Polymers Market Analysis

Production Process Segment Analysis

The addition polymerization segment, under the production process, is anticipated to hold the largest share of 75.8% by the end of 2035. The segment’s upliftment is highly attributed to its fundamental root in its operational and economic efficiency in creating the world’s most consumed plastics. This particular process comprises the sequential addition of monomer units without the need for by-product production. In this regard, this is considered the most primary method for manufacturing notable commodity thermoplastics, including polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, and polyethylene. Besides, the aspect of cost-effectiveness and unparalleled scalability are the main drivers for the segment’s dominance in the polymers market. Moreover, the process provides outstanding control over the polymer every year, which has enabled high-volume production for applications, such as consumer goods and packaging.

Type Segment Analysis

The thermoplastics sub-segment, part of the type segment, is expected to cater to the second-largest share in the polymers market during the projected period. The segment’s growth is highly driven by its ability to be recycled, its cost-effectiveness, durability, and versatility. Additionally, it has the capability to be melted and reformed, making it a sustainable choice for a comprehensive range of applications, from regular packaging to components in aerospace. According to an article published by OECD in February 2022, the yearly plastic production has doubled, ranging from 234 million tons to 460 million tons. Besides, there has also been a surge in plastic waste from 156 million tons to 353 million tons. Meanwhile, when it comes to recycling, only 9% of plastic waste is recycled, 22% has been incinerated, and nearly 50% has been disposed of in sanitary landfills. Therefore, based on all these reasons, there is a huge demand for thermoplastics, which are easy to manufacture into different shapes.

Physical Form Segment Analysis

Based on the physical form, the pellets and granules segment in the polymers market is predicted to account for the third-largest share by the end of the forecast timeline. The segment’s development is highly fueled by its importance as a fundamental raw material in the plastic sector, serving as the most crucial building blocks for almost all plastic products utilized in modernized life. Moreover, its importance remains in the ease of processing, transport, and handling, all of which permit large-scale, precise, and efficient manufacturing of diversified products. Besides, as stated in the 2025 OEC data report, potato flakes, granules, and pellets account for USD 1.1 billion in global trade valuation, along with 0.005% as the global share. Furthermore, Germany is considered the top exporter, with USD 301 million in valuation, and the U.S. is the top importer, with USD 99.5 million in valuation as of 2023, thus denoting continuous supply across different nations.

Our in-depth analysis of the polymers market includes the following segments: