Flexible Pipes Market By Application (Offshore Oil & Gas, Onshore Oil & Gas, Water & Wastewater, Industrial); By Material Type (Thermoplastics, Reinforced Thermoplastic Pipes, Steel-Reinforced Flexible Pipes); By End User (Oil & Gas Companies, Utilities, Industrial Operators, Municipal Authorities); By Geography, Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Flexible Pipes Market is poised for significant growth through 2030, with an CAGR of 5.9%, an estimated value of $1.8 billion in 2024, and a projection to reach close to $2.7 billion by 2030, according to Strategic Market Research.

 

Flexible pipes are now essential across oil and gas, chemical processing, water management, and offshore engineering. As infrastructure ages and operators face harsher conditions, the move from rigid, traditional pipework to flexible systems has become a strategic necessity.

 

Throughout 2024 and beyond, three forces shape the market’s relevance. First, the oil and gas sector is drilling deeper and operating in more challenging environments, requiring solutions that can withstand pressure, movement, and corrosive fluids. Second, urban water utilities and industrial facilities are searching for systems that minimize leaks, allow for rapid deployment, and last longer—especially as city populations and industrial hubs expand. Third, the emphasis on sustainability is starting to reshape materials and design, with more end users asking for recyclable polymers, lower emissions in production, and options to embed digital monitoring technology.

 

Flexible pipes do more than move fluids from point A to B. They absorb vibrations on offshore rigs, adapt to shifting ground, and can be deployed quickly in challenging landscapes. Recent designs use advanced composites—layered polymers, metal reinforcements, and chemical barriers—to balance flexibility, strength, and chemical resistance. The technology is a far cry from the simple thermoplastics of decades past.

 

Today, compliance and performance expectations are rising. Regulatory agencies in regions like the North Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and Brazil are setting higher standards for pipeline safety, emissions, and monitoring. Digital twins, remote diagnostics, and early leak detection are being integrated into some premium offerings, giving operators new ways to track asset health and cut downtime.

 

Key stakeholders in this market include OEMs, energy operators, EPC contractors, water authorities, industrial manufacturers, infrastructure investors, and regulators. There is also a visible trend toward partnership—between pipe makers, digital solution providers, and large engineering firms—as projects get bigger and more complex.

 

Looking ahead to 2030, the flexible pipes market will be defined by its ability to adapt—whether that means handling more demanding energy projects, supporting the shift to renewable sources, or enabling better control and monitoring across a growing network of global assets.

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The flexible pipes market is structured across multiple dimensions, each reflecting distinct operational requirements, regulatory environments, and investment priorities. Segmentation by application, material type, end user, and region provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how demand is evolving and where the most attractive growth opportunities are likely to emerge through 2030.

A clear understanding of these segmentation layers is essential for stakeholders seeking to evaluate market dynamics, allocate capital effectively, and align product development strategies with future demand trends.

By Application

• Offshore Oil and Gas : Flexible pipes have their strongest and most established presence in offshore oil and gas operations, where they are widely used for subsea flowlines, risers, and jumpers. These applications require pipes that can withstand high internal pressures, corrosive hydrocarbons, and constant dynamic movement caused by waves and currents. In 2024, offshore oil and gas applications are estimated to account for approximately 38% of total market share.

• Onshore Oil and Gas : Onshore energy projects utilize flexible pipes for gathering lines, temporary bypass systems, and enhanced oil recovery operations. Their ease of installation and resistance to corrosion make them an attractive alternative to rigid steel pipes in challenging terrains.

• Water and Wastewater Management : Flexible pipes are gaining momentum in municipal and industrial water systems, particularly for wastewater transport, desalination plants, and urban water infrastructure upgrades. Their ability to accommodate ground movement makes them suitable for regions prone to seismic activity or soil instability.

• Chemical and Industrial Transport : In chemical processing plants and mining operations, flexible pipes are increasingly used to transport aggressive chemicals and slurries. Chemical resistance and ease of maintenance are key drivers supporting adoption in this segment.

 

By Material Type

• Thermoplastic Pipes : This category includes materials such as polyamide, polyethylene, and PVDF. Thermoplastic flexible pipes are favored for their low weight, corrosion resistance, and excellent chemical compatibility, making them well-suited for water, chemical, and low-to-medium pressure applications.

• Reinforced Thermoplastic Pipes (RTP) : RTP systems combine thermoplastic liners with fiber or composite reinforcements, offering higher pressure tolerance while retaining flexibility. These pipes are increasingly used in onshore oil and gas and industrial applications where performance requirements exceed standard thermoplastics.

