Engineering Plastics Market Forecasts to 2030 - Global Analysis By Type, Processing, Distribution Channel, End User and By Geography

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Engineering Plastics Market is accounted for $124.0 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $192.6 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period. Engineering plastics are a group of plastic materials that possess superior mechanical and thermal properties compared to commodity plastics. These materials are designed for use in demanding applications that require high performance in terms of strength, heat resistance, and chemical stability. Engineering plastics are commonly used in the automotive, aerospace, electrical and electronics, industrial, and medical industries, where their enhanced properties are essential for safety, durability, and efficiency.

According to OICA, automotive production in 2021 accounted for 9,167,214 units, an increase of 4% compared to the show in 2020, which was reported to be 8,822,399 units.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Increasing demand for electrical and electronic appliances

The market is witnessing a surge in demand attributed to the growing reliance on electrical and electronic appliances. This trend is fueled by advancements in technology and the increasing integration of electronic components in various industries. From consumer electronics to automotive applications, the need for durable and heat-resistant materials is driving the adoption of engineering plastics. Manufacturers are responding by innovating to meet the stringent requirements of these sectors, indicating a promising trajectory for the market.

Restraint:

Concerns regarding recyclability and environmental impact

In the realm of engineering plastics, there's a pressing challenge centered on recyclability and environmental impact. As consumer awareness of sustainability grows, there's an increasing demand for plastics that can be easily recycled or have minimal environmental consequences throughout their lifecycle. Manufacturers are under pressure to innovate and develop materials that meet these criteria without sacrificing performance or cost-effectiveness. This necessitates a shift towards biodegradable or easily recyclable engineering plastics, driving innovation within the market.

Opportunity:

Rapid industrialization and urbanization

Rapid industrialization and urbanization are propelling the Engineering Plastics Market forward. With expanding sectors like automotive, electronics, and construction, the demand for high-performance materials is surging. Engineering plastics, offering superior mechanical properties, heat resistance, and durability, are becoming indispensable in various applications. Their versatility in replacing traditional materials like metal and glass is driving market growth.

Threat:

Fluctuating raw material prices

The market faces ongoing challenges due to fluctuating raw material prices. These variations can stem from factors like supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, or shifts in demand. Such instability often leads to price volatility, impacting production costs and profit margins for manufacturers. To navigate these fluctuations effectively, industry players must employ robust risk management strategies and maintain flexibility in sourcing options. Adapting to these market dynamics is crucial for sustaining competitiveness in the sector.

Covid-19 Impact:

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the Engineering Plastics Market. Disruptions in supply chains, reduced manufacturing activities, and fluctuating demand led to challenges. However, the market also saw opportunities with the rising demand for medical equipment, protective gear, and packaging materials. Additionally, there was a shift towards sustainability, driving demand for eco-friendly engineering plastics.

The blow molding segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The blow molding is expected to be the largest during the forecast period driven by advancements in material formulations and manufacturing technologies. This market segment caters to diverse industries such as automotive, packaging, and consumer goods. Key factors fueling expansion include the demand for lightweight, durable components, and the rising emphasis on sustainability. Additionally, innovations in design and process optimization are enhancing product quality and cost-effectiveness, further propelling the market's trajectory.

The healthcare segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The healthcare segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period. These materials find extensive use in medical devices, diagnostic equipment, surgical instruments, and drug delivery systems. Engineering plastics such as polycarbonate, polyethylene, and polypropylene are preferred for their durability and versatility in healthcare settings. With an increasing emphasis on patient safety and technological advancements, the healthcare engineering plastics market continues to witness robust growth and innovation.

Region with largest share:

North America is projected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period. With a focus on enhancing performance, durability, and lightweight characteristics, demand is particularly strong in automotive, electronics, and construction sectors. The region benefits from technological advancements and a strong manufacturing base, fostering innovation and market expansion. Additionally, stringent regulations promoting sustainability further propel the adoption of engineering plastics.

Region with highest CAGR:

Asia Pacific is projected to hold the highest CAGR over the forecast period. With the automotive industry booming in countries like China and India, there's a growing demand for lightweight and durable materials, which has led to the adoption of engineering plastics in automotive manufacturing for components such as bumpers, interior trim, and under-the-hood applications. With increasing environmental concerns, there's a shift towards the use of engineering plastics over traditional materials like metals, as they are often recyclable and offer opportunities for lightweighting, energy savings, and reduced emissions.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players in Engineering Plastics market include LG Chem Ltd., Covestro AG, Evonik Industries AG, Dow Chemical Company, Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation, Eastman Chemical Company, BASF SE, Asahi Kasei Corporation, Solvay S.A., Teijin Limited, Victrex PLC, Celanese Corporation, 3M Company, Arkema S.A., Avient Corporation and LANXESS Aktiengesellschaft.

Key Developments:

In March 2023, Evonik launched a new GMP facility to manufacture lipids for advanced, pharmaceutical drug delivery applications. The lipid launch facility is located at the company's site in Hanau, Germany and provides customers with quantities of lipids as needed for clinical and small-scale commercial manufacturing.

In June 2022, BASF launched VerdessenceTM RiceTouch, a new biopolymer for a smooth and powdery light skin feel, suitable for a broad range of personal care products. This plant based sensory powder with small particle size provides powdery light and smooth skin feel and is ideal for matte type cosmetics.

Types Covered:

• Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT)
• Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)
• Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
• Polyamide (PA)
• Polycarbonate (PC)
• Polyacetal (POM)
• Polyphenylene Ether (PPE)
• Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK)
• Liquid Crystal Polymers (LCP)
• Other Types

Processing Covered:

• Injection Molding
• Blow Molding
• Extrusion
• Rotational Molding
• Thermoforming
• Compression Molding

Distribution Channels Covered:

• Direct Sales
• Direct Sales
• Retailers
• Online Platforms

End Users Covered:

• Automotive
• Aerospace
• Electronics & Electrical
• Healthcare
• Construction
• Other End Users

Regions Covered:

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • Italy
  • France
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Qatar
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:

• Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
• Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
• Covers Market data for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2030
• Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
• Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
• Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
• Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
• Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings:

All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

• Company Profiling
  • Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
  • SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
  • Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
  • Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances