Polylactic Acid Prices

Polylactic Acid Price Trend, Index and Forecast

Track the latest insights on polylactic acid price trend and forecast with detailed analysis of regional fluctuations and market dynamics across North America, Latin America, Central Europe, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East, North Africa, West Africa, Central and Southern Africa, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, East Asia, and Oceania.

Polylactic Acid Prices Outlook Q1 2025

• USA: US$ 2808/MT
• China: US$ 1887/MT
• Germany: US$ 2547/MT
• Netherlands: US$ 2546/MT
• Brazil: US$ 2720/MT

Polylactic Acid Price Chart

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During the first quarter of 2025, the polylactic acid prices in the USA reached 2808 USD/MT in March. As per the polylactic acid price chart, the market exhibited erratic tendencies. Due to a balanced supply and constant raw material costs, prices remained stable in early January. However, seasonal slowdowns and heightened competition caused prices to drop by mid-January. Oversupply and economic uncertainty caused a further drop in February.

During the first quarter of 2025, polylactic acid prices in China reached 1887 USD/MT in March. The market showed a range of patterns. Prices first increased as a result of constrained supply, pressures from raw material costs, and the post-holiday recovery in demand. Besides, price hikes in February were fueled by the need for sustainable agriculture and packaging.

During the first quarter of 2025, the polylactic acid prices in Germany reached 2547 USD/MT in March. Due to strong demand and the introduction of new sustainability rules, the market exhibited an upward trend. Prices held steady early in the quarter, supported by 3D printing and packaging demand. But by March, price rises were inflated by increasing energy costs and port congestion.

During the first quarter of 2025, the polylactic acid prices in the Netherlands reached 2546 USD/MT in March. Due to increased demand and new sustainability standards, the market experienced price hikes. Although prices were constant at the beginning of the quarter, the EU's new regulatory framework and growing production and shipping expenses caused prices to rise. Increased feedstock costs and port congestion contributed to the rising pressure.

During the first quarter of 2025, the polylactic acid prices in Brazil reached 2720 USD/MT in March. Prices in Brazil experienced fluctuations due to a combination of factors, including raw material costs, supply chain dynamics, and government policies. Besides, maintenance shutdowns and logistical improvements also contributed to price changes.

Polylactic Acid Prices Outlook Q4 2024

• Thailand: US$ 2500/MT
• Germany: US$ 2390/MT

During the last quarter of 2024, the polylactic acid prices in the Thailand reached 2500 USD/MT in December. The market saw a drop in price as a result of shifting demand and rising supply. Prices were held steady early in the quarter by consistent demand from sustainable packaging and steady output. Production costs were further reduced by falling lactic acid prices, while regional demand was undermined by Chinese economic concerns. Technological advancements contributed to the stabilization of market circumstances in spite of these challenges.

In the last quarter of 2024, polylactic acid prices in Germany remained 2390 USD/MT in December. The market showed mixed trends, with early stability followed by a gradual decline. Strong interest from green packaging and textiles initially supported prices, but seasonal slowdowns and increased production led to oversupply. Regulatory policies, like the EU’s PPWR, bolstered long-term optimism, yet near-term demand imbalances pressured prices. Shipping delays and holiday-related disruptions also influenced the market, although quarterly prices still rose.

Polylactic Acid Prices Outlook Q3 2024

• United States: US$ 2795/MT
• Thailand: US$ 2890/MT
• Netherlands: US$ 2460/MT

The polylactic acid prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 2795 USD/MT in September. The market remained stable, with price fluctuations kept within narrow margins. Consistent demand from sectors like packaging and 3D printing, alongside reliable manufacturing capacities and import management, played a significant part in retaining the market balance. Seasonal peaks, especially during the summer with higher demand for PLA-based food containers, supported stability.

The price trend for polylactic acid in Thailand for Q3 2024 settled at 2890 USD/MT in September. The market experienced a blend of rising and declining price trends. Strong early-quarter requirement from packaging, agriculture, and 3D printing sectors, driven by supportive bioplastic policies, led to initial price hikes. This was compounded by supply constraints and increased lactic acid cost, which elevated manufacturing expenses. The latter half of the quarter, however, saw prices ease owing to slower seasonal demand and improved domestic production.

