Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Type;
RBD Palm Oil, RBD Palm Olein & Stearin, Oleochemicals, Palm Kernel Fatty Acid Distillates, Palm Kernel Meal, and Others.By Application;
Food , Cosmetics & Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals, Biofuel, Animal Feed, and Others.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market was valued at USD 21468.32 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 34473.43 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.0%.
The global palm oil derivatives market is a crucial segment of the broader palm oil industry, driven by the extensive use of palm oil in various applications. Palm oil derivatives, which include products such as palm olein, palm stearin, palm kernel oil, and palm mid-fraction, are processed and refined forms of crude palm oil and palm kernel oil. These derivatives find applications across a diverse range of industries, including food and beverages, personal care and cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial sectors. Their versatility, combined with their cost-effectiveness and functional properties such as stability and long shelf life, makes them highly sought after by manufacturers worldwide.
In the food industry, palm oil derivatives are widely used as cooking oils, frying fats, and ingredients in processed foods, confectionery, and bakery products due to their neutral taste and high oxidative stability. The personal care and cosmetics industries leverage palm oil derivatives for their emollient properties, incorporating them into soaps, lotions, and other skincare products. Additionally, the pharmaceutical industry utilizes these derivatives in the formulation of various medicinal products, benefiting from their consistent quality and stability. The market's growth is further propelled by the increasing consumer demand for natural and sustainable ingredients, prompting manufacturers to adopt palm oil derivatives that adhere to sustainability certifications and environmentally friendly practices. As a result, the global palm oil derivatives market continues to expand, supported by its wide-ranging applications and the ongoing trend towards sustainable sourcing.
Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market Recent Developments
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In December 2018, Wilmar International announce some changes to its sustainability policy and the company will no longer procure palm oil from suppliers found to violating its policy. The Wilmar International is key player in the palm oil industry and supplies 40% of the world palm oil.
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In March 2019, Sime Darby announced plans to increase its refining capacity of 3.8 million tonnes a year by expanding existing plants and via new refineries in key markets India and China. The expansion plans include doubling capacity at its 330,000 tonnes Malaysian edible oils and fats refinery, and at its 60,000 tonnes domestic biodiesel refinery.
Segment Analysis
The global palm oil derivatives market is segmented by type, application, and region. By type, the market includes palm olein, palm stearin, palm kernel oil, palm kernel cake, palm mid-fraction, and others. Palm olein, widely used as cooking oil and in food processing, represents a significant portion of the market due to its favorable frying properties and stability. Palm stearin, a solid fraction of palm oil, is extensively used in the production of margarine, shortenings, and as an ingredient in industrial applications. Palm kernel oil and its derivatives are highly valued in the cosmetics and personal care industries for their moisturizing properties and are also used in the production of soaps and detergents.
By application, the market is divided into food and beverages, personal care and cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial sectors. The food and beverages sector is the largest consumer of palm oil derivatives, driven by the demand for processed foods, confectionery, bakery products, and cooking oils. In the personal care and cosmetics industry, palm oil derivatives are utilized for their emollient properties, enhancing the texture and stability of skincare and haircare products. The pharmaceutical industry leverages these derivatives in various formulations, including excipients and active ingredient carriers. Industrial applications include the use of palm oil derivatives in biodiesel production, lubricants, and surfactants. Geographically, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America, with Asia Pacific leading the market due to its significant palm oil production and consumption. The region's robust food processing industry and growing personal care market further drive the demand for palm oil derivatives.
Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market Analysis
The Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market has been segmented by Type, Application and Geography.
Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market has been segmented by Type into RBD Palm Oil, RBD Palm Olein & Stearin, Oleochemicals, Palm Kerenel Fatty Acid Distillates, Palm Kernel Meal and Others.
The global palm oil derivatives market is segmented by type into several categories, reflecting the diverse applications and processing stages of palm oil and palm kernel oil. Refined, Bleached, and Deodorized (RBD) palm oil and RBD palm olein & stearin are among the most prominent segments, widely used in cooking oils, margarine, and various food applications due to their neutral flavor and high oxidative stability. RBD palm olein, a liquid fraction of RBD palm oil, is particularly favored for its resistance to oxidation at high temperatures, making it ideal for frying and deep frying purposes. RBD palm stearin, the solid fraction, finds applications in bakery fats, confectionery, and as a texturizing agent in food products.
