The non-woven fabrics market is experiencing significant global growth, with a projected increase from $51.31 billion in 2022 to $54.8 billion in 2023, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8%. Furthermore, the market is expected to reach $73.13 billion in 2027, with a CAGR of 7.5%.
Southeast Asia’s favorable demographics, economic conditions, and growing market penetration make it an attractive region for nonwovens growth. The presence of four global disposable hygiene product manufacturers in Southeast Asia further highlights its popularity as an export manufacturing base. Thailand stands out as a rapid-growth nucleus in the nonwoven market, with a strong 48% share, equivalent to 162,000 tons of capacity distributed among four major producers.2 Thailand is poised to house the largest concentration of spunbonded polypropylene capacity in Southeast Asia by 2023.
On the other hand, Thailand holds the distinction of being the largest automobile producer in Southeast Asia. In 2022, Thailand manufactured 1.88 million vehicles, highlighting its prowess in the automotive sector. With a concerted push towards the growth of the Electric Vehicle (EV) industry, experts project that annual vehicle production could surge beyond 1.9 million units.3 The application of nonwoven materials in automobile manufacturing underscores the substantial and burgeoning market in Thailand.