In 2024, the market for nylon-6 and nylon-66 experienced consistent growth as demand accelerated from the automotive industry because of the growing requirement for light, fuel-efficient cars. The apparel industry also experienced increased use of nylon-6, especially in sportswear and athleisure, as consumers are increasingly opting for strong and flexible materials. Electronics companies also ramped up their consumption of nylon-66 in connectors and insulation materials to satisfy the growing demand for miniaturized, high-performance devices.
Sustainability was the big trend of 2024, with manufacturers stepping up to incorporate bio-based nylon and recycled content into supply chains. Policy changes in the EU and North America pushed producers to invest in green manufacturing processes, including minimizing carbon emissions and enhancing recycling technologies.
In the future, 2025 will see a major change in production strategies, with significant companies adding capacity in Asia to utilize cost benefits. Advances in polymer blending technology and additive manufacturing will improve product performance, further making nylon-6 and nylon-66 highly competitive.
The following decade will witness consistent growth in applications throughout high-growth industries like electric vehicles, medical textiles, and industrial automation, which will support healthy industry growth. The industry for Nylon-6 and Nylon-66 is expected to reach USD 26.42 billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 4.6% to reach USD 41.43 billion by 2035.
Industry Forecast Table
| Metric | Value (USD Billion) |
|---|---|
| Industry Size (2025E) | USD 26.42 billion |
| Industry Size (2035F) | USD 41.43 billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 4.6% |
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This study is based on a recent survey of stakeholders in the nylon-6 and nylon-66 value chain, which includes manufacturers, suppliers, and end-user industries, undertaken by Future Market Insights. The results indicate that sustainability and innovation are high on the agenda for most of the respondents, with over 65% identifying the need for bio-based alternatives and circular economy approaches as key trends.
Faced with a raft of stringent environmental policies, particularly in Europe and North America, globally reputable companies are being pressured to shift toward cleaner production and recycled nylon solutions.
With thermal resistance and durability at the forefront, 70% of automotive players favor nylon-66 for EV applications, influencing demand patterns. Meanwhile, the increasing demand for lightweight and breathable fabrics is driving the textile industry's growing adoption of nylon-6 for performance apparel and technical textiles. However, 55% of stakeholders identify supply chain interruptions and price volatility, particularly raw material shortages, as key concerns.
More than 60% of respondents believe that the growth drivers for the future will be 3D printing and polymer blending-with an emphasis on design, product performance, and efficiency. Lower production costs in the Asia-Pacific region, coupled with increasing industrial applications, are key factors driving the industry's projected growth in this area.
| Countries | Key Regulations & Mandatory Certifications |
|---|---|
| United States | There are laws regarding chemicals, such as the TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act). The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) sets emissions standards on factories. Many are ISO 14001-certified for environmental management. |
| United Kingdom | Under UK REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals), manufacturers must register chemicals - including nylon intermediates. The Environment Act 2021 provides for stricter control of plastic waste. |
| France | Most notably, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations requiring recycling of nylon products, especially within textiles Grenelle II Act brings in sustainability and ecolabeling obligations. NF certification is for industrial materials. |
| Germany | Nylon packaging is subject to recycling compliance requirements under the German Packaging Act (VerpackG). The Blauer Engel (German for “Blue Angel”) eco-label marks nylon as environmentally friendly. DIN EN ISO 9001 specifies quality in production. |
| Italy | Compliance with the EU Green Deal: (i) carbon neutrality and (ii) circular economy values. The UNI 11460 standard is applicable to all sustainable textiles, with direct implications for Fashion and Apparel's nylon-6. |
| South Korea | As K-REACH (Korean REACH) is in line with EU REACH, high chemical registration is required to produce nylon. Material safety KS certification is for industrial use. |
| Japan | Nylon is manufactured from dangerous substances regulated by Chemical Substances Control Law (CSCL). (Japanese Industrial Standards) certification is mandatory for specific applications such as auto and electronics. |
| China | China REACH mandates registering chemicals, which impacts nylon raw material imports. The Plastic Pollution Control Plan (2018 to 2023) reduces the usages of nylon that is not recyclable to packaging and fabrics. In China, Work Group Flow is used to define horizontal manufacturing pieces, whereas CCC (China Compulsory Certification) is requested for nylon applications in electrical and industrial equipment. |
| Australia & New Zealand | Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS) regulates import and use of chemicals with a basis in nylon. Nylon is regulated in automotive and safety products by AS/NZS standards. |
| India | Nylon products in specific industries are required to obtain a BIS certificate. Plastic Waste Management Rules mandates that more nylon-based products be recycled under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines. |
Meanwhile, the USA nylon-6 and nylon-66 industry is expected to expand at a CAGR of approximately 4.2% between 2025 and 2035, owing to momentum in automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications.
