Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment in China Trends and Forecast
The future of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China looks promising with opportunities in the municipal and industrial markets. The global secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 4.5% from 2025 to 2031. The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China is also forecasted to witness strong growth over the forecast period. The major drivers for this market are the growing need for wastewater treatment facilities, stricter laws, and technical integration in the form of novel secondary treatment techniques, such as integrated fixed film activated sludge (IFAS) and moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBR).
• Lucintel forecasts that, within the equipment category, the activated sludge segment is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period due to its ability to remove harmful bacteria, thereby lowering health risks for people and the surrounding environment that may come into contact with the material.
• Within the application category, the municipal segment will remain the largest due to rapid urbanization, most notably in emerging economies, coupled with fast housing and infrastructural development.
Emerging Trends in the Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in China
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China is experiencing significant transformation due to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and growing environmental awareness. As the government enforces stricter environmental regulations and promotes sustainability, the demand for advanced treatment technologies is on the rise. Innovations in treatment methods, increased focus on water reuse, and the growing adoption of digital technologies are among the key drivers shaping the future of this market. These trends are crucial in addressing China’s water scarcity challenges and improving the overall efficiency of wastewater management systems.
• Integration of Advanced Treatment Technologies: The demand for advanced treatment technologies like Membrane Bioreactors (MBR), Reverse Osmosis (RO), and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) is increasing in China. These technologies offer higher efficiency and better quality effluent compared to traditional methods. They are especially effective in removing micro-pollutants, making them suitable for meeting strict discharge standards. As environmental regulations become stricter, there is growing adoption of these technologies, particularly in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants.
• Focus on Water Reuse and Recycling: Water scarcity has become a significant challenge in many regions of China, prompting a shift toward water reuse and recycling. Wastewater treatment systems are increasingly being designed to recover treated water for reuse in industries such as agriculture, textiles, and chemicals. The circular economy model is being adopted, with wastewater being treated to high standards, allowing for its repurposing in non-potable applications. This trend is leading to investments in technologies that enable efficient water recovery and reuse.
• Decentralized Treatment Systems: Decentralized wastewater treatment systems are gaining popularity in China, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. These systems allow for localized wastewater treatment, reducing the need for large, centralized treatment plants. By using modular and scalable treatment units, decentralized systems can be tailored to meet the specific needs of smaller communities and industries. The growing adoption of these systems provides a more cost-effective and flexible solution to wastewater treatment, especially in areas where large infrastructure investments may not be feasible.
• Smart Water Management and Digitalization: The integration of smart water management systems is a growing trend in China’s wastewater treatment market. Digital technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, real-time monitoring, and artificial intelligence (AI) are being incorporated into wastewater treatment plants to optimize operations. These innovations enable better monitoring of water quality, predictive maintenance, and energy-efficient operation. The use of smart technologies helps reduce operational costs, improve treatment efficiency, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
• Resource Recovery from Wastewater: Resource recovery is becoming a key trend in China’s secondary wastewater treatment sector. Technologies like nutrient recovery, biogas production, and the extraction of valuable materials such as phosphorus are gaining traction. These technologies contribute to a more sustainable approach to wastewater treatment by turning waste into valuable byproducts. The Chinese government’s push for a circular economy is encouraging investments in resource recovery technologies, which not only improve the sustainability of treatment plants but also create new revenue streams.
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China is being reshaped by emerging trends focused on advanced treatment technologies, water reuse, decentralized systems, digitalization, and resource recovery. These trends reflect China’s efforts to address water scarcity, environmental concerns, and regulatory pressures. As these technologies evolve and become more widely adopted, they promise to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and resilience of wastewater treatment systems, positioning China as a leader in innovative water management solutions.
Recent Developments in the Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in China
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China has seen notable advancements driven by urbanization, industrial growth, and increasing environmental concerns. In response to stricter regulations and the need for more sustainable solutions, the country has made significant strides in adopting cutting-edge technologies and upgrading existing systems. These developments are designed to address challenges such as water scarcity, pollution control, and resource recovery, reflecting a strong push toward enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of wastewater management in China.
