Polyethylene films Market Snapshot

As per the research conducted by Future Market Insights, during the forecast period, the global polyethylene films market is expected to account for US$ 33.3 billion in 2023, and is going to further accelerate at a CAGR of 4.0% to reach a valuation of US$ 49.3 billion by the year 2033. The sales of the polyethylene films are anticipated to bolster with the top 3 countries projected to hold nearly 35 to 40% of the market in 2022.

The demand for bags & pouches is propelling on the back of factors such as the rising need for flexible packaging and the need for better quality products. The target segments are anticipated to hold around 48% of the market share in the next ten years.

Attributes Details
Market Size 2023 US$ 33.3 billion
Market Size 2033 US$ 49.3 billion
Value CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.0%
Collective Value Share: Top 5 Companies (2022A) 10 to 15%

The polyethylene films market revenue totaled US$ 32.4 billion in 2022. The surge in demand for packaged food among the on-the-go consumer propel the demand for convenience and flexible packaging, the polyethylene films market is projected to reach US$ 49.3 billion by 2033 registering a CAGR of 4.0% during 2023 to 2033.

The polyethylene films market is estimated to experience a positive growth outlook during the forecast period. Forecast anticipates that polyethylene films sales will rise during 2023 to 2033 and is projected to create an absolute incremental growth opportunity of US$ 16.9 billion.

The polyethylene films with their moisture-resistance properties and massive popularity among the end users are witnessing the hefty demand in the market. The global polyethylene films market is anticipated to expand 1.5 times the current market value during the forecast period.

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Historic Market Outlook for Polyethylene Films Market

The global polyethylene films market has anticipated a CAGR of 2.6% during the historic period with a market value of US$ 32.4 billion in 2022.

The polymerization of ethylene forms polyethylene, which is a strong, lightweight, and water-resistant polymer. With a variety of uses ranging from shopping bags to the packaging industry, polyethylene films are the most widely used films worldwide.

In comparison to other types of packaging films, polyethylene films have a significantly greater strength to weight ratio, making them a better choice. Additionally, the lightweight nature of polyethylene films contributes to a reduction in overall weight. Polyethylene films are suitable for the demanding market requirements because of their ability and compatibility with other barrier layers. The packaged product is sealed by polyethylene films from moisture, oxygen, dust, and bacteria. Additionally, colored polyethylene films aid in shielding the packaged item from sunlight. It is advantageous for both users and manufacturers to be able to print out information on polyethylene films. The polyethylene films provide a number of benefits that boost the product's aesthetic appeal by means of a variety of shades, patterns, and designs. Overall, the market for polyethylene films is expected to increase significantly between 2023 and 2033.

How does the Rising Demand for Eco Friendly Packaging Supplement the Sales in the Polyethylene Films Market?

The rising demand for eco-friendly packaging is driving the sales of PE films, as manufacturers and consumers alike look for more sustainable options. PE's recyclability, lightweight, durability, barrier properties, and regulatory support make it an attractive option for eco-friendly packaging. PE is a recyclable material and can be used to produce eco-friendly bags and packaging products. The increasing demand for environmentally friendly packaging is driving the sales of PE films.

Governments around the world are imposing regulations to reduce the use of single-use plastic bags and promote the use of eco-friendly packaging. This is creating a positive impact on the sales of PE films, as more manufacturers are switching to eco-friendly packaging materials such as PE. Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of packaging and are demanding more eco-friendly options. This is driving the demand for PE-based packaging, which is seen as a more sustainable option compared to other types of packaging materials.

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How the Expansion of Plasticulture Offering Profitable Growth Endeavors Across Agricultural Industry?

It is necessary to increase crop production and improve raw food quality due to the increasing population and food consumption. Due to their minimum ecological footprint, the use of packaging films such as polyethylene films in agriculture is increasing rapidly.

The increasing demand for healthy nutrients and increasing focus on technology for agriculture is driving the inclusion of polyethylene films. By using packaging films in agriculture, crops can be grown with minimum water supply or in deserted areas. Packaging films including polyethylene films act as barriers against the use of pesticides and insects by keeping crops in enclosed systems.

