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Add to CartGlobal Maleic Anhydride Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Raw Material;
Benzene, and N-Butane.By Application;
Unsaturated Polymer Resin (UPR), 1-4, Butanediol (BDO), Additives, Copolymers, and Others.By End-User;
Construction, Automotive, Food & Beverages, Textile, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, Agriculture, and Others.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Maleic Anhydride Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Maleic Anhydride Market was valued at USD 3,030.50 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 4,053.34 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.2%.
The global maleic anhydride market plays a pivotal role in the chemical industry, serving as a key intermediate in the production of various chemicals used across multiple industries. Maleic anhydride, primarily derived from the oxidation of benzene or butane, is a versatile compound with widespread applications in automotive, construction, agriculture, and food sectors. As a precursor for numerous chemical derivatives such as unsaturated polyester resins (UPR), plasticizers, and lubricants, the demand for maleic anhydride has witnessed steady growth, spurred by ongoing industrial advancements and increasing consumption of end-use products globally.
The market is driven by the escalating demand for unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs), a key application for maleic anhydride, in sectors like construction, automotive, and marine. These resins are essential for the production of fiberglass-reinforced materials used in the construction of vehicles, boats, and building materials. Additionally, maleic anhydride is extensively used in the production of plasticizers, which are crucial for enhancing the flexibility of plastics, further driving market growth. The expanding infrastructure development, particularly in emerging economies, and the rising adoption of composite materials in industries such as transportation, construction, and electrical appliances are expected to bolster market prospects.
Technological advancements in production processes and a growing shift towards eco-friendly products have also influenced the global maleic anhydride market. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on improving production efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The development of bio-based maleic anhydride, produced from renewable resources, has gained attention as a sustainable alternative to traditional methods. As sustainability becomes a priority across industries, the preference for bio-based and green chemicals is expected to foster growth in the market, opening new opportunities for innovation and reducing dependency on fossil-derived feedstocks.
Geographically, the global maleic anhydride market is experiencing significant growth in regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Asia-Pacific, driven by rapidly developing countries like China and India, is the largest consumer of maleic anhydride, owing to robust industrialization, rising construction activities, and the increasing use of composites in various sectors. Meanwhile, North America and Europe continue to be key players due to the mature automotive and construction industries. The market dynamics in these regions are further shaped by regulatory frameworks, environmental concerns, and the shift toward cleaner and more efficient production technologies. The overall market outlook remains positive, with continued demand from diverse industries and innovation in sustainable manufacturing processes.
Global Maleic Anhydride Market Recent Developments
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In February 2022, increased adoption of maleic anhydride in the automotive sector was observed, driven by its role in producing high,performance unsaturated polyester resins for lightweight vehicle components.
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In October 2023, a chemical company unveiled bio,based maleic anhydride derived from renewable feedstocks, addressing sustainability concerns and reducing dependence on petroleum,based production methods.
Segment Analysis
The global maleic anhydride market is segmented based on raw materials, applications, end-users, and geography. In terms of raw materials, the two primary segments are benzene and n-butane. Benzene-based maleic anhydride is widely used due to its cost-effectiveness and well-established production processes. On the other hand, n-butane-based maleic anhydride is gaining traction due to its superior efficiency in the manufacturing of unsaturated polyester resins (UPR), particularly in industries requiring high-performance polymers. The selection between these raw materials often depends on factors such as production cost, availability, and the desired quality of the final product.
The maleic anhydride market’s application segment is diverse, with the most prominent uses being in unsaturated polyester resins (UPR), 1-4 butanediol (BDO), additives, and copolymers. UPR accounts for a significant share of the market due to its extensive use in the construction, automotive, and marine industries for manufacturing durable and lightweight composites. Maleic anhydride's role in producing BDO, a vital chemical used in manufacturing plastics, solvents, and polyurethanes, further expands its market presence. Additives and copolymers are gaining popularity in specialized applications, including the production of lubricants, paints, and coatings, as well as in the pharmaceutical and personal care industries.
By end-user, the global maleic anhydride market is catered to industries such as construction, automotive, food and beverages, textile, pharmaceuticals, personal care, agriculture, and others. The construction and automotive sectors are the largest consumers of maleic anhydride due to its key role in manufacturing UPR and copolymers used in lightweight, high-performance materials. The growing demand for durable and sustainable building materials is driving the consumption of maleic anhydride. Additionally, the textile and food and beverage industries rely on maleic anhydride-based products for manufacturing additives and copolymers, which are used in fabric treatment and food packaging applications.
