Commodity Plastics Market Size & Share, by Product Type (Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polyvinyl Chloride, Polyethylene Terephthalate, Polystyrene, Poly Methyl Methacrylate); End-use - Global Supply & Demand Analysis, Growth Forecasts, Statistics Report 2024-2036

  • Report ID: 6279
  • Published Date: Jul 19, 2024
  • Report Format: PDF, PPT

Global Market Size, Forecast, and Trend Highlights Over 2024-2036

Commodity Plastics Market size was valued at USD 490.6 billion in 2023 and is poised to cross USD 698.5 billion by the end of 2036, expanding at more than 3.5% CAGR during the forecast period i.e., between 2024-2036. In 2024, the industry size of commodity plastics is evaluated at USD 503.5 billion.

The growing use of commodity plastics for manufacturing disposable cups, polyester-based textiles, reusable bags, and magnetic tapes is a primary factor driving market expansion. Commoditized plastic products are produced in large quantities based on the high demand from various industries, including packaging, photography, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. These plastics are easily recycled, making them ideal for sustainable packaging applications. For instance, in February 2023, Total Energies and Ecolab collaborated to introduce recycled plastic packaging, aiming to accelerate the transition to a circular economy in industrial verticals that heavily rely on packaging. This has fostered adoption of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic for the packaging of highly concentrated cleaning products.


Commodity Plastics Market Overview
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Commodity Plastics Sector: Growth Drivers and Challenges

Growth Drivers

  • Increasing adoption in infrastructure development - Infrastructure projects use durable, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective commodity plastics such as polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, and polypropylene to make pipes, cables, and structural components. Furthermore, the rising investments in transportation, energy, water systems, and other projects have aided to market penetration in public and commercial sectors. In 2021, The Dow Chemical Company and local government officials partnered to replace nearly 42,000 feet of metal pipe with leak and corrosion-resistant high-density polyethylene pipe in rural parts of Texas. With the rapid urbanization and investment in infrastructure development, the commodity plastics market is predicted to grow during the forecast period.
  • Escalating demand for lightweight vehicles - Plastic’s durable, and versatile nature makes it a reliable substitute for heavier materials such as metals, aluminum, and others used in automotive manufacturing. Therefore, the adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles, strict government regulations related to emissions, and the rising demand for fuel-efficient vehicles are some of the key factors fostering the demand for light-weight vehicles. In June 2024, Borealis AG in partnership with Stellantis, and Plastivaloire launched a glass-fiber-reinforced polypropylene compound with 65% post-consumer recycled polymer content named Borcycle GD36000SY. This product application pipeline includes automotive interiors and other components.

Challenges

  • Impact of increasing regulatory pressures - Manufacturers are mandated to comply with stringent regulations in terms of plastic waste, recycling, and environmental carbon footprint. This necessitates investments in new technology, methods, and materials, thereby raising manufacturing costs. Regulatory ambiguity and changing standards may stifle innovation and product development efforts in the commodity plastics market.
  • Price volatility in raw material - Fluctuations in crude oil prices affect the cost of petrochemical raw materials used to make commodity plastics. Companies struggle to manage budgets, invest in long-term projects, and maintain consistent pricing due to inconsistent purchasing power parity (PPP) in emerging economies such as India and China. Instability can affect commodity plastics supply networks, investor trust, and strategic decision-making, limiting the market’s growth potential in the upcoming years.

Commodity Plastics Market: Key Insights

Base Year

2023

Forecast Year

2024-2036

CAGR

3.5%

Base Year Market Size (2023)

USD 490.6 billion

Forecast Year Market Size (2036)

USD 698.5 billion

Regional Scope

  • North America (United States, and Canada)
  • Latin America (Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Rest of Latin America)
  • Asia-Pacific (Japan, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, Australia, Rest of Asia-Pacific)
  • Europe (United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, NORDIC, Rest of Europe)
  • Middle East and Africa (Israel, GCC North Africa, South Africa, Rest of the Middle East and Africa)
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Commodity Plastics Segmentation

Product Type (Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polyvinyl Chloride, Polyethylene Terephthalate, Polystyrene, Poly Methyl Methacrylate)

Polyethylene (PE) segment is set to account for around 45.0% commodity plastics market share by 2036. The market for PE is predicted to grow due to its increasing use in the packaging, medical, consumer durable goods, and pharmaceutical industries. In addition, market players are forming alliances to recycle the polyethylene form of plastic, for instance, in June 2024, The Dow Chemical Company announced the acquisition of Circulus, a North American polyethylene recycler to advance its mechanical recycling offerings.

End-use (Building & Construction, Packaging, Electrical & Electronics, Automotive & Transportation, Medical & Pharmaceutical, Textile)

By 2036, packaging segment is expected to capture over 49.0% commodity plastics market share. The increasing availability of flexible packaging solutions, the surging shift towards eco-friendly packaging options, and the expanding demand for food and beverage packaging drive this segment's growth. In November 2023, Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. announced a strategic partnership with Arena Packaging to introduce bananas reusable plastic containers (RPCs). The innovative technology intends to improve food waste, and manage carbon emissions and operational expenses.

