South America Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Outlook, 2030

The industrial landscape of South America has seen a gradual integration of unsaturated polyester resins UPR, notably in the water tank, roofing, and construction industries. Their entry into the market started in the early 2000s, when increasing urbanization in Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and other countries created demand for lightweight, strong, and affordable substitutes for wood and metal. Originally, fiberglass-reinforced water tanks and building panels made use of UPRs because their moldability and strength offered real benefits. The tropical environment of South America, however, posed difficulties.

The rate of resin curing and post-application performance were affected by the hot and humid weather, particularly in coastal areas and areas around the Amazon. To preserve cost-effectiveness, resin providers had to modify compositions to improve thermal and UV resistance. Although there were challenges at first, UPR gained popularity for its water resistance, particularly in roofing and water storage systems that are common in both rural and semi-urban households. The material's low weight-to-strength ratio facilitated transportation and installation, particularly in underresourced or mountainous areas like the Andes. There was a significant technological development between using pre-mixed resins and on-site customized mixes.

Locally mixed UPRs could be modified to suit the environment, but they frequently had problems with uniformity and curing delays in various humidity conditions, while pre-mixed UPRs were more predictable. This evolved into a crucial center for training and technical assistance for resin distributors and contractors throughout South America. Furthermore, there were initial worries about the emissions of volatile organic compounds VOCs during the production and application of resin. To keep track of industrial usage, South American governments and environmental organizations like Argentina's IRAM and Brazil's CONAMA began assessing air quality legislation.

Due to these considerations, there was increasing interest in formulations with low VOC and no styrene, especially for usage in the public sector and in homes. South America's UPR path has been characterized by a slow transition, creative solutions to climate-specific problems, and growing acceptance across a wide range of sectors due to its adaptability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

According to the research report, "South America Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Outlook, 2030," the South America Unsaturated Polyester Resins market was valued at more than USD 460 Million in 2024. This expansion is a result of the region's growing dependence on lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective composite materials in a variety of sectors, including water treatment, infrastructure, automotive, and building. Due to extensive infrastructure growth, particularly in Brazil and Argentina, there has been a large increase in demand for UPR-based goods like pipes, panels, and tanks. Major regional participants like Elekeiroz in Brazil have been essential in determining this growth trajectory.

Elekeiroz continues to increase its capacity for producing UPR and develop novel resins that are thermally stable and low in VOCs, making them ideal for the climatic diversity of South America. At the same time, other up-and-coming manufacturers in Colombia, Chile, and Peru are working with the transport and building industries to localize UPR applications, lessen dependence on imports, and guarantee the stability of the supply chain.

The government and commercial sector investments in transportation networks, water management systems, and residential housing that support the region's infrastructure drive provide a significant prospect for UPR producers because of their longevity and simplicity of installation, UPR composites are used in Argentina for road and bridge restoration projects as reinforcement. To minimize maintenance costs in humid or chemically aggressive settings, water treatment and sanitation initiatives throughout the continent are using corrosion-resistant UPRs in tanks and pipeline networks.

South American countries use standards like ANVISA Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency and INMETRO National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology to regulate chemical compliance, product labeling, and production safety, notably for UPR applications in potable water systems and structural components, in order to assure safety and quality. Due to regulatory alignment, industrial demand, and the need for climate-resilient infrastructure, the South American market is set for sustained growth as local manufacturing strengthens and UPR technology develops.

Market Drivers

• Infrastructure Development Drive:Several South American countries, including Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia, are making significant investments in infrastructure projects such as bridges, water tanks, pipelines, and affordable housing because of their corrosion resistance, light weight, and low cost, UPRs are preferred in these industries. The demand for long-lasting UPR composites is increasing as governments prioritize resilient construction in flood-prone or humid areas. Public-private partnerships and international development loans are supporting infrastructure initiatives that directly promote the use of UPR.
• Increasing Demand for Water Treatment and Storage:Many areas in South America are increasingly turning to UPR-based solutions for building water tanks, filtration systems, and sewage networks as a result of aging water infrastructure and expanding urban populations. In tropical or chemically harsh environments, these resins provide a long service life and little maintenance. Their affordability increases their appeal among socioeconomic classes, making them accessible for municipal and rural development initiatives.

