New Delhi, Jan 15 (.) India’s steel and construction materials industry is entering a phase where getting products efficiently to the market, is becoming as important as expanding production capacity.
With steel output rising and infrastructure demand remaining strong, the focus is increasingly shifting towards strengthening dealer and distributor networks that support trade-led sales across the country.
Industry estimates from BigMint show that India’s steel production crossed 160 million tonnes in 2025, while installed capacity is expected to move towards 300 million tonnes by 2030.
Cement capacities are also expanding, supported by ongoing infrastructure projects and housing activity. As production grows, the ability of the distribution system to handle higher volumes and a wider range of products is emerging as a key priority.
In FY26, India’s finished steel consumption was estimated at around 162 million tonnes. Nearly 50 million tonnes of this moved through trade-led channels such as dealers, distributors, stockists and yards, many of which operate at the MSME level.
By 2030, steel demand is projected to rise to about 210 million tonnes, with trade-led distribution expected to increase to nearly 70 million tonnes a year. This growth is being driven by a deeper reach into Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets, a higher share of value-added products and gradual improvements in dealer infrastructure.
These trends set the context for the announcement of Build Connect 2026, a national expo-cum-conference aimed at strengthening India’s dealer–distributor ecosystem for steel and construction materials.
Industry participants noted that as volumes rise and product offerings become more complex, strong distribution capabilities, wider geographic reach, and better operational systems will play a critical role in sustaining growth.
Trade-led channels currently handle an estimated Rs 3.5 lakh crore worth of steel and construction material sales annually, underlining the importance of better access to finance, improved liquidity management and efficient inventory practices.
Build Connect 2026 is being positioned as a national platform bringing together dealers and distributors, manufacturers, EPC players, architects, financiers and technology providers. The event aims to promote knowledge-sharing, improve connectivity across regions and expose participants to digital tools, value-added products and structured financing solutions.
The two-day event will be held on February 19–20 here and is expected to see participation from over 300 distributors and more than 3,000 MSME-scale dealers from across the country.
. SAS RB 1608