Oleochemicals derived from palm oil, such as fatty acids, alcohols, and glycerol, serve as essential ingredients in the production of soaps, detergents, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. These derivatives are valued for their biodegradability, functional properties, and cost-effectiveness compared to synthetic alternatives. Palm kernel fatty acid distillates (PKFAD) are another critical segment, utilized in the production of fatty acids for industrial applications and as feedstock in biodiesel production. Palm kernel meal, a by-product of palm kernel oil extraction, serves as a valuable source of protein and fiber in animal feed formulations, contributing to its demand in the agricultural sector. The diversity within these segments underscores the integral role of palm oil derivatives across multiple industries, driven by their functional versatility and economic feasibility.
Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market has been segmented by Application into Food , Cosmetics & Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals, Biofuel, Animal Feed and Others.
The global palm oil derivatives market is segmented by application into several key sectors, each representing significant demand drivers for various derivatives of palm oil and palm kernel oil. In the food industry, palm oil derivatives are extensively used as cooking oils, frying fats, and ingredients in processed foods due to their neutral taste, high stability, and cost-effectiveness. They are integral in the production of snacks, baked goods, margarine, and spreads, catering to consumer preferences for products with longer shelf life and desirable texture. Additionally, palm oil derivatives find applications in confectionery, where they serve as emulsifiers and texturizing agents in chocolates and candies, ensuring product consistency and quality.
The cosmetics and personal care sector is another major consumer of palm oil derivatives, leveraging their moisturizing properties in skincare products such as creams, lotions, and soaps. Palm oil derivatives act as emollients and conditioning agents, enhancing the smoothness and hydration of skin and hair care formulations. In pharmaceuticals, palm oil derivatives play a crucial role as excipients and carriers for active ingredients in drug formulations, benefiting from their stability and compatibility with a wide range of pharmaceutical compounds. The biofuel industry utilizes palm oil derivatives, particularly palm methyl ester, as a feedstock for biodiesel production, contributing to renewable energy initiatives and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Furthermore, palm kernel meal, a by-product of palm kernel oil extraction, is utilized in animal feed formulations, providing essential protein and fiber to livestock and poultry. The diverse applications of palm oil derivatives across these sectors underscore their versatility and economic importance in global markets.
Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market, Segmentation by Geography
The Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
The global palm oil derivatives market is segmented geographically into five key regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. Each region presents unique dynamics and opportunities for the palm oil derivatives market.
North America and Europe are prominent markets driven by stringent regulations favoring sustainable and responsibly sourced palm oil derivatives. The food industry in these regions demands high-quality derivatives for processed foods, baking, and cooking oils, with increasing consumer awareness about the environmental and health impacts of palm oil production influencing purchasing decisions. Additionally, the cosmetics and personal care sectors in North America and Europe utilize palm oil derivatives extensively in skincare and haircare products due to their moisturizing and conditioning properties, further boosting market growth.
Asia Pacific holds the largest share in the global palm oil derivatives market, primarily due to its dominant position in palm oil production and consumption. Countries like Malaysia and Indonesia are major producers, catering to both domestic demand and exports across various industries. The region's robust food processing industry, rapid urbanization, and expanding middle-class population drive significant demand for palm oil derivatives in cooking oils, snacks, confectionery, and personal care products. Moreover, Asia Pacific is witnessing growing applications of palm oil derivatives in biofuel production, supported by governmental initiatives promoting renewable energy sources. In contrast, the Middle East and Africa, along with Latin America, are emerging markets where increasing industrialization and urban development are fueling demand for palm oil derivatives in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications. These regions present opportunities for market expansion as awareness of sustainable practices and regulatory frameworks continue to evolve.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Increasing Demand in Food and Beverage Industry
- Growing Use in Personal Care and Cosmetics
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Expansion in Pharmaceutical Applications: Expansion in pharmaceutical applications presents a significant growth opportunity for palm oil derivatives in the global market. Palm oil derivatives, such as palm oil and palm kernel oil, are utilized in pharmaceutical formulations primarily as excipients and carriers for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Their stable chemical composition, biocompatibility, and ability to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of drugs make them valuable ingredients in various drug delivery systems. For instance, palm oil derivatives are used in the production of soft gel capsules and oral solid dosage forms like tablets and pellets, where they ensure consistent release and absorption of medications.
