Global Formulations Additives Market - 2024-2031

Report Overview

Global Formulation Additives Market reached US$ 10.19 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 15.10 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 5.04% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

The formulation additives market plays a critical role in enhancing the performance, processing and properties of various end products across industries such as paints & coatings, adhesives, sealants, plastics and construction materials. The additives are employed to change properties such as surface tension, rheology and UV resistance, enhancing the durability, functionality and sustainability of end products.

The demand for these additives is driven by growth in industries like automotive, construction and packaging, alongside an increasing focus on sustainability and environmental regulations. As industries push towards greener solutions, bio-based and low-VOC additives are gaining traction. According to the American Coating Association, in 2023, in the US specialty purpose formulation additives held 21% similarly Automotive sector controlled 26% market share and construction accounted for 53% market.

Asia-Pacific is witnessing significant growth in the formulations additives market, driven by the expanding manufacturing sectors in countries like China, India, Japan and South Korea. The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association of Japan and similar bodies highlight the growing personal care sector in Asia, contributing to higher consumption of formulation additives for product stabilization and performance.

Market Dynamics

Growing Trends for Wooden Aesthetics

The furniture sector worldwide is experiencing significant expansion, primarily fueled by growing urbanization and higher disposable incomes. With an increasing number of individuals moving to cities, the need for housing and furniture is growing. By 2050, it is estimated that 68% of the global population will reside in urban areas, an increase of 13% from 2018, bringing an additional 2.5 billion individuals to cities. The fast pace of urbanization is leading to a notable increase in the need for furniture.

The expansion of the furniture sector is directly driving growth in the formulation additives market. The production of furniture is greatly dependent on formulation additives, as they are crucial for achieving the desired appearance and improving the durability of the items. With the growth of the furniture industry comes an increased need for formulation additives, making them an essential part of the industry's overall path to expansion.

Increased Focus on Personalization and Customization in Formulation Additives

The growing trend toward personalized and customized products across various industries is significantly impacting the formulation additives market. This trend is particularly prominent in sectors such as cosmetics, food & beverages and pharmaceuticals. Key players are developing additives that cater to specific consumer needs, such as customized skincare solutions or tailored pharmaceutical drugs.

For instance, Clariant's "Moor Skin" range includes personalized skincare solutions designed to cater to specific skin types and concerns, driven by the increasing consumer preference for customized beauty products. Similarly, Evonik's "RESOMER" polymer-based additives are designed for custom drug delivery systems, enhancing the personalization of pharmaceutical formulations. These instances highlight the company's investments in specialized additives to meet evolving market needs.

Strict Government Regulation Adds To The Operational Challenges

Regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) impose strict regulations on the use of certain additives due to environmental and health concerns. For example, the European Union's REACH regulation requires extensive testing and documentation, which increases compliance costs and complexity for manufacturers.

Furthermore, increasing pressure from consumers and regulatory bodies for eco-friendly and sustainable additives. The growing emphasis on green chemistry and sustainable practices adds to the operational challenges for manufacturers.

Market Segment Analysis

The global formulation additives market is segmented based on type, end-user and region.

Growth of Waterborne Segment Driven by Environmental Regulations and Consumer Demand for Sustainability

The transportation segment is increasingly demanding formulation additives due to several key factors, including regulatory requirements, performance enhancement needs and sustainability goals. Transportation fuels and lubricants must meet stringent regulations to reduce emissions and improve efficiency. According to the American Petroleum Institute (API), the formulation of engine oils and fuels has evolved to meet the evolving emission standards set by environmental agencies.

Similarly, Additives are critical for improving the performance and longevity of transportation fuels and lubricants. Lubrizol, a major player in the additive industry, highlights that formulation additives enhance the stability and efficiency of fuels, reduce engine wear and improve cold-start performance. Key industry players like Chevron and ExxonMobil emphasize that additives are essential for meeting the demands of modern transportation applications.

Market Geographical Share

Rapid Industrialization and Expansion in Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is undergoing rapid industrialization and urbanization, driving the need for advanced formulation additives in various industries such as automotive, construction and consumer goods. According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the region's industrial output is expected to continue growing, fueling demand for specialty chemicals and additives used in industrial processes and products.

Furthermore, Leading companies in the formulation additives market, such as BASF and Clariant, have reported increased investments and expansion plans in the region. BASF's annual report indicates significant growth in the region, driven by strong demand in the automotive, construction and consumer goods sectors. Clariant's market analysis also highlights Asia-Pacific as a key growth region for its additive solutions, reflecting the high market demand and potential.

Market Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include ALTANA, Arkema, Axalta Coating Systems, LLC, BASF, Clariant, Dow, Eastman Chemical Company, Honeywell International Inc., Mallard Creek Polymers and Ngoc Son.

Sustainability Analysis

Sustainable practices in the formulation additives market are increasingly gaining traction as companies and organizations prioritize environmental responsibility and resource efficiency. Many companies are shifting towards renewable and bio-based raw materials for formulation additives. For instance, the American Chemical Society (ACS) highlights the growth of bio-based additives derived from renewable resources, which help reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Similarly, adoption of green chemistry principles is a major trend. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set guidelines for green chemistry that focus on minimizing the environmental impact of chemical processes. Companies such as BASF are incorporating these principles, developing additives that are safer, more efficient and have a reduced environmental impact.

Effective waste management and recycling of production by-products are essential for sustainability. The International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA) promotes best practices for waste reduction. Evonik, a global chemical manufacturer, is enhancing its recycling programs and optimizing waste management to minimize environmental impact.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact

The Russia-Ukraine war has significantly disrupted the formulation additives market, particularly for companies specializing in auto-OEM, construction machinery and container coatings. Sanctions and geopolitical tensions have led to the loss of key customers in Russia and neighbouring countries, forcing businesses to shift focus to alternative markets.

Additionally, supply chain disruptions have affected the availability of essential raw materials like talc, leading to production delays and increased costs. These challenges, combined with broader economic instability in the region, have dampened consumer demand and slowed growth, creating an uncertain environment for the formulation additives industry in Eastern Europe.

Type

Defoamers

Rheology

Modifier

Dispersing Agents

End-User

Construction

Transportation

Automotive

Oil and Gas

Food and Beverage

Electronics

Other

Region

North America

US

Canada

Mexico

Europe

Germany

UK

France

Italy

Spain

Rest of Europe

South America

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of South America

Asia-Pacific

China

India

Japan

Australia

Rest of Asia-Pacific

Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

In May 2024, BASF announced a significant investment in expanding its advanced additives plant at its Nanjing site. The move underscores BASF's unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier performance and formulation additives to the coatings industry. Over the past decade, the Nanjing site has evolved into a central hub for BASF's additives in China and the broader Asia-Pacific.

In 2023, Clariant introduced a new range of wetting and dispersing agents tailored for water-based formulations, specifically targeting industrial coating applications in containers, transportation and construction. The new agents offer enhanced sustainability and improved safety compared to existing solutions, marking a significant advancement in the formulation additives market.

Why Purchase the Report?

To visualize the global formulation additives market segmentation based on type, end-user and region.

Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.

Excel spreadsheet containing a comprehensive dataset of the formulation additives market, covering all levels of segmentation.

PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.

Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global formulation additives market report would provide approximately 54 tables, 48 figures and 212 pages.

Target Audience 2024

Manufacturers/ Buyers

Industry Investors/Investment Bankers

Research Professionals

Emerging Companies