South Africa’s construction industry is entering a new era. With the sector forecast to grow at an average of 3.5% annually from 2026 through 2028, there’s renewed optimism coursing through the country. Much of this momentum stems from both public and private sector commitments to infrastructure development. Indeed, over the next decade, more than $50 billion is being earmarked by the South African government to upgrade and expand vital assets such as ports, railways, roads, waterworks and sanitation systems.
Stepping into this climate of change and opportunity is the 12th edition of Big 5 Construct South Africa, which returns to the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 18 to 20 June 2025. Co-located with the newly inaugurated South Africa Infrastructure & Water Expo, the combined events aim to act as the beating heart of the country’s construction revival.
Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President – Construction at dmg events, hit the nail on the head: “The launch of South Africa Infrastructure & Water Expo alongside the 12th edition of Big 5 Construct South Africa reflects the ongoing transformation of the country’s construction and infrastructure landscape. These events align with national development priorities by enabling knowledge exchange and strategic partnerships that will accelerate the delivery of mega projects, boost economic growth and enhance quality of life.”
Two Flagship Events, One Ambitious Vision
As South Africa strives to meet its National Development Plan 2030 and the Infrastructure Plan 2050, the dual expos are perfectly timed to rally the construction ecosystem. The Big 5 Construct South Africa event taps into a $125 billion market, while the infrastructure segment draws on a staggering $193 billion in long-term opportunities.
This year, the spotlight is also firmly on sustainability, resilience and innovation. The newly launched Infrastructure & Water Expo dives deep into the pressing challenges surrounding water efficiency, climate-smart infrastructure and resilient urban development. The sector has become a key concern, not only due to ageing systems but also because of recurring droughts and rising urbanisation.
In short, these events are more than just trade shows. They’re catalysts for change.
A Global Line-up Backing Local Transformation
What makes this edition truly stand out is the international flavour. Over 250 exhibitors from more than 20 countries will descend on Johannesburg, turning the Gallagher Convention Centre into a global marketplace. Names like Bahrain, Malaysia, Spain, Turkey, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Poland, and the UAE are already confirmed.
Among the standout newcomers to the South African scene are:
First-time exhibitor DeWalt South Africa is also joining the fray. Keneilwe Nawane, Commercial Director at DeWalt, expressed enthusiasm: “Big 5 Construct South Africa offers a powerful platform to connect with key decision-makers, showcase our innovations, and explore new market opportunities. We are excited to be part of such a dynamic event that brings together the region’s top construction players.”
Learning, Networking and Strategic Insights
Of course, it’s not just about products and demos. The event’s backbone is its CPD-certified sessions, which deliver value-packed insights across key sectors. Under the umbrella of Big 5 Talks, professionals can tap into sessions on:
And it doesn’t stop there. The Infra360 Talks and Water360 Talks are breaking new ground in 2025, focusing on topics like:
These sessions aim to go beyond the theory, offering practical pathways to address the country’s infrastructure gaps.
Introducing the Infrastructure & Water Forum
Also new for 2025 is the South Africa Infrastructure & Water Forum, a pay-to-attend summit packed with high-level conversations. Expect policymakers, financial backers, and thought leaders to go toe-to-toe on urgent topics like:
Heijmans summed up the strategic importance of this event: “As the region continues to prioritise infrastructure and economic transformation, Big 5 Construct South Africa and South Africa Infrastructure & Water Expo will allow attendees to reconnect with the industry and facilitate growth and advancement for their ongoing and upcoming projects.”
Co-location Synergies That Add Value
In a clever move, the event will be co-located with two more heavy-hitters: WoodEX for Africa and Transport Evolution Africa. This strategic integration ensures a holistic experience for attendees, blending construction, logistics, timber and transportation under one roof.
That’s not just convenient—it’s essential. Infrastructure development doesn’t happen in silos, and this cross-sectoral synergy mirrors the interconnected challenges faced by policymakers and industry professionals alike.
Open Doors, Open Minds
Registration for both Big 5 Construct South Africa and the South Africa Infrastructure & Water Expo is now open. Industry professionals aged 18 and over can register for free, gaining access to the full slate of exhibits, talks, and networking lounges.
Taking place from 18 to 20 June 2025, this three-day extravaganza offers a not-to-be-missed chance to witness innovation in motion, make valuable contacts, and contribute to shaping the built environment of tomorrow.
Why This Matters Now
South Africa is at a pivotal moment. Investment is flowing. Policies are aligning. And technology is opening doors to smarter, greener and more resilient infrastructure. Events like Big 5 Construct and the Infrastructure & Water Expo aren’t just trade shows—they’re strategic instruments in the nation’s developmental toolkit.
For professionals, policymakers, and investors looking to play a part in that journey, the message is clear: June 2025 is your moment.
