The Belgian plastic supports market was estimated at $20M in 2024, surging by 4.5% against the previous year. Over the period under review, consumption, however, showed prominent growth. Plastic supports consumption peaked in 2024 and is likely to see gradual growth in the immediate term.

The Plastic Product Manufacturing industry encompasses a huge range of plastic products, from packing goods to construction supplies to plastic plates, sheets, tubes and profiles, which means it supplies many industries. The plastic product market is heavily susceptible to changing downstream conditions and climate policies, given the environmental damage plastics can bring. For example, strong business sentiment and industrial production activity can fuel demand for plastic packaging, while growing output in the construction sector can propel orders of plastic construction supplies. EU recycling regulations are playing a big role in plastic producers’ operations, with companies placing growing emphasis on producing recyclable products or manufacturing goods using recycled plastics to reduce their environmental impact. Over the five years through 2024, revenue is slated to tumble at a compound annual rate of 3.4% to €458.1 billion, including a 3.5% drop in 2024. Revenue has dropped in all years leading up to 2024 except for 2021, when manufacturers benefitted from higher selling prices. However, over 2022 and 2023, selling prices couldn’t keep up with soaring inflation as demand dulled, hurting profitability and revenue. In 2024, prospects look brighter, but import competition remains intense. Germany dominates plastic product manufacturing output, with Eurostat and OECD data showing that the country accounted for a massive 45.6% of revenue in 2020. Over the five years through 2029, revenue is forecast to expand at a compound annual rate of 1.7% to reach €498.8 billion. With import penetration presenting a huge threat to future revenue prospects, European manufacturers will switch focus to churning out speciality packaging, as companies in the mass market won’t be able to compete effectively with foreign competition. Similarly, with the industry under tremendous social and political pressure to act more sustainably, sustainable packaging solutions will take off, aiding profit growth and further driving the shift from mass plastic production to more tailored solutions.

Revenue in the packaging services industry in Europe is anticipated to fall at a compound annual rate of 3.9% to €23.1 billion over the five years through 2024, contracting by an estimated 3.3% in 2024. High inflation during the three years through 2024 has forced the ECB to raise interest rates, which has squeezed household incomes and knocked business confidence. This has reduced demand for packaged products across Europe. Demand for packaging services has gone up, and developments in sustainable packaging have supported profit by making it recyclable and eco-friendly. Profit is anticipated to sit at 8.5% in 2024. Profit was hindered by supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak and the Russian-Ukraine conflict, which sent supply costs soaring, constraining profit for packaging companies. Growing calls for sustainable packaging, which can command a higher price tag, are helping packaging service companies. European consumers are increasingly environmentally conscious and interested in sustainable packaging. Companies have targets to meet with their environmental footprint – so packaging companies that can meet green requirements are favoured. Demand is strong in the e-commerce market, which is led by grocery packaging, healthcare products, and other online orders. Revenue is set to expand at a compound annual rate of 3% to €26.8 billion over the five years through 2029. Packaging services will continue to invest in innovative packaging solutions to appeal to the e-commerce market and develop sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. Growing e-commerce will continue to lift the volume demanded of parcel and cardboard packaging.

The Belgian plastic packaging market skyrocketed to $1.2B in 2024, growing by 19% against the previous year. Over the period under review, consumption, however, showed a relatively flat trend pattern. Plastic packaging consumption peaked at $1.4B in 2022; however, from 2023 to 2024, consumption failed to regain momentum.

This industry involves the manufacturing of rubber products like rubber tyres for vehicles, equipment, mobile machinery, aircraft, toy, furniture and other uses. Plastic products are also manufactured, which includes processing new or spent plastics resins into intermediate or final products, using such processes as compression molding, extrusion molding, injection molding, blow molding and casting.

In 2024, the Belgian plastic bag market decreased by -11.5% to $184M, falling for the second consecutive year after two years of growth. Overall, consumption saw a noticeable slump. Plastic bag consumption peaked at $345M in 2014; however, from 2015 to 2024, consumption remained at a lower figure.

The Belgian plastic container market fell to $392M in 2024, approximately reflecting the previous year. Over the period under review, consumption showed a precipitous contraction. Over the period under review, the market attained the peak level at $10.1B in 2012; however, from 2013 to 2024, consumption remained at a lower figure.

This industry includes transforming organic and inorganic raw materials by chemical processes and forming products. It consists of manufacturing basic chemical products, fertilisers and associated nitrogen compounds, as well as plastics and synthetic rubber in primary forms.

