Middle East & Africa Gypsum Board Market Outlook, 2029

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) gypsum board market presents a picture of dynamism and evolving opportunities. Gypsum board, also known as drywall, is a versatile construction material used for walls, ceilings, and partitions in residential and commercial buildings. The MEA market offers immense potential, driven by a confluence of factors such as urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and government investments in infrastructure development projects. However, the market landscape is not without its complexities, and understanding these nuances is crucial for stakeholders seeking to navigate this region effectively.

One unique aspect of the MEA gypsum board market lies in the interplay between established players and emerging local producers. Major international manufacturers with a global presence have a well-established foothold in the region. These companies leverage their brand recognition, advanced technologies, and expertise in product development to cater to the diverse needs of the construction sector. For instance, international brands offer a wider range of specialized gypsum board varieties, such as moisture-resistant boards for high-humidity environments or fire-resistant boards for enhanced building safety. However, a growing trend is the emergence of local gypsum board producers within the MEA region. These companies often focus on cost-effective standard board production, catering to budget-conscious construction projects. Additionally, they benefit from shorter transportation distances and potentially lower import duties, making their products more competitive in price-sensitive markets.

According to the research report 'Middle East and Africa Gypsum Board Market Outlook, 2029', the Middle East and Africa Gypsum Board market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 7 Billion by 2029. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the MEA gypsum board market in 2020 and parts of 2021. Lockdown restrictions and disruptions in global supply chains led to project delays and shortages of certain gypsum board varieties. However, the market has exhibited remarkable resilience, bouncing back in 2022 and witnessing renewed growth. Several factors contributed to this recovery. Government stimulus packages aimed at boosting economic activity and infrastructure spending played a significant role.

Additionally, a growing focus on renovation and remodeling projects within the residential sector further fueled the demand for gypsum board. The regulatory landscape within the MEA region presents both opportunities and challenges for the gypsum board market. A lack of standardized building codes across different countries can create confusion for manufacturers seeking to enter new markets. Furthermore, some countries within the MEA region might have less stringent fire safety regulations compared to developed economies. This can create a situation where standard gypsum boards are used in applications where fire-resistant varieties would be more appropriate.

However, there is a growing emphasis on fire safety within the region, with some countries implementing stricter building codes that mandate the use of fire-resistant gypsum boards in specific building types. This trend presents a significant opportunity for manufacturers specializing in these advanced board varieties. Additionally, initiatives promoting sustainable construction practices can open doors for gypsum board manufacturers who can showcase the environmental benefits of their products, such as their recyclability and contribution to energy-efficient buildings.

Market Drivers

• Government Investment in Infrastructure Development: Across the MEA region, significant government investments in infrastructure development projects are acting as a major driver for the gypsum board market. This includes initiatives focused on expanding transportation networks, constructing new public facilities, and developing modern industrial zones. These projects require vast quantities of building materials, and gypsum board presents a compelling option due to its lightweight nature, ease of installation, and fire-resistant properties. For instance, the Saudi Arabian government's Vision 2030 plan includes substantial investments in infrastructure development, creating a significant demand for gypsum board in various construction projects. This trend of government-led infrastructure spending is expected to continue throughout the MEA region in the coming years, creating a robust and consistent market for gypsum board manufacturers.
• Increasing Adoption of Prefabricated Construction Techniques: The construction sector within the MEA region is witnessing a growing adoption of prefabricated construction techniques. This method involves assembling building components off-site in a controlled environment and then transporting them to the construction location for final assembly. Prefabricated wall panels often utilize gypsum board as the primary material due to its lightweight nature, dimensional stability, and ease of integration with other prefabricated components. The growing popularity of prefabricated construction can be attributed to several factors, including faster construction times, reduced on-site labor requirements, and improved quality control. This trend towards prefabrication creates a unique opportunity for the gypsum board market within the MEA region, as it positions gypsum board as a crucial material for efficient and high-quality construction projects.

Market Challenges

• Lack of Skilled Labor and Knowledge Transfer:The construction sector within the MEA region often faces a shortage of skilled labor familiar with the proper installation techniques for gypsum board. Traditional brick-and-mortar construction methods remain dominant in many parts of the region. This lack of skilled labor necessitates additional training programs to educate construction workers on proper gypsum board installation techniques, maximizing the performance benefits of these boards. Furthermore, knowledge transfer from international manufacturers to local producers can play a crucial role in developing a skilled workforce within the MEA region. By sharing expertise in gypsum board production, installation, and best practices, international players can contribute to a more robust and sustainable gypsum board market.
• Fluctuating Oil Prices:The economies of many MEA countries are heavily reliant on oil exports. Fluctuations in global oil prices can have a significant impact on government spending and overall economic stability within the region. Reduced government spending on infrastructure projects or a slowdown in the construction sector due to economic instability can translate to a decline in demand for gypsum board. Therefore, the economic landscape of the MEA region presents a unique challenge for the gypsum board market, as it is susceptible to the volatilities of the global oil market.

Based on the report, the Gypsum Board market is segmented into wallboard, ceiling and pre-decorated categories on the basis of product type.

Within the MEA gypsum board market, wallboard remains the undisputed king, accounting for the dominant share of total product consumption. This dominance stems from several factors specific to the region's construction trends and economic considerations. A significant portion of construction activity in the MEA region focuses on residential buildings, particularly affordable housing projects. Wallboards offer a cost-effective and efficient solution for constructing interior walls and partitions in these projects. Their ease of installation and versatility in terms of size and thickness make them ideal for various layouts.

