polylactic acid Pricing Assessment

Markets Covered:

United States

China

Netherlands

India

Taiwan

Canada

Korea

Brazil

Belgium

Germany

Italy

Polylactic Acid Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

In Q1 2024, the global Polylactic Acid (PLA) market exhibited a bullish trend, primarily driven by rising feedstock prices and robust demand from key sectors such as packaging and textiles. In USA, PLA prices were reported at USD 2,665/MT, reflecting a slight increase of 1.5% from the previous quarter. The ongoing recovery of the construction sector further bolstered demand for PLA, while the Lunar New Year heightened the need for packaging materials, particularly in the food and beverage industries. This festive period led to increased production and distribution, significantly boosting PLA usage.

In Q2 2024, PLA prices in the USA were reported at USD 2,590/MT, showcasing a decrease of 2.7% from Q1. This decline was attributed to high demand for Lactic Acid in food applications, which in turn spurred technological advancements in the production processes of Lactic Acid and PLA. Additionally, favourable weather conditions contributed to an abundant supply of raw materials, easing some of the price pressures. The growth of biodegradable materials in the market also played a role, leading to increased competition and fluctuating prices in the industry.

By early Q3 2024, PLA prices in the USA were noted at USD 2,597/MT in July, reflecting a slight decrease of 1.5% from June. This downward trend can be attributed to a more balanced supply-demand dynamic globally, as producers ramped up production to meet earlier high demands. Additionally, enhanced recycling initiatives and government policies favouring sustainable materials have contributed to a more competitive market landscape. Despite these fluctuations, the global shift towards environmentally friendly materials remains a key driver for PLA, maintaining a steady level of interest in the product.

Looking ahead to Q4 2024, market analysts predict that PLA prices may see an upward trajectory as the festive season approaches, leading to heightened demand from the packaging sector. Factors such as the potential for increased consumer spending and supply limitations due to logistical challenges may push prices higher. Moreover, innovations in PLA production techniques and a growing focus on sustainability are expected to keep demand strong.

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is your trusted resource for tracking global polylactic acid price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the polylactic acid market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With , you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence polylactic acid prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with ’s reliable, accurate, and timely polylactic acid market data.

Track 's polylactic acid price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in polylactic acid prices

Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022-Present): The ongoing conflict disrupted global supply chains and trade routes, leading to higher transportation costs for Polylactic Acid (PLA) and its raw materials, resulting in price fluctuations in the european and global markets.
COVID-19 Pandemic (2020): The pandemic initially caused a dip in demand for PLA as manufacturing slowed. However, demand quickly rebounded, especially in the packaging and medical sectors, leading to a rise in prices as supply chains strained to keep up.
S.-China Trade Tensions (2018-2019): Trade disputes between the U.S. and China caused interruptions in PLA feedstock supplies, leading to supply shortages and fluctuating prices, particularly in Asia and North America.

These events demonstrate the PLA market’s sensitivity to global events, highlighting the importance of monitoring both geopolitical developments and demand-supply dynamics for effective market forecasting.

Methodology and Specifications

polylactic acid Pricing Assessment Research Methodology

Data Collection and Sources

Real-Time Market Data: aggregates real-time pricing data from various sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments are always based on the most current market conditions for Polylactic Acid (PLA).
On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers valuable insights directly from market participants such as PLA producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users across major production hubs in the USA, China, Thailand, and Netherlands. This local intelligence is critical for understanding market dynamics specific to each region.
Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire PLA supply chain, from the availability of raw materials such as corn, sugarcane, and other fermentable sugars, to production, logistics, and distribution. This includes monitoring the costs of feedstock, operational capacities, and transportation logistics to provide a clear picture of the market.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis

Geopolitical Tensions: closely monitors global geopolitical events, such as trade conflicts or regional instability, which can impact the supply and pricing of PLA. For example, tensions affecting key raw material-producing regions or transportation routes can lead to disruptions in the PLA market.
Environmental Regulations and Policies: We evaluate the effects of environmental policies and sustainability goals that influence the demand for PLA. For instance, the shift towards greener alternatives in the packaging and consumer goods industries significantly drives PLA demand and impacts pricing trends.
Economic Shifts and Demand: evaluates macroeconomic factors, such as global economic growth, inflation, and sector-specific demand from industries like packaging, textiles, and agriculture. These factors are key in predicting how the PLA market will evolve and how prices may fluctuate.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

Geopolitical Tensions: closely monitors global geopolitical events, such as trade conflicts or regional instability, which can impact the supply and pricing of PLA. For example, tensions affecting key raw material-producing regions or transportation routes can lead to disruptions in the PLA market.
Environmental Regulations and Policies: We evaluate the effects of environmental policies and sustainability goals that influence the demand for PLA. For instance, the shift towards greener alternatives in the packaging and consumer goods industries significantly drives PLA demand and impacts pricing trends.
Economic Shifts and Demand: evaluates macroeconomic factors, such as global economic growth, inflation, and sector-specific demand from industries like packaging, textiles, and agriculture. These factors are key in predicting how the PLA market will evolve and how prices may fluctuate.