The Belgian injection-moulding machine market fell sharply to $26M in 2024, with a decrease of -55.8% against the previous year. This figure reflects the total revenues of producers and importers (excluding logistics costs, retail marketing costs, and retailers' margins, which will be included in the final consumer price). Overall, consumption, however, showed a relatively flat trend pattern. As a result, consumption attained the peak level of $500M.

The Primary Form Plastic and Synthetic Rubber Manufacturing industry has contended with stringent recycling targets and plastic bans, curbing sales in an already economically challenging environment. France's ban on plastic packaging for fresh produce and plastic taxes in Italy and Spain have spurred innovation in sustainable materials and thwarted demand for traditional plastics. Plastic producers have also confronted shrinking sales and profit amid lofty and persistent inflation and volatile oil prices. Over the five years through 2024, revenue is projected to fall at a compound annual rate of 4.9% to €125 billion, with revenue falling 5.8% in 2024 alone. A surge in 3D printing technology and automation has improved operational efficiencies and sparked a need for specialised plastic and synthetic rubber suitable for 3D printing applications. Stringent environmental regulations have pressured manufacturers to innovate or risk falling behind. Producers that have failed to innovate with biodegradable and recyclable materials have faced dwindling sales, while those that have invested in R&D have been met with elevated costs. Demand for thermoplastics will continue to wane, although manufacturers will benefit from cooling inflation. The rise in investment for smart materials will help offset some sales declines. These materials, which adapt properties in response to external stimuli, will unlock new markets for manufacturers. Smart materials have potential applications spanning various sectors — from automotive to healthcare — offering a lifeline to manufacturers, especially as environmental regulation heats up. Over the five years through 2029, revenue is expected to expand at a compound annual rate of 2.1% to reach €138.9 billion.

The Belgian plastic box market surged to $435M in 2024, increasing by 36% against the previous year. Over the period under review, the total consumption indicated a tangible expansion from 2012 to 2024: its value increased at an average annual rate of +2.0% over the last twelve-year period. The trend pattern, however, indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. Based on 2024 figures, consumption decreased by -26.2% against 2022 indices.

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Biodegradable Polymers Market Size 2025-2029

The biodegradable polymers market size is forecast to increase by USD 3.39 billion, at a CAGR of 8.2% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by the increasing global focus on environmental sustainability, leading to a rise in demand for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics. Key players in this market, such as BASF SE, Corbion, and Novamont, are responding to this trend by launching innovative biodegradable polymer solutions. For instance, BASF SE's Ecoflex brand offers polylactide (PLA) for various applications, including packaging, while Corbion's Luminy PLA is used in food packaging and automotive industries. However, performance limitations pose a significant challenge to the market's growth. Biodegradable polymers often struggle to match the strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness of conventional plastics. Addressing these performance issues will require ongoing research and development efforts.
Additionally, the market faces challenges related to scalability and affordability, as producing biodegradable polymers on a large scale can be complex and costly. Despite these challenges, the potential for biodegradable polymers to reduce plastic waste and minimize environmental impact makes them an attractive alternative for businesses seeking to align with sustainability initiatives. Companies that can successfully address performance limitations and scale up production will be well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market opportunity. Biodegradable plastics derived from renewable resources, like PLA and PBS, are gaining traction in various sectors, including food packaging and consumer goods.

What will be the Size of the Biodegradable Polymers Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing sustainability standards and consumer perception towards eco-friendly alternatives. The competitive landscape analysis reveals a diverse range of players, including those specializing in bio-based resins, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (PA), polyethylene (PE), and polyester (PET). Government regulations are also playing a crucial role in boosting bioplastic adoption, particularly in industries like blow molding and injection molding. Bio-based colorants, lubricants, fillers, and processing technologies are key innovation areas, offering investment opportunities for businesses.
However, market restraints include higher production costs compared to conventional plastics. The bioplastic market is segmented by industry applications and regions, with the future outlook showing promising growth in various sectors. Polypropylene (PP) and PVC are prominent traditional plastic markets facing increasing competition from bioplastics. The applications of bioplastics extend beyond packaging, with potential in textiles, automotive, and construction industries.

How is this Biodegradable Polymers Industry segmented?