In the Netherlands, the polylactic acid prices for Q3 2024 reached 2460 USD/MT in September. The market saw significant price growth, influenced by steady need from packaging and 3D printing sectors and heightened prices of lactic acid influenced by energy expenses. Supply-related issues, including technical production issues, added pressure on prices. However, stable domestic manufacturing and better inventory management balanced the market. The focus on eco-friendly products, supported by innovations like Bioworks’ PlaX™ fabric, bolstered overall stability.

Polylactic Acid Prices Outlook Q2 2024

• United States: US$ 2650/MT
• China: US$ 1737/MT
• South Korea: US$ 3010/MT

The polylactic acid prices in the United States for Q2 2024 reached 2650 USD/MT in June. The market experienced a gradual price increase, driven by heightened feedstock prices and growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Seasonal demand for items like cold beverage packaging also contributed to steady market growth. Despite changes, the entire pricing environment showed a positive trend, supported by both production pressures and heightened awareness about eco-friendly products.

The price trend for polylactic acid in China for Q2 2024 settled at 1737 USD/MT in June. The market showed a stable to positive trend, supported by heightened production capabilities and government initiatives promoting bioplastics, while rising feedstock costs influenced production expenses, steady need from key sectors like packaging and agriculture maintained an upward movement in pricing trends. The overall market sentiment reflected growth in adopting sustainable and biodegradable materials.

In South Korea, the polylactic acid prices for Q2 2024 reached 3010 USD/MT in June. The market faced significant price shifts. After an initial downturn, the market rebounded owing to rising need for eco-friendly packaging and new advances in manufacturing techniques. This recovery highlighted the market’s resilience among ongoing efforts to integrate sustainable solutions and adapt to changing economic scenarios. 

Polylactic Acid Prices Outlook Q4 2023

• USA: US$ 3345/MT
• South Korea: US$ 1847/MT
• Germany: US$ 3185/MT

The polylactic acid prices in the United States for Q4 2023 reached 3345 USD/MT in December. In Q4 2023, the U.S. market for polylactic acid saw a notable price drop, affected by declining demand from the packaging industry and high inventory levels. Low import activity and eased import costs also contributed to the downward trend. Despite these factors, a lack of significant demand recovery in downstream industries kept market conditions bearish throughout the quarter.

The price trend for polylactic acid in South Korea for Q4 2023, reached 1847 USD/MT in December. During the fourth quarter of 2023, South Korea's polylactic acid industry was affected by currency depreciation and a bearish supply-demand dynamic. Despite stable supply levels, weakened international orders and economic recovery efforts shaped market trends. Sustainability initiatives provided some positive outlook, but overall, pricing reflected the challenges of currency fluctuations and shifting demand patterns.

The price trend for polylactic acid in Germany for Q4 2023, reached 3185 USD/MT in December. In Q4 2023, Germany's Polylactic Acid market experienced slight price recovery driven by strong demand from the food packaging sector and a supportive market environment. Market conditions were shaped by a mix of ample supply and rising upstream costs. Environmental concerns, particularly around plastic pollution, influenced discussions on packaging regulations, contributing to a cautious yet optimistic market sentiment.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of FOB and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing the polylactic acid prices.

Global Polylactic Acid Price Trend

The report offers a holistic view of the global polylactic acid pricing trends in the form of polylactic acid price charts, reflecting the worldwide interplay of supply-demand balances, international trade policies, and overarching economic factors that shape the market on a macro level. This comprehensive analysis not only highlights current price levels but also provides insights into historical price of polylactic acid, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes. The report also delves into price forecast models, projecting future price movements based on a variety of indicators such as expected changes in supply chain dynamics, anticipated policy shifts, and emerging market trends. By examining these factors, the report equips industry participants with the necessary tools to make informed strategic decisions, manage risks, and capitalize on market opportunities. Furthermore, it includes a detailed polylactic acid demand analysis, breaking down regional variations and identifying key drivers specific to each geographic market, thus offering a nuanced understanding of the global pricing landscape.

Europe Polylactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

As per the polylactic acid price index, the market witnessed increased demand and stricter sustainability laws. The market was initially solid due to consistent demand from 3D printing, packaging, and textiles. But by March, prices went up due to rising energy prices, inflation, and port congestion. Long-term demand was reinforced by robust government backing for sustainability and circular bioeconomy projects.

