2024 Plastic Pellets Export Data Analysis

1. Global Export Volumes

In 2024, plastic pellets trade boomed. From Feb 2023 - Jan 2024, 1,099 shipments (HSN 39076910) were exported globally, an 816% YoY increase. January 2024 saw 296 shipments, surging 4833% YoY and 296% MoM.

2. Major Trade Players

2.1 Top Exporters

China (692 shipments), Vietnam (664), and Japan (107) led exports. China’s vast capacity and supply chain, Vietnam’s manufacturing growth, and Japan’s high - tech products drove their positions.

2.2 Key Importers

Vietnam, China, and Canada were major importers. Vietnam’s booming plastics industry, China’s need for high - end materials, and Canada’s stable manufacturing fueled demand.

3. U.S. Export Highlights

In H1 2024, U.S. recovered plastic exports hit 481 million pounds, up 1% YoY. Canada (154M lbs) and Mexico (112M lbs) were top buyers, followed by Malaysia, India, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

4. China’s Export Data

China’s 2024 plastic raw material output was 16,785 million tons, with 1,346 million tons exported. The U.S., Vietnam (36% of polypropylene exports), and Southeast Asian countries were key markets.

5. Influential Factors

Economy: Growth in SEA boosted demand; slowdowns in Europe and weak manufacturing globally reduced it.

Prices & Capacity: Stable resin prices aided planning. Higher production capacity utilization could increase exports.

Regulations: 2021 Basel Convention rules on scrap plastic trade raised costs and reshaped the market.