The biodegradable polymers industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Method

  Injection molding
  Extrusion
  Blow molding
  Thermoforming
  Others


Industry Application

  Packaging
  Agriculture
  Biomedical
  Textiles
  Others


Type

  PLA
  Starch-based polymers
  PHA
  PBS
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US


  Europe

    Belgium
    France
    Germany
    The Netherlands


  APAC

    China
    Japan
    South Korea
    Thailand


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Method Insights

The injection molding segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Injection molding is a prominent process in the market, known for producing complex, high-precision components at scale. This method involves injecting molten biodegradable polymer into a mold cavity, where it cools and solidifies into the desired shape. Suitable for high-volume production, injection molding ensures consistent quality and dimensional accuracy. Biodegradable polymers, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene succinate (PBS), are frequently utilized due to their favorable flow characteristics and thermal behavior. These materials can be efficiently molded into intricate geometries, making them suitable for applications demanding both aesthetic and functional precision.

Biopolymer synthesis through microbial fermentation and polymer blends are key trends driving market growth. Biodegradable polymers offer improved mechanical properties, such as impact strength and flexural modulus, and can be recycled throu

Europe's Paper and Paperboard Packaging Manufacturing industry is riding a wave of change driven by a hike in online retail sales and a deepening commitment to sustainability. As more consumers turn to e-commerce for their buying needs, the demand for paper packaging solutions has shot up, nudging the industry towards innovative and eco-friendly options. However, after a vigorous revenue surge in 2022, fuelled by global wood pulp price hikes and cost pass-throughs, the industry has faced multiple setbacks, including heightened supply chain disruptions, fluctuating energy costs and a turbulent macroeconomic environment. Notably, the Red Sea crisis and ongoing cost-of-living pressures have made raw material procurement and price stability ongoing battles, subduing revenue growth somewhat and weighing on profit for major manufacturers like UPM-Kymmene and Sappi. Revenue is projected to swell at a compound annual rate of 4% over the five years through 2025 to €104.9 billion, including an estimated hike of 0.3% in 2025. The proliferation of online shopping across Europe has boosted the need for durable, adaptable corrugated paper and cardboard packaging. Innovations, like moisture-resistant coatings and recyclable materials, have enabled leading manufacturers like Smurfit Kappa and DS Smith to capitalise on changing consumer and business needs. Companies are ramping up their investment in recycled cardboard production in line with the greener consumer expectations and tighter EU regulations. These strategic decisions reflect a broader trend as France takes big steps to phase out single-use plastics by 2040, shining a spotlight on paper alternatives. Meanwhile, advancements in barrier technologies are empowering paper packaging to better preserve food and beverages, with Spain leading the way. Looking ahead, Europe's future of paper and paperboard packaging seems robust and ripe with opportunity. The pace of e-commerce growth is expected to remain robust, with projections. This bodes well for packaging manufacturers able to secure supply contracts with e-tail giants and respond nimbly to evolving logistics requirements. Revenue is forecast to mount at a compound annual rate of 4.1% over the five years through 2030 to €128.1 billion. Regulatory trends will spur ongoing innovation, like the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), effective from 2030, which will accelerate the shift away from single-use plastics and further boost demand for recyclable, high-performance fibre-based packaging. Those with advanced barrier technologies and sustainable solutions stand to consolidate market share.

The global thermoset molding compound market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand across diverse sectors like automotive, electronics, and construction. The market's expansion is fueled by several key factors. The automotive industry's shift towards lightweighting and fuel efficiency necessitates the use of high-performance thermoset molding compounds, leading to significant demand. Similarly, the electronics sector's pursuit of smaller, more durable, and heat-resistant components further bolsters the market. Growing infrastructure development and construction activities also contribute to this upward trend. While precise market size figures for past years are not provided, a reasonable estimate, considering typical growth rates in the chemical industry and the given forecast period (2025-2033), suggests a market size exceeding $5 billion in 2025. Assuming a conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5% based on industry trends, the market could surpass $7 billion by 2033. This growth, however, is subject to potential restraints, such as fluctuations in raw material prices and environmental concerns related to the manufacturing process. Continuous innovation in material science, focusing on sustainability and improved performance characteristics, is key to mitigating these restraints and ensuring continued market expansion. Key players like Hitachi Chemical Company, Cosmic Plastics, and others are strategically investing in R&D to develop advanced thermoset molding compounds with enhanced properties. This includes focusing on materials with improved thermal stability, higher strength-to-weight ratios, and reduced environmental impact. Market segmentation is crucial, with variations in material composition (e.g., phenolic, epoxy, polyester) impacting application and market share. Regional variations will also significantly impact growth, with North America and Asia-Pacific likely to be leading markets due to their advanced manufacturing sectors and robust construction industries. Further detailed analysis on specific regional performance requires access to comprehensive regional data. The forecast period presents significant opportunities for market expansion, driven by innovation, technological advancements, and the growing demands of multiple end-use industries.

