Polylactic Acid Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2028

The Global Polylactic Acid Market was valued at USD 692.34 million in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 11.53% through 2028. The polymer of polylactic acid (PLA) differs from the commonly available thermoplastic polymers. It is predominantly composed of renewable resources such as sugarcane. PLA is a popular material because it is relatively inexpensive and possesses various beneficial mechanical properties compared to other biodegradable polymers. PLA is primarily derived from plant-based sources, including sugarcane, cassava, corn, and potato. Alternative feedstocks such as agricultural by-products, cellulosic materials, and greenhouse gases have also been explored. However, the process is still under development, and agricultural products are expected to remain the primary source for starch blends and PLA in the foreseeable future. The growth of the PLA market is primarily driven by the increasing demand in end-use sectors such as textiles, packaging, and agriculture. Additionally, the lower carbon emissions associated with polylactic acid compared to traditional polymers contribute to global demand. Moreover, the rising demand for flexible packaging products further fuels market growth. The packaging industry is experiencing a surge due to the growing demand for packaged foods, snacks, ready-to-eat (RTE) meals, and other consumer goods. Consequently, the demand for PLA is expected to rise in the forecast period due to the rapid expansion of the packaging industry.

Key Market Drivers

Growing Demand for Polylactic Acid in the Automotive Industry

Polylactic Acid, a biodegradable and bio-based polymer derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane, presents a compelling alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics in the automotive industry. PLA's relatively low density makes it an ideal material for light-weighting vehicles. As automakers strive to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, the use of PLA in components like interior panels and non-structural parts contributes to achieving these goals. PLA's pliability and similarity with different shading specialists permit makers to make adaptable and aesthetically satisfying parts. This is critical for inside plan components and non-primary parts that add to the general driving experience. PLA is used to create interior components such as door panels, dashboard trims, and center console parts. These components benefit from PLA's lightweight nature, customizable design, and sustainable appeal.

Increasing Demand for Polylactic Acid in the Packaging Industry

As consumers demand greener and more responsible packaging solutions, the industry is being compelled to embrace materials that align with sustainability goals. PLA, derived from renewable resources and offering biodegradability, has emerged as a compelling option that caters to this growing demand for eco-friendly packaging. As consumer awareness about environmental issues escalates, there's a notable shift in purchasing behavior towards products packaged in environmentally responsible materials. Brands that incorporate PLA packaging into their offerings stand to gain a competitive edge by appealing to conscious consumers. PLA's compostability plays a vital role in the circular economy model. As composting infrastructure improves, PLA packaging can be collected, processed, and returned to the earth, completing a sustainable materials cycle. From food containers to wraps and films, PLA is gaining traction in the food industry due to its suitability for direct contact with edible items. It maintains the freshness of perishable goods while offering a greener alternative to traditional plastics. Moreover, brands in the cosmetics industry are transitioning to PLA packaging for products like creams, lotions, and shampoos. PLA's aesthetic appeal and customizable nature align well with the visual and branding requirements of these products.

Growing Demand for Polylactic Acid in the Electronic Industry

Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable and bio-based polymer that has emerged as a key player in this dynamic landscape. The growing adoption of PLA in the electronic industry is not only reshaping the sector but also serving as a potent driver of the global PLA market. One of PLA's leading attributes is its lightweight nature, making it an optimal decision for the electronic business. The decreased weight not only adds to the compactness and comfort of gadgets but also assumes a part in diminishing transportation discharges. Besides, PLA's strength and mechanical properties are being tackled to make parts that can endure the afflictions of the day-to-day use of electronic gadgets. PLA's versatility shines in this domain as it can be molded into various forms, providing a custom fit for devices. PLA's thermal properties make it suitable for applications in which components generate heat, such as printed circuit boards (PCBs). The electronics industry leverages PLA's ability to withstand higher temperatures, making it compatible with emerging technologies and trends like 5G networks and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Growth in Technological Advancements

Technological progressions have worked with the advancement of PLA blends and the fuse of different added substances to tailor its properties to explicit applications. By mixing PLA with different polymers or added substances like strands, nanoparticles, or fire retardants, producers can make materials with an assorted scope of properties. These developments have extended PLA's applications to regions as changed as gadgets, auto, and clinical gadgets, exhibiting its flexibility and adaptability. 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, has revolutionized manufacturing processes across industries. PLA's biodegradability and ease of processing make it an ideal material for 3D printing applications. The technology allows for intricate and customized designs, enabling rapid prototyping, product personalization, and reducing material waste. Traditional plastic recycling facilities are not equipped to handle PLA, and improper disposal can hinder its biodegradation process. Technological advancements are addressing this challenge through the development of specialized PLA recycling and composting facilities.

