Market Definition
The composites market focuses on the production, distribution, and application of composite materials. Composites are engineered materials composed of two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties. The resulting material possesses properties that are different from those of its constituent elements and will typically exhibit a higher strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and design flexibility. The composites market encompasses raw material suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and end-users across sectors like aerospace, automotive, construction, wind energy, marine, and electronics.
Composites Market Overview
The global composites market size was valued at USD 45.76 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow from USD 47.53 billion in 2026 to USD 63.64 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.26% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily attributed to the increasing demand for lightweight and durable materials in various sectors such as aerospace, automotive, wind power, and construction, where the focus is on performance, fuel efficiency, and emission reduction. Furthermore, growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental regulations is prompting increased investments in recyclable and bio-based composite materials to align with industry and consumer trends, as well as sustainability-driven product requirements.
Major companies operating in the global composites market are TORAY INTERNATIONAL, INC., Solvay, Owens Corning, Hexcel Corporation, TEIJIN LIMITED, SGL Carbon, Mitsubishi Chemical Group of companies, China Jushi Co., Ltd., Saint-Gobain, BASF, TPI Composites, Inc., Gurit Services AG, Avient Corporation, TORAY INDUSTRIES, INC., and Nippon Electric Glass Co., Ltd.
Beyond traditional composite formulations, market players are actively innovating using advanced manufacturing techniques, including automated fiber placement, 3D printing, and smart composites incorporating sensors for real-time performance monitoring. Leading vendors are widening their offerings to include custom solutions for specific end-use applications, with a drive toward product differentiation and advanced capabilities that meet changing market needs.
- In October 2025, Airborne and FIDAMC formed a strategic partnership to advance automation in composite manufacturing. Their partnership focuses on developing scalable and efficient automation solutions for small to medium composite parts with the objective of improving productivity and reducing waste for future aerospace applications.
Key Highlights
- The global composites market size was USD 45.76 billion in 2025.
- The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.26% from 2026 to 2033.
- Asia Pacific held a market share of 40.50% in 2025, valued at USD 18.53 billion.
- The glass fiber segment garnered USD 36.20 billion in revenue in 2025.
- The injection molding segment is expected to reach USD 23.42 billion by 2033.
- The thermoplastic composites segment is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR of 5.77% over the forecast period.
- The automotive & transportation segment garnered USD 12.02 billion in revenue in 2025.
- The Middle East & Africa is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.50% through the projection period.
The automotive, aerospace, and wind energy industries are increasingly demanding materials that are significantly lighter and offer superior strength, which composites can deliver more effectively than traditional materials such as metal or wood.
Such a transition enables manufacturers to achieve improved fuel economy, lower emissions, and adhere to strict regulatory mandates. The market is anticipated to grow at a rapid pace, driven by the growing preference for advanced composite materials, as global trends continue to emphasize sustainability and operational efficiency.
- In November 2024, Daikin invested in Advanced Composite Corporation to promote the adoption of lightweight, high-strength aluminum composite materials for HVAC&R parts. Through this collaboration, the company aims to improve compressor efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and advance production technology, aligning with Daikin’s global open innovation and partnership strategy.
How do recycling and disposal issues hinder the growth of the composites market?
One of the major challenges impeding market progress is the recycling and disposal of composite materials. This issue is especially significant in the carbon fiber composite industry, where conventional carbon fiber-reinforced materials are difficult to recycle and reuse because of their complex structure and chemical composition. With the increase in the use of composites in various industrial sectors, concerns about landfill waste and the environment are also on the rise.
Regulatory pressure and growing consumer awareness are fueling the need for sustainable end-of-life solutions. Companies are investing in research to develop recyclable resins and bio-based composites. Furthermore, new recycling techniques such as mechanical grinding and chemical recovery are being explored to make composite waste management more efficient and environmentally friendly.
- In June 2025, Westlake Epoxy announced a partnership with Alpha Recyclage Composites to expand the recycling of carbon fiber composites. The partnership aims to create innovative, high-quality fibers from waste materials for the aerospace, automotive, and wind energy industries, promoting a circular economy and sustainability.
How is the development and adoption of sustainable and recyclable composites positively influencing the composites market?
The growing adoption and utilization of sustainable and recyclable composites are emerging as major market trends. With increasing environmental concerns and regulations, industries are transitioning to environmentally friendly materials that help reduce waste and support circular economy principles. The use of bio-based resins, natural fibers, and innovative manufacturing processes is increasing for the production of recyclable and environmentally friendly composites.
