Global Plastic Pipes Market Overview, 2023-28

Plastic pipes have become an integral part of daily lives, quietly working behind the scenes to transport essential resources like water and gas, and even providing innovative solutions in various industries. These unassuming conduits have revolutionized the way user manage and distribute fluids, offering numerous advantages over traditional materials like metal and concrete. Plastic pipes, which first appeared in the mid-20th century, have come a long way in terms of technology, materials, and applications. Early plastic pipes were primarily made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a lightweight and corrosion-resistant material. PVC pipes quickly gained popularity in residential and commercial plumbing due to their affordability and ease of installation. Over the years, innovations in plastic pipe manufacturing have led to the development of a wide range of materials, including high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), each tailored for specific applications. The versatility of plastic pipes lies in their adaptability to diverse requirements, and they have rapidly expanded their presence in sectors beyond plumbing. Plastic pipes have become an essential part of modern infrastructure, providing reliable and cost-effective solutions for a wide range of applications. The culture of plastic pipes is a complex and evolving one. On the one hand, plastic pipes are widely used and accepted as a safe and reliable material for a variety of applications. They are lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for use in water and sewer systems, storm drain systems, electrical and gas distribution systems, and irrigation systems. On the other hand, plastic pipes have also been criticized for their environmental impact. Plastic is a non-renewable resource, and plastic pipes can contribute to plastic pollution if they are not disposed of properly. Additionally, some types of plastic pipes can release harmful chemicals into the environment. Despite these challenges, the culture of plastic pipes is likely to continue to evolve in a positive direction.

According to the research report, “Global Plastic Pipes Market Overview, 2023-28” the market is anticipated to cross USD 100 Billion by 2028, increasing from USD 75.14 Billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow with 5.69% CAGR by 2023-28. Plastic pipes are commonly used in plumbing for water supply and drainage systems. PVC, PEX, and CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) pipes are popular choices for their affordability, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation. PEX pipes, in particular, have gained recognition for their flexibility, making them ideal for retrofitting existing plumbing systems. HDPE and MDPE (medium-density polyethylene) pipes are the materials of choice for natural gas distribution networks. Their durability and resistance to corrosion make them a safer and more cost-effective alternative to traditional steel or cast iron pipes. In agriculture, plastic pipes have become indispensable for efficient irrigation systems. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and resistant to chemical and environmental factors, making them ideal for transporting water to crops. Industries rely on plastic pipes for transporting a wide range of chemicals and fluids. PP and PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) pipes excel in corrosive environments, ensuring the safety of workers and the integrity of the transported substances. In wastewater treatment and stormwater drainage, plastic pipes play a critical role. PEX pipes have found their place in geothermal heating and cooling systems. Their flexibility and excellent heat transfer properties make them an energy-efficient choice for these applications. Manufacturers are developing new types of plastic pipes that are made from recycled materials or from renewable materials such as bioplastics. Additionally, new technologies are being developed to help recycle and reuse plastic pipes.

The Middle East and Africa have witnessed remarkable growth in the plastic pipes market for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, the construction and infrastructure sectors in these regions have been experiencing substantial expansion and development, driven by population growth, urbanization, and economic progress. These industries require efficient and cost-effective piping solutions for applications ranging from water supply and wastewater management to gas distribution and industrial processes. One of the key drivers of the plastic pipes market in the Middle East and Africa is the extreme climate conditions prevalent in many parts of these regions. Plastic pipes, particularly High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and PVC pipes, offer distinct advantages in these environments. They are highly resistant to corrosion, which is a significant concern in areas with high temperatures and aggressive soils. Additionally, plastic pipes can withstand the challenges posed by sandstorms, UV radiation, and harsh chemicals, making them a durable choice for long-term infrastructure projects. Furthermore, the regions' governments and regulatory bodies have recognized the benefits of plastic pipes, such as their corrosion resistance, ease of installation, and affordability. They have implemented standards and guidelines that promote the use of plastic pipes in various applications, further fostering the growth of this market. Another contributing factor to the surge in the plastic pipes market is the increased focus on sustainable infrastructure and environmental responsibility. HDPE pipes, in particular, are known for their recyclability and low environmental impact. This aligns with global trends towards eco-friendly solutions, appealing to both governmental initiatives and environmentally-conscious consumers in the Middle East and Africa.