Palm oil derivatives find applications in topical pharmaceutical products such as ointments, creams, and gels, where they act as emollients and base materials. Their non-irritating nature and skin conditioning properties make them suitable for dermatological treatments and wound healing formulations. As pharmaceutical research and development continue to focus on enhancing drug efficacy and patient compliance, the demand for palm oil derivatives is expected to rise. The industry's shift towards natural and sustainable ingredients further supports this trend, as palm oil derivatives meet stringent quality standards and regulatory requirements, positioning them favorably in the pharmaceutical market.
Restraints:
- Environmental Concerns and Sustainability Issues
- Regulatory Challenges and Compliance
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Price Volatility of Crude Palm Oil: The price volatility of crude palm oil (CPO) is a significant challenge affecting the global palm oil derivatives market. Crude palm oil serves as the primary raw material for producing derivatives such as palm olein, palm stearin, and oleochemicals. The prices of CPO are influenced by various factors including weather conditions, geopolitical events, global economic trends, and changes in supply and demand dynamics. As a result, fluctuations in CPO prices can have a cascading effect on the cost structure of palm oil derivatives, impacting profitability and pricing strategies across the value chain.
The volatility of CPO prices poses risks and uncertainties for market participants, including producers, processors, and end-users in industries such as food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. Manufacturers and traders in the palm oil derivatives market often employ hedging strategies and closely monitor market trends to mitigate risks associated with price fluctuations. Additionally, efforts to enhance transparency in pricing mechanisms and promote sustainable palm oil production practices aim to stabilize prices and ensure a more predictable operating environment for stakeholders in the global palm oil derivatives market.
Opportunities:
- Expansion of Sustainable Sourcing Practices
- Increasing Applications in Biofuels and Renewable Energy
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Rising Demand for Functional Ingredients in Cosmetics: The rising demand for functional ingredients in cosmetics has propelled the use of palm oil derivatives in the industry. Palm oil derivatives such as palm kernel oil and its fractions are valued for their emollient properties, which contribute to their widespread use in skincare and haircare products. These derivatives act as effective moisturizers, imparting smoothness and hydration to the skin and hair. In addition to their moisturizing benefits, palm oil derivatives offer stability and consistency to formulations, ensuring that cosmetic products maintain their desired texture and efficacy over time.
Cosmetic manufacturers are increasingly incorporating palm oil derivatives into a variety of products, including creams, lotions, serums, and cleansers, to meet consumer demand for effective skincare solutions. The natural origin and versatility of palm oil derivatives align with the growing preference among consumers for sustainable and environmentally friendly beauty products. Moreover, the cosmetic industry's focus on innovation and the development of multifunctional ingredients further drives the adoption of palm oil derivatives, as they can serve multiple purposes in formulations. As the demand for functional and sustainable ingredients continues to grow, palm oil derivatives are expected to play a pivotal role in meeting the evolving needs of the cosmetics market worldwide.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market include:
- Cargill
- Wilmar International Ltd
- Golden Agri-Resources Ltd
- London Sumatra
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BASF
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 Type
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Increasing Demand in Food and Beverage Industry
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Growing Use in Personal Care and Cosmetics
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Expansion in Pharmaceutical Applications
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- Restraints
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Environmental Concerns and Sustainability Issues
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Regulatory Challenges and Compliance
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Price Volatility of Crude Palm Oil
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- Opportunities
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Expansion of Sustainable Sourcing Practices
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Increasing Applications in Biofuels and Renewable Energy
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Rising Demand for Functional Ingredients in Cosmetics
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- 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 Palm Oil Derivatives Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- RBD Palm Oil
- RBD Palm Olein & Stearin
- Oleochemicals
- Palm Kerenel Fatty Acid Distillates
- Palm Kernel Meal
- Global Palm Oil Derivatives Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Food
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Pharmaceuticals
- Biofuel
- Animal Feed
- Global Palm Oil Derivatives 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 Palm Oil Derivatives Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Cargill
- Wilmar International Ltd
- Golden Agri-Resources Ltd
- London Sumatra
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BASF
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market