ERW suppliers with verified sustainability credentials, making green compliance a competitive differentiator in procurement decisions.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Standard Pipes segment dominates in the Global Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes market in 2024 can be attributed to their broad applicability across various industries, particularly in low-pressure fluid transportation, plumbing, and structural applications. These pipes are cost-effective, easy to install, and available in a wide range of diameters and thicknesses, making them a preferred choice for general-purpose projects. The construction industry, which accounts for a major share of ERW pipe consumption, extensively uses standard pipes in scaffolding, fencing, and water supply lines. Additionally, the rising demand for water distribution systems and urban infrastructure has significantly increased the volume of standard pipes used in municipal projects.

Industrial sectors such as food processing, paper, chemical, and textile manufacturing also rely on standard pipes for non-critical fluid movement and structural support. The oil & gas sector, though traditionally reliant on heavy-duty pipelines, is using more standard ERW pipes in downstream facilities and temporary setups due to their flexibility and reduced cost. In emerging economies, governments have initiated large-scale affordable housing schemes and rural infrastructure programs, which involve extensive deployment of standard pipes for sanitation and drinking water networks. Furthermore, the growth in export-oriented production from China, India, and Southeast Asia has made standard pipes more accessible worldwide, supported by mass production capabilities and competitive pricing.

Also, regulatory standards such as ASTM A53 and API 5L have simplified compliance and improved trust in standard ERW pipes, pushing their adoption even in regulated markets. Combined with innovations in anti-corrosion coatings and welding processes, the utility and lifespan of standard pipes have improved. As a result, standard ERW pipes are the go-to choice in applications where versatility, cost-efficiency, and availability are key decision factors, contributing to their leading market share in 2024.

Material Insights

Carbon Steel segment dominated the Global Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes market in 2024 due to its strength, affordability, and adaptability across diverse applications. Carbon steel ERW pipes are highly preferred in construction, automotive, and oil & gas sectors for their high tensile strength and ease of fabrication. Their superior weldability and compatibility with pressure-bearing applications make them ideal for pipelines, scaffolding, and structural uses. Moreover, the material’s corrosion resistance (when treated) and cost-effectiveness allow for mass-scale deployment in water transport and industrial utilities, especially in developing economies where cost-performance balance is essential for infrastructure development.

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Regional Insights

Largest Region

North America dominates the Global Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes market in 2024 is driven by large-scale investments in infrastructure modernization, energy pipeline networks, and manufacturing industries. The United States Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has led to massive funding directed toward the replacement and expansion of water pipelines, wastewater systems, and broadband conduits, all of which utilize ERW pipes due to their durability and cost-efficiency. Additionally, the region's advanced oil and gas midstream sector relies heavily on ERW tubes for natural gas and petroleum product transportation, especially in intrastate and utility-level applications.

Technological advancements in automated pipe manufacturing facilities and strong adherence to quality standards such as ASTM, API, and ASME codes have further cemented the region’s leadership. The presence of major players and vertically integrated steel manufacturers in the U.S. and Canada ensures a stable supply chain and faster product delivery to project sites. The automotive and heavy machinery industries in North America are also key consumers, using ERW tubes for vehicle frames, exhaust systems, and machine components.

Moreover, strict environmental regulations have encouraged the use of lighter, recyclable, and more efficient steel materials such as ERW carbon steel pipes, which support green construction and sustainable energy deployment. The region is also witnessing increased adoption of ERW pipes in solar and wind energy infrastructure as support structures and conduits. Demand from the residential construction segment is also rising due to population growth and housing initiatives in major urban centers. With high domestic demand, established infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, North America continues to lead in both production and consumption of ERW pipes in 2024, securing its dominant position in the global market landscape.

Emerging Region

Europe is the emerging region in the Global Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes market in the coming period due to renewed investments in green infrastructure, clean energy, and industrial decarbonization. The European Green Deal, aimed at modernizing water and gas networks with sustainable materials, is driving demand for ERW steel pipes. Additionally, Germany, France, and Poland are witnessing a rise in residential and commercial construction, boosting ERW pipe usage in plumbing and structural frameworks. Expansion of wind and hydrogen energy infrastructure, particularly in Scandinavia and Central Europe, is further accelerating the region’s adoption of corrosion-resistant, pressure-rated ERW tubes for transmission and distribution networks.

Recent Developments

• In August 2024, Tata Steel and Welspun Corp achieved a breakthrough by jointly developing API X65-grade ERW pipes capable of transporting 100% pure hydrogen under high pressure (100 bar). The pipes successfully passed critical sour service and fracture qualification tests at RINA, Italy. Tata Steel became the first Indian mill to produce hot-rolled steel for hydrogen transport, while Welspun Corp emerged as the first domestic ERW pipe producer, aligning with India's Green Hydrogen Policy.
• In June 2024, Shougang advanced the domestic automotive sector by developing precision welded steel pipes with a bimetallic coating. This innovation addressed long-standing quality and efficiency limitations in locally manufactured automotive pipes, reducing dependence on imports. Supported by a cross-functional R&D team, the solution enhances impact resistance, dimensional accuracy, and performance reliability—critical for brake, fuel, and lubrication systems—marking a milestone in China's localization of core automotive materials.
• In January 2024, BENTELER supplied its first batch of CliMore welded tubes—manufactured using CO₂-reduced steel—to Stabilus Group, a leading motion control solutions provider. These tubes will be used in gas spring production. This delivery signifies BENTELER’s shift toward sustainable steel tube production, leveraging electric arc furnace technology at its Lingen facility and underscoring its commitment to decarbonization and environmentally responsible manufacturing practices in the steel industry.
• In September 2024, Goodluck India inaugurated a cutting-edge manufacturing facility dedicated to producing large-diameter Cold Drawn Welded (CDW) and ERW precision steel tubes. With an investment of INR 200 crore, the facility strengthens the company’s technological infrastructure and enhances production capabilities. This strategic move underscores Goodluck’s commitment to innovation, quality, and long-term market leadership in the steel tube manufacturing segment.

Key Market Players

• Vallourec S.A.             
• Interpipe Group
• Welspun Corp Limited
• Tube Products of India
• Surya Roshni Limited
• Jindal Pipes Ltd.
• Madhav KRG Group
• APL Apollo Tubes Limited
• Bhuwalka Pipes Private Limited
• Surani Steel Tubes Limited             

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

•  Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes Market, By Type:

o   Standard Pipes

o   Pressure Tubing

o   Others

• Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes Market, By Material:

o   Carbon Steel

o   Stainless Steel

o   Alloy Steel

o   Others

• Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes Market, By Application:

o   Oil & Gas

o   Automotive

o   Construction

o   Power Generation

o   Chemical Processing & Mining

o   Others

• Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  Germany

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Spain

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  South Korea

§  Australia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

§  South Africa

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Electric Resistance Welded Pipes and Tubes Market.

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Company Information

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