Overhead and Gantry Crane in Singapore: Market Insights and Reliable Solutions

According to ITC Trade Map data, Singapore ranked first globally in 2024 for imports of bridge and gantry cranes (HS842619), with a total value of USD 3.499 billion — up 34% year-on-year and an average annual growth rate of 19% from 2020 to 2024, indicating strong and sustained demand growth. The trade deficit of USD 325 million suggests limited local production and heavy reliance on imports, positioning Singapore mainly as a regional demand and import hub rather than a manufacturing base.

Singapore’s bridge and gantry crane market is highly dependent on China. In 2024, imports from China reached USD 313 million, accounting for 89.5% of total imports (1,417 units, average price around USD 220,000 per unit). Imports from China grew 18% annually between 2020 and 2024, and 73% between 2023 and 2024, showing rapidly increasing demand and a stronger Chinese supply share. Germany and Vietnam remain minor sources — Germany focuses on high-end, specialized projects, while Vietnam’s small share may indicate production or re-export activity linked to regional supply chain shifts.

Interestingly, although Singapore ranks first globally in import value for HS842619 bridge and gantry cranes, it also appears among the top 10 exporting countries for the same category. In 2024, Singapore’s export value reached USD 25,318, despite a significant trade deficit.

Notably, 97% of these exports were classified under HS84261990 — “Other cranes excluding mobile lifting frames on tyres”. Given the relatively small scale and narrow product scope, the export segment will not be discussed in further detail here.

Key Market Drivers and Demand Segments in Singapore

The demand for bridge and gantry cranes in Singapore mainly comes from sectors such as port logistics, manufacturing, energy and petrochemical projects, and warehousing. As a major regional hub, Singapore continues to invest in these areas, supporting steady and practical demand for lifting equipment across different industries.

Port logistics

According to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Singapore Department of Statistics (SingStat), Singapore’s port handled 41.12 million TEU in 2024, up approximately 5.4% from 39.0 million TEU in 2023, setting a new record and maintaining its position as the world’s second-largest container port.

At the same time, Singapore is accelerating the phased development of the Tuas Mega Port, currently the world’s largest fully automated port. Its construction and the consolidation of existing terminals are driving ongoing demand for the upgrading, expansion, and automation of gantry and yard cranes, creating a stable long-term market for such equipment.

Medical Device Manufacturing

According to the latest data from the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), the medical technology (MedTech) manufacturing output reached approximately S$19.4 billion in 2023, with over 400 MedTech companies and about 16,000 employees engaged in the sector. The export demand for medical technology products has also shown significant year-on-year growth across several quarters.

In medical device manufacturing, installing and handling large precision equipment requires strict control of dust and contamination. Hence, cleanroom overhead cranes are widely used to ensure safety and efficiency in production.

Energy and Chemicals Industry

According to the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Singapore has become one of the world’s leading energy and chemicals hubs, hosting over one hundred multinational chemical companies mainly on Jurong Island, where firms like ExxonMobil and Shell Eastern Petroleum operate. By 2023, its refining capacity placed Singapore among Asia’s top ten exporters of refined oil products.

In this sector, overhead and explosion-proof cranes are widely used for equipment installation, maintenance, and material handling, ensuring safe and efficient petrochemical operations.

Why China Is the Leading Source of Imports for Singapore

According to ITC Trade Map data, Singapore’s imports of HS842619 products from China reached USD 313.15 million in 2024, accounting for 89.5% of its total imports in this category — far exceeding all other source countries. Singapore’s heavy reliance on Chinese suppliers is driven by a combination of cost advantages, supply chain maturity, and regional economic integration.

Cost and Industrial Chain Advantages

China, as the world’s largest crane manufacturing country, benefits from a complete industrial ecosystem and large-scale production capacity, enabling highly competitive pricing. At the same time, leading Chinese manufacturers — such as ZPMC, WEIHUA, and DHHI — have significantly improved product reliability and technical performance, meeting Singapore’s demand in sectors such as port logistics, industrial manufacturing, and offshore engineering.

Geographical and Logistics Efficiency

Geographical proximity and logistics efficiency are also key factors. Frequent maritime connections between China and Singapore enable lower transportation costs and shorter delivery times, including for modular or full-vessel shipments of heavy equipment. Moreover, several Chinese manufacturers have established regional sales and service centers in Singapore, strengthening after-sales and technical support capabilities, thereby reinforcing their market position.

Regional Economic Cooperation and Market Penetration

Finally, regional economic cooperation frameworks — including the China–ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) — have reduced trade barriers and facilitated the penetration of Chinese equipment manufacturing across Southeast Asia. Overall, China has established a near-monopolistic position in Singapore’s bridge and gantry crane market, a dominance expected to persist in the medium term.

Why DGCRANE Is Your Trusted Partner

As one of China’s outstanding crane manufacturers, DGCRANE has over a decade of experience in the lifting equipment industry and exports to more than 120 countries worldwide. Leveraging China’s strong manufacturing foundation, DGCRANE has become a trusted global supplier — well recognized for its reliability and expertise in bridge and gantry crane solutions.

Extensive Global Experience

DGCRANE has exported cranes to 120+ countries, with rich experience serving the Singapore market. The company is familiar with local standards and technical requirements, ensuring compliance and reliability.

Professional Technical Support

A team of experienced engineers provides full project support — from design to commissioning — offering efficient and customized solutions for diverse industrial needs.

On-site Installation & Service

DGCRANE offers on-site installation, testing, and training, backed by responsive after-sales service to ensure safe and smooth operations.

Flexible Procurement Options from DGCRANE: Complete Units or Components

As is widely known, transport costs account for a significant portion of expenses, with the cross girder being the primary contributor. By addressing this cost driver, we offer two tailored solutions: Complete Crane and Component Crane packages.

Conclusion

With Singapore’s position as a key regional hub, demand for reliable lifting solutions remains steady across multiple industries. In this context, DGCRANE stands out as a trusted partner from China — offering proven expertise, flexible procurement options, and dependable after-sales support.

Whether for port operations, industrial manufacturing, or warehouse applications, DGCRANE delivers tailored crane solutions that combine performance, safety, and value — helping your business move forward with confidence.

Zora Zhao

Expert in Overhead Crane/Gantry Crane/Jib Crane/Crane Parts Solutions

With 10+ years of experience in the Crane Overseas Export Industry, helped 10,000+ customers with their pre-sales questions and concerns, if you have any related needs, please feel free to contact me!

WhatsApp: +86 189 3735 0200

Email: zorazhao@dgcrane.com