Q4 2024:

The market, especially in Germany, displayed a combination of constancy and a gradual price fall in the second quarter of 2024 as a result of shifting supply-demand underlying forces and regulatory influences. Consistent interest from the eco-friendly packaging sector, as well as from industries including agriculture, kept prices stable in the first few weeks of Q4. Well-managed stocks and steady local output helped maintain market equilibrium. However, supply chain disruptions, such as holiday-related interruptions at European ports, briefly impacted operations. Later in the quarter, a seasonal drop in demand, particularly from the textile and packaging industries, combined with increased production output caused the market to become oversupplied.

Q3 2024:

In the third quarter of 2024, the European polylactic acid market saw notable price increases influenced by strong demand in sectors such as sustainable packaging, textiles, and 3D printing. Consistent domestic manufacturing levels and efficient inventory strategies contributed to balancing the market, although technical issues at production facilities posed challenges. Rising lactic acid prices, fueled by energy and shipping costs, added upward pressure on PLA prices. Despite these issues, the market benefited from innovations such as the PlaX™ fabric by Bioworks, supporting overall stability. Price trends were also influenced by seasonality, showing a steady rise throughout the quarter. The Netherlands, in particular, experienced major changes in price compared to other European regions.

Q2 2024:

In Q2 2024, the European polylactic acid market experienced a downward pricing trend driven by various market dynamics. The primary factor contributing to this decline was the decrement in inventory prices, especially corn, coupled with a robust and stable supply chain supported by imports from major global suppliers. Although there were minor seasonal shifts in demand, they were insufficient to offset the abundant supply. Germany, as a focal point, observed the most pronounced price decreases, with consistent downward pressure stemming from a balance between stable supply and limited demand growth. Overall, this led to a persistent decrease in prices, reflecting the region's continued struggle with sluggish demand and cost-efficiency measures.

Q4 2023:

In Europe, the polylactic acid market saw a slight recovery in the fourth quarter of 2023, driven by steady demand from the food packaging sector and a bullish market outlook. Despite a moderate supply, expectations of lower freight charges and sufficient domestic stock suggested a probable price decrease. However, declining international orders and the rising upstream costs throughout the inventory reduction period placed upward pressure on prices. The recent amendment in the European Parliament in packaging regulations affected market dynamics, particularly in Belgium, where substantial price changes occurred. Environmental concerns, including water pollution from plastics, led to discussions on banning certain packaging materials, bolstering demand for eco-friendly alternatives.

This analysis can be extended to include detailed polylactic acid price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America Polylactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

The market showed erratic performance as a result of shifting supply and demand. Because of balanced output and constant raw material costs, prices remained stable in early January. However, seasonal slowdowns and heightened competition caused prices to decline by mid-January. Due to oversupply, economic uncertainty, and competition from conventional plastics, February saw further price drops. Notwithstanding these obstacles, the industry bounced back by March, propelled by the need for eco-friendly packaging and fresh ideas, guaranteeing stability by the end of the quarter.

Q4 2024:

The market had a mild decline in price during the last quarter of 2024, influenced by changes in supply and demand. The demand for PLA was maintained by the green packaging industry, although consumption decreased as a result of a seasonal slowdown in sectors like 3D printing, textiles, and packaging. This led to lessened pricing momentum, as did more general economic difficulties. Despite the difficulties they caused, logistical bottlenecks such as port jam and labor strikes had little impact on general pricing patterns. Lower manufacturing costs were also aided by a modest decrease in the price of lactic acid, an essential ingredient in the synthesis of PLA.

Q3 2024:

In the third quarter of 2024, the North American polylactic acid market exhibited a stable pricing environment, with the United States showing the most notable price variations. These fluctuations, however, remained minimal. Steady need from sectors like packaging and 3D printing supported this stability, even amidst global logistical complications and supply chain obstacles. Stable production levels, enhanced inventory practices, and balanced import volumes played a significant role in maintaining price equilibrium. Seasonal demand increases, particularly for PLA containers in food packaging during the summer, further contributed to this balance. Besides this, stable lactic acid prices kept production costs in check. Despite concerns associated with potential labor strikes affecting shipping, strategic inventory management minimized major disruptions.

