The Evolving Value of the Polyester Value Chain

The global textile industry is at a transformative juncture. As consumer demands shift towards performance, sustainability, and affordability, Polyester Filament yarn- already the world's most widely used fibre-continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of textiles. The polyester value chain, from upstream petrochemicals to downstream fashion and technical applications, is poised for accelerated growth, driven by evolving end-use sectors, innovation, and global policy shifts.

- Sammir D. Dattani Executive Director, Sanathan Textiles Limited

Polyester's Expanding Dominance

Polyester accounts for nearly 54% of global fibre production, making it the most dominant fibre in the textile landscape. Its growth is propelled by advantages like durability, versatility, cost efficiency and adaptability to technological innovation such as moisture wicking, stretch, and flame-retardant finishes.

Future Market Insights projects that India's polyester fibre market will expand at a CAGR of around 5.6% from 2025 onward. Driven by the country's growing preference for synthetics and blended fabrics - particularly in activewear, home textiles, and technical textiles - the entire value chain is witnessing strong upward momentum across segments.

The Value Chain Dynamics

Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) and Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) are polymerised through a continuous polymerisation (CP) process to form polyester chips. These chips are further processed into polyester staple fibre (PSF), polyester filament yarn (PFY) through spinning, drawing, and texturising operations.

India's recent policy interventions, such as Production Linked Incentives (PLI) schemes and support for Mega Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel (MITRA) parks, are helping strengthen domestic capacities across the value chain. With players investing in integration, India is becoming more self-reliant in PTA and MEG production, thereby de-risking supply chains and improving cost competitiveness.

Growth Driver