Geographically, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. The Asia Pacific region holds the largest share of the global market, driven by the presence of key manufacturing hubs in China, India, and Japan. The rapid industrialization and the expanding automotive and construction industries in these countries contribute significantly to the region's dominance. North America and Europe also represent substantial markets for maleic anhydride, particularly in the automotive and construction sectors, where innovation and demand for advanced materials are high. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa, along with Latin America, are witnessing moderate growth, driven by increasing demand from emerging industries in construction and agriculture.
Global Maleic Anhydride Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Maleic Anhydride Market has been segmented by Raw Material, Application and Geography.
Global Maleic Anhydride Market, Segmentation by Raw Material
The Global Maleic Anhydride Market has been segmented by Raw Material into Benzene, and N-Butane.
The Global Maleic Anhydride Market has been segmented based on raw materials, primarily into benzene and n-butane. Benzene is one of the key raw materials used in the production of maleic anhydride, which is derived through the oxidation of benzene. This process results in the formation of maleic anhydride, a critical intermediate in the manufacturing of various chemicals, including unsaturated polyester resins, plasticizers, and agricultural chemicals. The demand for benzene-derived maleic anhydride is significant in industries like automotive, construction, and electronics due to its versatility and widespread application.
N-butane is another essential raw material for maleic anhydride production. This material undergoes a catalytic oxidation process, producing maleic anhydride with higher yields and fewer by-products than other methods. N-butane-based maleic anhydride is used predominantly in the production of resins and coatings, where its chemical properties offer advantages such as enhanced durability and resistance to heat. The use of n-butane as a feedstock has grown, especially with the increase in the production of fuel and chemicals derived from natural gas and shale resources, which makes n-butane a more cost-effective and accessible choice.
The segmentation of the global maleic anhydride market by raw material highlights the varying production methods and their influence on market dynamics. While benzene-based production dominates in certain regions, particularly where oil and petrochemical industries are well-established, n-butane-based production has seen significant growth due to its cost advantages and the increasing availability of natural gas. Both raw materials contribute to the overall market size, but trends in fuel and chemical production, as well as environmental considerations, will likely influence the future balance between these feedstocks.
Global Maleic Anhydride Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Maleic Anhydride Market has been segmented by Application into Unsaturated Polymer Resin (UPR), 1-4, Butanediol (BDO), Additives, Copolymers and Others.
The global maleic anhydride market is primarily segmented by its diverse applications, with unsaturated polymer resins (UPR) being one of the leading segments. UPR is used extensively in the production of fiberglass-reinforced plastics, which are widely used in industries such as automotive, construction, and marine. The demand for lightweight and durable materials in these industries has significantly boosted the market for unsaturated polyester resins, thereby driving the consumption of maleic anhydride.
Another important segment is the production of 1-4 butanediol (BDO), a key chemical used in the manufacture of products like polyurethanes, plastics, and solvents. BDO is a crucial intermediate in the production of various industrial chemicals, and its rising demand across various sectors such as automotive and electronics further contributes to the growth of the maleic anhydride market. As industries evolve and seek more sustainable and high-performance materials, the demand for BDO is expected to increase.
Additives and copolymers also play a significant role in the market segmentation, with maleic anhydride being used in the production of various specialty chemicals. Additives derived from maleic anhydride are incorporated into lubricants, paints, and coatings to improve performance and stability. Copolymers, which include maleic anhydride as a co-monomer, find applications in the production of high-performance materials used in packaging, automotive, and electronics. The "others" category includes niche applications, such as pharmaceuticals and agricultural chemicals, though these segments represent a smaller portion of the overall maleic anhydride market.
Global Maleic Anhydride Market, Segmentation by End-User
The Global Maleic Anhydride Market has been segmented by End-User into Construction, Automotive, Food & Beverages, Textile, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, Agriculture, and Others.
The global maleic anhydride market is experiencing significant growth across various end-user industries, with its applications ranging from construction to personal care. In the construction sector, maleic anhydride is primarily used in the production of coatings, adhesives, and sealants due to its excellent bonding properties and durability. These applications are crucial for enhancing the performance and longevity of construction materials, driving the demand for maleic anhydride in this segment.
In the automotive and textile industries, maleic anhydride plays a key role in the production of synthetic materials. In automotive applications, it is used in the manufacturing of composites, coatings, and adhesives that are essential for vehicle production. Its ability to improve the strength, heat resistance, and weathering properties of automotive materials makes it indispensable. Similarly, in textiles, maleic anhydride is incorporated into fabric coatings and finishes to enhance the strength and water resistance of fabrics.