Polypropylene (PP) material has been steadily gaining prominence in the plastic pipes market due to its unique combination of properties and numerous advantages, which cater to the evolving needs and expectations of various industries and applications. There are several key factors contributing to the growing popularity of PP material in the plastic pipes market. PP pipes are highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals, acids, and bases. This exceptional chemical resistance makes PP pipes an ideal choice for industries where the transportation of aggressive or corrosive substances is a common requirement. They are extensively used in chemical processing, industrial wastewater management, and laboratory applications where the risk of chemical corrosion is a significant concern. PP material can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for both hot and cold fluid transport. Its high melting point and excellent heat resistance enable PP pipes to be used in applications like hot water distribution, industrial processes involving elevated temperatures, and even in geothermal heating systems. PP pipes are known for their long service life and durability. They can endure harsh environmental conditions, UV exposure, and mechanical stress without compromising their structural integrity. This durability translates to a low maintenance requirement and extended pipe lifespan, reducing the overall cost of ownership.

The increasing adoption of plastic pipes as gas conduits in the global market can be attributed to a combination of several key factors that collectively contribute to their growing popularity. The demand for plastic gas conduits is driven by a convergence of technical advancements, safety considerations, environmental concerns, and economic benefits. First and foremost, plastic gas conduits, particularly High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes, offer significant advantages in terms of safety and performance. HDPE pipes have exceptional resistance to corrosion and chemicals, making them highly reliable for the transportation of natural gas. They are less susceptible to leaks and degradation, enhancing the safety of gas distribution systems and reducing the risk of gas leaks, which can be hazardous. The lightweight and flexible nature of plastic gas conduits, such as HDPE, simplifies transportation, handling, and installation. This translates to reduced labor costs and quicker project completion, making them a cost-effective choice for both new gas distribution infrastructure and replacement projects. Another crucial factor contributing to the growth of plastic gas conduits is their durability and longevity. HDPE pipes, for example, have a significantly longer service life compared to traditional materials like steel or cast iron. This extended lifespan not only minimizes maintenance and replacement costs but also reduces the environmental impact associated with frequent replacements.

Plastic pipes are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for use in water and wastewater systems. This is especially important in harsh environments where metal pipes may be susceptible to rust and other forms of corrosion. Plastic pipes are lightweight and easy to install, which can help to reduce the cost and time of construction projects. Additionally, plastic pipes can be joined using a variety of methods, including solvent welding, mechanical couplings, and electrofusion welding. This makes them versatile and adaptable to a wide range of applications. Plastic pipes are generally more cost-effective than traditional materials such as metal and concrete. This is due to their lower upfront cost and lower maintenance costs over the lifetime of the pipe. Plastic pipes can be made from recycled materials or from renewable materials such as bioplastics. This makes them a more sustainable option than traditional materials. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that over 2 trillion gallons of water are lost each year due to leaks in water distribution systems. Plastic pipes can help to reduce these water losses by providing a more leak-resistant solution. In China, the government is investing heavily in improving wastewater treatment infrastructure. Plastic pipes are being used in these projects to transport and treat wastewater in a more efficient and sustainable way. In India, the government is also investing in improving water and wastewater infrastructure. Plastic pipes are being used in these projects to provide clean drinking water to rural communities and to improve wastewater treatment in urban areas. The growing use of plastic pipes in water and wastewater applications is helping to improve water quality, reduce water losses, and extend the life of infrastructure. This is having a positive impact on the environment and on the lives of people around the world.

Market Drivers

• Water Scarcity and Water Management: Escalating concerns about water scarcity, particularly in arid regions, are driving the adoption of plastic pipes in water management systems. Plastic pipes are well-suited for efficient and cost-effective water distribution and irrigation, allowing for the preservation and responsible use of this precious resource. Governments and organizations worldwide are focusing on optimizing water infrastructure, which is boosting the demand for plastic pipes in water conservation efforts.
• Renewable Energy Infrastructure: The increasing emphasis on renewable energy sources, such as solar and geothermal power, has created a demand for plastic pipes in the construction of energy distribution systems. Plastic pipes are favored for their resistance to corrosion and chemicals, making them suitable for transporting various fluids and gases in renewable energy projects. As the world transitions towards greener energy solutions, the plastic pipes market is expected to benefit from the growth of renewable energy infrastructure.

