Global Trends

Global Trends 2026

Against the backdrop of shifting trade policies and geopolitical conflicts, the U.S. plastics industry remains a major participant in international trade and an important contributor to economic growth. This edition of the Plastics Industry Association’s annual Global Trends study examines U.S. plastics trade in 2025 and the first six months of 2026, both industry-wide and across specific segments. It also explores the effects of tariffs, evolving trade relationships, and geopolitical developments on global trade flows, supply chains, and the competitive landscape. In addition, the study presents the annual Global Plastics Ranking®, comparing the world’s leading plastics trading nations, and provides an outlook for the global plastics industry in 2026 and beyond.