The global market for Glycerin was estimated at US$2.9 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$4.4 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Glycerin market.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.
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.
SCOPE OF STUDY:
The report analyzes the Glycerin market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries:- Segments: Process Type (Transesterification, Saponification, Fat Splitting); Source (Biodiesel, Vegetable Oils, Soaps, Synthetic); End-Use (Industrial, Chemical Intermediates)
- Geographic Regions/Countries: World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Spain; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; Australia; India; South Korea; Rest of Asia-Pacific; Latin America; Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; Rest of Latin America; Middle East; Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; UAE; Rest of Middle East; Africa.
Key Insights:
- Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Transesterification segment, which is expected to reach US$2.1 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 7.2%. The Saponification segment is also set to grow at 5.8% CAGR over the analysis period.
- Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $463.6 Million in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 8.7% CAGR to reach $1.1 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific.
Why You Should Buy This Report:
- Detailed Market Analysis: Access a thorough analysis of the Global Glycerin Market, covering all major geographic regions and market segments.
- Competitive Insights: Get an overview of the competitive landscape, including the market presence of major players across different geographies.
- Future Trends and Drivers: Understand the key trends and drivers shaping the future of the Global Glycerin Market.
- Actionable Insights: Benefit from actionable insights that can help you identify new revenue opportunities and make strategic business decisions.
Key Questions Answered:
- How is the Global Glycerin Market expected to evolve by 2030?
- What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market?
- Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period?
- How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030?
- Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects?
Report Features:
- Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030.
- In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
- Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as BASF SE, Cargill, Inc., Archer Daniels Midland Company, Croda International PLC, Adeka Corporation and more.
- Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments.
Some of the 92 companies featured in this Glycerin market report include:
- BASF SE
- Cargill, Inc.
- Archer Daniels Midland Company
- Croda International PLC
- Adeka Corporation
- AAK AB
- Aemetis, Inc.
- Baerlocher GmbH
- Ecogreen Oleochemicals (Singapore) Pte., Ltd.
- Benefuel, Inc.
- Cremer Oleo GmbH & Co. KG
- Aekyung Petrochemical Co. Ltd.
- Avril SCA
- C. Thywissen GmbH
- Dr. McGrath`s
This edition integrates the latest global trade and economic shifts as of June 2025 into comprehensive market analysis. Key updates include:
- Tariff and Trade Impact: Insights into global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries, with analysis of supply chain turbulence, sourcing disruptions, and geographic realignment. Special focus on 2025 as a pivotal year for trade tensions, including updated perspectives on the Trump-era tariffs.
- Adjusted Forecasts and Analytics: Revised global and regional market forecasts through 2030, incorporating tariff effects, economic uncertainty, and structural changes in globalization. Includes segmentation by product, technology, type, material, distribution channel, application, and end-use, with historical analysis since 2015.
- Strategic Market Dynamics: Evaluation of revised market prospects, regional outlooks, and key economic indicators such as population and urbanization trends.
- Innovation & Technology Trends: Latest developments in product and process innovation, emerging technologies, and key industry drivers shaping the competitive landscape.
- Competitive Intelligence: Updated global market share estimates for 2025, competitive positioning of major players (Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial), and refined focus on leading global brands and core players.
- Expert Insight & Commentary: Strategic analysis from economists, trade experts, and domain specialists to contextualize market shifts and identify emerging opportunities.
- Complimentary Update: Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with finalized tariff impacts, new trade agreement effects, revised projections, and expanded country-level coverage.
Table of Contents
I. METHODOLOGYII. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERSIV. COMPETITION
1. MARKET OVERVIEW
3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS
4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE
III. MARKET ANALYSIS
Companies Mentioned (Partial List)
A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:
- BASF SE
- Cargill, Inc.
- Archer Daniels Midland Company
- Croda International PLC
- Adeka Corporation
- AAK AB
- Aemetis, Inc.
- Baerlocher GmbH
- Ecogreen Oleochemicals (Singapore) Pte., Ltd.
- Benefuel, Inc.
- Cremer Oleo GmbH & Co. KG
- Aekyung Petrochemical Co. Ltd.
- Avril SCA
- C. Thywissen GmbH
- Dr. McGrath`s
Table Information
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| No. of Pages | 588 |
| Published | June 2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2024 - 2030 |
| Estimated Market Value ( USD | $ 2.9 Billion |
| Forecasted Market Value ( USD | $ 4.4 Billion |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate | 6.9% |
| Regions Covered | Global |