In the greenhouse process, polyethylene films create ideal atmospheric conditions for growing plants. These help to protect plants from harmful UV rays and maintain the internal temperature, which is favorable for increasing the production of organic products. The polyethylene films are also used in the form of tunnels and mulch, depending on the type of plant. Thus, they offer rewarding growth opportunities to polyethylene films manufacturers by targeting the innovation-driven agricultural industry.

Category-wise Insights

Why is Bio Polyethylene Film among PE Films expected to experience the Consistent Demand in the Market?

The bio polyethylene film segment is projected to register a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period. The bio polyethylene film is a type of polyethylene film that is made from renewable resources, such as sugarcane, instead of fossil fuels. This has made it an increasingly popular choice among consumers and manufacturers who are seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and offer more environmentally friendly packaging products. This has led to an increase in demand for these films, especially from companies looking to reduce their environmental impact.

Bio PE films have similar properties to traditional PE films, such as high tensile strength, tear resistance, and flexibility. This means that they can be used in a variety of applications, including bags & pouches, liners & lidding films, sachets & stick packs, and others. The companies look to reduce their environmental impact and improve their bottom line, the demand for bio-PE films is likely to grow.

Why Polyethylene Films Will Remain the Most Preferred by Bags & Pouches Manufactures?

The bags & pouches segment is projected to hold around 48% of the market value share by the end of 2033. Polyethylene bags & pouches are in high demand for various applications, including food & beverage, healthcare, cosmetics & personal care, and others. The increasing demand for these applications drives the production of PE bags & pouches. PE bags & pouches can be manufactured in a variety of shapes, sizes, and thicknesses, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. They are moisture-resistant, which helps to protect the contents from damage or spoilage. Polyethylene bags & pouches are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport and store. PE bags & pouches offer a combination of cost-effectiveness & environmental sustainability, which makes them an attractive option for manufacturers and consumers.

Which End Use Industry will Add Substantial Traction for Polyethylene Films?

The food & beverage industry that is expected to drive substantial growth for the polyethylene (PE) films market. PE films are widely used in the packaging of various food & beverage products, such as fresh produce, processed foods, snacks, and confectionery, due to their excellent moisture and vapor barrier properties, as well as their transparency and durability. The growing demand for flexible and convenient food packaging, driven by the growth of the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, is expected to drive demand for PE films. Additionally, the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions, as well as the growing use of PE films in the packaging of perishable food products is also expected to drive growth in the PE films market for food packaging. The food & beverage segment is anticipated to grow 1.7 times the current market value during 2023 to 2033.

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Country-wise insights

Country USA
Market Share (2023) 20.0%
Market Share (2033) 17.0%
BPS Analysis -300
Country China
Market Share (2023) 16.2%
Market Share (2033) 19.5%
BPS Analysis +320
Country India
Market Share (2023) 6.9%
Market Share (2033) 8.7%
BPS Analysis +180
Country Japan
Market Share (2023) 5.8%
Market Share (2033) 5.4%
BPS Analysis -40
Country Germany
Market Share (2023) 4.4%
Market Share (2033) 4.2%
BPS Analysis -20

What Drives the Demand for Polyethylene Films in the USA?

The USA is expected to hold around 84% of the North American polyethylene films market by the end of 2023. The USA flexible packaging market is thriving and expanding, according to the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA). The food (retail and institutional) market, which accounts for roughly 52% of exports, is the largest market for flexible packaging in the United States. The expanding flexible packaging adoption along with growing food sector in the USA fuel the demand for polyethylene films.

How the German Food & Beverage Industry is shaping the Polyethylene Films Market Growth?

The German market for polyethylene films is projected to grow 1.6 the current market value during the forecast period. According to the Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI), the food and beverage industry is the fourth-largest industry in Germany. Besides this, Germany is the third-largest importer and exporter of food and agriculture products. On the back of these factors, the demand for flexible packaging including polyethylene films is anticipated to bolster in Germany.

Why is India estimated to augment the Sales of Polyethylene Films?

India's polyethylene films market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 5.7% during 2023 to 2033 due to the increasing consumption of flexible plastic packaging in India. According to the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry, it is confirmed that the per capita consumption of plastic in 2016 was around 12 kgs and reached around 20 kgs by the end of 2022. The increasing preference for plastic among the consumer is projected to augment the sales of plastic flexible packaging including polyethylene films.

