Global price of polyvinyl chloride 2017-2023
The average global price of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in 2023 was 823 U.S. dollars per metric ton, which represents a decrease from the previous year’s average price of 1,115 U.S. dollars per metric ton.
Global PVC market value
The price of PVC is influenced by several factors, such as supply and demand, feedstock costs, environmental regulations, and trade policies. In October 2024, the global monthly market for PVC was valued at 750 billion U.S. dollars per metric ton, the lowest valuation since May 2020.
What are the alternatives to PVC?
PVC is a widely used plastic material that has many applications in various industries, but its environmental and human health impacts present some drawbacks. As a result, there have been a number of efforts to develop alternatives to PVC that use natural, biodegradable, or recyclable materials. Some of these alternative plastic polymers include polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) which offer better recyclability and lower emissions. Paper-based alternatives also exist, which are both renewable and compostable, making them an eco-friendly option for packaging and disposable items. Other alternatives include polylactic acid (PLA), derived from plant sources, which is also biodegradable and ideal for food packaging and 3D printing; wool felt, a natural material with water resistance and insulation properties, suitable for clothing and crafts; and bioplastics, made from renewable biomass sources such as vegetable fats and oils, corn starch, or pea starch. These alternatives offer various benefits and challenges depending on the intended use and material availability.
