Maleic Anhydride Market Outlook
The global maleic anhydride market attained a value of about USD 3.39 billion in 2024. Aided by the growing demand for unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs), lubricant additives, and agricultural chemicals, the market is further expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.90% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to reach approximately USD 5.47 billion by 2034.
Maleic anhydride is an organic compound widely used as a chemical intermediate in the manufacturing of a variety of industrial products. It is a crucial component in the production of resins, plastics, coatings, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. The compound is primarily produced through the oxidation of n-butane or benzene and is known for its reactivity and versatility in polymerization and chemical synthesis processes.
The global market is witnessing steady growth, driven by robust industrial demand and technological advancements in downstream applications. In particular, the increasing consumption of maleic anhydride in the construction, automotive, and marine industries—through its use in unsaturated polyester resins—is significantly contributing to market expansion. The widespread application of maleic anhydride in water treatment chemicals, food acidulants, and lubricant additives further enhances its global demand outlook.
Maleic Anhydride Market Size
The maleic anhydride market size of USD 3.39 billion in 2024 underscores the significance of maleic anhydride in global chemical manufacturing. The compound's extensive usage across a diverse range of end-use industries supports its sustained consumption and industrial importance. Unsaturated polyester resins, which account for a substantial portion of maleic anhydride demand, are extensively used in construction materials, fiber-reinforced plastics, and paints and coatings.
Key regions contributing to the global market size include North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. The Asia Pacific region, particularly China and India, dominates global consumption due to rapid industrialisation, growing manufacturing capacities, and increasing infrastructure development. The rising production of consumer durables and automotive components in these countries is further bolstering demand for maleic anhydride-based products.
North America and Europe also maintain significant market sizes, supported by mature industrial bases and well-established applications in automotive, coatings, and packaging industries. The demand for sustainable and high-performance materials in these regions is driving the use of maleic anhydride in environmentally friendly products.
Maleic Anhydride Market Share
Asia Pacific commands a dominant share of the global maleic anhydride market. The region’s strong industrial output, expanding construction sector, and growing demand for polymers and resins contribute to its leading position. China is the largest producer and consumer of maleic anhydride, followed by India, South Korea, and Japan. The availability of raw materials, lower production costs, and supportive government policies favouring industrial expansion strengthen the region’s market share.
North America follows, led by the United States, where maleic anhydride is extensively used in lubricant additives, surfactants, and agricultural chemicals. The presence of major chemical manufacturers and the availability of advanced processing technologies support the region's market strength. Europe, with its focus on sustainable chemistry and high-performance materials, also holds a considerable market share, driven by demand from the construction and automotive sectors.
By application, unsaturated polyester resins represent the largest share due to their wide-ranging utility and cost-effectiveness. The resins are extensively used in manufacturing bathroom fixtures, tanks, pipes, and marine components. Other significant applications include copolymers, plasticisers, and additives used in fuel and lubricants.
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Maleic Anhydride Market Trends
Several emerging trends are influencing the trajectory of the maleic anhydride market. One of the key trends is the growing demand for lightweight and high-strength materials in the automotive and aerospace sectors. Maleic anhydride-derived resins are being increasingly used to develop composites that offer enhanced strength-to-weight ratios, supporting fuel efficiency and emissions reduction.
Sustainability is another important trend. As industries move towards greener manufacturing practices, there is growing interest in bio-based maleic anhydride production. Efforts are being made to produce maleic anhydride from renewable sources such as biomass and bio-butanol, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering environmental impact.
Innovation in formulation and end-use applications is also driving market evolution. Modified maleic anhydride resins and derivatives are being used in advanced coatings, corrosion-resistant paints, and specialty adhesives. These innovations are particularly relevant in construction and marine industries where performance and durability are critical.
Additionally, there is rising integration of maleic anhydride in agrochemicals. As global agriculture undergoes technological transformation, maleic anhydride is being employed in the synthesis of growth regulators, herbicides, and pesticide formulations that are efficient and environmentally friendly.