The food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care sectors also represent substantial markets for maleic anhydride. In the food industry, it serves as a food additive and preservative, while in pharmaceuticals, it is used in the synthesis of certain drugs and medical products. The personal care sector uses maleic anhydride in the formulation of hair and skin care products, owing to its properties that contribute to product stability and efficacy. Additionally, the agricultural sector utilizes maleic anhydride in the formulation of plant growth regulators and pesticides, further expanding its application scope.
Global Maleic Anhydride Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Maleic Anhydride Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Maleic Anhydride Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America: The North American maleic anhydride market is driven primarily by the robust demand in the automotive, construction, and plastics industries. The region is witnessing steady growth in the production of unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) used in fiberglass-reinforced products, as well as in the manufacturing of lubricating oils and agrochemicals. The presence of key market players, such as Huntsman Corporation and BASF, further supports regional growth. Moreover, increased investments in renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs) are anticipated to contribute positively to market dynamics in the coming years.
Europe: Europe holds a significant share of the global maleic anhydride market, with a high concentration of automotive and construction industries driving demand. The increasing adoption of eco-friendly materials and stringent environmental regulations favoring the use of maleic anhydride in green building materials and composite products also support growth in the region. Key countries like Germany and France are major contributors to this market due to their strong industrial base and a growing focus on sustainability. The region’s extensive research and development activities aimed at enhancing the performance of maleic anhydride-based products also contribute to regional growth.
Asia-Pacific: Asia-Pacific is the largest and fastest-growing region in the global maleic anhydride market. The expanding industrial base in China, India, and Japan, particularly in construction, automotive, and electronics manufacturing, is driving the demand for maleic anhydride-based products. China, in particular, remains a key player, contributing significantly to the production and consumption of maleic anhydride. The region’s low production costs and availability of raw materials make it an attractive location for manufacturers, and rapid urbanization and infrastructure development further boost market growth.
Rest of the World (RoW): In regions such as Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, the maleic anhydride market is seeing gradual growth. In Latin America, the demand is driven by the expanding construction and automotive industries in countries like Brazil and Mexico. The Middle East is increasingly focusing on expanding its chemical production capacity, and maleic anhydride plays a role in this expansion. Although the market size remains smaller compared to the major regions, the emerging economies in these regions present growth opportunities for key players as they invest in infrastructure development and industrialization.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Maleic Anhydride Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis
Drivers:
- Increasing Demand for Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPR)
- Growth in Automotive and Construction Industries
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Rising Demand for Green and Eco-friendly Products- The rising demand for green and eco-friendly products in the global Maleic Anhydride market is being driven by several key factors. Increasing awareness of environmental issues and sustainability is prompting both consumers and manufacturers to seek eco-friendly alternatives. As the adverse effects of traditional chemicals and non-sustainable production methods become more apparent, there is growing pressure on companies to innovate and adopt greener practices. Maleic Anhydride, a key industrial chemical used in various applications, is seeing a shift towards more environmentally conscious production techniques and sustainable sourcing of raw materials.
Regulatory pressures and government incentives are also playing a significant role in driving demand for eco-friendly products in the Maleic Anhydride market. Many countries have implemented stricter environmental regulations, encouraging businesses to transition towards greener alternatives to comply with these standards. This shift not only helps businesses avoid penalties but also enhances their brand image as socially responsible entities. As governments around the world push for more sustainable manufacturing processes, manufacturers of Maleic Anhydride are increasingly focusing on reducing their environmental footprint.
Consumer demand for green and sustainable products is pushing companies to adapt to new market trends. As environmentally conscious consumers become more prevalent, they are opting for products that are both effective and eco-friendly, leading manufacturers to adjust their production strategies. In the Maleic Anhydride market, this is evident through the increased adoption of renewable feedstocks, lower emissions during production, and efforts to reduce waste generation. The growing preference for green products and the need for businesses to remain competitive in this evolving market are key drivers of this trend.
Restraints:
- Volatility in Raw Material Prices
- Environmental and Regulatory Challenges
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Availability of Substitutes- In the Global Maleic Anhydride Market, the availability of substitutes acts as a significant restraint factor. Maleic anhydride is primarily used in the production of unsaturated polyester resins, lubricants, and plasticizers. However, various alternative chemicals, such as phthalic anhydride and itaconic acid, can serve similar purposes in some applications. These substitutes can reduce the demand for maleic anhydride, especially in industries where price sensitivity is high, pushing consumers to explore cost-effective alternatives. As a result, the growing adoption of substitutes may limit the market growth for maleic anhydride.
