Carboxylic Acid Market Size & Growth Analysis to 2030

The global carboxylic acid market size is anticipated to grow at a significant CAGR of over 5% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2030. The market is propelled by diverse factors across industries. Essential in food, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and polymer sectors, carboxylic acids serve as preservatives, pharmaceutical components, crop protectants, and polymer synthesis materials. Population growth and evolving dietary preferences contribute to the rising demand in the food industry, while healthcare needs drive pharmaceutical usage. In agriculture, carboxylic acids are employed for efficient crop protection, aligning with an expanding agricultural sector. Additionally, these acids play a role in polymer production, benefiting packaging and automotive industries. Environmental regulations and a focus on sustainability foster demand for bio-based carboxylic acids. Ongoing technological advancements and economic stability further influence market dynamics. The market’s responsiveness to consumer trends, such as the preference for natural products, underscores the importance of continuous monitoring for a nuanced understanding of this dynamic industry.

Market Snapshot:

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Market Drivers:

End-User Industries: Carboxylic acids serve diverse purposes in different industries, making them integral to the production processes in areas such as food preservation, pharmaceutical formulation, agricultural crop protection, and polymer synthesis.

Food and Beverage Industry: In the food and beverage sector, carboxylic acids are utilized for their preservative properties and ability to enhance flavors. As global populations increase and dietary preferences evolve, the demand for processed and preserved foods, in turn, propels the need for carboxylic acids.

Pharmaceutical Industry: Carboxylic acids find applications in drug formulation and synthesis within the pharmaceutical industry. The growing healthcare needs of populations, especially in aging societies, contribute to the increasing demand for pharmaceutical products and, consequently, carboxylic acids.

Agricultural Sector: The agricultural industry employs carboxylic acids, particularly certain derivatives, as components in herbicides and pesticides. The expansion of agriculture and the pursuit of efficient crop protection methods drive the demand for these compounds.

Polymers and Plastics Industry: Certain carboxylic acids play a role in the production of polymers and plastics. Industries reliant on these materials, such as packaging and automotive manufacturing, contribute to the demand for carboxylic acids.

Environmental Regulations: Stringent environmental regulations and growing environmental consciousness influence the market by fostering a demand for bio-based and environmentally friendly alternatives. Carboxylic acids that align with sustainable practices may experience increased demand.

Technological Advancements: Ongoing technological advancements in the production and application of carboxylic acids impact the market. Innovations in production methods, catalysis, and the discovery of new applications contribute to the industry’s evolution.

Consumer Trends: Shifting consumer preferences, such as the increasing demand for natural and organic products, have implications for the type of carboxylic acids used in various applications. Manufacturers respond to these trends by incorporating suitable acids into their products.

Market Insights:

Market Analysis by Product:

The global carboxylic acid market is bifurcated into product type, end-use, and geography. On the basis of product type, the market is further segmented into acetic acid, valeric acid, isovaleric acid, formic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, citric acid, caproic acid, stearic acid, and others. The acetic acid and citric acid segments are estimated to hold the largest revenue share of the global market in 2022. Acetic acid is a major player in the carboxylic acid market due to its versatile applications. It is a key component in the production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), which is widely used in the manufacturing of polymers and adhesives. Additionally, acetic acid is used in the food industry, textiles, and chemicals. Its broad spectrum of applications contributes to its prominence in the market. Citric acid is another dominant segment, particularly in the food and beverage industry. It is extensively used as an acidulant and flavoring agent in various food and beverage products. Its natural origin and safe properties make it a preferred choice for many applications, contributing to its widespread use in the food industry.

Acetic Acid: As a widely used organic acid, acetic acid finds applications in numerous industries, including textiles, chemicals, and food production.

Valeric Acid: Valeric acid, with its distinct properties, serves various purposes, including its use in flavoring agents and pharmaceutical applications.

Isovaleric Acid: Isovaleric acid is known for its characteristic odor and is employed in the production of perfumes and as a flavoring agent.

Formic Acid: Formic acid, a simple carboxylic acid, is utilized in diverse applications, including leather processing, textiles, and as a preservative.

Propionic Acid: Propionic acid is commonly used as a preservative in the food industry and plays a role in the production of various chemicals.

Butyric Acid: With applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries, butyric acid is known for its distinctive odor and taste.

Isobutyric Acid: Isobutyric acid, an isomer of butyric acid, has applications in the production of solvents and flavoring agents.

Citric Acid: Widely recognized for its use in the food and beverage industry, citric acid is a key component in soft drinks and food preservation.

Caproic Acid: Caproic acid, known for its fatty acid properties, is used in the production of esters for flavors and fragrances.

Stearic Acid: Stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid, has applications in the production of cosmetics, candles, and pharmaceuticals.

Others: This category may encompass various carboxylic acids with diverse applications, contributing to the overall market dynamics.

Market Analysis by End-Use:

On the basis of end-use, the global carboxylic acid market is further segmented into food and beverages, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, personal care and cosmetics, consumer goods, lubricants, others. The food and beverage segment dominated the market in the benchmark year 2022 and anticipated to grow at the same trend over the forecast period by 2030. Citric acid, acetic acid, and other carboxylic acids find extensive use as preservatives, acidulants, and flavor enhancers in a multitude of food and beverage products. Citric acid, in particular, is widely utilized in the production of soft drinks and other processed foods. The demand for natural and organic ingredients in the food industry also contributes to the significance of carboxylic acids in this segment. The dominance of this segment is driven by the essential roles carboxylic acids play in food preservation, flavor enhancement, and formulation, meeting the growing demands of the global food and beverage industry.

