Global PVC market analysis and forecast to 2020
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is the third-most widely produced polymer, after polyethylene and polypropylene. It is one the most widely-used plastics and is produced by polymerisation of the monomer vinyl chloride. PVC has an amorphous structure with polar chlorine atoms and has fire retardant properties and oil/chemical resistance. It is widely used in construction, packaging, automotive and electrical industries due to properties such as; light weight, good mechanical strength, abrasion resistance and toughness. PVC can be bifurcated into two basic forms: rigid and flexible. The rigid form of PVC can be used in manufacturing of pipes, doors, windows, plastic bottles and so on. The flexible form of PVC can be used in plumbing, electrical cable insulation, imitation leather and so on.
On the basis of product type, the PVC market is classified as wire and cable, pipes and fittings, bottles and others. Based on the application, it is divided into two segments: rigid polyvinyl chloride and flexible polyvinyl chloride. The PVC market is also segmented on the basis of end-users: automotive, electrical, construction, packaging and others.
Asia Pacific is the largest market for PVC, accounting for more than 50%. The Asia Pacific region is expected to show a good growth rate over the forecast period due to the high growth potential of the building and construction industry. China represents the largest market for PVC in the Asia Pacific region.
Europe is the second largest market for PVC, followed by North America.
The market is expected to witness a double-digit growth rate in the coming years. Some of the major drivers include; high growth in the building and construction sector, high growth in the automobile industry and growing medical devices. Some of the major restraints for PVC market include; increasing competition from steel and concrete pipes and the prohibited use of PVC in the construction of green buildings.
Some of the major companies operating in the PVC market include; Occidental Petroleum Corporation, Solvay S.A., Shin-Etsu Chemical Co. Ltd., Formosa Plastics Group, Ineos Chlorvinyls Ltd, Xinjiang Zhongtai Chemical Co. Ltd., Mexichem S.A.B., KEM one and Axiall Corporation.
Featured articles and news
Shading for housing, a design guide
A look back at embedding a new culture of shading.
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.