This study aims to analyze the effects on the profitability (net profit margin, return on assets and return on equity) of plastic companies by internal influences (current ratio, debt to equity ratio and total asset turnover) and external influences (exchange rate, petroleum price and inflation). The object of the research is the plastic industries registered in the Indonesian stock exchange with a total of 9 industries and in the period 2012-2017. The methodology used is descriptive quantitative research and causality with purposive sampling technique and panel data regression analysis. The results of this study indicate that the current ratio has a partially positive effect, particularly significant in terms of net profit margin. Current ratio and total asset turnover also have a partially positive effect, with significant return on assets. Debt to equity ratio partially has a partially negative effect, but a significant return on equity. Contribution/Originality: This study is one of very few that has investigated the causal relationship between internal and external influences on profitability. Consequently, it highlights the importance of identifying financial ratios and macroeconomics with a view to increasing profitability. There is considerable potential for development in the Indonesian plastics industry in Indonesia. It is a vital sector with upstream, intermediate, and downstream scope that is needed by many other industries, and has also a diverse product range. The number of companies in the plastics industry is currently 925, employing 37,327 workers, and producing 4.68 million tons of products. National demand has increased by five percent to 4.6 million tons in the last five years 1. As it develops, the plastics industry faces various challenges, including supply and demand for raw materials such as polyethylene and polypropylene. In 2014, domestic demand was 1.42 million tons