Q2 2024:

During the second quarter of 2024, the polylactic acid market in North America experienced price fluctuations, ultimately leading to a positive trend. The market faced increased production costs due to higher feedstock prices, particularly corn, which is a crucial raw material for PLA. Demand for environmentally friendly, ecofriendly packing solutions grew, driven by rising consumer awareness and stringent rules aimed at conventional plastics. The United States witnessed the most significant pricing changes, influenced by seasonal need for cold beverage packaging that bolstered PLA consumption. Despite the quarter's price volatility, a steady upward trajectory was observed, signaling a stable market underpinned by both supply pressures and growing demand for sustainable alternatives.

Q4 2023:

In the fourth quarter of 2023, the North American market for Polylactic Acid (PLA) faced several challenges, leading to price reductions. Reduced demand from downstream sectors, particularly in packaging, caused a bearish market sentiment as high inventory levels limited any potential gains. Additionally, average to high supply degrees were observed due to substantial inventories, exacerbated by low import volumes from countries in Asia such as China and Thailand. A plant shutdown further impacted the market, though details regarding the shutdown remain unclear. The USA experienced the most noticeable price fluctuations, driven by reduced demand, eased import costs, and stagnant downstream market conditions. Consequently, prices declined compared to both the same period the same period last year and the preceding quarter, reflecting broader market dynamics.

Specific polylactic acid historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Polylactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

The report explores the polylactic acid trends and polylactic acid price chart in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

In addition to region-wise data, information on polylactic acid prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Polylactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

Throughout Q1 2025, the market had price swings driven by supply and demand. Strong demand and limited supply caused prices to rise early in the quarter. However, when production increased and downstream activity slowed, prices fell by the middle of January. Prices started to rise once more in February due to rising demand for 3D printing, ecological packaging, and agriculture. However, by March, prices dropped as domestic production rose, demand waned, and oversupply issues surfaced. The pressure was also heightened by competition from other polymers and logistical advancements.

Q4 2024:

During the last quarter of 2024, the market saw a reduction in pricing due to changes in the fundamentals of supply and demand. Prices were initially held steady by constant local supply and ongoing demand from the green packaging industry. Conversely, cyclic stoppages in important industries including packaging and agriculture led to lower PLA use as the quarter went on. Furthermore, an excess supply scenario was produced by increased production capacity and changes in inventory levels, which exacerbated price pressures.

Q3 2024:

During the third quarter of 2024, the polylactic acid market in the Asia Pacific experienced mixed price trends caused by dynamic market forces. Initial price surges were driven by robust demand from sectors like packaging, 3D printing, and agriculture, spurred by regulatory policies favoring bioplastics. However, supply issues and dwindling inventories led to a heightened reliance on spot purchases, pushing up production costs, especially as lactic acid prices rose. The second half of the quarter saw a decline in PLA costs owing to seasonal slowdowns in demand and increased domestic production bolstered by betterments and new capacities. This shift resulted in oversupply, with manufacturers adjusting inventories and lowered lactic acid prices, aiding cost reductions.

Q2 2024:

The polylactic acid market in the Asia-Pacific region during Q2 2024 demonstrated an upward price trend influenced by various factors. Rising feedstock costs, including cassava and corn starch, contributed to higher production expenses. A steady and sustained demand from the packaging, agriculture, and 3D printing sectors reinforced the positive pricing environment. Government support for bioplastics and advancements in production capacity also played a role in shaping market conditions. In South Korea, significant price movements were observed as demand for eco-friendly packaging and new production technologies influenced pricing dynamics. Although the market experienced early-quarter challenges, a late-quarter recovery indicated resilience, driven by industrial activity and an ongoing shift towards sustainable products.

Q4 2023:

In Q4 2023, the Asia Pacific market for polylactic acid (PLA) faced a downturn due to abundant supply and fewer international orders, which pressured prices downward. However, initiatives encouraging plastic ban and the use of eco-friendly packaging solutions fostered optimism among downstream industries. Influential factors included manufacturers increasing upstream inventory, economic recovery in China, and elevated energy costs that sustained production expenses. In South Korea, fluctuations in currency values impacted PLA pricing, with significant variations compared to both the previous quarter and the same time the previous year. With no major plant shutdowns, market sentiment remained varied, reflecting diverse economic conditions and ongoing sustainability efforts.

This polylactic acid price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America Polylactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

As per the polylactic acid price index, prices in Latin America likely experienced a mixed trend, influenced by factors like raw material costs, global supply chain dynamics, and regional demand. Besides, potential transportation bottlenecks, affected PLA production and distribution, leading to price fluctuations. 

