Shipbuilding Cables Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Power Cable, Control Cable and Communication Cable), By Application (Civil Ship and Military Ship), and Regional Forecast to 2035

• 

  Download Free Sample to learn more about this report

SHIPBUILDING CABLES MARKET OVERVIEW

The global Shipbuilding Cables Market is set to rise from USD 3.55 Billion in 2025 to USD 3.74 Billion in 2026, on track to hit USD 5.602 Billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 5.3% between 2025 and 2035.

They are cables meant for the construction of ships and are tailored to the nature of the vandal seldom experienced on or near the sea. As such, they are designed for use in severe environments such as high humidity, salt water immersion, and variable temperature, making the power distribution, control and communication systems on ships and vessels require them. The Global Shipbuilding cables market is expanding due to the orders for newly built vessels, innovation in ship manufacturing technologies, and rising sea-borne trade transactions. Secondly, the move towards green ships is applying pressure on cable development in the field.

KEY FINDINGS

COVID-19 IMPACT

Shipbuilding Cables Market Had a Negative Effect Due to Russia’s Significant Role as a Major Producer during the Russia-Ukraine War

The Russia-Ukraine war had a notable impact on the Shipbuilding Cables market share, particularly as it has raised concerns regarding the supply chain of various materials which has led to a change in material cost in the sector. Manufacturing of ships has also been slowed because major parts from suppliers are scarce due to conflict between the key suppliers, thus the need for a speedy solution in the name of processing ships. In addition, political instabilities around the world have led to scrambling to regain competitiveness in the naval forces, and hence, the need for new ship construction techniques. With more nations attempting to incorporate improved security systems into their fleets, the market for these cables commonly applied in vessels has grown.

LATEST TRENDS

Adoption of Digital Technologies Drive Market Growth

Digital technologies have played a large role in influencing the growth of the Global Shipbuilding Cables Market. When it comes to practicing efficiency in shipbuilding or reducing costs then it is towards the better integration of IoT, artificial intelligence, and big data systems. Real-time surveillance of cable, schedule of maintenance, and supply chain are some of the things that are made possible by these technologies. Moreover, there is an opportunity to optimize functional cable designs according to the specified vessel characteristics through the help of digital solutions.

• According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), over 1,100 new ships were built globally in 2024, increasing the demand for high-durability shipbuilding cables.

• As per the European Marine Equipment Council, marine electrification projects grew by 14%, enhancing the adoption of low-smoke, halogen-free ship cables.

Download Free Sample to learn more about this report

SHIPBUILDING CABLES MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on Type, the global market can be categorized into Power Cable, Control Cable and Communication Cable

• Power Cable: Cable power is used for the distribution of power on ships to allow proper functioning of the systems and other commodities on board. They are manufactured to serve and perform well when exposed to tough marine conditions as applied to electrical power distribution.

• Control Cable: Control cables are cableways that enable the running of shipboard systems like power and direction systems, machinery systems and so on. These cables are suitable to be used in applications where flexibility coupled with resistance towards environmental conditions are prime necessities for communication between control devices and equipment.

• Communication Cable: Communication cables are crucial in the provision of essential communication services on ships; voice and data. Intended to reduce signal loss and interferences, such cables enable the incorporation of the current technologies to facilitate communication between crew members and systems.

By Application

Based on application, the global market can be categorized into Civil Ship and Military Ship

• Civil Ship: Oil tankers, cargo ships, transport and ocean liners utilize cables to power, control and access data transfer networks. The quest for a better form of operating transport machinery therefore leads to the need to implement cables that are customized to accommodate specific regulatory conformity in addition to other forms of operating needs.

• Military Ship: Defence structures within military ships call for secure and strong cabling infrastructure in handling immense responsibilities. These cables guarantee optimal conditions for conducting communication and control and guarantee readiness in missions in various circumstances. 

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market dynamics include driving and restraining factors, opportunities and challenges stating the market conditions.

Driving Factors

Expansion of Offshore Activities Boost the Market 

A factor in the Shipbuilding Cables market growth is the growth of offshore activities is continually driving the development of the shipbuilding cables market on the global stage. With the gradual expansion in the exploitation of sea resources, onshore and offshore industries require sophisticated shipbuilding cables for their applications such as drilling and extraction of oil and gas, installation of wind turbines for power generation, and shipping. Different types of cables are encompassed with these cables as those that may not work well due to harsh marine environments. Further, safety measures policies and growing technological concerns are the major factors that are affecting the Market.

• According to the Indian Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, more than 75 shipyards are operational in Asia, creating a robust market for marine-grade cables.

• As per the U.S. Maritime Administration, electric and hybrid propulsion adoption increased by 22% in naval vessels, boosting the need for specialized wiring systems.

Technological Advancements Expand the Market

The factors contributing to the growth of the global shipbuilding cables are the increased application of technology in the expansion of efficiency, safety and longevity of the market. Tec novation like the use of very light and very strong material enhances the durability of cables in tough sea conditions hence, less frequent replacement and higher durability. Through smart integration the cable conditions can be monitored in real time hence the effectiveness of the cables can be adjusted and failures avoided. Also, growth in technology enables companies to provide tender for various vessel needs including specialty cable production, enhancing diversification.

