Asia is home to the most production and consumption of concrete in the world. In fact, Asia accounts for 73% of global concrete production and 81% of the world’s concrete consumption. Countries like China, Vietnam, India and Indonesia are the largest cement producers in the world followed by Thailand, Philippines and Malaysia. With concrete being the most consumed substance in the world next to water it means that the world greatly relies on Asia for cement production. To help offset concrete production Asia has a close relationship with Mexico, the United States and Brazil with large cement manufacturing done in all three. However, Vietnam still exports the most cement globally with an export value reported to be 1.4 billion, making up 12.5% of the world’s global cement export.
The World Of Concrete Asia
With such big ties to the cement industry Asia is home to the yearly World of Concrete convention. Held in Shanghai at the Shanghai New International Exposition Center, it showcases the latest technology and exhibits related to general concrete, concrete surfaces, mortar & masonry, and even non-concrete flooring. Attended by thousands of people from all over the world, concrete-related business owners like Dave, a Phoenix interior concrete flooring and concrete coating expert. These business owners come to learn new techniques and the latest innovations in the concrete industry. This in turn creates a great increase in tourist related revenue for the country helping to keep it prosperous for those that live within Shanghai and surrounding communities.
The “New Great Wall”
One great concrete attraction that draws many visitors is the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River. It is considered the largest concrete project in the world and is often referred to as the “New Great Wall” referencing the Great Wall of China. It is made up of 27.2 cubic meters of concrete and has the world’s largest hydroelectric station in terms of capacity. While many visitors come to see the dam there is also controversy behind it. 100 workers died while helping to construct the wall and 1.4 million people were displaced and had to find new homes because of the construction. Still archaeological and cultural sites were flooded as a result too. While the dam is a concrete masterpiece with more than 20 million people visiting it, its construction didn’t come without sacrifice.
Whether you are looking to attend The World of Concrete Asia or simply want a reason to visit Asia we highly suggest you make those travel plans. There is so much culture, great sites to see and delicious cuisine to try.