Q4 2024:

The analysis of polylactic acid prices in Latin America provides a detailed overview, reflecting the unique market dynamics in the region influenced by economic policies, industrial growth, and trade frameworks.

This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within the region.

Polylactic Acid Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Polylactic Acid Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the polylactic acid market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of polylactic acid at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents detailed polylactic acid prices trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting polylactic acid pricing, such as the dynamics of supply and demand, geopolitical influences, and sector-specific developments, are thoroughly explored. This comprehensive report helps stakeholders stay informed with the latest market news, regulatory updates, and technological progress, facilitating informed strategic decision-making and forecasting.

Polylactic Acid Industry Analysis

The global polylactic acid market size reached USD 1,139.43 Million in 2024. By 2033, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 3,915.24 Million, at a projected CAGR of 13.97% during 2033.

• The gradual increase in awareness of environmental issues and push for sustainable solution propel the demand for biodegradable and bioplastics like polylactic acid. Governments and consumers are actively seeking alternatives to petrochemical derived plastics which are more harmful to the environment. According to a report published by McKinsey and company, every year, United States consumer spending reaches over $14 trillion with two third of it going to Consumer-Packaged Goods (CPG). The good industry has millions of employees and trillions of dollars in annual sales making it pivotal in building a more sustainable economy. Studies show that 60% of US consumers are willing to pay more for a product with sustainable packaging, while 78% prioritize a sustainable lifestyle according to a recent NielsenIQ study. The consumer awareness about sustainable and ecofriendly packaging is driving the market demand for biodegradable bioplastics like polylactic acid further across the world.
• The global market demand for polylactic acid is significantly stimulated by its widespread adoption across various end use sectors mainly in packaging, textiles and biomedical applications. For instance, in the food and packaging industry PLA is highly preferred for its biodegradability and its inherent food safety qualities making it an ideal choice for single use containers utensils and films. These applications are driving the global market demand for polylactic acid.
• The global movement towards sustainable packaging to mitigate plastic waste has notably influenced the market for polylactic acid. This trend is driven by an increase in environmental concerns and consumer demand for ecofriendly products. Nowadays companies across various industries are integrating polylactic acid into their packaging solutions to align with these sustainability goals. For instance, a PR Newswire's article data reveals that 71% of consumers prioritize sustainability when choosing products, especially younger buyers and high earners. Interest in products with eco-friendly packaging has grown since 2022.

Polylactic Acid News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global polylactic acid industry, providing stakeholders with timely and relevant information. This segment covers a wide array of news items, including the inauguration of new production facilities, advancements in polylactic acid production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the polylactic acid price trend.

Latest developments in the Polylactic Acid industry:

• In 2023, NatureWorks announced the construction of their fully integrated Ingeo PLA biopolymer manufacturing facility in Thailand. The facility, located in Nakhon Sawan Province, will have an annual capacity of 75,000 tons and will include production sites for lactic acid, lactide, and polymer. It is expected to be completed in the second half of 2024, meeting the rising demand for sustainable, low-carbon biomaterials.
• In 2024, PsiQuantum, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, and Mitsubishi Chemical partner to design energy-efficient materials using PsiQuantum's fault-tolerant quantum computer, aiming to accelerate innovation in computational studies in chemistry and materials. The partnership focuses on Mitsubishi Chemical's research to model and analyze energy-efficient materials.

Product Description

Polylactic acid also known as PLA. It is a biodegradable and bioactive thermoplastic which is derived from renewable sources like cornstarch, sugar cane or tapioca roots. Polylactic acid acts as an ecofriendly alternative to various petroleum-based plastics. It stands out because of its ability to decompose in water and carbon dioxide under industrial composting conditions. Polylactic acid is commonly used in the production of biodegradable medical implants, packaging, disposable tableware and bioplastics. Polylactic acid's popularity in sustainable materials market is driven by increasing environmental awareness and various regulatory policies favoring green products. It not only offers an end-of-life advantage in terms of biodegradability but also exhibits a wide range of physical and mechanical properties which makes it suitable for various applications including 3D printing.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of polylactic acid pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of FOB and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting polylactic acid price trend, including input costs, supply-demand shifts, and geopolitical impacts, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The polylactic acid price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.