Page 3 - ITAtube Journal 3 2025

Foreword
Dr. Gunther Voswinckel
President ITA
Dear colleagues in the pipe industry, dear readers of the ITAtube
Journal,
The global pipe industry is currently experiencing an exciting period
marked by both promising opportunities and notable challenges.
Following a weak production year in 2024, global pipe output has
grown by 4% this year. Geopolitical developments and the demands
of climate change - particularly the decarbonization of our industry -
continue to shape the global pipe market. Risks to oil and gas supplies
in the Middle East have eased, while the new U.S. administration’s
announcement to significantly increase oil and gas production (“Pump
Baby Pump”) and new supply agreements with Europe are generating
additional demand for OCTG and pipeline products.
In Asia and the United States, the construction sector is gaining impor-
tance, with new architectural solutions driving increased use of pipe
products.
The transition to green steel pipes requires substantial investment and
innovative technical solutions. At the same time, decarbonization is
creating entirely new pipe markets. These include new pipeline infra-
structure, electromobility, carbon capture, and the planned logistics
networks for green hydrogen - each requiring large volumes of pipe
products.
However, it is important to note that opportunities for the pipe indus-
try vary significantly by region. Demand patterns and production costs
differ widely, and the availability of skilled labor is becoming increas-
ingly challenging. In some cases, political measures must therefore be
evaluated individually.
For plant manufacturers, technology providers, and suppliers to the
tube industry, these dynamic conditions present considerable market
potential. They also open doors for innovative solutions that enhance
productivity and customer value - including AI-based technologies that
are steadily gaining ground in our sector.
Innovative products and production processes will continue to ensure
the sustainability and profitability of our industry.
Against this backdrop, Tube Middle East in Cairo and Tube Bangkok
took place at exactly the right moment, offering valuable platforms
for exchange within our tube community. The hybrid ITAtube CON-
FERENCE 2025, with its focus on the North American market, provided
another excellent opportunity to discuss the future prospects of our
industry.
As an additional service to the tube community, the ITA has just pub-
lished the ITAtube Buyer’s Guide - a global directory designed to offer
buyers and suppliers an efficient platform for networking. Buyer`s
Guide – ITA International Tube Association (itatube.org)
Yours faithfully
ITA Team
ITAtube Journal December 2025 3