Summary:China's plastics and rubber industry achieved full-chain positive growth in January-April 2026. Primary plastics output reached 48.847 million tons (+3.4% YoY), with chemical manufacturing出厂prices up 12.7% YoY, signaling sustained industry strength.
1. Production: Full-Chain Positive Growth
According to the National Bureau of Statistics, China's plastics and rubber industry chain achieved positive growth across all segments in January-April 2026:
Jan-Apr 2026 Plastics & Rubber Output
| Product Category | Cumulative Output | YoY Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Primary plastics | 48.847 million tons | +3.4% |
| Synthetic rubber | 2.989 million tons | +2.1% |
| Plastic products | - | Positive |
| Rubber tire outer casing | - | Positive |
Growth Drivers
- Domestic demand recovery:Macro-economic data in Q1 improved, with steady recovery in construction and consumer goods sectors.
- Booming auto production and sales:NEV sector maintains high-speed growth, driving demand for modified plastics and tire supply chains.
- Export resilience:Total trade in Jan-Apr reached 16.23 trillion yuan (+14.9% YoY), with exports at 9.33 trillion yuan (+11.3%).
2. Price Side: Chemical Manufacturing Prices Up 12.7%
May chemical manufacturing出厂prices rose 12.7% year-on-year, reflecting significant cost increases in upstream raw materials passing through to mid and downstream sectors.
3. Industry Dynamics: Technology Breakthroughs & Capacity Expansions
- Dual monopoly breakthrough:Chinese research team successfully broke dual foreign monopolies in the foam industry, achieving key material self-sufficiency.
- Covestro PCR interiors:Covestro's material with 35% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content successfully applied to Lexus ES interior, promoting green transformation.
- TPE capacity expansion:Zhongsuwang and other TPE manufacturers expanding capacity to 20,000+ tons/year, serving top brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, Sony.
- Events:The 2026 Greater Bay Area International Rubber & Plastics Exhibition returns August 17-19 in Foshan.
4. Outlook
With sustained production growth and rising price levels, plastics industry sentiment is expected to continue improving. Focus on modified plastics, automotive lightweighting materials, and biodegradable plastics. Monitor upstream cost volatility and trade frictions.
