Automation driving global conveyor belt demand
As companies focus on improving operational efficiency and reducing manual labour, the adoption of automated material handling solutions is accelerating.
Rubber conveyor belts have become integral components across various industries and processes, offering flexibility, reliability and high performance in the handling of bulk materials and heavy loads.
Industries, such as mining, construction, manufacturing, food processing and logistics, are increasingly deploying conveyor belts to streamline operations, minimise downtime and improve productivity.
The integration of smart technologies, such as sensors and automation controls, is transforming conveyor system operations and driving demand for advanced rubber conveyor belts capable of withstanding harsh industrial environments while offering real-time monitoring and maintenance alerts.
The global market is typically segmented based on material type, with steel-reinforced, textile-reinforced and solid woven belts being the primary categories.
Textile-reinforced conveyor belts superior strength and flexibility make them a preferred choice in heavy-duty industries, such as mining and construction, where handling large and abrasive loads is routine.
Textile-reinforced belts are also known for their corrosion resistance and lower maintenance needs compared to steel-reinforced belts. This makes them the preferred solutions for industries seeking to optimise long-term operational expenditures without compromising durability and performance.
The rubber conveyor belt market is further categorised into light, medium and heavy-duty belts. According to Research and Markets, the medium-weight conveyor belts segment accounted for 46.3% of the global market in 2024.
With the trend of industrial automation and rising demand for efficient material handling systems, medium-weight conveyor belts are increasingly adopted to meet evolving industry needs while offering long service life and reduced maintenance costs.