The United Kingdom ethylene market size reached approximately USD 3.98 Billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.70% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of around USD 6.30 Billion by 2034.
Base Year
Historical Year
Forecast Year
Ethylene plays an integral role in the production of various products like plastics and forms the building block of the chemical industry.
In the UK, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) membranes are widely used in roofing applications as they are durable, recyclable, and fire resistant.
Researchers are attempting to develop innovative technologies that can sustainably and economically produce ethylene.
Value in USD Billion
2025-2034
United Kingdom Ethylene Market Outlook
*this image is indicative*
Ethylene is a colourless and flammable hydrocarbon which belongs to the alkene series and naturally occurs in ripening fruit, crude oil, coal, and natural gas, among others. It has a distinct sweet and musky odour and is primarily utilised in the production of polyethylene, a primary plastic component.
The growing usage of polyethylene in the construction and buildings sector for the production of pipes, and foam insulators, among others, is one of the major trends favouring the United Kingdom ethylene market growth. Due to its corrosion-resistant and durable properties, polyethylene is primarily utilised in the water supply and drainage pipes. Moreover, it is used to insulate HVAC systems, roofs, and walls as it minimises heat loss and gain and maintains an optimal temperature.
Rising demand for ethylene as a raw material; growing production of polyethylene; increasing demand for ethylene derivatives; and the development of advanced technologies are positively impacting the United Kingdom ethylene market growth
Extensive use of ethylene as a raw material
The rising production of polyethylene due to increasing infrastructural development and surging demand for polyethylene-based consumables are aiding the market.
There is a rising demand for derivatives of ethylene such as ethylene glycol and ethylene oxide in sectors like medical and textile.
Key players are developing innovative technologies to enhance the yield of ethylene while reducing carbon emissions.
There is a rising use of cost-effective and safe ethylene oxide in medical applications to maintain the sterility of medical devices.
Derivatives of ethylene oxide, such as alkoxylates, are witnessing a high demand in diverse applications, such as cleaning and detergents, construction materials, and automobiles, among others.
Increased implementation of the derivative of ethylene such as ethylene glycol into the textile sector is a prominent trend aiding the United Kingdom ethylene market expansion. Ethylene glycol reacts with dimethyl terephthalate to form a polyester which is a cost-effective, lightweight, and durable clothing material.
The rising popularity of ethylene oxide in the sterilisation of medical devices such as surgical kits, heart valves, pacemakers, syringes, and ventilators, among others, to prevent the risk of infections from bacteria and viruses, also boosts the United Kingdom ethylene market. It is used for the effective sterilisation of devices that are sensitive to heat and moisture and cannot be sterilised by the traditional steam sterilisation method.
“United Kingdom Ethylene Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Feedstock:
Market Breakup by Application:
Breakup by End Use:
Polyethylene dominates the United Kingdom ethylene market share due to the rising demand for packaging films and bottles
Polyethylene occupies a significant portion of the market share, owing to its growing usage in the production of packaging films and bottles, among others. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) finds growing applications in the agricultural sector for ropes and fishing nets, due to its high tensile strength.
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is utilised in water pipes and hoses, due to its low absorption rate and chemical resistance. Additionally, the growing demand for cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) for power cables, due to their high heat resistance and long service life boosts the market growth.
Besides, ethylene oxide is used in the manufacturing of personal care products, household cleaners, and fabrics. The chemical also plays an integral role in the sterilisation of medical devices and personal protective equipment. With the growing focus on sustainability, key players are investing in R&D activities to develop eco-friendly ethylene oxide, further fuelling the United Kingdom ethylene market.
The use of ethylene in the packaging sector is significantly rising due to the growing preference for recyclable packaging solutions in the UK
The packaging sector accounts for a substantial market share, owing to the high demand for recyclable polyethylene (PE) packaging in end-use sectors such as food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others, to contribute to the circular economy.
Moreover, the automotive sector is also expected to witness sizeable growth in the coming years, due to the increased incorporation of PE in automotive parts such as plastic fuel tanks as well as ethylene glycol as a coolant in car radiators to prevent overheating. Meanwhile, in the building and construction sector, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene is widely used due to its favourable properties such as excellent mechanical and chemical strength, resistance to ageing and temperature, and lightweight, among others.
Major players in the United Kingdom ethylene market are attempting to boost the sustainability profile of ethylene
| Company | Year Founded | Headquarters | Industry | Products/Services | Additional Information |
| LyondellBasell Industries N.V. | 2007 | Texas, United States | Chemical | Chemicals, polymers, advanced polymer solutions, fuels | Aims to recycle and reproduce 2 million polymers by 2030 |
| Exxon Mobil Corporation | 1882 | Texas, United States | Oil and Gas | Oil and Gas production | Its plant produces ethylene for plastic production |
| Shell Plc | 1907 | London, United Kingdom | Oil and Gas | Petrochemicals, power generation, transport | Natural gas liquids plant manufacturer and distributor |
| INEOS AG | 1998 | London, United Kingdom | Chemical | Chemicals | 194 production sites in 29 countries, 36 businesses |
Other United Kingdom ethylene market players include SABIC and Chevron Corporation, among others.
