Maleic Anhydride Market Size & Share, By Application (1-4, Butanediol (BDO), Fumaric Acid, Unsaturated Polyester Resin (UPR), Lubricant Additives, Copolymers, Malic Acid, Alkenyl Succinic Anhydrides), Raw Material (Benzene And N-Butane), End-User (Agriculture, Automotive, Construction, Textile, Food & Beverage, Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals) - Growth Trends, Regional Insights (U.S., Japan, South Korea, UK, Germany), Competitive Positioning, Global Forecast Report 2025-2034

Market Outlook:

Maleic Anhydride Market size is expected to expand from USD 3.13 billion in 2024 to USD 5.55 billion by 2034, demonstrating a CAGR of more than 5.9% between 2025 and 2034. In 2025, the industry revenue is estimated to reach USD 3.28 billion.

• Base Year Value (2024): USD 3.13 billion
• CAGR (2025-2034): 5.9%
• Forecast Year Value (2034): USD 5.55 billion
• Historical Data Period: 2019-2024
• Largest Region: Asia Pacific
• Forecast Period: 2025-2034

Market Dynamics:

Growth Drivers & Opportunities:

The Maleic Anhydride market is witnessing significant growth fueled by several key factors. One of the major drivers is the rising demand for unsaturated polyester resins (UPR), which are extensively used in the automotive and construction industries. As the construction and automotive sectors expand, the need for durable and lightweight materials increases, leading to higher consumption of UPRs, subsequently boosting demand for maleic anhydride. Additionally, the growing trend towards sustainable materials is creating opportunities for manufacturers to explore bio-based maleic anhydride production, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and industries.

Technological advancements in production processes are also enhancing the efficiency and yield of maleic anhydride, making it more attractive to manufacturers. The introduction of innovative catalytic processes and the development of improved raw materials can further open up opportunities for expansion in production capacities. Moreover, the rising awareness of the benefits of maleic anhydride in applications such as agricultural chemicals and additives for lubricants adds new revenue streams.

Furthermore, the increasing usage of maleic anhydride in the formulation of specialty chemicals is another potent growth driver. Industries such as pharmaceuticals and personal care are adopting maleic anhydride for its versatile properties, which paves the way for new applications and increased market penetration. Global investments in infrastructure and improvements in industrial activities in emerging economies present additional opportunities for market players to capitalize on the growing demand for maleic anhydride derivatives.

Report Scope

Report Coverage	Details
Segments Covered	Application, Raw Material, End-User
Regions Covered	• North America (United States, Canada, Mexico) • Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe) • Asia Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, India, Australia, Rest of APAC) • Latin America (Argentina, Brazil, Rest of South America) • Middle East & Africa (GCC, South Africa, Rest of MEA)
Company Profiled	Huntsman Corporation, LyondellBasell, Lanxess, Mitsubishi Chemical, BASF, Sasol, Polynt, Dow Chemical, Sismex, Valspar

Industry Restraints:

Despite the promising growth prospects, the Maleic Anhydride market faces several key restraints that may hinder its expansion. One significant challenge is the volatility of raw material prices, particularly for feedstocks like benzene and butane, which are critical for maleic anhydride production. Fluctuations in price can lead to increased production costs and impact profit margins for manufacturers, creating instability in the market.

Moreover, stringent environmental regulations and concerns regarding the toxicity of certain production processes pose a challenge for industry players. As regulatory frameworks become more stringent globally, companies may find it increasingly difficult to comply with the new standards, resulting in increased operational costs and potential legal liabilities. This can slow the growth of the maleic anhydride market, particularly for smaller manufacturers who may struggle to meet compliance requirements.

The competition from alternative materials and substitutes is another restraint affecting the maleic anhydride market. As industries explore more sustainable and less toxic alternatives, the demand for maleic anhydride could be impacted, leading to a potential decline in its market share. Additionally, the market's dependence on a limited number of key suppliers may create supply chain vulnerabilities, making manufacturers susceptible to disruptions. Overall, while the maleic anhydride market possesses substantial growth opportunities, these industry restraints must be navigated effectively to ensure sustained progress.

Regional Forecast:

North America

The Maleic Anhydride Market in North America is primarily driven by the robust demand from various end-use industries, particularly in the production of unsaturated polyester resins and coatings. The United States stands out as the largest market, characterized by a well-established chemical manufacturing sector and significant R&D activities. Canada, while smaller in comparison, is expected to contribute positively due to its growing automotive and construction industries. The presence of major chemical companies and ongoing innovations in manufacturing processes position North America for steady growth in the maleic anhydride segment.