Furthermore, the prevalence of traditional brick-and-mortar construction methods in some parts of the MEA necessitates the use of wallboards for creating smooth and finished interior surfaces. However, a growing trend towards modern aesthetics and fire safety awareness is nudging the market towards adopting other gypsum board products. Ceiling boards are gaining traction, particularly in commercial and high-end residential projects. These boards offer a smooth and aesthetically pleasing finish for ceilings, and their soundproofing properties are becoming increasingly valued in multi-unit dwellings and office spaces.

Additionally, the growing adoption of suspended ceiling systems, which integrate lighting and ventilation components, necessitates the use of specialized ceiling boards compatible with these systems. Pre-decorated boards, while still a niche segment, are witnessing rising interest due to their time-saving benefits. These boards come pre-painted or laminated, eliminating the need for separate painting or wallpapering, which can be faster and more cost-effective for some projects.

However, their higher price point compared to standard wallboards limits their widespread adoption, particularly in budget-conscious construction projects. 'Others' within the MEA gypsum board market encompass a diverse range of specialized boards catering to specific needs. This includes moisture-resistant boards ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, fire-resistant boards for enhanced building safety, and lightweight boards for easier handling and reduced building loads in high-rise construction. The demand for these specialty boards is expected to grow as awareness of their benefits increases and stricter building codes are implemented in the region.

According to the report, the Gypsum Board market is segmented into residential, commercial and industrial based on application.

The MEA gypsum board market exhibits a distinct application profile compared to developed regions, reflecting the unique economic landscape and ongoing development within the region. Residential construction reigns supreme, driven by a burgeoning population and rising disposable incomes. This translates into a high demand for gypsum boards for interior walls and ceilings in new housing units across the MEA. Government initiatives promoting affordable housing further amplify this trend, with gypsum board construction offering a cost-effective and faster alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar methods.

The commercial sector presents another significant application segment, fueled by ongoing investments in infrastructure development projects like airports, shopping malls, and office buildings. Gypsum board walls and partitions offer advantages in these applications due to their fire resistance, sound insulation properties, and ease of installation. The growing hospitality and tourism sectors in the MEA, particularly within the GCC countries, also contribute to the demand for gypsum boards in hotels, resorts, and entertainment facilities. Industrial applications for gypsum boards in the MEA, while present, are not as dominant as in developed regions.

This can be attributed to a focus on heavy industries and a nascent stage of development in some parts of Africa. However, there's a potential for growth in this segment as light manufacturing and warehousing facilities gain traction across the MEA. Pre-fabricated metal buildings utilizing gypsum board for interior walls and partitions are also witnessing increasing adoption due to their faster construction times and cost-effectiveness. Finally, the 'Others' category encompasses institutional buildings like schools and hospitals, which utilize gypsum boards for similar reasons as the commercial sector - fire safety, sound control, and efficient construction.

It's important to note that the application mix within the MEA gypsum board market varies depending on the specific country's economic development stage and construction priorities. Developed economies within the MEA, like the GCC countries, exhibit a more balanced application profile with significant demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. In contrast, developing economies in Africa might prioritize residential construction, with commercial and industrial applications following suit as their economies mature. However, across the MEA region, the residential sector is expected to remain the dominant driver of gypsum board demand in the foreseeable future.

Based on the report, the major countries covered include the UAE, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and the rest of the Middle East and Africa.

Within the dynamic landscape of the Middle East and Africa (MEA) gypsum board market, Saudi Arabia stands out as the undisputed leader. This dominance can be attributed to a confluence of factors specific to the Kingdom's economic and construction sectors. Firstly, Saudi Arabia boasts a robust and well-funded construction industry. Fueled by high oil revenues, the government has prioritized infrastructure development projects, leading to a surge in demand for building materials like gypsum board. This translates into a sizeable and consistent market for gypsum board manufacturers, both domestic and international. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification plan emphasizes developing the tourism and hospitality sectors.

This necessitates the construction of new hotels, resorts, and entertainment facilities, all of which require significant quantities of gypsum board for interior wall and ceiling applications. Beyond government initiatives, a growing residential construction market is another driver of gypsum board demand in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom's rapidly expanding population, coupled with a rise in disposable incomes, is fueling the desire for homeownership. This translates into a need for faster and more efficient construction methods, and gypsum board construction offers a solution.

Drywall construction utilizing gypsum boards is significantly faster than traditional brick-and-mortar methods, allowing developers to complete projects quicker and meet the rising demand for housing units. Uniquely positioning Saudi Arabia within the MEA market is its growing focus on fire safety regulations. The Kingdom has implemented stricter building codes mandating the use of fire-resistant gypsum boards in specific building applications. This emphasis on fire safety stems from a growing awareness of the dangers of building fires and a desire to create safer living and working environments.

This regulatory push has led to an increased demand for fire-resistant gypsum boards, creating a lucrative segment within the Saudi Arabian gypsum board market. However, challenges remain. Limited domestic production capacity necessitates dependence on imports, particularly for specialized gypsum board varieties. This exposes the market to price fluctuations and potential supply chain disruptions. To address this challenge, the Saudi government is encouraging investments in local gypsum board manufacturing facilities. Additionally, fostering partnerships with international gypsum board manufacturers can ensure a stable supply of high-quality boards and potentially lead to knowledge transfer and technological advancements within the domestic market.

Recent Developments

Considered in this report

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report

• Gypsum Board market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product

• Wallboard
• Ceiling Board
• Pre-decorated Board
• Others

By Application

• Residential
• Industrial
• Commercial
• Others (Pre-Engineered metal building and Institutional)

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. After this, the analyst started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once the analyst had primary data, they started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Gypsum Board industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.


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