Disclosed is a novel polymeric composite including a nanoparticle filler and method for the production thereof. More particularly, the present invention provides a novel halloysite nanoparticle filler which has the generally cylindrical or tubular (e.g. rolled scroll-like shape), in which the mean outer diameter of the filler particle is typically less than about 500 nm. The filler is effectively employed in a polymer composite in which the advantages of the tubular nanoparticle filler are provided (e.g., reinforcement, flame retardant, chemical agent elution, etc.) with improved or equivalent mechanical performance of the composite (e.g., strength and ductility).