New Delhi: The refractory industry has emerged stronger in 2025, riding on demand recovery across steel, cement, and non-ferrous sectors while embracing high-performance, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible solutions. With decarbonisation and digitalisation shaping industrial priorities, the sector accelerated adoption of advanced materials and smarter refractory management systems, reaffirming its role as a critical enabler of India’s industrial growth.
Despite this progress, challenges persisted. The industry faced fluctuations in raw material availability, dumping of commoditized refractories, and cost escalations driven by global disruptions. Alumina prices surged significantly last year, while sharp depreciation of the Indian currency further pressured margins. A key concern remains the exclusion of magnesite — the most critical mineral for refractories — from India’s current Critical Minerals List. Balancing quality with cost competitiveness demanded agility, deeper localisation, and sustained investments in technology and R&D.
Looking ahead to 2026, the outlook remains positive. India’s strong economic fundamentals, robust manufacturing pipeline, increased infrastructure spending, and ongoing industrial transformation provide clear visibility for growth. Demand for value-added, low-carbon refractories and integrated service offerings is expected to rise meaningfully.
Industry leaders have urged government support to strengthen this trajectory through diversification of supply chains for critical raw materials like magnesite and alumina, alongside incentives for recycling technologies aligned with circular economy goals. Such measures are seen as vital for positioning India as a global hub for advanced refractory solutions to meet infrastructure growth needs.
With industry–government collaboration, stakeholders are confident that 2026 will mark a year of accelerated progress for the refractory industry and the broader infrastructure ecosystem.