Asia Pacific

In Asia Pacific, the maleic anhydride market is witnessing rapid expansion, particularly in China, which is becoming a global leader in production and consumption. The country's booming construction and automotive sectors drive the demand for maleic anhydride in resins and adhesives. Japan and South Korea are also integral players, benefitting from advanced technology and substantial investments in chemical production facilities. As the region continues to industrialize, demand from emerging economies and increased production capacities suggest a promising growth trajectory for maleic anhydride in Asia Pacific.

Europe

Europe has a mature maleic anhydride market, with Germany, the UK, and France being key contributors. Germany leads the region due to its strong automotive industry and specialized chemical manufacturing capabilities. The UK and France follow, driven by similar sectors as well as increasing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly materials, which utilize maleic anhydride in their formulations. The European market is also observing a shift towards innovation and technological advancements, enhancing the application scopes of maleic anhydride in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and electronics, indicating a stable yet dynamic growth pattern.

Segmentation Analysis:

In terms of segmentation, the global Maleic Anhydride market is analyzed on the basis of Application, Raw Material, End-User.

Application

The application segment of the Maleic Anhydride market is diverse, encompassing various industrial uses that are pivotal for its growth. The most significant applications include unsaturated polyester resins, which are widely utilized in the automotive and construction industries. These resins are favored for their excellent durability and weather resistance, driving demand in sectors focused on high-performance materials. Additionally, maleic anhydride is employed in the manufacturing of specialty chemicals, surfactants, and agricultural products, including pesticides and herbicides. Among these, the unsaturated polyester resin application is projected to exhibit the largest market size, as it continues to gain traction in emerging markets due to increasing urbanization and infrastructure development. Furthermore, the strong growth in the automotive segment as manufacturers seek lightweight materials for fuel efficiency is expected to accelerate the demand for maleic anhydride-derived resins.

Raw Material

The raw material segment for Maleic Anhydride primarily includes n-butane and n-butene. N-butane, which is derived from petroleum refining, has been a historically dominant raw material owing to its availability and cost-effectiveness. The production process usually involves the oxidation of n-butane to produce maleic anhydride, making it a crucial factor in supply chain dynamics. N-butene, another significant feedstock, is generated through various cracking processes and increasingly adopted due to advancements in catalytic processes that enhance yield. While both raw materials currently hold substantial market share, n-butene is expected to show faster growth as technological advancements allow for more efficient and sustainable production methods. Companies focusing on leveraging n-butene are likely to gain a competitive edge as sustainability becomes a core consideration in the industry.

End-User

In the end-user segment, key industries utilizing Maleic Anhydride include automotive, construction, textiles, and agriculture. The automotive industry remains the largest consumer, with a strong demand for lightweight, high-performance materials—particularly unsaturated polyester resins and coatings that improve vehicle durability. The construction sector follows closely, where maleic anhydride is integral to composites and sealants that enhance the longevity and performance of buildings. The agricultural sector is also a significant end-user, especially for pesticides and herbicides that contribute to increased crop yields. Among these, the automotive industry is positioned to demonstrate the largest market size, fueled by ongoing innovations in material science and manufacturing techniques. Meanwhile, the construction industry is expected to witness the fastest growth as global infrastructure projects expand, with an increasing emphasis on sustainable building practices and materials.

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape in the Maleic Anhydride Market is characterized by the presence of several key players driving growth through innovative production processes and expanding their global reach. Companies are increasingly focusing on strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to enhance their market position. The rising demand for maleic anhydride in end-use industries such as automotive, construction, and coatings further intensifies competition. Additionally, advancements in technology and sustainability initiatives are becoming critical factors as firms strive to develop eco-friendly processes while meeting regulatory requirements. This dynamic environment necessitates continuous investment in research and development and the exploration of new application areas for maleic anhydride to maintain a competitive edge.

Top Market Players

1. R. A. H. N. AG

2. Huntsman Corporation

3. Ashland Global Holdings Inc.

4. Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation

5. LANXESS AG

6. Polynt S.p.A.

7. ExxonMobil Chemical

8. Chevron Phillips Chemical Company

9. Sadara Chemical Company

10. YPC Group