The Chilean government announced that it would adopt the third-generation ductile iron pipe technology developed by a Chinese company to transform the aging water supply system in the capital Santiago. The new pipes can cope with the challenges of frequent geological activities in the Andes Mountains with their high strength, corrosion resistance and earthquake resistance. The project leader said: "The 50-year life cycle of these pipes will reduce maintenance costs by 60%." This cooperation marks the deep penetration of China's high-end casting technology into the South American infrastructure market.

The European Commission issued new regulations requiring member states to give priority to recyclable materials in municipal facilities. German environmental protection company EcoCast launched the world's first carbon-neutral ductile iron manhole cover, which reduces carbon footprint by 70% through recycled metal ratio exceeding 85% and solar smelting technology. Lyon, France has installed 3,000 sets on a pilot basis, and the mayor commented: "They are both environmentally friendly and anti-theft and safe, and are ideal for smart cities."

Faced with the infrastructure demand brought about by the accelerated urbanization in Africa, many Chinese ductile iron pipe companies have announced that they will invest in factories in Kenya, Egypt and South Africa to achieve local production. A Kenyan factory invested by a Chinese company with a capital of US$120 million is expected to be put into production in 2025, with an annual production capacity of 200,000 tons, which can cover 60% of the market demand in East Africa.