• Adoption of Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs): Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs) are gaining traction in China’s secondary wastewater treatment plants. Combining biological treatment with membrane filtration, MBRs offer high-efficiency filtration that allows for the production of high-quality effluent. This technology is particularly effective in urban areas, where strict discharge regulations are enforced. MBR systems help in reducing the space needed for treatment plants while improving the overall treatment process, including the removal of micro-pollutants. This development is contributing to improved wastewater management capabilities, particularly in densely populated regions.
• Expansion of Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems: The demand for decentralized wastewater treatment systems is growing in China, especially in rural and industrial areas with limited access to centralized treatment facilities. These systems are modular, cost-effective, and capable of providing localized treatment solutions. In areas where large infrastructure projects are impractical, decentralized systems enable effective wastewater management while reducing the need for extensive pipeline networks. This trend is improving access to efficient treatment solutions in remote regions and industrial zones, contributing to a more flexible approach to wastewater management.
• Increased Focus on Resource Recovery from Wastewater: Resource recovery from wastewater is becoming an integral part of China’s secondary wastewater treatment strategy. Technologies that allow for the extraction of valuable materials such as phosphorus, nitrogen, and biogas are being implemented. The government’s commitment to the circular economy has driven this trend, as wastewater treatment facilities are now being designed not just to treat water but also to recover resources. This approach reduces waste, lowers operational costs, and supports sustainability by turning wastewater into valuable byproducts.
• Integration of Smart Technologies and IoT Solutions: The integration of smart technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT) into wastewater treatment processes has seen substantial growth in China. Real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and automated control systems are being increasingly adopted to improve the efficiency of wastewater treatment plants. Smart sensors and AI-driven analytics allow for better optimization of energy use, leak detection, and process control. These innovations lead to reduced operational costs, improved compliance with environmental regulations, and a more responsive and adaptable wastewater management system.
• Government Initiatives and Regulatory Strengthening: The Chinese government has implemented stringent environmental regulations to address the country’s water pollution problems. Policies focusing on stricter wastewater discharge standards, water reuse, and environmental protection are driving the adoption of advanced treatment technologies. Furthermore, the government is encouraging investment in wastewater treatment infrastructure and offering incentives for upgrading systems. These regulations are pushing industries and municipalities to adopt more effective secondary wastewater treatment solutions to comply with the new standards, ensuring that water bodies are better protected from contamination.
Recent developments in China’s secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market reflect the country’s commitment to improving wastewater management and addressing environmental concerns. The adoption of advanced technologies such as MBRs, the growth of decentralized treatment systems, and the increasing emphasis on resource recovery and smart technologies are reshaping the sector. Government regulations and policies further support these advancements, creating a more sustainable and efficient wastewater treatment landscape in China. These developments are key to meeting the challenges of water scarcity and pollution while driving the country toward more sustainable water management practices.
Strategic Growth Opportunities for Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in China
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China presents numerous growth opportunities due to increasing urbanization, industrial expansion, and stricter environmental regulations. The country is undergoing rapid changes in how wastewater is treated, with a strong focus on sustainability, technology, and efficiency. As industries and municipalities adopt new technologies and treatment methods, key applications such as municipal wastewater, industrial wastewater, resource recovery, water reuse, and digitalization offer substantial opportunities for innovation and growth in the sector.
• Municipal Wastewater Treatment: With China’s rapidly growing urban population and stricter environmental regulations, the demand for advanced municipal wastewater treatment equipment is expanding. The government’s emphasis on improving water quality in cities drives the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs) and Reverse Osmosis (RO). Municipalities are upgrading existing systems to meet stricter discharge standards, improving effluent quality, and reducing pollution. These developments create significant opportunities for companies providing efficient, scalable, and high-quality wastewater treatment solutions tailored to urban areas.
• Industrial Wastewater Treatment: China’s industrial sector, especially in the manufacturing, chemical, and textile industries, generates large amounts of wastewater. As regulations become stricter, industries are turning to specialized treatment solutions for their wastewater. Customized equipment, such as advanced filtration systems and integrated chemical-biological treatment technologies, is in demand. Industrial plants need treatment systems that can handle specific contaminants, ensuring regulatory compliance while maintaining operational efficiency. This shift toward tailored, efficient wastewater treatment technologies presents an opportunity for growth in the industrial sector.