Key Market Challenges

Lack of Composting Infrastructure

PLA products tossed into conventional waste streams often end up in landfills or incinerators, where they decompose at a much slower rate than they would in an industrial composting facility. This defeats the purpose of using a biodegradable material, as the intended environmental benefits are not realized. When PLA products enter recycling streams, they can contaminate conventional plastic recycling processes, leading to issues with recycling and exacerbating the plastic pollution problem. Sorting PLA from traditional plastics is challenging, and the lack of awareness among consumers about proper disposal worsens the problem. Moreover, the absence of easily accessible composting facilities discourages consumers from choosing PLA products, as they are uncertain about how to dispose of them responsibly. This limits the market's growth potential and inhibits the positive environmental impact that PLA can have.

Complex Production Process

PLA's feedstock, primarily corn and sugarcane, competes with other essential industries such as food and energy. As global populations rise, the demand for food crops and biofuels increases, potentially leading to competition for resources. Balancing the need for bio-based materials like PLA with food security and energy production is a significant challenge that requires careful resource management and sustainable agricultural practices. PLA production requires significant amounts of resources, including water, energy, and land. The process of converting feedstocks into lactic acid and, eventually, PLA involves various energy-intensive steps such as fermentation, distillation, and polymerization. The production of PLA involves intricate chemical reactions, precise control of reaction conditions, and the use of specialized equipment. Developing and maintaining these technologies requires a substantial investment in research and development.

Key Market Trends

Growing Evolution of Bioplastics

PLA is made from plant-based feedstocks and has garnered significant attention due to its biodegradability and reduced carbon footprint compared to petroleum-based plastics. The concept of a circular economy, where materials are used, reused, and recycled in a closed loop, aligns seamlessly with PLA's biodegradability. PLA's ability to compost under controlled conditions supports the concept of returning materials to the environment in a way that enriches rather than pollutes. As circular economy initiatives gain traction, PLA is poised to play a pivotal role in creating a sustainable materials ecosystem.

Segmental Insights

End-Use Industry Insights

In 2022, the polylactic acid market was dominated by packaging and is predicted to continue expanding over the coming years. This can be attributed to the widespread use of polylactic acid (PLA) for producing jars, containers, and bottles, as well as for fresh food packaging. The global consumer preference for sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging is compelling manufacturers to utilize PLA in packaging. Packaging is a prominent application of PLA in the food packaging industry. PLA-based plastic bottles are disposable, long-lasting, and possess characteristics such as shine and clarity. Additionally, strict regulations on single-use plastics in countries like Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Zimbabwe, New Zealand, and various states in the United States (including New York, Hawaii, and California) are significantly driving the demand for PLA in the packaging sector.

Application Insights

In 2022, the polylactic acid market was dominated by the films & sheets segment and is predicted to continue expanding over the coming years. PLA films can be tailored to provide specific barrier properties, such as moisture resistance and gas permeability, making them suitable for packaging perishable items. These films help extend the shelf life of products, reducing food waste and enhancing the overall sustainability of the supply chain. The shift towards sustainable packaging materials has driven the demand for PLA films, as they offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. Consumer preferences for products with reduced environmental impact have propelled the adoption of PLA films in food packaging, beverage containers, and various consumer goods. The supply chain for PLA feedstocks, such as corn and sugarcane, has become more established and efficient over time. This has contributed to a more consistent and reliable supply of raw materials for PLA film production.

Regional Insights

The Asia Pacific region has established itself as the leader in the Global Polylactic Acid Market. This can be attributed to expanding innovative work ventures by key market players and expanding mindfulness with respect to the utilization of bioplastics in the area. Likewise, governments in the locale are offering auxiliaries for the creation of biodegradable items to decrease natural worries, which is one more component expected to push the development of the objective business in the nations of the Asia Pacific district.

Key Market Players

• Corbion N.V.
• Galactic S.A.
• Henan Jindan Lactic Acid Co., Ltd.
• Jungbunzlauer AG
• Musashino Chemical Laboratory, Ltd.
• BASF SE
• NatureWorks
• Henan Jindan Lactic Acid Technology
• Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation
• Synbra Technology B.V.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Polylactic Acid Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends, which have also been detailed below:

Polylactic Acid Market, By Raw Material:

• Corn
• Cassava
• Sugarcane
• Sugar Beet
• Others

Polylactic Acid Market, By Application:

• Rigid Thermoforms
• Films & Sheets
• Bottles
• Others

Polylactic Acid Market, By End-Use Industry:

• Packaging
• Consumer Goods
• Agriculture
• Textile
• Bio-Medical
• Others

Polylactic Acid Market, By Grade:

• Thermoforming
• Injection Molding
• Extrusion
• Blow Molding
• Others

Polylactic Acid Market, By Region:

• Asia Pacific
• North America
• Europe
• Middle East & Africa
• South America

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Polylactic Acid Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Polylactic Acid Market report with the given market data, the publisher offers customizations according to a company's specific needs.


This product will be delivered within 1-3 business days.