• Steel-Reinforced Flexible Pipes : Designed for demanding offshore and high-pressure environments, steel-reinforced flexible pipes provide superior mechanical strength and durability. Although more expensive, they remain critical for deepwater and harsh oil and gas projects.

 

By End User

• Oil and Gas Producers : Energy companies remain the largest consumers of flexible pipes, particularly in offshore developments. Continued investment in subsea infrastructure supports steady demand from this segment.

• Water Utilities : Municipal and regional water authorities are emerging as one of the fastest-growing end-user groups, driven by aging infrastructure replacement and increased focus on resilient water systems.

• Industrial Manufacturers : Industries such as chemicals, mining, and power generation are adopting flexible pipes to improve reliability and reduce maintenance costs in fluid transport systems.

• Municipal Authorities : Local governments and public infrastructure agencies are deploying flexible pipes in urban development projects, drainage systems, and wastewater networks.

 

By Region

• North America : North America leads the market in terms of installed base, supported by extensive offshore oil and gas operations and ongoing onshore pipeline investments. The region also shows growing adoption in water and industrial applications.

• Europe : Europe remains a center for offshore engineering expertise, particularly in the North Sea. Strong regulatory standards and innovation in subsea technologies continue to shape demand for advanced flexible pipe solutions.

• Asia Pacific : Asia Pacific is rapidly closing the gap with North America, driven by aggressive infrastructure spending in China, India, and Southeast Asia. Expansion of water infrastructure and industrial capacity is fueling strong growth.

• Latin America, Middle East, and Africa (LAMEA) : The LAMEA region is witnessing increasing investment in water infrastructure and selective offshore energy projects. Middle Eastern countries, in particular, are prioritizing water security and urban development.

 

The forecast scope for this market spans 2024 to 2030 and encompasses all major regions, material categories, applications, and end-user groups. While mature segments such as offshore oil and gas will continue to provide a stable revenue base, faster expansion is expected in water management, industrial fluid transport, and chemical applications as infrastructure modernization accelerates globally.

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

Flexible pipes are in the middle of a quiet transformation, driven by advances in both materials science and digital integration. What started as a solution for hard-to-reach oilfields is now spreading into infrastructure, utilities, and new energy projects—all thanks to a steady wave of innovation.

One of the most noticeable trends is the adoption of multi-layered composite pipes. These combine thermoplastics, high-strength steel wires, and chemical-resistant barriers, all engineered to handle greater pressures and more corrosive substances. Manufacturers are continually tweaking designs—adding better insulation, reducing weight, and increasing the pipes’ ability to withstand movement and vibration. This engineering arms race is especially visible in the offshore sector, where every extra year of pipe life directly impacts the economics of a well.

 

Another key development is the growing focus on sustainability. New flexible pipes often use recyclable or lower-carbon materials, and some projects are piloting bio-based polymers to reduce the environmental footprint. This isn’t just for show—buyers, especially in Europe and parts of Asia, are increasingly asking for evidence of lifecycle impact. These requirements are starting to influence procurement decisions in major infrastructure and utility tenders.

 

Digitization is also changing the landscape. More flexible pipes now come with embedded sensors that track flow, pressure, and even early signs of leaks or fatigue. These “smart pipes” feed data into asset management platforms, allowing operators to move from reactive to predictive maintenance. It’s not just the oil majors—large water utilities and chemical plants are also piloting these systems, hoping to reduce downtime and cut costs.

 

Innovation in installation is another important area. Contractors and EPC firms are pushing for pipes that are easier to spool, transport, and connect. There’s a visible uptick in factory-pre-assembled systems that reduce on-site labor and speed up project delivery. For regions with a shortage of skilled labor or tough site access, these features can make or break a project timeline.

 

The last few years have also seen more strategic alliances. Material suppliers, digital tech firms, and pipe manufacturers are working together to develop “total solution” packages—combining hardware, software, and service. This shift helps end users deal with tightening project timelines and regulatory requirements without juggling multiple vendors.

Looking ahead, the market will likely see even tighter integration between materials science and digital diagnostics, making flexible pipes smarter, more durable, and more sustainable by default.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

Competition in the flexible pipes market is defined by a handful of established multinationals and a growing set of regional players. The market’s leaders have built strong reputations by consistently delivering performance in the harshest offshore oilfields, but the dynamics are shifting as demand broadens into utilities, chemicals, and new energy applications.