The growing focus on using light materials in electric and fuel-efficient vehicles is expected to boost the adoption of enhanced engine parts, battery enclosures, and high-performance nylon-66 plastics, such as plates and sheets. In addition, the American textile sector is gradually increasing its usage of nylon-6 in sportswear and functional apparel to meet consumers' demand for durable, moisture-wicking fabric.
The nylon-6 industry is also benefiting from the 3D printing industry, with companies in that sector using nylon-6 for additive manufacturing applications. Increased domestic production and sustainability initiatives will pay dividends in terms of providing long-term stability and growth in the industry.
The UK nylon-6 and nylon-66 industry is projected to grow during 2025 to 2035 at a CAGR of 3.9% on account of sustainability norms and advancements in electrical mobility. Both the target of carbon neutrality by 2050 and the UK REACH program are forcing companies to switch to reusable and bioplastics-based nylon materials.
The automotive industry, especially parts for EV batteries and lightweight thermoplastics, is a key driver for demand. In the UK, the fashion and textile industry is also changing to circular economy thinking, with more recycled nylon entering clothing and accessories.
Although Brexit and trade policy remain uncertain, government incentives for sustainable production methods (especially with regards to climate change) and a rise in collaboration and investment in innovative ideas through R&D mean the UK industry for sustainably sourced nylon is set to grow.
Throughout the next ten years, the industry for nylon-6 and nylon-66 in France is projected to grow steadily at a CAGR of 3.8%. Strict environmental policies in France, particularly Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation, are pushing for recycling initiatives and bio-based alternatives for nylon production.
Due to its lightweight nature and superior thermal stability, the French car industry heavily relies on this fabric for the production of electric and hybrid cars. In addition, the fashion and textile luxury industry of the country is pushing sustainable material sources, which is increasing the demand for recyclable nylon cloth.
However, issues associated with raw material pricing and stringent EU regulations for chemicals may impact the growth of the industry. It will be expected to build the trend-breaking competitiveness of France on the world industry as continuing investments in clean technologies enable it to streamline expertise for production.
During 2025 to 2035, the Germany nylon-6 & nylon-66 industry would record substantial growth at a CAGR of 4.1%, due to demand for automotive & industrial manufacturing and textiles. Germany remains Europe’s largest automotive industry, with increasing demand for lightweight, high-performance materials such as nylon-66 in EV battery housings, engine compartments, and structural components.
The Nation’s Packaging Act (VerpackG) and Blauer Engel (Blue Angel) environmental label encourage recycling and sustainability in the industry. Also driving nylon demand in Germany is the industry for industrial automation, particularly when it comes to high-precision mechanical components. Investments in innovation in polymer technologies and local recycling projects will sustain growth, despite the industry facing regulatory challenges and the volatility of raw materials.
The Italian nylon-6 and nylon-66 demand is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 3.7% over the foreseen years, on account of textile, automotive, and packaging industries. Italy’s textile industry is a major consumer of recycled and bio-based nylon at a time when the demand for high-performance textiles that are sustainable is increasing.
