Chan Ye Xin Xi Wang·2025-08-11 01:29Core Viewpoint - The market demand for polylactic acid (PLA) fiber is steadily increasing due to rising consumer awareness of environmental protection and a global pursuit of sustainable development. The market size in China is projected to reach approximately 4.511 billion yuan in 2024, with a year-on-year growth of 3.9%, and is expected to grow to 6.979 billion yuan by 2030 [1][20]. Industry Overview - PLA fiber is produced from starch-containing agricultural products such as corn and wheat, which are fermented to generate lactic acid, then polymerized and spun into fibers. It is a biodegradable synthetic fiber that can decompose into carbon dioxide and water in the environment [4][16]. - The fiber has excellent properties such as good hand feel, UV resistance, low flammability, and excellent processing performance, making it suitable for various applications including fashion, sportswear, and hygiene products [6][7]. Market Size and Growth - The PLA fiber industry in China is expected to maintain strong growth momentum, with the market size projected to reach approximately 6.979 billion yuan by 2030 [1][20]. - The market demand for PLA fiber will continue to expand due to increasing consumer environmental awareness and ongoing government support for the environmental industry [20]. Production Process - The production of PLA fiber involves extracting starch from biomass materials, fermenting it to produce lactic acid, and then polymerizing it into PLA, which is subsequently spun into fibers [8][10]. Industry Development History - The research and development of PLA fiber have a history of over half a century, with significant advancements made by various companies in the field, including those in China [12][22]. Industry Chain - The PLA fiber industry chain includes upstream raw materials (corn, wheat, etc.), midstream production processes, and downstream applications in textiles, medical devices, and packaging [14][16]. Key Companies - Major companies in the PLA fiber industry include Anhui Fengyuan Group, Ma'anshan Tongjie Liang Biological Materials Co., Ltd., and Zhejiang Haizheng Biological Materials Co., Ltd., among others [2][22][24]. Industry Trends - The PLA fiber industry is moving towards high performance, with a focus on enhancing heat resistance, mechanical strength, and functional properties through molecular structure modification and composite processing technologies [29]. - The application of PLA fiber is diversifying beyond textiles to include biodegradable wipes, medical dressings, and packaging materials, driven by the deepening "plastic ban" policies [30][31].