*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
Get in touch with us for a customized solution tailored to your unique requirements and save upto 35%!
In 2024, the market reached an approximate value of USD 3.98 Billion.
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.70% between 2025 and 2034.
The market is estimated to witness a healthy growth in the forecast period of 2025-2034, reaching a value of around USD 6.30 Billion by 2034.
The major market drivers are the growing usage of plastics in the packaging sector, the rising utilisation of ethylene in chemical production, and technological innovations.
The key trends of the market include the growing usage of polyethylene in the construction and buildings sector, increased implementation of the derivative of ethylene such as ethylene glycol into the UK textile sector and rising popularity of ethylene oxide in the sterilisation of medical devices.
The major feedstocks are naptha and natural gas.
Various applications are polyethylene, ethylene oxide, ethylene dichloride, and ethyl benzene, among others.
The key players in the market are LyondellBasell Industries N.V., Exxon Mobil Corporation, Shell Plc, SABIC, INEOS AG, and Chevron Corporation, among others.
Explore our key highlights of the report and gain a concise overview of key findings, trends, and actionable insights that will empower your strategic decisions.
| REPORT FEATURES | DETAILS |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Historical Period | 2018-2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2034 |
| Scope of the Report |
Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Drivers and Constraints, Historical and Forecast Market Analysis by Segment:
|
| Breakup by Feedstock |
|
| Breakup by Application |
|
| Breakup by End Use |
|
| Market Dynamics |
|
| Competitive Landscape |
|
| Companies Covered |
|
Datasheet
One User
USD 2,499
USD 2,249
tax inclusive*
Single User License
One User
USD 3,999
USD 3,599
tax inclusive*
Five User License
Five User
USD 4,999
USD 4,249
tax inclusive*
Corporate License
Unlimited Users
USD 5,999
USD 5,099
tax inclusive*
*Please note that the prices mentioned below are starting prices for each bundle type. Kindly contact our team for further details.*
Flash Bundle
Small Business Bundle
Growth Bundle
Enterprise Bundle
*Please note that the prices mentioned below are starting prices for each bundle type. Kindly contact our team for further details.*
Flash Bundle
Number of Reports: 3
20%
tax inclusive*
Small Business Bundle
Number of Reports: 5
25%
tax inclusive*
Growth Bundle
Number of Reports: 8
30%
tax inclusive*
Enterprise Bundle
Number of Reports: 10
35%
tax inclusive*
How To Order
Our step-by-step guide will help you select, purchase, and access your reports swiftly, ensuring you get the information that drives your decisions, right when you need it.
Select License Type
Choose the right license for your needs and access rights.
Click on ‘Buy Now’
Add the report to your cart with one click and proceed to register.
Select Mode of Payment
Choose a payment option for a secure checkout. You will be redirected accordingly.
Track prices with detailed trend reports.
Analyse trade data for supply chain insights.
Leverage cost reports for smart savings
Enhance supply chain with partnerships.
Gain insights to stay ahead and seize opportunities.
Get insights & trends for a competitive edge.
Track prices with detailed trend reports.
Analyse trade data for supply chain insights.
Leverage cost reports for smart savings
Enhance supply chain with partnerships.
Gain insights to stay ahead and seize opportunities.
Get insights & trends for a competitive edge.
Track prices with detailed trend reports.
Analyse trade data for supply chain insights.
Connect For More Information
Our expert team of analysts will offer full support and resolve any queries regarding the report, before and after the purchase.
Our expert team of analysts will offer full support and resolve any queries regarding the report, before and after the purchase.
We employ meticulous research methods, blending advanced analytics and expert insights to deliver accurate, actionable industry intelligence, staying ahead of competitors.
Our skilled analysts offer unparalleled competitive advantage with detailed insights on current and emerging markets, ensuring your strategic edge.
We offer an in-depth yet simplified presentation of industry insights and analysis to meet your specific requirements effectively.
Australia
63 Fiona Drive, Tamworth, NSW
+61-448-061-727
India
C130 Sector 2 Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301
+91-723-689-1189
Philippines
40th Floor, PBCom Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue Cor V.A Rufino St. Makati City,1226.
+63-287-899-028, +63-967-048-3306
United Kingdom
6 Gardner Place, Becketts Close, Feltham TW14 0BX, Greater London
+44-753-713-2163
United States
30 North Gould Street, Sheridan, WY 82801
+1-415-325-5166
Vietnam
193/26/4 St.no.6, Ward Binh Hung Hoa, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City
+84-865-399-124
United States (Head Office)
30 North Gould Street, Sheridan, WY 82801
+1-415-325-5166
Australia
63 Fiona Drive, Tamworth, NSW
+61-448-061-727
India
C130 Sector 2 Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301
+91-723-689-1189
Philippines
40th Floor, PBCom Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue Cor V.A Rufino St. Makati City, 1226.
+63-287-899-028, +63-967-048-3306
United Kingdom
6 Gardner Place, Becketts Close, Feltham TW14 0BX, Greater London
+44-753-713-2163
Vietnam
193/26/4 St.no.6, Ward Binh Hung Hoa, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City
+84-865-399-124
Share