Drivers of Growth
Multiple factors are driving the growth of the global maleic anhydride market. The foremost is the increasing demand for unsaturated polyester resins in various industrial applications. As infrastructure projects expand worldwide, particularly in emerging economies, the need for construction materials such as panels, doors, and composite products is increasing, which in turn boosts demand for maleic anhydride.
The rise in automotive production is another key driver. As the global automobile industry shifts towards lightweight materials to improve fuel efficiency, the use of composites and resins based on maleic anhydride is growing. Moreover, the continued development of electric vehicles (EVs) is generating new opportunities for maleic anhydride-based insulation materials and adhesives.
The expanding application of maleic anhydride in water treatment, detergent additives, and lubricants is also supporting market growth. Its role in producing biodegradable surfactants and anti-corrosion additives is becoming increasingly important in line with environmental regulations and the shift towards sustainable industrial operations.
In the agricultural sector, maleic anhydride-based products are gaining traction due to their effectiveness in enhancing crop yield and resistance. With the global population rising, the need for improved agricultural productivity provides a further boost to the market.
Maleic Anhydride Market Segmentation
The market can be divided based on product type, end use industry, and region.
Market Breakup by Product Type
- Unsaturated Polyester Resin
- BDO (Butanediol)
- Lubricant Additives
- Maleic Anhydride Copolymers
- Malic Acid
- Furmaric Acid
- Alkyl Succinic Anhydrides
- Surfactants and Plasticisers
- Others
Market Breakup by End Use Industry
- Construction
- Automobile
- Food and Beverage
- Oil Products
- Electronics
- Personal Care
- Pharmaceuticals
- Agriculture
Market Breakup by Region
- North America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Latin America
- Middle East and Africa
Competitive Landscape
Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research
- Huntsman International LLC
- Shandong Hongxin Chemical Co. Ltd
- Helm AG
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- Ningbo Jiangning Chemical Co. Ltd
- Others
Maleic Anhydride Industry Analysis
The maleic anhydride industry is moderately consolidated, with several key players dominating global supply. These companies benefit from integrated production facilities, strong global distribution networks, and extensive research and development capabilities.
Competition is based on product quality, price, technological innovation, and customer service. Strategic alliances, mergers, and capacity expansions are common in the industry as companies seek to increase market presence and access emerging markets. The increasing demand from end-use industries is prompting companies to invest in plant upgrades and capacity expansion projects.
Regional producers in Asia are also emerging as strong competitors, offering cost-effective solutions and meeting the growing domestic demand. However, fluctuations in raw material prices and energy costs remain a key concern for producers globally.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite favourable growth prospects, the maleic anhydride market faces several challenges. Environmental and health regulations concerning volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous chemicals impose compliance costs and operational constraints. The volatility of feedstock prices, particularly n-butane, can also impact production margins and pricing strategies.
Supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and trade barriers further pose risks to global distribution and raw material procurement. In addition, increasing competition from alternative materials and substitutes in specific applications may limit market growth in certain segments.
Nevertheless, the market presents considerable opportunities. The rising demand for lightweight composites in automotive and aerospace industries provides scope for maleic anhydride-based resins. Bio-based production and the development of green chemistry applications offer opportunities for innovation and sustainability leadership.
Expansion in emerging markets, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, opens new avenues for growth. As industrialisation and urbanisation accelerate in these regions, demand for maleic anhydride in construction, consumer goods, and infrastructure is expected to rise substantially.
Maleic Anhydride Market Forecast
The global maleic anhydride market is poised for steady and sustained growth in the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. Valued at USD 3.39 billion in 2024, the market is expected to reach approximately USD 5.47 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.90%. This growth will be driven by increasing demand across diverse industrial sectors, advancements in production technologies, and the rising need for sustainable and high-performance materials.
As global economies prioritise innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainable development, maleic anhydride will continue to play a vital role in modern chemical manufacturing. Companies that invest in green production, product diversification, and emerging market expansion will be well-positioned to capture long-term value and growth in the evolving maleic anhydride market landscape.
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