Global thermoplastic industry to reach US$440 bln in 2017 at a CAGR of 4% over the next 5 years

05-Sep-12

China and India are expected to drive the thermoplastic industry due to low-cost labor availability, and downstream processing capacity additions are anticipated to contribute to steady industry growth in Asia Pacific (APAC). The industry, which had good growth over the last five years, is expected to continue that growth momentum to reach approximately US$440 bln in 2017 with a CAGR of 4% over the next five years, as per a report by Lucintel. The global thermoplastic industry is fragmented. APAC dominates the market and represents 41.4% of global revenue. A combination of factors such as feedstock price (crude oil and naphtha) and availability, scale and technology, ethylene sourcing, energy costs, distribution costs, environmental issues, and government regulations are likely to influence industry dynamics significantly. Lucintel’s research indicates that after facing a recession-driven decline in 2009, the industry effectively recovered during 2010-2011 due to capacity expansion in APAC and the Rest of the World (ROW)and higher demand for plastic products from emerging economies. APAC is forecast to have the highest growth during 2012-2017. Introduction of ultra-high molecular weight thermoplastic and sugarcane-based thermoplastic are upcoming emerging trends that may lead the industry toward higher growth. Development of utility water systems, under-floor heating, and cable protection in North America and Europe are anticipated to provide better opportunities for the PVC plastic pipe market. Globally, high-density polyethylene pipe is the most attractive market in plastic piping industry due to its low installation costs and design flexibility compared to other pipe materials. The study reveals that innovations in packaging, rising living standards and population, increasing demand in end-user markets, and emerging economies are anticipated to boost the industry. The industry is expected to face certain challenges such as regulations to reduce CO2emissions, product commoditization, and crude oil and naphtha price fluctuations. The report tracks market one segment for four geographic regions: thus, it tracks four segments of the industry.