Food and Beverages: Carboxylic acids, such as citric acid and acetic acid, play a crucial role in the food and beverage industry. They are used as preservatives, acidulants, and flavor enhancers in a wide range of products, including soft drinks, jams, and sauces.

Animal Feed: Some carboxylic acids, like formic acid and propionic acid, are used in animal feed to enhance preservation, inhibit mold growth, and improve feed efficiency. These acids contribute to the overall health and productivity of livestock.

Pharmaceuticals: Carboxylic acids are essential in pharmaceuticals for drug formulation and synthesis. They serve as building blocks for various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and are integral in the pharmaceutical manufacturing process.

Personal Care and Cosmetics: Carboxylic acids find applications in personal care products and cosmetics. They are used in formulations for skincare, haircare, and hygiene products, contributing to the stability and performance of these formulations.

Consumer Goods: Carboxylic acids are employed in the production of various consumer goods. For example, stearic acid is used in the manufacturing of candles, soaps, and detergents, contributing to the texture and stability of these products.

Lubricants: Some carboxylic acids, particularly long-chain fatty acids such as stearic acid, are used in the production of lubricants. These acids contribute to the formulation of greases and lubricating oils.

Others: The “Others” category may include diverse applications, such as the use of carboxylic acids in textiles, plastics, and chemical synthesis. The versatility of carboxylic acids allows for a wide range of applications across different industries.

The carboxylic acid market research report presents the analysis of each segment from 2020 to 2030 considering 2022 as the base year for the research. The compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) for each respective segment is calculated for the forecast period from 2023 to 2030.

Historical & Forecast Period

• 2020-21 – Historical Year
• 2022 – Base Year
• 2023-2030 – Forecast Period

Market Segmentation:

By Product Type:

• Acetic Acid
• Valeric Acid
• Isovaleric Acid
• Formic Acid
• Propionic Acid
• Butyric Acid
• Isobutyric Acid
• Citric Acid
• Caproic Acid
• Stearic Acid
• Others

By End-Use:

• Food and Beverages
• Animal Feed
• Pharmaceuticals
• Personal Care and Cosmetics
• Consumer Goods
• Lubricants
• Others

By Region:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

Regional Analysis:

Geographically, the Asia Pacific dominated the global carboxylic acid market in 2022 and expected to maintain its dominance over the forecast period from 2023 to 2030. The Asia-Pacific region, driven by robust industrialization and population growth, has witnessed significant demand for carboxylic acids. China, in particular, is a major player, both as a producer and consumer of carboxylic acids. The region’s dominance is attributed to its leading position in diverse industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.

In the food industry, the demand for carboxylic acids for food preservation and flavor enhancement aligns with the region’s flourishing processed food sector. Additionally, the pharmaceutical industry’s expansion contributes to the consumption of carboxylic acids in drug formulation. Furthermore, the growing economies, coupled with increased manufacturing activities and a rising middle-class population, further fuel the demand for carboxylic acids. The presence of key market players and supportive regulatory environments for industrial growth in countries like India and China solidifies Asia-Pacific’s dominance.

Competitive Assessment:

Some of the prominent market players operating in the global carboxylic acid market are BASF SE, Celanese Corporation, Eastman Chemical Company, The Dow Chemical Company, and LyondellBasell Industries N.V. Companies are exploring markets by expansion, new investment, the introduction of new services, and collaboration as their preferred strategies. Players are exploring new geography through expansion and acquisition to gain a competitive advantage through joint synergy.

Recent Developments:

• In 2023, Lanxess AG expands its production capacity for acetic acid at its site in Antwerp, Belgium, to cater to the increasing demand for the product in various industries, particularly in the production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM).
• In 2023, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany launches a new range of carboxylic acid-based solvents under the EMFOR brand, targeting sustainable applications in the electronics and semiconductor industries.
• In 2023, Sasol Limited partners with Avantium to develop a bio-based platform for the production of carboxylic acids from renewable feedstocks, aiming to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and produce more sustainable chemicals.
• In 2022, BASF SE expands its acetic acid production capacity at its Verbund site in Ludwigshafen, Germany, to meet growing demand for the product in various applications, including pharmaceuticals, plastics, and adhesives.
• In 2022, Eastman Chemical Company introduces Naftalyte, a bio-based carboxylic acid produced from renewable resources, targeting sustainable applications in the personal care and cosmetics industry.
• In 2022, Perstorp Holding AB announces the commercialization of Voxtar, a bio-based pentaerythritol (PET) produced from renewable feedstocks, replacing fossil fuel-based PET in various applications, including resins and coatings.

Key Companies:

• BASF SE (Germany)
• Celanese Corporation (United States)
• Eastman Chemical Company (United States)
• The Dow Chemical Company (United States)
• LyondellBasell Industries N.V. (Netherlands)
• OXEA GmbH (Germany)
• Perstorp Holding AB (Sweden)
• Thirumalai Chemicals Ltd. (India)
• Alfa Aesar (United States)
• Ashok Alco-chem Limited (India)
• Finetech Industry Limited (China)

Key Questions Answered by Carboxylic Acid Market Report

• Global carboxylic acid market forecasts from 2023-2030
• Regional market forecasts from 2023-2030 covering Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America
• Country-level forecasts from 2023-2030 covering 15 major countries from the regions as mentioned above
• Carboxylic acid submarket forecasts from 2023-2030 covering the market by product type, end-use, and geography
• Various industry models such as SWOT analysis, Value Chain Analysis about the market
• Analysis of the key factors driving and restraining the growth of the global, regional, and country-level carboxylic acid markets from 2023-2030
• Competitive Landscape and market positioning of top 10 players operating in the market