Low-carbon nylon manufacturing processes are favoured by the EU Green Deal and circular economy initiatives. The Italian automotive sector, particularly luxury and sports car manufacturing, utilizes nylon-66 for lightweight, high-strength components. The industry is driven by factors such as green manufacturing investments and new polymer blends.
Meanwhile, South Korea's nylon-6 and nylon-66 industry will achieve sales growth at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% during the assessment timeframe, with help from the electronics, automotive, and industrial sectors. K-REACH regulations mirror EU standards, pushing businesses to make more sustainable and safer nylons.
One significant driver for high-performance nylon materials is the automotive industry, especially the manufacture of electric vehicles. Nylon-66 is also key to the electronics industry, particularly for insulation, connectors, and structural parts. With solid government backing for R&D, South Korea is also emerging as a front runner in high-tech polymer applications.
Demand from the automotive, industrial robot, and textile industries is expected to drive the Japan nylon-6 and nylon-66 industry at a CAGR of 4.0% through 2034. The CSCL ushers in strict chemical safety requirements that affect production and imports.
Japan's automotive industry employs nylon-66 for EV battery casings, lightweight automotive parts, and under-the-hood components. Precision engineering uses nylon components, which further stimulates industry growth in the robotics and automation sector. But the limitations of the supply chain remain a challenge, and investment in progressive recycling and sustainable production supports industry growth.
China's industry for nylon-6 and nylon-66 is expected to register the highest CAGR of 5.2% among major economies, owing to fast industrialization, rising EV production, and favorable textile demand. These systems include the China REACH system and the Plastic Pollution Control Plan (2020 to 2025), which promote recycling and green nylon initiatives.
China has the largest automotive industry in the world, with increasing demand for lighter materials such as nylon in EV manufacturing. The textile industry, especially industrial and sportswear, is another major consumer of nylon-6 fibers. While the country has stringent regulations in place for the environment, continuing government support for local output and circular economy efforts will drive the long-term growth of the industry.
The nylon-6 and nylon-66 industry across Australia and New Zealand is slated to grow at a CAGR of 3.6%, with textiles, automotive, and industrial sectors at the forefront. AICIS has stringent environmental standards and regulates the imports of chemicals.
Regulations aimed at sustainability, including waste-reducing programs and the use of green packaging, are further pushing companies toward recycled nylon. While high-performance engineered plastics dominate demand, the mining and automotive sectors are also fuelling it.
The nylon-6 and nylon-66 segments in India are forecast to register respective CAGRs of 5.0% and are dominated by textiles, automotive, and electronics. The government's Make in India policy is enhancing domestic production in nylon through BIS approvals and EPR regulation, while addressing sustainability and quality concerns.
The demand is driven by rising industrialization and a growing middle class. Despite constraints in infrastructure and raw materials, recycling investment and green production will drive long-term growth.
Nylon 66 and Nylon 6 dominate the nylon industry and play significant roles in various industries. Nylon 6 dominates the industry because of its affordability and ease of processing, which makes it a preferred material in textiles, industrial applications, and engineering plastics. Its demand comes from the automobile industry, where lighter and stronger materials are required to improve mileage and performance.
The automotive and electrical industries prefer Nylon 66 for high-performance applications because of its superior heat resistance and mechanical strength. The shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) is driving demand for both grades as manufacturers seek advanced materials for battery parts, insulation, and under-hood components. In addition, Sustainability trends are pushing businesses to develop bio-based and recycled nylon, shaping the industry landscape in the coming years.
The nylon industry is growing with varied applications, and engineering plastics and fibers are in demand. Engineering plastics, with their superior strength-to-weight ratio, heat stability, and resistance, find application in cars, industry, and electronics.
Nylon is substituting metals in structural and functional components in the automotive sector to lower vehicle weight and enhance fuel efficiency. The growth of electric and hybrid cars is also boosting demand for high-performance nylon in battery enclosures and electrical insulation components.
