SG · International contemporary art platformIn 2026, the global art market grew by 4% year-on-year, reaching an estimated value of USD 59.6 billion after two challenging years. This development is detailed in the Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report 2026, which highlights several trends shaping the market’s recalibration.
Public auction sales recorded the largest increase, rising by 9% to USD 20.7 billion. This growth was attributed to several record prices achieved at the high end of the market.
The United States maintained its position as the world’s leading art market, accounting for 44% of global sales by value, a 1% increase from the previous year. China remained the third-largest market with a 14% share, primarily led by auction sales in the largely domestically focused Mainland China market.
France, the fourth-largest art market globally and the largest within the European Union, increased its share by 1% to 8%. Growth was driven equally by overseas and local events, with mid-sized dealers showing the largest increases in their share of art fair sales.
Combined public and private sales at auction houses rose by 6% to USD 24.8 billion. The dealer sector also grew by 2% globally, reaching an estimated USD 34.8 billion. These figures indicate balanced growth across different segments of the art market.
Overall, the report points to a steady recovery and recalibration of the global art market, with regional contributions and evolving dealer dynamics playing significant roles.
Why it matters