The global polyolefins market is growing steadily and is expected to grow significantly at a CAGR of 2.7% over 2026–2030. China is set to lead the global polyolefins demand, driven by its enormous manufacturing ecosystem, rapid urbanisation, and booming e-commerce sector.
In 2026, China registered a polyolefins demand of 85.14 million tonnes per annum (mtpa), accounting for 36% of global polyolefins demand. This dominance is sustained by continued expansion in key end-use sectors such as packaging, automotive, and construction, all underpinned by the country’s large population and rising consumer incomes.
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China’s position in global polyolefins demand is further strengthened by its integrated supply chains and government policies focused on increasing domestic polyolefin production. These measures have steadily reduced the country’s reliance on imports, reinforcing its role as a global manufacturing powerhouse.
Trailing China, the US and India rank second and third in polyolefins demand, registering 21.85mtpa and 16.77mtpa, respectively, for 2026. The US benefits from cost-effective shale gas feedstock and advanced manufacturing, enabling it to maintain strong production capacity. India, meanwhile, is rapidly expanding its polyolefins capacity to satisfy surging domestic demand.
Further details of global polyolefins capacity and CapEx analysis can be found in GlobalData’s new report, ‘Global Polyolefins Market: Key Projects and Capacity Additions, 2026’.
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