Corporate sustainability goals and rising consumer demand are boosting the adoption of sustainable composites across the automotive, construction, and consumer goods sectors. Continued R&D to create scalable solutions is expected to present new market opportunities and increase the adoption of sustainable composites.
- In June 2024, Airbus developed a bio-based helicopter panel using fibers derived from atmospheric CO₂ and conducted flight-testing on the H145 PioneerLab. The proof-of-concept shows that bio-derived composites can match conventional performance, opening a new pathway for decarbonizing aerospace manufacturing if supply chains and industrialization can scale effectively.
Composites Market Report Snapshot
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Segmentation
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Details
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By Fiber Type
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Glass Fiber, Carbon Fiber, Natural Fiber, and Others
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By Process
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Injection Molding, Lay-Up, Filament Winding, Compression Molding, Pultrusion, RTM, and Others
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By Resin Type
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Thermoset Composites and Thermoplastic Composites
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By End-Use Industry
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Automotive & Transportation, Construction & Infrastructure, Wind Energy, Electrical & Electronics, Aerospace & Defense, Sporting and Consumer Goods, Oil and Gas, Marine, and Others
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By Region
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North America: U.S., Canada, Mexico
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Europe: France, UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe
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Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia, ASEAN, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific
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Middle East & Africa: Turkey, U.A.E., Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa
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South America: Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America
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Market Segmentation
- By Fiber Type (Glass Fiber, Carbon Fiber, Natural Fiber, and Others): The glass fiber segment earned USD 36.20 billion in 2025, due to the high demand for lightweight reinforcement in industrial components. Its resistance to corrosion and ease of processing make it highly suitable for electrical insulation, marine products, and sports equipment, thus supporting segmental expansion.
- By Process (Injection Molding, Lay-Up, Filament Winding, Compression Molding, Pultrusion, RTM, and Others): The injection molding segment held a share of 35.10% in 2025, as it offers the ability to manufacture complex composite parts efficiently at low costs and with consistent quality in high volumes. It is particularly used in the automotive and consumer goods industries to produce complex components in shorter lead times and at lower production costs.
- By Resin Type (Thermoset Composites and Thermoplastic Composites): The thermoset composites segment is projected to be worth USD 35.53 billion by 2033, owing to their strong structural integrity, chemical resistance, and thermal stability. These composites are widely used in the aircraft industry, marine applications, and wind energy owing to the need for durability and resistance to harsh conditions, ensuring long-term performance and safety.
- By End-Use Industry (Automotive & Transportation, Construction & Infrastructure, Wind Energy, Electrical & Electronics, Aerospace & Defense, Marine, and Others): The aerospace & defense segment is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.97% through the projection period. This strong growth is driven by the use of advanced composites in aircraft and defense applications, where light weighting, fuel efficiency, and stringent safety requirements are critical, supporting adoption across a wide range of high-performance applications aligned with advanced industry standards.
What is the market scenario in Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa?
Based on region, the global composites market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South America.
Asia Pacific composites market share stood at 40.50% in 2025, with a valuation of USD 18.53 billion. This dominance is reinforced by the robust growth of its industrial sector, urbanization, and demand from key industries such as automotive, construction, and wind energy. Increasing investments in large-scale projects and a focus on lightweight, high-performance solutions have substantially propelled the demand for composites.
The presence of a strong manufacturing ecosystem and constant advancements in production technologies further support regional market growth. As industries in the region continue to emphasize innovation and efficiency, the region is expected to witness significant growth in the foreseeable future.
- In October 2025, Supacat formed a strategic alliance with CES Advanced Composites to strengthen its presence in the Asia-Pacific region. The partnership will provide innovative lightweight composite and ballistic protection solutions to support and engineer defense customers in the region.
The Middle East & Africa composites market is set to grow at a CAGR of 4.50% over the forecast period. This growth is supported by increasing infrastructure modernization, expanding construction activities, and rising focus on diversifying industrial sectors. The growth of composites in oil & gas, automotive, and water management applications is driven by its lightweight, corrosion-resistant properties, and durability.
Moreover, the adoption of composite solutions in renewable energy projects, especially wind and solar, is further adding to market growth. Strategic partnerships and investments in local manufacturing are enhancing technological capabilities, while educational initiatives and training programs are building expertise in advanced materials, contributing significantly to regional market growth.
