Global Civil Engineering Market Set to Reach $23.0 Trillion

Global Civil Engineering Market Set to Rise to USD 23.0 Trillion by 2035

A major industry report released on September 11, 2025 projects the global civil engineering market will grow from USD 13.8 trillion in 2025 to USD 23.0 trillion by 2035, expanding at an average rate of 5.2% CAGR over the decade. The report highlights that planning & design and the building segments are expected to lead revenue shares in the near term, driven by rising urban growth and extensive infrastructure investment worldwide.

Key numbers up front

The market is estimated at USD 13.8 trillion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 23.0 trillion by 2035. The report divides the forecast into three phases: 2021–2025, 2026–2030, and 2031–2035, showing steady acceleration in earlier years and a mild deceleration as some regions approach infrastructure saturation.

Short-term growth pattern

Between 2021 and 2025 the market climbed from USD 10.7 trillion to USD 13.8 trillion, with annual increments of roughly USD 0.6 trillion for several years and USD 0.7 trillion in the final year of the block. This phase is described as steady acceleration, with infrastructure build-out, urbanization, and public spending on roads, bridges and public works as dominant forces.

Mid and long-term outlook

From 2026 to 2030 the market continues strengthened growth, moving from USD 13.8 trillion in 2026 to USD 16.9 trillion in 2030. Investments in high-speed rail, smart city programs and industrial facilities are cited as key engines of this phase. For 2031–2035 the market expands from USD 17.8 trillion to USD 23.0 trillion, with yearly steps showing a mild slowdown as baseline infrastructure in some regions reaches maturity.

Market structure and leaders

Five parent markets collectively shape demand: the construction and infrastructure sector (about 28–32% share), building materials and equipment (approximately 20–24%), transportation and urban mobility (around 15–18%), water and wastewater management (roughly 10–12%), and energy and utilities (about 8–10%). Service categories are split into planning & design, construction management, maintenance, and other advisory and inspection services.

Segments to watch

The planning & design segment is projected to account for 39.6% of revenue in 2025, making it the largest service category that year. Drivers include the role of early design in cost control and safety, rising project complexity, stricter rules, and wider use of 3D modeling and virtual simulation tools. The building application is expected to command 45.1% of revenue in 2025, supported by steady residential, commercial and institutional demand and government-backed housing and public facility programs.

Technology, sustainability and funding

Industry trends include growing adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM), modular construction, and sustainable materials. Environmental concerns are pushing wider use of green design and climate-resilient structures. Increased funding for smart city developments and renewable energy projects is widening the definition of civil engineering work beyond traditional roads and bridges.

Regional patterns and country pace

Asia-Pacific is leading new construction activity, while North America and Europe are focusing on modernization and retrofitting. Country-level projections indicate faster growth in several Asian markets, with China forecast to expand at 7.0% CAGR from 2025 to 2035 and India at 6.5% CAGR. European and North American markets show more moderate rates: France 5.5%, UK 4.9%, and USA 4.4%.

Market headwinds and opportunities

Challenges include raw material price swings, supply chain limits, labor shortages, and diverse regional regulation. Technical risks include geotechnical issues and structural assessment needs. Opportunities lie in smart city work, industrial infrastructure, advanced materials, automation, and renewable energy projects. Firms that provide integrated, technology-enabled and cost-efficient services are positioned to capture growth.

Project examples and practical context

Large scale projects worldwide illustrate the changing scope of civil engineering. Rehabilitation and long-term concessions for aging rail lines, major water treatment expansions, and new mixed-use urban hubs show how public funding, foreign investment and long-term maintenance models are shaping priorities. These projects also underline the importance of long-term planning and lifecycle thinking in civil engineering work.

What this means for contractors and clients

Contractors, consultants and engineering firms should expect steady opportunities across design, construction and maintenance services. Investment in digital project management, BIM, prefabrication and sustainable materials will be central to competing on cost, timetable and regulatory compliance in both emerging and mature markets.

Quick reference table: Key features