Restraining Factor

Volatile Raw Material Prices Potentially Impede Market Growth

The global shipbuilding cables market has several barriers brought about by the fluctuation in raw material costs. Higher manufacturing costs can be attributed to the movement in the price of basic input products such as copper and aluminium that is used to manufacture cables. These rising costs may make manufacturers increase their prices a factor that may not go well with shipbuilders working on tight capital.

• According to the Indian Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, more than 75 shipyards are operational in Asia, creating a robust market for marine-grade cables.

• As per the U.S. Maritime Administration, electric and hybrid propulsion adoption increased by 22% in naval vessels, boosting the need for specialized wiring systems.

Growth in Maritime Trade Creates Opportunity for the Product in the Market

Opportunity

An increase in the maritime trade highly contributes to the global shipbuilding cables market due to the need to acquire better cables needed to drive ship operations. With an increase in trade volumes shipbuilders are acquiring more complex ships that are made up of highly reliable and durable electrical and communication systems. The increase in Orderly new ship constructions demands high-performance cables withstanding the daunting sea conditions. Also, the opportunities for moving towards more environmental-oriented technologies and smart ships specifically boost the potential for the further improvement of cable-type designs and production.

• According to the Japan Ship Machinery and Equipment Association, more than 300 vessels are expected to integrate advanced digital control systems, driving cable innovation.

• As per the European Union Maritime Technology Platform, investment worth USD 2.4 billion was allocated to green shipbuilding projects supporting cable modernization.

Skilled Labor Shortage Could Be a Potential Challenge for Consumers

Challenge

The major threat identified in the global shipbuilding cables market is the scarcity of skilled labor. While new and improved types of maritime vessels are being ordered, the scarcity of skilled labor affects production speed and creativity. This shortage can have consequences in manufacturing and delivery times so it affects costs and scheduling for the consumer and the company. Moreover, low availability of labor may also lead to substandard quality cables which are the backbone for safety and reliability in the engineering of ships.

• According to the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), around 25% of marine cable failures are caused by insulation degradation under high-pressure conditions.

• As per the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), over 15% of new marine cables fail initial safety inspections due to inconsistent manufacturing standards.

• Download Free Sample to learn more about this report

•  

SHIPBUILDING CABLES MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

• North America

The market requirement for North American shipbuilding cables is quite strong due to the well-developed naval structure of the region and also due to the higher investments in the marine segments. The United States tops in ship construction processes due to a demand by merchants as well as military force. Government regulation and eco-friendly products are becoming the drivers’ steering manufacturers into finding ways of creating products with long-lasting, lightweight and minimal material. As one of the biggest shippers in the world, the United States Shipbuilding Cables Market has a considerable share in the shipbuilding cables market, with growing naval defence budgets in the country being the major factor. The region has a sound infrastructure of supply chain and technology that makes it possible to produce quality cable requirements in the marine sector.  

• Europe

When it comes to the shipbuilding industry and major stakeholders within Europe, Germany, France and Italy are some of the most well-equipped. For a need for green technology, high standards of the environment, and environmental regulations to release proficient shipbuilding cables that meet all requirements. More European Union strategies support maritime innovation, and technology enhancements contribute to the overall market growth.  

• Asia

The Asia Pacific countries are likely to be the largest consumers of shipbuilding cables mainly due to a significant increase in the maritime business and increasing shipyard facilities in countries such as China, Japan and South Korea. Market need and the growth of cable technology for efficient vessels suggest that there is continued development in this line. Furthermore, the subsidies and the oriented policies that grant governments to support new emerging local shipbuilding industries are creating a competitive environment.  

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Industry Players Shaping the Market Through Innovative Technologies and Strategic Collaborations

Some of the major market players in the shipbuilding cables market are incorporating new technologies and the right kind of partnerships in the market. Companies are ahead of the play most of the time, especially aiming at creating high levels of cables that conform to regulations in the maritime sector.

• Polycab Wires: According to the Indian Electrical and Electronics Manufacturers Association, Polycab produced over 50,000 km of marine-grade cables in 2024 for domestic and international shipyards.

• KEI Industries: As per the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (India), KEI Industries exported marine cables to 40+ countries, supporting naval and commercial shipbuilding sectors.

These players are using funds for research and development to improve product strength, fire retardant features and energy conservation. Furthermore, relationships with traditional and new shipbuilders as well as OEMs remain crucial to the growth of the sector and to meet the emerging needs of the market.

List of Top Shipbuilding Cables Companies

• Polycab Wires (India)
• KEI Industries (India)
• RR Kabel (India)
• Lapp India (India)
• LEONI Cable Solutions (India)
• Rolliflex (India)
• SAB Cable (Germany)
• HELUKABEL (Germany)
• Wilson Cables (Singapore)
• Unika (Italy)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

May 2024: The VARD shipbuilding group has contracted TMC Compressors to supply a complete marine compressed air system to a newly built cable-laying vessel that it is constructing for Prysmian.

Under the contract, TMC would deliver a marine compressed air system consisting of control and service air compressors to the vessel.

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The Shipbuilding Cables market is poised for a continued boom pushed by the Expansion of Offshore Activities and Technological Advancement. Despite challenges, Growth in Maritime Trade supports marketplace expansion. Key industry players are advancing via technological upgrades and strategic marketplace growth, enhancing the supply and attraction of Shipbuilding Cables.