TechnipFMC is widely recognized as one of the pioneers in flexible pipe technology, with a global footprint and a dominant position in offshore energy projects. The company’s edge lies in its ability to offer engineered solutions for both shallow and deepwater applications. Over the last few years, TechnipFMC has doubled down on integrated project delivery, offering not just pipes, but also installation, monitoring, and maintenance as a bundled service. This “one-stop-shop” model is proving popular with oil majors and national energy companies.

 

NOV Inc. (National Oilwell Varco) has staked its claim on both the technology and cost-efficiency fronts. Their portfolio includes a wide range of flexible and composite pipe solutions aimed at the upstream sector, but NOV is also making inroads into industrial water and mining. Their recent focus has been on lowering the total cost of ownership for operators, including improvements in corrosion resistance and modular design.

 

Prysmian Group brings deep expertise in materials science and cable manufacturing, allowing it to diversify into flexible pipes for both energy and industrial uses. The company’s European base gives it a strong position in offshore wind, subsea power, and the growing market for hydrogen and carbon capture projects. Prysmian’s R&D teams are actively working on pipes that are lighter, easier to install, and more compatible with next-generation energy carriers.

 

Shawcor is a key player known for its emphasis on protective coatings and pipeline integrity solutions. While traditionally focused on conventional pipelines, Shawcor has expanded its offerings to include flexible composite pipes for chemical, water, and oilfield services. The company’s strength lies in product reliability and its network of technical support centers across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.

 

Soluforce (part of Pipelife Group) has carved out a strong niche in thermoplastic composite pipes, especially for water, mining, and chemical applications. They’re recognized for easy-to-install systems and an ability to serve remote sites—attributes that have helped them win contracts in Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia.

 

FlexSteel Pipeline Technologies is another company making waves in the North American market. Their steel-reinforced flexible pipes are popular in unconventional oil and gas operations and are being adopted by water utilities for rapid deployment and leak prevention.

 

A few trends stand out in the competitive landscape: Many companies are pursuing partnerships with digital solution providers to embed smart diagnostics into their products. Regional manufacturers in Asia and the Middle East are gaining ground by offering lower-cost alternatives for municipal and industrial buyers. At the high end, major players are focusing on integrated solutions and lifecycle service contracts—shifting the conversation from product sales to long-term performance.

The flexible pipes market isn’t just about who can make a pipe; it’s about who can deliver reliability, speed, and value in increasingly complex projects.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

Flexible pipe adoption looks very different depending on where you are in the world. Growth, innovation, and investment patterns all vary by region—and so do the hurdles. In some markets, flexible pipes are already the norm; in others, they’re just starting to displace old-school steel and concrete.

In North America, the market remains anchored by oil and gas—especially offshore projects in the Gulf of Mexico and onshore shale fields. Operators here value flexible pipes for their speed of deployment, ability to handle movement, and lower maintenance costs. There’s also a noticeable uptick in adoption by municipal water utilities, particularly in the U.S. Sun Belt, where cities are scrambling to update aging infrastructure without tearing up streets for months. Access to advanced manufacturing, technical support, and strict regulatory oversight makes this region a continued leader in reliability and new technology adoption.

 

Europe has carved out a unique position, driven by its mature offshore energy sector in the North Sea and growing commitment to sustainability. The region’s strict environmental standards, combined with a dense web of aging pipelines, has made flexible pipes a preferred option for upgrades and replacements. European countries are also at the forefront of integrating smart sensors and digital monitoring into pipeline networks. In addition, the region’s big push into offshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon capture is opening up new opportunities for flexible pipe applications. Eastern Europe is a mixed story—some markets are advancing rapidly, while others still rely on traditional infrastructure due to cost pressures.

 

Asia Pacific is, without a doubt, the fastest-growing region for flexible pipes. Countries like China, India, and Australia are pouring money into new energy, mining, and municipal water projects. Rapid urbanization is driving demand for pipes that can be installed quickly, last longer, and adapt to seismic activity. The need for flexible solutions is especially clear in coastal megacities and earthquake-prone areas. While most innovation still comes from Europe and North America, regional players in China and Southeast Asia are starting to emerge, often targeting government-funded infrastructure projects with cost-effective solutions.

 

Latin America, Middle East, and Africa (LAMEA) present a more fragmented but intriguing picture. In Latin America, flexible pipes are gaining ground in both offshore oil and water management, especially in Brazil and Mexico. Middle Eastern countries are increasingly adopting these systems for both oilfield expansion and large-scale desalination projects. Africa, meanwhile, is at an earlier stage—adoption is most visible in mining and urban water supply, where flexible pipes help overcome tough geography and resource limitations. Across the LAMEA region, project financing and access to technical expertise are the two big variables affecting growth rates.