With the growing consumer inclination towards strong and high-performance materials, nylon finds widespread use in textiles, industrial textiles, and carpets. The electrical and electronics segment is also witnessing speedy adoption of nylon in cables, connectors, and circuit breakers. Furthermore, increasing demand for packaging materials and films with high strength is driving further industry growth, making nylon a critical material in various industries.
| 2020 to 2024 | 2025 to 2035 |
|---|---|
| Steady subscriber growth was supported by increasing demand from the automotive and textile industries. | Based on the development of sustainable and high-performance nylon materials, industry is expected to grow faster. |
| The COVID-19 pandemic caused supply chain disruptions, leading to volatility in raw material availability and prices. | Stabilized demand is anticipated with stronger supply chain resilience and localized manufacturing strategies. |
| Growing utilization of lightweight materials in the automotive sector bolstered demand for nylon-based engineering plastics. | The ongoing shift to electric vehicles and stricter emissions regulations will further drive demand for nylon in these applications. |
| Material innovations in response to environmental pressures, including sustainable and recycled nylon solutions. | Stronger sustainability legislation and end-user demand drive increased adoption of bio-based and recycled nylon. |
| The industry for smart devices and consumer electronics is increasing, which is leading to growth in electrical and electronics applications. | There has been an increase in demand for nylon in HV electrical devices and as an insulation material for EV batteries. |
| Fluctuations in the price of crude oil impacted prices for raw materials, resulting in an impact on pricing strategies. | The focus is on ensuring raw material stability and establishing new bio-based feedstocks. |
Manufacturing, including engineering plastics and high-performance materials in other applications of Nylon 6 and Nylon 66, accounts for about one-quarter of total demand. It is expected to be grow better due to trends in industrial production, policy regulations, and sustainability programs. One of its biggest consumers, the automotive industry, is turning to lightweight nylon composites to hit emission targets.
This further drives the demand for high-performance insulation products from the growing consumer electronics and electrical applications sectors. However, fluctuations in crude oil prices, international trade policies, and disruptions in the supply chain have altered industry trends and influenced the costs of raw materials and production efficiency.
Growth from 2025 to 2035 will be driven by the increasing adoption of EVs, sustainable raw materials, and advancements in polymer technology. Upstream movement toward a circular economy will push to increase recycling and bio-based nylon penetration, led by regulation in Europe and North America. Owing to industrialization and infrastructure development in China and India, the Asia-Pacific region will have high demand.
Such investment would reduce reliance on raw materials derived from petroleum. Supply chain stability, local production, and AI-enabled manufacturing will improve efficiency and reduce costs. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, nylon-based materials will be integral to the next generation of applications across all industries.
The main companies in the nylon-6 and nylon-66 industry compete on price strategy, product differentiation, strategic alliance, and geography. Leading players compete on cost optimization and product differentiation, balancing affordability with high-performance materials to attract various industries. Innovation is a key focus with firms investing in bio-based and recycled nylons to cater to sustainability themes.
Strategic collaborations, acquisitions, and mergers with raw material providers and vehicle manufacturers are fortifying industry shares. Revenue growth is being driven by emerging industries in Asia-Pacific and Latin America. Firms are also optimizing manufacturing efficiency through automation and digitalized manufacturing to continue to be competitive.
Industry Share
BASF SE (Industry Share: ~20-25%)
A world leader in the business of nylon, BASF still leads the way with its large portfolio of products and robust R&D pipeline. The company is keen on sustainable production practices and high-performance materials.
Ascend Performance Materials (Industry Share: ~15-20%)
One of the dominant players in the nylon-6 and nylon-66 industries, Ascend utilizes its vertically integrated supply chain and R&D leadership in high-performance polymers to stay ahead in the industry.
DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (Industry Share: ~10-15%)
DuPont is a strong competitor with its innovative nylon solutions, especially in automotive and electronics uses. DuPont focuses on sustainability and circular economy practices.