Our in-depth analysis of the global commodity plastics market includes the following segments:

            Product Type

  • Polyethylene
  • Polypropylene
  • Polyvinyl Chloride
  • Polyethylene Terephthalate
  • Polystyrene
  • Poly Methyl Methacrylate

            End-Use

  • Building & Construction
  • Packaging
  • Electrical & Electronics
  • Automotive & Transportation
  • Medical & Pharmaceutical
  • Textile

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Commodity Plastics Industry - Regional Synopsis

APAC Market Analysis

Asia Pacific region in commodity plastics market is projected to account for more than 50.2% revenue share by the end of 2036. Investments are being made by the government of emerging countries including China and India to build a strong base of skilled laborers for plastic manufacturing companies. This enables the key players to manufacture their products at a lower cost in this region. Therefore, the presence of countries with the cheapest manufacturing costs is set to drive the commodity plastics market expansion in the Asia Pacific region.

Rapid industrialization and urbanization in India are leading to the production of plastics in large volumes for various applications such as household products, packaging, and others. In addition, the rising investment in the construction sector under the automatic route is one of the major factors for commodity plastics market growth in the upcoming years. For instance, 100% foreign direct investment in the construction sector under the automatic route in India is permitted for the operations & management of malls, townships, and business construction.

The growing e-commerce sector, which uses plastics for shipping and packaging, is expected to boost the commodity plastic market growth in China. The well-established automobile industry in China will increase demand for commodity plastics as manufacturers use cheap plastics to make lightweight exterior, interior, and fuel-efficient components.

Japan’s retail growth, driven by changing consumer preferences and a strong tourism sector, is expected to increase commodity plastics consumption. The growing need for polymers in the packaging and medical & pharmaceutical industries, together with economic and healthcare advancements, are significant factors that are anticipated to elevate the expansion of the market in Japan.

North America Market Statistics

By the end of 2036, North America region in commodity plastics market is anticipated to dominate around 25.3% share, owing to the growing need for innovative and renewable packaging materials. The increasing demand for specialized commodity plastics in the healthcare industry, specifically for the production of medical masks, gowns, and other safety kits, is also anticipated to drive commodity plastics market growth in the future.

The development of innovative packaging materials and the increased demand for sustainable packaging materials boost revenue growth in the United States. In addition, companies in the United States are introducing eco-friendly packaging in the market.

Innovations in the food and beverage industry across Canada are increasing demand for commodity plastic packaging solutions to meet tight standards, improve shelf life, and maintain safety. In addition, the changing consumer lifestyle along with the surging disposable income in the country is set to strengthen the market expansion.

Research Nester
Commodity Plastics Market Share
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Companies Dominating the Commodity Plastics Landscape

    Competition in the commodity plastics market is intense, with significant competitors using new product lines, collaborations, and investments to grow. These major firms invest in R&D to develop new and improved products that meet consumer needs. To stay competitive, companies prioritize technical advancements and sustainable packaging solutions to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly products.

    • LG Chem
      • Company Overview
      • Business Strategy
      • Key Product Offerings
      • Financial Performance
      • Key Performance Indicators
      • Risk Analysis
      • Recent Development
      • Regional Presence
      • SWOT Analysis
    • The Dow Chemical Company
    • Exxon Mobil Corporation
    • Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, LLC
    • BASF SE
    • DuPont
    • LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V.
    • Borealis AG
    • Braskem
    • Eni S.p.A
    • Formosa Plastics Corporation

In the News

  • On May 16, 2024, Dow and Freepoint Eco-Systems Supply & Trading LLC entered into an partnership for the supply of approximately 65,000 metric tonnes per year of certified-circular, plastic waste-derived pyrolysis oil. This oil will be used by Dow at their U.S. Gulf Coast plants to create new polymers that are of the same quality as virgin-grade plastics. Dow and Freepoint Eco-Systems are collaborating to develop a recycling system that transforms plastic trash into valuable commodities, thereby promoting a circular economy for plastics in North America.
  • On March 20, 2024, LG Chem declared its intention to showcase environmental friendly plastic materials derived from carbon dioxide at Cosmoprof Bologna 2024, Italy, with the aim of attracting clients. LG Chem will showcase cosmetic containers created from 'Poly Ethylene Carbonate (PEC),' a cutting-edge substance derived from carbon dioxide, in partnership with its eco-conscious collaborator, COSMAX, at the EcoZone.

Author Credits:  Rajrani Baghel


  • Report ID: 6279
  • Published Date: Jul 19, 2024
  • Report Format: PDF, PPT

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In the year 2023, the industry size of commodity plastics was USD 490.6 billion.

The market size for commodity plastics is projected to cross USD 698.5 billion by the end of 2036 expanding at a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period i.e., between 2024-2036.

The major players in the market are The Dow Chemical Company, Exxon Mobil Corporation, Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, LLC, BASF SE, DuPont, LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V., Borealis AG, Braskem, Eni S.p.A, and others.

The packaging segment is anticipated to garner a share of 49% during 2024-2036.

The APAC commodity plastics sector is poised to hold a 50.2% share by the end of 2036.
Commodity Plastics Market Report Scope
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