 

In summary, regional leaders are shaped by a mix of regulatory standards, infrastructure needs, and the pace of industrialization. North America and Europe drive technical innovation and reliability, while Asia Pacific is pushing the boundaries on volume and urban deployment. The LAMEA region is where flexible pipes can make the biggest leap, provided there’s support for training and investment.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

Flexible pipes serve a wide range of end users, and what they want from these systems can differ sharply depending on the sector, the size of their operations, and where they’re located. Oil and gas companies are still the dominant buyers, but other groups—like municipal utilities, mining operations, and industrial manufacturers—are steadily increasing their share.

In the oil and gas sector, flexible pipes are prized for their ability to handle tough environments and reduce downtime. Offshore platforms, for instance, rely on these pipes for risers and flowlines that must flex with ocean currents and platform movement. Operators need pipes that install quickly, adapt to challenging seabed topography, and minimize the risk of leaks. Onshore, especially in unconventional fields, speed of deployment and easy maintenance are major priorities.

 

Municipal water utilities are turning to flexible pipes to modernize aging networks, particularly in cities with shifting soils or a history of frequent leaks. These pipes can often be installed using trenchless methods, meaning roads and sidewalks stay intact. For cash-strapped city governments, the long-term savings on repairs and water loss can be a strong selling point.

 

In industrial settings, including chemical plants and mining operations, flexible pipes are valued for their resistance to corrosion and harsh fluids. These environments often see frequent equipment moves and system changes, so being able to re-route or replace piping with minimal downtime is crucial.

 

To illustrate the impact, consider this scenario: A large water utility in Southeast Asia was struggling with chronic leaks and service interruptions due to ground movement and pipe corrosion. The utility decided to pilot a section of flexible, multilayered composite pipes designed for high-pressure water transmission. Installation was done using a trenchless pull-through method, minimizing surface disruption and completing the project weeks ahead of schedule. Six months after commissioning, water loss rates in the upgraded section had dropped by more than 30 percent, and unplanned maintenance calls were cut in half. The utility is now expanding its use of flexible pipes for other vulnerable sections of its network.

Bottom line: end users value flexible pipes for different reasons—some for reliability under harsh conditions, others for ease of installation and long-term cost savings. But across all sectors, the push is for solutions that reduce risk, support fast project delivery, and adapt to changing needs.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (Last 2 Years)

• Leading manufacturers have launched next-generation composite flexible pipes with integrated sensor cables for real-time monitoring of pressure, temperature, and early leak detection.

• A major partnership between an EPC contractor and a flexible pipe OEM enabled the delivery of a fully pre-fabricated offshore riser system to a North Sea operator, reducing installation time by nearly 40 percent.

• Several Asian governments, including those in India and China, have started pilot programs using flexible pipes for rapid municipal water upgrades in high-density cities.

• Select utilities in the Middle East adopted flexible, corrosion-resistant pipes for new large-scale desalination projects, focusing on both long-term durability and lower maintenance costs.

• Industry players are testing bio-based and recyclable thermoplastics in pipe manufacturing, with the first commercial deployments beginning in Europe’s urban water markets.

 

Opportunities

• Expansion into emerging markets, where urbanization and water scarcity are creating new demand for flexible, durable piping solutions.

• Growth in renewable energy and hydrogen infrastructure, both of which require high-spec, chemical-resistant flexible pipes.

• Adoption of digital technologies—integrated sensors, asset management software, and predictive maintenance tools—to improve pipeline reliability and reduce operational costs.

 

Restraints

• High initial capital costs compared to traditional pipe systems, making it harder for small operators and cash-strapped utilities to invest.

• Limited technical workforce and training resources in some regions, which can slow down the adoption of advanced flexible pipe technologies.

 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	$1.8 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	$2.7 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 5.9% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Application, By Material Type, By End User, By Geography
By Application	Offshore Oil & Gas, Onshore Oil & Gas, Water & Wastewater, Industrial (Chemical, Mining)
By Material Type	Thermoplastics, Reinforced Thermoplastic Pipes, Steel-Reinforced Flexible Pipes
By End User	Oil & Gas Companies, Utilities, Industrial Operators, Municipal Authorities
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Country Scope	U.S., Canada, UK, Germany, China, India, Brazil, GCC, etc.
Market Drivers	- Rapid offshore energy development - Urban infrastructure upgrades - Innovation in materials and digital monitoring
Customization Option	Available upon request