Sales of new Russian road construction equipment (RCE) decreased by 27.5% last year, to 54.7 billion rubles, according to Rosspetsmash. The main reason is the stagnation of residential and infrastructure construction, as well as the high key rate of the Central Bank, which reduced investment activity, Kommersant reports.
However, the situation was aggravated by competition with Chinese equipment amid the strengthening ruble. Imported models in some segments have become more affordable or attractive in terms of characteristics, attracting some of the demand. Sales of imported RCE also decreased, but not as sharply.
The largest drop in shipments of Russian equipment was recorded for rollers (minus 47.9%), mini-loaders (minus 28.8%), pipe-laying cranes and bulldozers (minus 26.8%), and motor graders (minus 25.5%). Only backhoe loaders showed growth — plus 34.9%.
Sales were also hampered by the sale of seized leasing equipment — stocks at leasing companies and dealers remain high, including Chinese equipment imported back in 2023.
There are no prerequisites for a sharp increase in 2026. Experts believe that the crisis in the market may last until 2028. Construction growth in 2026 is expected to be within 1–2.5% in an optimistic scenario. The market can be supported by a decrease in the key rate and the start of large infrastructure projects, including the Moscow-St. Petersburg HSR.
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