Lanxess AG (Industry Share: ~10-15%)
Lanxess is a major player in the nylon industry, with a focus on high-performance engineering plastics and eco-friendly production methods. Lanxess is growing its presence in Asia and Europe.
Toray Industries, Inc. (Industry Share: ~8-12%)
A premium Japanese corporation, Toray has a forte in high-performance nylon products, specifically for automotive and textile industries. It is renowned for its creativity and worldwide presence.
Invista (Industry Share: ~5-10%)
Invista, a subsidiary of Koch Industries, is a key player in the Nylon 66 industry, known for its proprietary technologies and strong supply chain network.
UBE Industries, Ltd. (Industry Share: ~5-10%)
UBE Industries is one of Japan's leading nylon-6 and nylon-66 producers, dedicated to high-performance materials for the industrial and automotive industries.
In 2024, the industry for nylon-6 and nylon-66 saw major developments on the back of sustainability efforts, technological innovations, and strategic investments. BASF SE reported that it would be launching a new bio-based nylon-6 made from renewable raw materials to meet the increasing demand for environmentally friendly polymers. The move comes in line with the company's efforts to minimize carbon emissions and meet circular economy objectives.
Ascend Performance Materials was in the news with its addition of nylon-66 manufacturing capacity within the United States. Ascend invested USD 100 million in a new plant to support increasing demand from the automotive and electronics industries. This action solidifies Ascend's position as a preferred provider of high-performance polymers in North America.
In Asia, Toray Industries, Inc. announced a new factory in Thailand with a focus on nylon-6 for textile and automotive uses. The factory is anticipated to increase Toray's production capacity by 20%, meeting the increased demand in the Asia-Pacific region.
The nylon-6 and nylon-66 industries provide huge growth opportunities in EVs (electric vehicles), sustainability, and high-tech applications. Investors should capitalize on the growing demand for weight-efficient, high-performance materials in EV battery parts, charging infrastructure, and thermal systems, as well as the anticipated return to EVs. Investing in R&D for bio-based and recycled nylon is a strategic move, particularly in Europe and North America, where regulatory pressure favors sustainable options.
Additionally, the growing consumer electronics sector offers opportunities for nylon applications in miniaturized components, high-heat-resistant pieces, and circuit insulation materials. Companies must also develop nylon grades compatible with 3D printing, as additive manufacturing in the aerospace and healthcare industries is on the rise.
For strategic decisions include more resilient supply chains through local production and vertical integration to manage price volatility in raw materials. The aerospace, industrial, and automotive industries should use nylon composites that have improved heat-resistant and reinforced properties. Strengthening strategic partnerships with EV and electronics original equipment manufacturers will encourage long-term demand stability.
Implementing AI-based manufacturing and quality-control systems can enhance efficiency while reducing resource waste. Last but not least, focused expansion strategies to penetrate untouched Indian, Southeast Asian, and Latin American industries can enable firms to sustain long-term growth and leadership.
Increased application in the automotive, electronics, and renewable materials sectors is driving demand.
Companies are investing in bio-based and recycled versions to meet regulatory and consumer demands.
Automotive, EVs, consumer electronics, and industrial use are expanding rapidly.
Regulation, supply chain disruptions, and going from volatile raw material prices to regulation are creating challenges.
Innovations are focused on emerging trends such as 3D printing, AI-based manufacturing, and high-performance composites.
The industry is segmented into nylon 6 (PA6) (fiber grade & resin grade) and nylon 66 (PA66) (fiber grade & resin grade)
It is segmented into engineering plastics (automotive, industrial/machinery, electrical and electronics, consumer goods and appliances, packaging/films, wires and cables & others) and fiber (textiles, industrial, carpet, staples and others)
It is fragmented into North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Russia and Belarus, Balkan and Baltic Countries, Central Asia, East Asia, South Asia and the Pacific, Middle East and Africa
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