The market for vacuum pumps and air or gas compressors in the United States is on a growth trajectory, with the demand expected to rise steadily over the next decade. From 2024 to 2035, the market volume is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of +1.5%, reaching 98 million units by 2035. The market value, on the other hand, is forecast to grow at a faster pace of +3.0% CAGR, reaching $13.7 billion by the end of 2035.
U.S. Consumption Trends
In 2024, the consumption of vacuum pumps and air or gas compressors saw a significant uptick, with a 5.7% increase, reaching 83 million units. This marked a recovery from the previous two years of decline. Over the past decade, consumption increased at an average annual rate of +1.9%, reaching a peak volume of 92 million units before experiencing a slight dip from 2022 to 2024. The market value in 2024 expanded by 4.7%, bringing the total value to $9.9 billion. This growth is indicative of strong demand for these products across various sectors.
U.S. Production Overview
Production of vacuum pumps and air or gas compressors in the United States remained stable in 2024 at 19 million units. Over the past decade, production grew at an average annual rate of +2.5%, peaking at 21 million units in 2019 before slowing down in recent years. In terms of value, production stood at $6.5 billion in 2024, showing a relatively flat growth trend compared to previous years. This slower growth rate in production could be due to challenges in maintaining momentum post-2019.
Imports and Imports by Country
The U.S. import market for vacuum pumps and air or gas compressors saw a significant rise in 2024, with imports increasing by 4.7% to 75 million units, marking the first increase since 2021. China remains the largest supplier, accounting for 40% of total imports, with Mexico and Japan following behind. In value terms, Mexico supplied the largest share of imports, valued at $2.2 billion, followed by China at $773 million. The imports are largely driven by turbo, rotary, and reciprocating displacement compressors, which form 87% of the total import volume.
The average import price for vacuum pumps and air or gas compressors in 2024 was $101 per unit, with the highest prices recorded for turbo, rotary, and reciprocating displacement compressors ($143 per unit). These compressors saw the highest growth rate in terms of import value, while hand or foot-operated air pumps had the lowest price point at $2.7 per unit.
Exports and Export Trends
In contrast to the rise in imports, U.S. exports of vacuum pumps and air or gas compressors declined by 8.3% in 2024 to 11 million units, ending a two-year period of growth. Mexico remains the largest destination for these exports, accounting for the largest share in both volume (5.6 million units) and value ($1.4 billion). Exports to the UK saw the highest growth rate, with a CAGR of +14.5%.
In terms of product types, compressors for refrigeration equipment, turbo, rotary, and reciprocating displacement compressors, and vacuum pumps comprised 96% of total exports. The value of exports showed a similar trend, with turbo compressors contributing the most to the overall value at $2.3 billion.
Market Outlook
The U.S. vacuum pump and air or gas compressor market is poised for continued growth, with consumption, imports, and production expected to expand. Factors such as rising industrial demand, increasing manufacturing activity, and investments in infrastructure are likely to drive this growth. The market will also continue to be influenced by global supply chains, with China, Mexico, and Japan being key players in terms of both imports and exports.
As the industry advances, innovations in compressor technology, such as improvements in energy efficiency and automation, will likely shape market trends. The growing importance of environmental sustainability and energy efficiency could also lead to increased demand for specialized compressors and vacuum pumps designed to meet stricter regulations and performance standards.
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