Demand Forecasting

Sectoral Demand Analysis: provides detailed analysis of demand trends across key sectors like packaging, agriculture, textiles, and biodegradable products. We track year-over-year growth in demand and forecast future consumption patterns based on economic indicators, sustainability initiatives, and industry developments.
Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology also takes into account regional demand variations and how they affect global PLA pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in environmental policies, manufacturing bases, and trade regulations that drive the PLA market.

Pricing Model Development

Sectoral Demand Analysis: provides detailed analysis of demand trends across key sectors like packaging, agriculture, textiles, and biodegradable products. We track year-over-year growth in demand and forecast future consumption patterns based on economic indicators, sustainability initiatives, and industry developments.
Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology also takes into account regional demand variations and how they affect global PLA pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in environmental policies, manufacturing bases, and trade regulations that drive the PLA market.

Reporting and Client Support

Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that provide current price assessments, future price forecasts, and deep insights into market drivers. These reports are designed to offer actionable information, helping clients make well-informed business decisions.
Ongoing Support: offers continuous updates and personalized client support, ensuring our clients have access to the latest data and insights. Our experts are available to discuss market developments, answer questions, and provide tailored advice.

This research methodology ensures that delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Polylactic Acid pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed decisions with confidence.

Specifications

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

60,000

CAS No

26100-51-6

HS Code

39077000

Molecular Formula

(C3H4O2)n

polylactic acid

Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable thermoplastic polymer derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. It's produced through the fermentation of carbohydrates followed by polymerization of lactic acid. PLA is known for its environmentally friendly nature as it is compostable under industrial conditions, making it a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. Its clear appearance, durability, and ease of processing have led to its increasing use across various industries.

Packaging Type

25 Kg Bag

Grades Covered

General Purpose

Incoterms Used

FOB Laem Chabang, FOB Houston, FOB Rotterdam, FOB Qingdao, Ex-Ahmedabad, CIF Nhava Sheva (Thailand), CIF Busan (China, USA, Thailand), CIF Kaohsiung (USA, Thailand), CIF Montreal (USA), CIF Santos (Thailand), FD Hamburg, FD Milano, and FD Antwerp.

Synonym

PLA, Polylactide, PLA Biopolymer, Lactic Acid Polymer

Quotation Terms:

10-15 MT (Domestic), 20-25 MT (Export-Import)

Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.

Properties	Specifications
Appearance	Semi-transparent
Density (g/m3)	1.24
Moisture Content %	≤0.04
Residual Lactide %	≤0.3
MFI (19°C/2.16 kg)	4
D-Content %	4
Melting Point (°C)	155
Glass Transition Temperature (°C)	60
Tensile Strength (MPa)	45
Elongation %	≤5

Applications

Polylactic Acid (PLA) is widely utilized across various sectors due to its sustainable and versatile nature. In packaging, it is used for creating biodegradable containers, bottles, and films, which help reduce plastic waste. In the 3D printing industry, PLA is favoured for its ease of use and ability to produce high-quality, detailed prints. PLA fibres are also employed in eco-friendly textiles and non-woven fabrics for clothing and upholstery. In agriculture, it is used for biodegradable mulch films and seedling trays, contributing to soil health and reducing environmental impact. Additionally, PLA finds applications in consumer goods, such as disposable tableware and cutlery, aligning with efforts to promote sustainability and reduce single-use plastic pollution.

Disclaimer

Polylactic Acid price provided by is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for polylactic acid. disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

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Frequently asked questions

1. What key factors affect Polylactic Acid pricing in the global market? +

The pricing of Polylactic Acid is influenced by several key factors, including the cost of raw materials, such as corn starch and sugarcane, which are the primary feedstocks for PLA production. Fluctuations in production capacity, global demand from key sectors like packaging and textiles, and competition from alternative biodegradable materials also play significant roles. Additionally, logistical challenges, changes in government policies related to sustainability, and environmental regulations can impact pricing trends in the PLA market.

2. How does the availability of feedstock impact Polylactic Acid pricing trends? +

The availability of feedstock, particularly renewable resources like corn and sugarcane, is crucial for Polylactic Acid pricing. Shortages or disruptions in feedstock production due to adverse weather conditions, supply chain issues, or changes in agricultural policies can lead to price increases. Conversely, abundant supply or improved agricultural yields may result in lower prices. Procurement heads should monitor agricultural market trends closely to anticipate potential pricing fluctuations and secure favorable sourcing agreements.

3. What regional pricing differences exist for Polylactic Acid, and how can they affect procurement strategies? +

Regional pricing differences for Polylactic Acid can vary significantly based on local production capabilities, feedstock availability, and demand levels. For instance, countries like the USA and China are major producers, often leading to more competitive pricing due to larger production volumes. In contrast, regions with limited production capacity may experience higher prices. Procurement teams should analyze regional market conditions, explore cost-effective sourcing opportunities, and consider logistics when developing their procurement strategies to optimize costs effectively.