CEH: Polystyrene

Aug 2021. The global polystyrene (PS) market has undeniably suffered from an oversupply of capacity and weakening demand growth over the last decade. To survive, PS producers responded by consolidating their capacity in many regions through many mergers and acquisitions. Almost 40% of capacity has been removed over the years to improve operating rates and, consequently, support margin positions. In contrast, developing markets for polystyrene, such as the Middle East, Africa, and mainland China, are focusing on increasing market share; mainland China has been steadily expanding its PS capacity and now accounts for more than 25% of the global total in 2020. PS, a thermoplastic polymer of styrene, is known for its versatility in high heat resistance, solid chemical strength, and notable rigidity that can be molded into objects or made into a foam and used as thermal insulation. More than one-third of PS is used as a packaging material, and this market continues to be affected by negative consumer perception as environmental pressure deepens, leading converters to consider other alternatives.

• Publish Date: 2021-08-31
• Number of Pages: 90
• Content Type: Report
• Delivery: Email with link to PDF file

• Global summary; regional coverage
• Producers with annual capacities and plant sites
• Consumption and five-year forecast by end-use application
• Price and production figures and trends
• Trade imports and exports

• Drive market research and commercial development
• Support competitive analysis, marketing and sales
• Inform merger and acquisition decisions