• Resource Recovery from Wastewater: Resource recovery, such as the extraction of biogas, phosphorus, and nitrogen from wastewater, is gaining traction in China. The government’s push for a circular economy is driving investments in technologies that can recover valuable resources from wastewater treatment. By capturing these resources, wastewater treatment plants can reduce operational costs and become more sustainable. Companies specializing in resource recovery technologies, including nutrient removal systems and biogas production, have a significant opportunity to capitalize on this growing demand, contributing to sustainability and energy efficiency.
• Water Reuse and Recycling: Water scarcity is a growing issue in many parts of China, making water reuse and recycling increasingly important. Technologies that enable the safe reuse of treated wastewater for non-potable applications, such as irrigation, industrial processes, and landscape maintenance, are in demand. China is investing heavily in water reuse systems to reduce reliance on freshwater sources. Treatment equipment that supports high-efficiency water recovery and ensures safe reuse will see increased demand as industries and municipalities aim to maximize water use and reduce environmental impact.
• Digitalization and Smart Water Management: The integration of digital technologies and IoT into wastewater treatment systems is becoming a significant growth opportunity in China. Real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and automated control systems are being adopted to optimize operations. These digital solutions enable plants to detect issues early, reduce energy consumption, and improve overall operational efficiency. As China moves toward more advanced and intelligent wastewater management, companies offering smart, automated solutions for treatment plants have an excellent opportunity to tap into the growing demand for digitalized systems.
Strategic growth opportunities in the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China are abundant, driven by advancements in municipal and industrial treatment technologies, the push for resource recovery, increasing demand for water reuse, and the rise of digitalization. These opportunities are not only helping the country address its water scarcity and pollution challenges but also driving innovation and efficiency in the wastewater treatment sector. As China continues to prioritize sustainability and regulatory compliance, these growth areas will be key in shaping the future of wastewater management in the region.
Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in China Driver and Challenges
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China is influenced by a range of drivers and challenges, including technological advancements, regulatory requirements, and economic factors. These drivers are pushing the market towards more sustainable and efficient wastewater treatment solutions. At the same time, challenges such as high capital costs, complex regulatory compliance, and integration of new technologies into existing infrastructure are creating obstacles. Understanding these drivers and challenges is crucial for stakeholders looking to navigate the dynamic market landscape in China.
The factors responsible for driving the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China include:
• Technological Advancements: Technological innovations, including advanced filtration systems, membrane bioreactors, and digitalization in wastewater treatment, are major drivers of growth in China. The need to remove complex pollutants from wastewater and meet stricter discharge standards is fueling demand for cutting-edge solutions. Technologies like membrane bioreactors offer high-quality effluent with reduced energy consumption, making them attractive for urban wastewater treatment plants. Moreover, digital technologies such as IoT sensors and real-time data analytics are improving operational efficiency, ensuring that wastewater treatment processes are optimized for energy and resource use.
• Government Regulations and Environmental Policies: The Chinese government has implemented stricter environmental regulations to combat water pollution and ensure that wastewater treatment plants meet high-quality effluent standards. Policies like the Water Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan and the 13th Five-Year Plan are encouraging the adoption of advanced treatment technologies. These regulations require industries and municipalities to invest in modern treatment systems to comply with effluent quality standards. Government incentives and subsidies for sustainable wastewater treatment systems further fuel market growth, creating a demand for improved secondary treatment equipment.
• Water Scarcity and Demand for Water Reuse: China is facing significant water scarcity issues, particularly in northern regions, which is driving the demand for more efficient water management and wastewater recycling systems. The government has been promoting water reuse, encouraging industries to invest in advanced secondary treatment systems that allow for the safe reuse of treated wastewater. These systems are crucial in industries like agriculture, manufacturing, and textiles, where large amounts of water are used. The push for water conservation, combined with the adoption of circular economy principles, is accelerating the growth of wastewater treatment technologies.
• Urbanization and Industrial Growth: Rapid urbanization and industrial expansion in China are increasing the demand for wastewater treatment equipment. As cities grow, the volume of wastewater generated rises, making it more challenging to manage and treat. The industrial sector, especially in manufacturing, chemicals, and food processing, also produces large volumes of wastewater that need efficient treatment. With more stringent discharge regulations and the need to improve water quality, both municipal and industrial sectors are investing in advanced treatment technologies, providing significant growth opportunities for secondary water and wastewater treatment equipment.
