Global Glycerin Market to Reach US$4.4 Billion by 2030

The global market for Glycerin estimated at US$2.8 Billion in the year 2023, is expected to reach US$4.4 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.9% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Transesterification, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 7.1% CAGR and reach US$2.1 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Saponification segment is estimated at 5.7% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$437.6 Million While China is Forecast to Grow at 8.6% CAGR

The Glycerin market in the U.S. is estimated at US$437.6 Million in the year 2023. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$1.1 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 8.6% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% and 6.3% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 5.0% CAGR.

Global Glycerin Market - Key Trends and Drivers Summarized

Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a simple polyol compound that is odorless, colorless, and possesses a sweet taste. It is a viscous liquid that is widely used in pharmaceutical formulations, food products, and cosmetics due to its solvency, humectant, and emollient properties. Glycerin is typically derived from natural sources such as animal fats and vegetable oils through hydrolysis or saponification processes. Alternatively, it can be synthesized from propylene, a petroleum byproduct. In pharmaceuticals, glycerin serves as a solvent, sweetening agent, and humectant, helping to keep products moist. In food products, it is utilized as a sweetener and preservative, and in personal care items, it functions as a moisturizer to enhance skin hydration.

The utility of glycerin extends beyond these traditional roles, contributing significantly to industrial applications as well. It is a key component in the production of alkyd resins used in paints and coatings. Additionally, glycerin is employed in the manufacturing of polyurethane foams and is increasingly being explored for its potential in biofuel production, particularly as a byproduct of biodiesel. The environmental aspect of glycerin is particularly appealing; it is non-toxic and biodegradable, making it a favored ingredient in environmentally friendly products and processes. Its physical attributes, such as high boiling point and freezing point depression, make it ideal for use in anti-freeze and other applications requiring temperature regulation.

The growth in the glycerin market is driven by several factors, including the increased demand for bio-based chemicals and sustainable solutions across industries, innovations in downstream applications, and stringent environmental regulations promoting biodegradability. Pharmaceutical & medical along with food & beverages represent high-value applications of glycerin. The de-icing and antifreeze applications as an alternative to ethylene glycols and propylene are anticipated to offer lucrative opportunities over the coming years. In addition, increasing demand for natural personal care products is bound to further boost glycerin demand. The booming personal care industry, especially in emerging markets, is another significant driver, as consumers seek products with natural ingredients that offer hydration and skin benefits. The expansion of the food and beverage sector globally also contributes to the demand for glycerin as a food additive. Furthermore, the shift towards producing biodiesel as an alternative to traditional fossil fuels has resulted in increased glycerin production as a valuable byproduct, thereby boosting its supply and applications in diverse sectors.