In 2024, the Belgian market for office or school supplies of plastics was finally on the rise to reach $37M for the first time since 2017, thus ending a six-year declining trend. Over the period under review, consumption, however, recorded a abrupt decrease. Plastic office or school supplies consumption peaked at $88M in 2017; however, from 2018 to 2024, consumption stood at a somewhat lower figure.

This industry includes transforming organic and inorganic raw materials through chemical processes and the formation of products. It distinguishes the production of basic chemicals that constitute the first industry group from the production of intermediate and end products produced by further processing basic chemicals that comprise the remaining industry classes.

Various grades of recycled polypropylene are available in the market, each with specific properties and applications. Common grades include: Mechanical Recycled Polypropylene: Produced by mechanically reprocessing post-consumer or post-industrial polypropylene waste. This grade has lower purity compared to chemically recycled polypropylene but is typically more cost-effective. Chemical Recycled Polypropylene: Obtained by breaking down polypropylene waste into its original monomers and repolymerizing them. This grade offers higher purity and performance compared to mechanically recycled polypropylene, but it requires more energy-intensive processes. Recent developments include: In October 2023, Coca-Cola India launched 100% r-PET bottles with pack sizes of 250 ml and 750 ml. Its strong PET collection and recycling system, particularly in advanced areas, has contributed to maintaining leadership in the market., April 2023: LyondellBasell acquired Veolia Belgium’s stake in Quality Circular Polymers (QCP) BV, thereby gaining full control over QCP’s recycling plants located in Belgium and Netherlands, which mechanically mixes QCP’s recycled mixtures into various products as LyondellBasell moves towards improving its circular and low carbon solutions business., October 2023: Suez Recycling & Recovery Holdings bought Devon Contract Waste (DCW), a UK-based commercial waste collections specialist, to grow its regional recycling and waste management operations. This purchase reflects Suez's trust on the UK market and also demonstrates its strategic goals for expansion, especially within the southwest region of England., April 2024: KW Plastics plans to release a new wash line that will add another one hundred million pounds per year to its olefin recycling capacity. They anticipate future growth markets by keeping some additional capacity on hand while watching trends in plastic recovery rates and MRF dynamics.. Notable trends are: Growing Adoption in the Packaging Industry to Drive Market Growth.

In 2024, after two years of growth, there was significant decline in the Belgian market for floor, wall or ceiling coverings of plastics, when its value decreased by -18.1% to $82M. Over the period under review, consumption, however, enjoyed prominent growth. Consumption of peaked at $100M in 2023, and then declined sharply in the following year.

The Soft Drink and Bottled Water Production industry is experiencing significant shifts, shaped by evolving consumer preferences and global dynamics. Key trends include a heightened focus on reducing sugar content, environmental sustainability initiatives and innovation in packaging materials. These trends are driving producers to adapt, innovate and cater to a more health-conscious and eco-conscious consumer base. Revenue is expected to fall at a compound annual rate of 4.4% over the five years through 2024 to €71.3 million, including a forecast fall of 3.8% in 2024. The COVID-19 pandemic, hit drinks producers hard, cutting into sales in 2020 as on-trade markets were forced to close for long periods. As the hospitality sector bounces back and consumers prioritise health and sustainability, there are opportunities for growth in sales of both soft drinks and bottled water. Meeting changing consumer preferences and demonstrating a commitment to responsible and sustainable practices will be key to achieving higher sales. Revenue is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 2.8% over the five years through 2029 to €81.8 million. Producers will maintain a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and meeting health-conscious consumers’ demands. Producers are reevaluating their practices, embracing sustainable measures and innovating to meet the changing expectations and needs of their markets in an era of increasing environmental awareness and shifting consumer preferences.

The wholesale of waste, scrap, and various products includes the distribution of industrial chemicals, fertilizers, plastic and rubber in primary forms, textile fibres, bulk paper, and precious stones. It also covers activities like collection, sorting, and packaging of recyclable materials without extensive processing.