Competitive Landscape

The key players operating in the polyethylene films are trying to increase their footprint through mergers or acquisitions which will help the company to expand their resources and presence. Also, the manufacturers of polyethylene films are focusing on product innovation and capacity expansion. Some of the developments are-

  • In July 2022, Nitto Denko Corporation completed the acquisition of all shares of four of Mondi’s companies. The companies are continuing as a new organization named “Advanced Film Solutions Division”, carrying on the personal care business and its business with its subsidiaries.
  • In March 2022, Manucor released a new film in their transparent film portfolio. The new film is polyethylene film that will be used for food product packaging.
  • In March 2022, Glenroy, Inc. announced the expansion of its capacity by investing in additional adhesive lamination capacity to address increase in demand for sustainable flexible packaging.
  • In March 2022, Schur Flexibles Group GmbH developed antibacterial coatings on films for better food safety after COVID-19.
  • In April 2021, Berry Global Group announced an investment of more than $70 million to support continued growth in consumer packaging films for e-commerce and other applications. The investment supports new multi-layer blown film lines & others

Scope of the Report

Attribute Details
Growth Rate CAGR of 4.0% from 2023 to 2033
Base Year for Estimation 2022
Historical Data 2018 to 2022
Forecast Period 2023 to 2033
Quantitative Units Revenue in USD Billion, Volume in Units and CAGR from 2023 to 2033
Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis
Segments Covered Material, Thickness, Application, End Use, Region
Regions Covered North America; Latin America; East Asia; South Asia & Pacific; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; Central Asia; Russia & Belarus; Balkan Countries; Baltic Countries; Middle East & Africa
Key Countries Covered USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, China, Japan, India, GCC countries, Australia & New Zealand
Key Companies Profiled Berry Global Group; Mondi plc; Amcor plc; Sealed Air Corporation; Huthamaki Oyj; Winpak Ltd.; ProAmpac LLC; Amcor, Inc; PolymerShapes LLC; Nitto Denko Corporation; Sphere Group; Glenroy, Inc.; Plastissimo Film Co., Ltd.; Schur Flexibles Holding GesmbH; Armando Alvarez Group; Trioplast Industries; Superfilm Packaging Industies; Eiffel S.P.A.; GRANITOL Akciová Spolecnost; Manucor S.P.A.; Vibac Group S.P.A.; Groupe Barbier Plastic Soplutions; Taghleef Industries; Papier-Mettler Kunststoffe KG Company; CS Hyde Company; Singhal Industries Pvt Ltd; Interstate Plastics; Plastic Film Corporation; Rutan Poly Industries, Inc.; Innovia Films Limited; Jindal Poly Films Limited; Tilak Polypack Pvt Ltd; Fluoro-Plastics Inc.
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Polyethylene Films Market: Segmentation

On the Basis of Material, the Global Polyethylene Films Market is Segmented as:

  • Low Density Polyethylene Films (LDPE)
  • Linear Low Density Polyethylene Films (LLDPE)
  • Medium Density Polyethylene Films (MDPE)
  • High Density Polyethylene Films (HDPE)
  • Bio Polyethylene Films

On the Basis of Thickness, the Global Polyethylene Films Market is Segmented as:

  • Less than 50 Microns
  • 50- 100 Micron
  • 100-200 Micron
  • Above 200 Micron

On the Basis of Application, the Global Polyethylene Films Market is Segmented as:

  • Bags & Pouches
  • Tubes
  • Liners & Lidding Films
  • Sachets & Stick Pack
  • Tapes & Labels
  • Wraps & Rolls

On the Basis of End Use, the Global Polyethylene Films Market is Segmented as:

  • Food & Beverages
  • Healthcare
  • Cosmetics & Personal Care
  • Homecare
  • Electrical & Electronics
  • Building & Construction
  • Agriculture

On the Basis of Region, the Global Polyethylene Films Market is Segmented as:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • East Asia
  • South Asia & Pacific
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • Central Asia
  • Russia & Belarus
  • Balkan Countries
  • Baltic Countries
  • Middle East & Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the global polyethylene films market size reported by FMI for 2022?