Market Challenges

• Competition from Alternative Materials: Plastic pipes face competition from alternative materials, such as steel, concrete, and ductile iron, which are still preferred in certain applications due to their established track record and durability. Convincing industries and governments to switch to plastic pipes, especially in critical infrastructure projects, can be challenging. Plastic pipe manufacturers must continue to innovate and provide compelling evidence of their products' long-term reliability and cost-effectiveness.
• Waste Management and Recycling: While plastic pipes offer sustainability benefits, they also contribute to the broader issue of plastic waste management. The disposal of end-of-life plastic pipes can be a challenge, especially if they are not properly recycled. Recycling infrastructure and awareness about responsible disposal need to be enhanced to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic pipes. This challenge highlights the need for the industry to develop circular economy practices and promote the recycling of plastic pipe materials.

Market Trends

• HVAC and Indoor Air Quality: Plastic pipes are increasingly finding application in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These pipes are used for conveying hot and cold water, as well as refrigerants in air conditioning units. The trend towards improved indoor air quality and energy efficiency in buildings has driven the adoption of plastic pipes in HVAC systems due to their corrosion resistance and energy-saving properties.
• Customization and Prefabrication: A growing trend in the plastic pipes market is the use of prefabricated and customized pipe systems. Manufacturers are offering tailored solutions that meet specific project requirements, including pipe lengths, fittings, and connections. This trend reduces on-site installation time and labor costs while ensuring a higher level of quality and precision in the construction of pipelines. The demand for customized plastic pipe solutions is on the rise, particularly in industries like pharmaceuticals, food processing, and chemical manufacturing.

Covid-19 Impacts

The pandemic disrupted supply chains globally, affecting the production and distribution of plastic pipes. Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and factory closures hindered the availability of raw materials, components, and workforce, leading to delays in manufacturing and delivery. Many construction projects were delayed or postponed due to the economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic. This directly impacted the demand for plastic pipes in sectors like residential and commercial construction. As a result, plastic pipe manufacturers faced reduced sales and revenue. As companies faced financial constraints, they were more cautious about investments in infrastructure and construction, affecting the plastic pipes market's growth potential. In some regions, the pandemic shifted the focus of governments and industries towards healthcare infrastructure and medical supplies. This reprioritization led to a temporary reduction in investments in other types of infrastructure projects, including those requiring plastic pipes. The pandemic highlighted the critical importance of clean and reliable water supply and sanitation systems. To combat the spread of the virus, governments and organizations invested in upgrading and expanding water and wastewater infrastructure. This increased demand for plastic pipes, particularly in applications related to water distribution and treatment. The need for additional healthcare facilities and medical infrastructure created opportunities for plastic pipes in the construction of hospitals, clinics, and temporary medical facilities. Plastic pipes are often used in healthcare settings due to their hygienic properties.

Competitive Landscape

Major market players are spending a lot of money on R&D to increase their product lines, which will help the Plastic Pipes market, grow even more. Market participants are also taking a range of strategic initiatives to grow their worldwide footprint, with key market developments such as new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations. Competitors in the Plastic Pipes industry must offer cost-effective items to expand and survive in an increasingly competitive and rising market environment. The major market players are investing a lot of money in R&D to expand their product lines, which will spur further market growth for Plastic Pipes. With significant market development like new product releases, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations, market participants are also undertaking various strategic activities to expand their presence. Major market players considered in the report are Uponor Oyj, Wavin B.V., Georg Fischer AG, Rehau Group, Aliaxis, Wienerberger AG, Astral Limited, Sekisui Chemical Company, Limited, Orbia Advance Corporation, S.A.B. de C.V., Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc., Finolex Industries Limited, Borealis AG, Genuit Group plc,, Chevron Phillips Chemical, Atkore International Group Inc., Supreme Industries Limited, Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd., APL Apollo Tubes Ltd., Diamond Plastics Corporation and Prince Pipes and Fittings.

Considered in this report:

• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report:

• Global Plastic Pipes market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Region-wise Plastic Pipes market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Regions covered in the report

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

By Material:

• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
• Polyethylene
• PP (Polypropylene)
• Others

By Application:

• Liquid Conduits
• Gas Conduits
• Others

By End User:

• Construction
• Oil & Gas
• Water & Wastewater
• Agriculture
• Chemicals

Intended audience:

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organisations related to the Plastic Pipes industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.