3D printing plastic market size | Growth Trends & Industry Report

Q: What is the current size and forecast of the 3D printing metal market?

The market was valued at USD 3.17 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 11.42 billion by 2031 at a CAGR of 19.8%.

Q: Which industries are leading adopters?

Aerospace, automotive, medical, and industrial manufacturing are the top users of metal 3D printing.

Q: What drives metal 3D printing demand?

Lightweight design needs, reduced waste, rapid part customization, and tooling replacement efficiency.

Q: What are the challenges in metal 3D printing?

High material and equipment costs, post-processing needs, and regulatory barriers in critical sectors.

Q: How does 6W market outlook report help businesses in making decisions?

6W monitors the market across 60+ countries Globally, publishing an annual market outlook report that analyses trends, key drivers, Size, Volume, Revenue, opportunities, and market segments. This report offers comprehensive insights, helping businesses understand market dynamics and make informed decisions.

Q: Do you also provide customisation in the market study?

Yes, we provide customisation as per your requirements. To learn more, feel free to contact us on sales@6wresearch.com

Code: MTA4835

Publication Date: Jul 2025

How big is the 3D Printing Plastic Market?

According to 6Wresearch internal database and industry insights, the Global 3D printing plastic market was valued at approximately USD 1.98 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 5.27 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 14.9% during the forecast period.

This growth is driven by increasing demand for rapid prototyping, growing use of functional plastic parts, and advancements in sustainable, high-performance polymer materials.

Key Growth Drivers of the 3D Printing Plastic Market

A boom in automotive demands, consumer goods, and healthcare industries
Rampant application in prototypes, tooling and very low quantity end-use parts
Innovation of high-performance polymers such as PEEK, PETG and carbon fiber composites
Low cost and multifunction of FDM and SLA 3D printers between the SMEs and recreational builders
Interest in sustainability that results in biodegraded and recycled plastics filaments growth

3D Printing Plastic Market Trends

3D printing plastic market is experiencing increasing use of composite and engineering-grade plastics for high-stress applications. PLA, ABS, and PETG continue to dominate desktop and professional printing, while medical-grade polymers gain traction in biocompatible applications. There’s a growing trend toward color customization, post-processing enhancement, and hybrid use of plastic with metal inserts for stronger parts.

Emerging Developments in the 3D Printing Plastic Market

New technologies are plant-derived and degradable thermoplastics, electrically conductive thermoplastics to print embedded electronics in a product, and antimicrobial plastic materials in healthcare printing. 3D printing dictates connected to cloud and AI slicing programs are helping to streamline the design process and waste less. UV-resistant plastics, as well as multi-material extrusion, are also growing application in outdoor and industry.