Market Challenges

• Price Fluctuations and Reliance on Raw Materials:The majority of the raw ingredients used to make UPR in South America, such styrene and unsaturated acids, are imported. Resin prices are impacted by currency fluctuations and global supply chain problems, like those brought on by COVID-19, which in turn impacts the profitability of local manufacturers. The region's capacity to expand output or compete with bigger Asian or North American suppliers is also constrained by this dependence.
• Regulatory and Environmental Pressure:Stringent restrictions on worker safety and VOC emissions especially in Brazil under INMETRO and ANVISA make it difficult for UPR producers to comply. Traditional UPRs release harmful styrene during curing, which may necessitate investment in emission control equipment. Smaller manufacturers often find it difficult to comply with these regulations, which may restrict international trade opportunities or limit production growth.

Market Trends

• Move Towards Low-Styrene and Environmentally Friendly UPRs:Manufacturers are investing in the creation of bio-based and low-styrene UPRs in order to stay current with worldwide sustainability trends and lessen environmental damage. These more recent resins release fewer volatile chemicals and are popular among eco-friendly consumers and green building initiatives. In Brazil, Chile, and Peru, there is growing innovation in recyclable composites and waste reduction.
• Resin formulations that are made to order and pre-mixed:The employment of pre-formulated UPRs designed for particular uses, such as high-humidity roofs, marine environments, and sewage systems, is a growing trend in South America. These ready-to-use formulations enhance curing reliability and lessen the demand for qualified labor on site. By increasing the productivity of local water management and construction businesses, this customization encourages acceptance even in isolated or underdeveloped regions.

Due to the growing demand for high-performance, sustainable, and specialized applications in infrastructure, marine, and chemical environments, the "Others" category of UPRs - which includes bio-based, halogenated, vinyl ester-modified, and terephthalic-based resins - is the fastest-growing sector in South America.

The "Others" category, which includes terephthalic-based, vinyl ester-modified, halogenated, and bio-based UPRs, is seeing significant expansion in the Unsaturated Polyester Resins UPR industry in South America. These modern resins are gaining popularity because of their exceptional mechanical strength, resistance to corrosive chemicals, and improved fire resistance - all qualities required by the region's changing industrial demands. The demand for high-performance resins that can resist moisture, heat, and harsh industrial chemicals is increasing, particularly in applications like bridges, tunnels, sewage systems, and chemical storage tanks, as nations like Brazil, Chile, and Colombia promote infrastructure development.

Specifically, vinyl ester-modified UPRs provide greater toughness and flexibility, making them well suited for harsh environments like oil & gas equipment and coastal infrastructure. Furthermore, the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental protection is hastening the uptake of bio-based UPRs. These resins, made from renewable feedstocks, support producers in lowering their carbon footprint and meeting new green building regulations in nations like Argentina and Uruguay.

Terephthalic-based UPRs are preferred in automotive and industrial applications because of their durability and minimal shrinkage, whereas halogenated UPRs are used in transportation and electronics for their flame-retardant qualities, in accordance with local safety requirements. These specialized UPR variants offer the dependability necessary as South American governments spend money on upgrading water systems and infrastructure, which are frequently subjected to harsh conditions and tropical climates.

The trend is also a sign of increased R&D spending and customization by local resin manufacturers and distributors, who are providing specialized formulas for regional needs. The "Others" category is the fastest expanding in the South American UPR market due to this flexibility combined with worldwide pressure to lower VOC emissions and improve product life cycles.

Due to rising investment in water infrastructure, sanitation, and chemical storage initiatives that demand cost-effective composite materials with corrosion resistance, the Tanks & Pipes sector is the fastest expanding end-use in South America's UPR industry.

The Tanks & Pipes sector of the Unsaturated Polyester Resins UPR market in South America is growing at the quickest rate, mostly due to the urgent need to upgrade and increase the region's water and sanitation infrastructure. As part of larger public health and environmental initiatives, countries like Brazil, Peru, and Colombia are making significant investments in industrial storage facilities, water distribution networks, and sewage systems. Particularly in tank and pipeline systems, composites based on UPR provide essential benefits such as lightweight construction, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation all of which are crucial in the region's diverse and frequently harsh climate.

This demand is also significantly influenced by the agricultural and chemical industries because they offer robust protection against acidic and alkaline compounds, UPRs are perfect for storage tanks and transfer piping in wastewater treatment plants, fertilizer factories, and chemical processing facilities. Furthermore, the increasing use of water recycling and desalination facilities, particularly in drought-prone regions such as northeastern Brazil, has resulted in greater reliance on composite tanks and pipes, which would be susceptible to corrosion or failure if made of conventional metals and exposed to chemicals and moisture continuously.

