2-Methyl-6-ethylaniline (MEA) is a chemical intermediate predominantly used in producing S-metolachlor, a chloroacetanilide herbicide developed by Syngenta. S-metolachlor inhibits very long-chain fatty acid synthesis, effectively controlling weeds in major crops like corn and soybeans. Key producers include Zhongnongfa Henan Agrochemical Co. Ltd., with a 20,000-ton MEA capacity and 10,000-ton S-metolachlor output, and Jiangsu Changqing Agrochemical Co. Ltd., which launched a 5,000-ton S-metolachlor project in May 2024, supported by 4,022 tons of MEA. The market is niche, with demand tied to global corn and soybean production.
In 2022/23, global corn production reached 1.16 billion tons, led by the U.S. (29.9%), China (23.9%), and Brazil (11.8%). Global soybean production ranges from 350-400 million tons, dominated by Brazil, the U.S., Argentina, and China, accounting for over 85% of output. The EU’s January 2024 decision not to renew S-metolachlor’s registration under PPP Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 restricts its use in Europe, impacting MEA demand.
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In 2022/23, global corn production reached 1.16 billion tons, led by the U.S. (29.9%), China (23.9%), and Brazil (11.8%). Global soybean production ranges from 350-400 million tons, dominated by Brazil, the U.S., Argentina, and China, accounting for over 85% of output. The EU’s January 2024 decision not to renew S-metolachlor’s registration under PPP Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 restricts its use in Europe, impacting MEA demand.
Market Size and Growth Forecast
The global MEA market is projected to reach 70-150 million USD by 2025, with a CAGR of 1.1-2.1%. This modest growth reflects stable agrochemical demand, tempered by regulatory challenges.Regional Analysis
- Asia-Pacific: Growth ranges from 1.5-2.5%. China and India drive demand through corn and soybean production, supported by agricultural expansion.
- North America: Growth is estimated at 1.0-2%. The U.S. leads with significant corn and soybean output, sustaining steady demand.
- Latin America: Growth falls between 1.5-2.5%. Brazil’s agricultural growth supports demand, driven by soybean and corn cultivation.
- Europe: Growth ranges from 0-1%. Regulatory restrictions on S-metolachlor limit MEA demand, creating a declining trend.
Application Analysis
- Agrochemicals: Growth is forecasted at 1.0-2%. Primarily used for S-metolachlor, demand ties to corn and soybean cultivation, though regulatory shifts impact growth.
- Pharmaceuticals: Growth ranges from 1.0-2%. Minor use in chemical synthesis ensures steady, niche demand.
- Others: Growth falls between 0.5-1.5%. Limited expansion in specialty applications reflects a minor market role.
Key Market Players
- Lanxess: Supplies MEA for agrochemicals, known for its chemical expertise.
- Zhongnongfa Henan Agrochemical Co. Ltd.: A major Chinese producer with a 20,000-ton MEA capacity, focusing on S-metolachlor.
- Jiangsu Changqing Agrochemical Co. Ltd.: Launched a 5,000-ton S-metolachlor project in 2024, supported by MEA production.
- Aarti Industries: An Indian firm producing chemical intermediates, serving agrochemical markets.
Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
- Threat of New Entrants: Low. Technical barriers and regulatory compliance deter new competitors.
- Threat of Substitutes: Moderate. Alternative herbicides compete, but S-metolachlor’s efficacy sustains demand.
- Bargaining Power of Buyers: High. Agrochemical firms can negotiate, especially amid regulatory pressures.
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers: Moderate. Raw material suppliers exert some influence, balanced by availability.
- Competitive Rivalry: Moderate. Competition focuses on capacity and regulatory adaptation, with stable dynamics.
Market Opportunities and Challenges
- Opportunities: Growth in Asia-Pacific and Latin America’s agricultural sectors offers potential. Innovations in herbicide formulations support demand, particularly in key crop regions.
- Challenges: Regulatory restrictions in Europe limit market expansion. Dependence on corn and soybean production ties the market to agricultural cycles, introducing volatility.
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Executive SummaryChapter 2 Abbreviation and Acronyms
Chapter 3 Preface
Chapter 4 Market Landscape
Chapter 5 Market Trend Analysis
Chapter 6 Industry Chain Analysis
Chapter 7 Latest Market Dynamics
Chapter 8 Trading Analysis
Chapter 9 Historical and Forecast 2-Methyl-6-Ethylaniline Market in North America (2020-2030)
Chapter 10 Historical and Forecast 2-Methyl-6-Ethylaniline Market in South America (2020-2030)
Chapter 11 Historical and Forecast 2-Methyl-6-Ethylaniline Market in Asia & Pacific (2020-2030)
Chapter 12 Historical and Forecast 2-Methyl-6-Ethylaniline Market in Europe (2020-2030)
Chapter 13 Historical and Forecast 2-Methyl-6-Ethylaniline Market in MEA (2020-2030)
Chapter 14 Summary For Global 2-Methyl-6-Ethylaniline Market (2020-2025)
Chapter 15 Global 2-Methyl-6-Ethylaniline Market Forecast (2025-2030)
Chapter 16 Analysis of Global Key Vendors
List of Tables and Figures
Companies Mentioned
- Lanxess
- Zhongnongfa Henan Agrochemical Co. Ltd.
- Jiangsu Changqing Agrochemical Co. Ltd.
- Aarti Industries
