China's construction machinery market showed continued growth in July 2026, with exports remaining one of the stronger parts of the industry.
According to statistics from the China Construction Machinery Industry Association, Chinese manufacturers sold 19,521 excavators in July, up 13.9% compared with the same month last year. Domestic sales reached 7,608 units, while exports were much higher at 11,913 units, an increase of 21.2% year on year.
The numbers from January to July are also worth watching. During the first seven months of 2026, China sold 171,841 excavators, representing a 24.8% increase year on year. Export sales reached 85,208 units, up 31.7% from the same period last year.
Wheel Loader Demand Is Also Picking Up
Excavators were not the only equipment category showing growth.
In July, Chinese manufacturers sold 11,774 wheel loaders, an increase of 30.8% year on year. Export sales reached 6,004 units, up 34.9%. From January to July, total wheel loader sales reached 93,826 units, with exports accounting for 46,660 units.
One interesting point is the growing share of electric equipment in the domestic market. Of the 5,770 wheel loaders sold domestically in July, 3,622 were electric wheel loaders. The export market is also seeing electric equipment, although its share remains much smaller than in China.
What This Means for Overseas Buyers
The export figures give some useful information for international buyers.
Demand is not limited to one type of machine or one single market. Excavators, wheel loaders and other construction equipment are being shipped to different regions for road construction, mining, building projects and material handling.
For buyers looking at used or stock equipment, the important thing is not simply choosing a machine with the lowest purchase price. Engine condition, hydraulic pump performance, working hours, tires, undercarriage condition and availability of replacement parts can make a much bigger difference to the actual operating cost.
With excavator exports growing 31.7% during the first seven months of 2026, Chinese construction equipment continues to have a strong presence in overseas markets.
Source: China Construction Machinery Industry Association (CCMA), July 2026 construction machinery sales statistics.