UPRs are more affordable and simpler to manufacture in unique shapes, which makes it possible to create modular and scalable tank systems, even in isolated areas. Given the constraints on logistics and terrain in rural and semi-urban South America, this adaptability is essential. The need for durable, low-maintenance storage solutions is growing in response to increased construction in the mining, pulp and paper, and petroleum sectors, particularly in Chile and Argentina.

Furthermore, continued product innovation in fire-retardant and low-VOC UPR formulations has enhanced environmental compliance and safety, which has helped speed up market acceptance. The usage of UPRs in tanks and pipelines is anticipated to remain the fastest-growing sector in South America as governments and the private sector continue to prioritize infrastructure with a long lifespan and sustainability.

Its versatility in preparation, ease of customization, and compatibility with a wide range of regional cuisines and portioning requirements, Liquid Form is the most popular option for personal chef services in South America.

Due to its versatility in accommodating a wide range of cooking tastes and methods, the Liquid Form sector is the dominant and fastest-growing model in South America's developing personal chef services industry. From Colombian ajiaco to Argentinian locro and Brazilian moqueca, liquid-based dishes like soups, broths, sauces, purees, stews, and smoothies are a significant part of the region's culinary heritage. These preparations are useful for personalized, chef-prepared at-home services that take into account customers' specific dietary needs and taste preferences.

Liquid meals have a number of logistical advantages from the standpoint of service delivery because they are typically quicker to cook and may be readily adjusted for individual or group servings, they are a popular format for weekly meal plans, event catering, or health-conscious menus. Liquid meal choices are becoming more and more popular among personal chefs for senior citizens, busy professionals, or fitness-minded customers who want nutritious, easy-to-eat dishes that need little on-site preparation. These contemporary, health-aligned eating habits fit nicely with protein-rich stews, detox soups, and smoothies.

liquid food ingredients are often prepared ahead of time and completed on-site; chefs can maintain a high level of quality while increasing productivity because of this, the liquid form is perfect for the expanding gig-based or mobile personal chef economy in urban areas like São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and Santiago. Furthermore, liquid meals have more appeal because they reduce waste, have a longer shelf life, and may be readily modified to suit vegetarian, vegan, or allergen-free demands.

The liquid form allows chefs to provide really customized culinary experiences in response to growing public demand for plant-based nutrition, digestive health, and meal customization. When combined with technological help, such as thermal mixers and smart blenders, the Liquid Form is set to stay at the top of South America's growing industry for private chefs.

Brazil dominates the South American Unsaturated Polyester Resins UPR market because of its large industrial base, domestic chemical manufacturing capacity, and significant demand from the transportation and construction industries.

Brazil is the major player in South America's Unsaturated Polyester Resins UPR market because of its well-developed industrial base, local chemical manufacturing, and expanding end-use industries like construction, automotive, and maritime. Brazil, the largest economy in South America, has a robust network of resin producers, including prominent firms like Elekeiroz and INBRA, which have expanded their operations to satisfy demand in the nation and the region. The nation's industrial centers, including São Paulo, Campinas, and Porto Alegre, have evolved into important centers for the processing and formulation of UPRs that are utilized in a wide range of applications, from water tanks and pipes to auto parts and electrical enclosures.

Particularly in paneling, rebar replacements, and roofing applications, the demand for UPR-based composites has been fueled by the building boom in both urban and semi-urban locations because of Brazil's priority on inexpensive infrastructure and UPR's cost-effectiveness, corrosion resistance, and ability to adapt to humid conditions, the material is the top choice for construction materials.

The use of UPRs in boat hulls, docks, and water-resistant applications has been encouraged by Brazil's long coastline and expanding maritime industry. Brazil's comparatively advanced chemical industry facilitates the creation and dissemination of sophisticated resin compositions suited to environmental variables like UV radiation or excessive humidity.

These locally created remedies guarantee compatibility with regional performance criteria while also lessening dependence on imports., Brazil's adherence to worldwide and regional safety standards like ANVISA and INMETRO creates a framework for product reliability and compliance, which reassures producers that they can use resin in a variety of industries. Brazil continues to be the primary growth driver in South America's UPR market, establishing the standard for technological advancement, supply chain leadership, and scalable use in composite materials, thanks to its strong base in both raw material availability and downstream industrial users.

Considered in this report

• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report

• Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type

• Orthophthalic Resin
• Isophthalic Resin
• Dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) Resin
• Others (Terephthalic-Based UPRs, Vinyl Ester-Modified UPRs, Halogenated UPRs, Bio-Based UPRs)

By End-use

• Building & Construction
• Tanks & Pipes
• Electrical
• Marine
• Transport
• Artificial Stones
• Others

By Form

• Liquid Form
• Powder Form

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

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