• Public Awareness and Sustainability Goals: Growing public awareness of environmental issues, including water pollution and resource depletion, has led to a heightened demand for sustainable wastewater treatment solutions. The Chinese public is increasingly concerned about water quality, prompting both government and industry to adopt more sustainable practices. Additionally, the shift towards circular economy models is pushing for resource recovery from wastewater, including biogas, nutrients, and clean water for reuse. This sustainability-driven approach is fostering innovation in wastewater treatment technology and providing market opportunities for efficient, eco-friendly solutions.
Challenges in the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China are:
• High Capital Investment and Operational Costs: One of the major challenges for the secondary wastewater treatment market in China is the high upfront capital investment required for advanced treatment technologies. Systems such as membrane bioreactors, reverse osmosis, and resource recovery technologies require significant financial resources for both installation and maintenance. Additionally, operating these technologies often involves higher energy consumption and maintenance costs, which can be prohibitive for smaller municipalities and industries. The financial barrier to adopting these advanced systems remains a significant obstacle, limiting their widespread implementation.
• Complexity of Regulatory Compliance: China’s regulatory landscape for wastewater treatment is evolving rapidly, with frequent updates to environmental standards and water quality regulations. Compliance with these regulations requires ongoing investment in technology upgrades and monitoring systems. Wastewater treatment plants must continuously adapt to meet stricter discharge standards and cope with increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies. The complexity of these regulations, combined with the need for regular compliance testing and reporting, can be a significant challenge for plant operators, particularly in ensuring continuous adherence to evolving environmental requirements.
• Integration of New Technologies with Existing Infrastructure: Many existing wastewater treatment plants in China are based on older, legacy systems that are not compatible with new, advanced treatment technologies. Integrating state-of-the-art equipment with outdated infrastructure can be challenging due to compatibility issues, additional construction requirements, and the risk of operational disruptions. Moreover, upgrading legacy systems requires substantial investment, skilled labor, and operational downtime, which can deter plant operators from adopting modern technologies. Overcoming these integration hurdles is essential for realizing the full potential of new wastewater treatment solutions.
The secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China is shaped by key drivers such as technological advancements, government regulations, water scarcity, urbanization, and public awareness of environmental issues. These factors create substantial growth opportunities for the market. However, challenges including high capital investment, complex regulatory compliance, and difficulties in integrating new technologies with existing infrastructure present significant barriers. Addressing these challenges while leveraging the growth drivers will be essential for the continued development of the wastewater treatment market in China.
List of Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in China Companies
Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. Through these strategies, secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment companies cater to increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment companies profiled in this report include:
• Company 1
• Company 2
• Company 3
• Company 4
• Company 5
Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in China by Segment
The study includes a forecast for the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China by equipment and application.
Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in China by Equipment [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• Activated Sludge
• Sludge Treatment
Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in China by Application [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• Municipal
• Industrial
• Others
Features of the Secondary Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market in China
Market Size Estimates: Secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment in China market size estimation in terms of value ($B).
Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends and forecasts by various segments.
Segmentation Analysis: Secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment in China market size by equipment and application in terms of value ($B).
Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different equipment and application for the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment in China.
Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment in China.
Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.
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FAQ
Q1. What are the major drivers influencing the growth of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China?
Answer: The major drivers for this market are growing need for wastewater treatment facilities and stricter laws and technical integration in the form of the creation of novel secondary treatment techniques, such as integrated fixed film activated sludge (IFAS) and moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBR).
Q2. What are the major segments for secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China?
Answer: The future of the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China looks promising with opportunities in the municipal and industrial markets.
Q3. Which secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market segment in China will be the largest in future?
Answer: Lucintel forecasts that activated sludge segment is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period due to removal of harmful bacteria to lower the health risks for people and surroundings that may come into contact with the material.
Q4. Do we receive customization in this report?
Answer: Yes, Lucintel provides 10% customization without any additional cost.
This report answers following 10 key questions:
Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the secondary water & wastewater treatment equipment market in China by equipment (activated sludge and sludge treatment), and application (municipal, industrial, and others)?
Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.3. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?
Q.4. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?
Q.5. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?
Q.6. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?
Q.7. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?
Q.8. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?
Q.9. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?
Q.10. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?
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