In 2022, the market size of the global polyethylene films market was US$ 32.4 billion.

What is the polyethylene films market estimated to reach in 2023?

The global polyethylene films market is anticipated to reach US$ 33.3 billion in 2023.

What is the global polyethylene films market valuation expected for 2033?

The global polyethylene films market valuation is expected to reach US$ 49.3 billion in 2033.

What value CAGR did the global polyethylene films market exhibit over the last 4 years?

The global polyethylene films market exhibited 2.2% of CAGR over the last 4 years.

What is the projected CAGR for the global polyethylene films market from 2023 to 2033?

The projected CAGR for the global polyethylene films market from 2023 to 2033 is 4.0%.

Which application segment will garner significant value share by 2023?

The bags & pouches segment of the global polyethylene films market is expected to garner a significant value share by 2023.

Which end use segment is predicted to expand rapidly between 2023 and 2033?

The food & beverage segment of the global polyethylene films market is predicted to expand rapidly between 2023 and 2033.

Table of Content
  • 1. Executive Summary
  • 2. Industry Introduction, including Taxonomy and Market Definition
  • 3. Market Trends and Success Factors, including Macro-economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments
  • 4. Global Market Demand Analysis and Forecast, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections
  • 5. Pricing Analysis
  • 6. Global Market Analysis and Forecast
    • 6.1. Material
    • 6.2. Thickness
    • 6.3. Application
    • 6.4. End Use
  • 7. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By Material
    • 7.1. Low Density (LDPE)
    • 7.2. Linear Low Density (LLDPE)
    • 7.3. Medium Density (MDPE)
    • 7.4. High Density (HDPE)
    • 7.5. Bio
  • 8. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By Thickness
    • 8.1. Less than 50 Microns
    • 8.2. 50-100 Micron
    • 8.3. 100-200 Micron
    • 8.4. Above 200 Micron
  • 9. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By Application
    • 9.1. Bags & Pouches
    • 9.2. Tubes
    • 9.3. Liners & Lidding Films
    • 9.4. Sachets & Stick Pack
    • 9.5. Tapes & Labels
    • 9.6. Wraps & Rolls
  • 10. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By End Use
    • 10.1. Food & Beverages
    • 10.2. Healthcare
    • 10.3. Cosmetics & Personal Care
    • 10.4. Homecare
    • 10.5. Electrical & Electronics
    • 10.6. Building & Construction
    • 10.7. Agriculture
  • 11. Global Market Analysis and Forecast, By Region
    • 11.1. North America
    • 11.2. Latin America
    • 11.3. Western Europe
    • 11.4. Eastern Europe
    • 11.5. Asia Pacific
    • 11.6. Japan
    • 11.7. Middle East and Africa
  • 12. North America Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 13. Latin America Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 14. Western Europe Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 15. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 16. Asia Pacific Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 17. Japan Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 18. Middle East and Africa Sales Analysis and Forecast, by Key Segments and Countries
  • 19. Sales Forecast by Material, Thickness, Application, and End Use for 30 Countries
  • 20. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard
  • 21. Company Profile
    • 21.1. Berry Global Group
    • 21.2. Mondi plc
    • 21.3. Amcor plc
    • 21.4. Sealed Air Corporation
    • 21.5. Huthamaki Oyj
    • 21.6. Winpak Ltd.
    • 21.7. ProAmpac LLC
    • 21.8. Amcor, Inc
    • 21.9. PolymerShapes LLC
    • 21.10. Nitto Denko Corporation
    • 21.11. Sphere Group
    • 21.12. Glenroy, Inc.
    • 21.13. Plastissimo Film Co., Ltd.
    • 21.14. Schur Flexibles Holding GesmbH
    • 21.15. Armando Alvarez Group
    • 21.16. Trioplast Industries
    • 21.17. Superfilm Packaging Industries
    • 21.18. Eiffel S.P.A.
    • 21.19. GRANITOL Akciová Spolecnost
    • 21.20. Manucor S.P.A.
    • 21.21. Vibac Group S.P.A.
    • 21.22. Groupe Barbier Plastic Solutions
    • 21.23. Taghleef Industries

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