The increasing environmental awareness and demand for sustainable and eco-friendly chemicals have led to the development of more sustainable substitutes for maleic anhydride. For instance, bio-based alternatives derived from renewable resources, such as bio-based maleic anhydride, are gaining traction. These alternatives align with the growing trend of using greener products in the manufacturing of resins and other industrial applications, which could drive the preference for these substitutes over traditional maleic anhydride, further restricting the market's expansion.
Regional variations in the availability and acceptance of substitutes pose a challenge to the maleic anhydride market. In some regions, the adoption of alternative chemicals might be slower due to limited access to advanced technologies or economic factors. However, as the global demand for sustainable products continues to rise and technological advancements facilitate the production of efficient substitutes, the competitive pressure on maleic anhydride will intensify, restricting its market share and growth potential.
Opportunities:
- Rising Demand for Bio-based Maleic Anhydride
- Expansion in Emerging Economies
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Growth of End-user Industries (e.g., Coatings, Adhesives)- The growth of the global maleic anhydride market is significantly driven by opportunities in various end-user industries such as coatings and adhesives. Maleic anhydride is a key component in the production of unsaturated polyester resins (UPR), which are widely used in coatings and adhesives. The coatings industry, particularly in automotive, construction, and industrial sectors, has seen a surge in demand for high-performance products, creating a strong need for maleic anhydride as a raw material. Additionally, the growing demand for eco-friendly, durable, and high-quality coatings has further spurred the growth of the maleic anhydride market, positioning it as a critical material in these applications.
In the adhesives sector, the increasing demand for construction, packaging, and automotive adhesives presents significant growth opportunities for maleic anhydride producers. Maleic anhydride-based adhesives offer excellent bonding properties, temperature resistance, and durability, making them ideal for a variety of applications. As the construction industry continues to grow globally, especially in emerging economies, the demand for adhesive products that incorporate maleic anhydride will increase. The shift toward stronger, more reliable adhesives in packaging, as well as the development of advanced adhesives for automotive applications, is expected to provide further growth for the market.
The ongoing trend towards sustainability and innovation is also opening new opportunities in the maleic anhydride market. With industries aiming to reduce environmental impact, maleic anhydride is being utilized in the development of bio-based and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) alternatives for coatings and adhesives. This sustainability-driven demand not only increases the use of maleic anhydride in eco-friendly products but also boosts its market value, as manufacturers focus on delivering products that meet stricter environmental regulations. Thus, the growth of maleic anhydride is tied closely to the evolving needs of these end-user industries, with a strong emphasis on performance, durability, and sustainability.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Maleic Anhydride Market include:
- Cepsa
- INEOS
- Huntsman International LLC
- Lanxess A.G.
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- MOL Hungarian Oil & Gas Plc
- Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.
- Polynt Group
- Thirumalai Chemicals Ltd.
- Jiangyin Shunfei
- Tianjin Bohai Chemicals
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Raw Material
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By End-User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Maleic Anhydride Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Increasing Demand for Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPR)
- Growth in Automotive and Construction Industries
- Rising Demand for Green and Eco-friendly Products
- Restraints
- Volatility in Raw Material Prices
- Environmental and Regulatory Challenges
- Availability of Substitutes
- Opportunities
- Rising Demand for Bio-based Maleic Anhydride
- Expansion in Emerging Economies
- Growth of End-user Industries (e.g., Coatings, Adhesives)
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Maleic Anhydride Market, By Raw Material, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Benzene
- N-Butane
- Global Maleic Anhydride Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Unsaturated Polymer Resin (UPR)
- 1-4, Butanediol (BDO)
- Additives
- Copolymers
- Others
- Global Maleic Anhydride Market, By End-User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Construction
- Automotive
- Food & Beverages
- Textile
- Pharmaceuticals
- Personal Care
- Agriculture
- Others
- Global Maleic Anhydride Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Maleic Anhydride Market, By Raw Material, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Cepsa
- INEOS
- Huntsman International LLC
- Lanxess A.G.
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- MOL Hungarian Oil & Gas Plc
- Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.
- Polynt Group
- Thirumalai Chemicals Ltd.
- Jiangyin Shunfei
- Tianjin Bohai Chemicals
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market