Purpose. To identify organizational, operation, and development peculiarities of the global value chains in the chemical industry. Methodology. Tools of analysis and synthesis, generalization and scientific abstraction were applied to classify the world economy branches in terms of indices of value chain length and its geographical distribution while determining features of global value chain organization in the context of paint and coatings sector of the chemical industry; and static, economic, and comparative analyses were applied to define and interpret amounts of the value multiplier. Findings. Global value chains in the context of the chemical industry are studied. It has been identified that they are of more pronounced regional nature; moreover, their development is based upon a principle of approximation to a consumer. Distribution of the value within such chains is of dispersed nature; in addition, they differ in high length. The global value chains are analysed at the level of certain companies in paint and coatings sector of the chemical industry. Such chains are referred to a producer-driven type. It has been defined that they are characterized by heavy expenses associated with R&D as well as composition of paints and other coatings. The majority of production activities, implemented throughout the world, are performed by industrial manufacturers. It has been defined that the chains are developed generally as horizontally integrated structures. The major players in the paint and coatings market actively put into practice merger and acquisition strategies to extend supply chains and increase regional share. Computation of value multiplier helped prove that vertically integrated companies can generate greater value to compare with the companies which function and grow following the principles of horizontal integration. Originality. The paper substantiates scientific methodological approach to the analysis of the global value chains in the context of chemical industry which made it possible to single out characteristic features of their organization and functioning. Practical value. Determination of peculiarities of organizing the global value chains helps select possible management methods and tools which will make it possible to improve their functioning efficiency as well as their future progress potentials.