- In June 2025, JEC signed a strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia’s OSP and IFC Promosalons to organize the first events dedicated to composites in the Middle East. This three-year collaboration aims to promote sustainable polymer solutions, industrial innovation, and international cooperation in Saudi Arabia’s diversifying economy.
Regulatory Frameworks
- In the U.S., the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) regulates the production, importation, and use of chemicals, including those used in composites. It aims to control hazardous substances and promote safer alternatives within the composites industry.
- In the European Union, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulates the use of chemicals in composite materials. It ensures that substances are manufactured and used safely, minimizing environmental and health risks associated with the composites market.
Competitive Landscape
The composites market is marked by the presence of established global players and new regional manufacturers. Competition among the major companies centers on innovation, product quality, and the ability to deliver cost-effective, high-performance solutions for a variety of end-use industries such as aerospace, automotive, and wind energy. Strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions are common as companies seek to enhance their product offerings and global footprint.
- In January 2026, CHOMARAT completed the acquisition of CTMI, broadening its expertise in high-performance textiles and composite materials. This merger enhances CHOMARAT’s technological offerings, especially in specialty fibers and pre-impregnation, boosting its position in strategic markets such as aerospace, defense, and space with a full, sovereign product range.
In addition, continuous investment in research and development is important to stay ahead of the competition, particularly with the growing demand for sustainable and recyclable composites. Customer preferences continue to change, and technology is constantly evolving, which keeps the market dynamic and competitive.
Key Companies In The Composites Market
- TORAY INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Solvay
- Owens Corning
- Hexcel Corporation
- TEIJIN LIMITED
- SGL Carbon
- Mitsubishi Chemical Group of companies
- China Jushi Co., Ltd.
- Saint-Gobain
- BASF
- TPI Composites, Inc.
- Gurit Services AG
- Avient Corporation
- TORAY INDUSTRIES, INC.
- Nippon Electric Glass Co., Ltd.
Recent Developments
- In May 2026, Toray Advanced Composites expanded NCAMP qualifications for its Cetex TC1225 LMPAEK composite system, adding uni-directional tape prepreg formats and broadening processing methods. This milestone enhances design versatility and supports faster aerospace adoption.
- In June 2026, Albany Engineered Composites announced that it would showcase advanced composite technologies at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026. AEC will showcase innovations in aerospace, defense, missiles, and space, featuring 3D-woven composites, filament winding, and metal replacement, underlining its leadership in lightweight, high-performance materials for the next generation of flight.
- In January 2026, BMW Group received the JEC Composites Innovation Award for using flax fiber composites in series-production automotive components. The successful development of this sustainable innovation, enabled by collaboration with partners, lowers CO₂e emissions by approximately 40% during the production phase, thereby establishing a new benchmark for sustainable materials for the industry and lightweight construction.
- In June 2025, Composite Recycling and Owens Corning announced a partnership to advance circular economy solutions for composite waste. The companies will work to incorporate reclaimed glass fibers from advanced recycling processes into Owens Corning’s products to minimize landfill waste, support sustainable manufacturing, and scale innovative recycling technologies in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction.
- In February 2026, Envalior highlighted advanced Tepex and UDea thermoplastic composites at JEC World 2026 for aviation and drones. The new composites offer high strength, low weight, excellent recyclability, and ease of bulk processing, enabling sustainable and high-performance materials to replace traditional thermoset materials in aerospace and mobility applications.
- In September 2025, BEML and Kineco entered into a strategic partnership to develop indigenous composite manufacturing for India’s defense and aerospace sectors. The partnership aims to collaboratively develop and manufacture advanced CFRP and GFRP structures, honeycomb cores, and composite components.
- In February 2026, Belotti and Moi Composites announced a partnership to develop manufacturing centers combining 3D printing and CNC milling for thermoset matrix composites. The partnership aims to increase speed, accuracy, and flexibility in the digital production of high-end composite components for aerospace, automotive, marine, and energy applications.
- In May 2025, Tata AutoComp and Katcon Global announced the formation of a joint venture in Mexico to manufacture advanced composite materials for the North American market. This partnership will provide innovative lightweight composite solutions to the automotive and other sectors, leveraging Tata’s technology and Katcon’s operational expertise extended across global markets.
- In May 2025, Syensqo and Vartega announced a collaboration to advance circularity in carbon fiber composites. Vartega will use Syensqo's carbon fiber waste to produce EasyFeed Bundles that will be incorporated into Syensqo's specialty polymers for automotive use, thereby improving the sustainability and carbon footprint of high-performance materials.
