The Global Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) Market was valued at USD 1.71 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2.26 Billion by 2032, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.1% during the forecast period (2024–2032). This growth is being driven by stringent environmental regulations on fuel quality, increasing demand for cleaner petroleum products, and the accelerating adoption of advanced refining technologies across global refineries and petrochemical plants.

As the refining industry transforms toward low-emission operations and sustainable growth, the spotlight is on the key catalyst manufacturers who are driving innovation, efficiency, and cleaner energy pathways. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) Industry—a mix of global chemical giants, specialized innovators, and technology leaders shaping the future of hydroprocessing technologies.

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🔟 1. SJEP (Sinopec Jiutai)

Headquarters: Jilin, China
Key Offering: NiMo and CoMo hydrotreating catalysts, hydrocracking catalysts for residue upgrading

SJEP, a key player in China’s catalyst sector, specializes in hydroprocessing solutions tailored for domestic refineries processing heavy crudes. The company supplies catalysts to major state-owned enterprises, focusing on high-activity formulations that enhance desulfurization and denitrogenation efficiency in large-scale hydrotreating units.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Development of catalysts for ultra-low sulfur diesel production under China VI standards

• Collaborations with local refiners to optimize hydrocracking processes

• Investment in R&D for catalysts handling high-metal content feedstocks

Download FREE Sample Report: Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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9️⃣ 2. CNPC (China National Petroleum Corporation)

Headquarters: Beijing, China
Key Offering: Hydrotreating catalysts for diesel and naphtha, residue hydrocracking solutions

CNPC’s catalyst division supports China’s vast refining network, providing hydroprocessing catalysts that meet stringent national fuel quality standards. With a focus on domestic production, the company excels in delivering cost-effective solutions for heavy oil upgrading and clean fuel production.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Advancements in catalyst stability for processing shale-derived crudes

• Partnerships to scale hydroprocessing capacity in western China refineries

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8️⃣ 3. Sinopec Catalyst Company

Headquarters: Beijing, China
Key Offering: CoMo/NiMo-based hydrotreating catalysts, integrated hydrocracking systems

Sinopec Catalyst Company dominates the Asian market with its broad portfolio of hydroprocessing catalysts designed for high-throughput refineries. It plays a crucial role in meeting global sulfur reduction mandates through innovative formulations that improve catalyst lifespan and selectivity.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Recent launches of catalysts with 20% improved activity for diesel hydrotreating

• Expansion of production facilities to support renewable feedstock processing

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7️⃣ 4. Johnson Matthey

Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
Key Offering: Precious metal-based hydroprocessing catalysts, including platinum and palladium formulations for hydrotreating

Johnson Matthey leverages its expertise in precious metals to produce advanced hydroprocessing catalysts that excel in removing impurities from complex feedstocks. The company serves major European and North American refiners, emphasizing catalysts that reduce hydrogen consumption and operational costs.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Goal to develop catalysts for 10% SAF blending in aviation fuels by 2030

• Europe’s leading R&D in bimetallic catalyst systems for enhanced selectivity

Download FREE Sample Report: Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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6️⃣ 5. Axens

Headquarters: Rueil-Malmaison, France
Key Offering: HyBradx™ hydrotreating catalysts, comprehensive hydrocracking technologies

Axens provides end-to-end hydroprocessing solutions, from catalyst design to process licensing, helping refiners achieve ultra-low sulfur levels in fuels. Its technologies are widely adopted in Europe and the Middle East for upgrading heavy residues into valuable distillates.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Offers catalysts certified for renewable diesel production at key international sites

• Targets net-zero compatible catalyst advancements across refining operations

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5️⃣ 6. UOP (Honeywell)

Headquarters: Des Plaines, Illinois, USA
Key Offering: Hydrotreating and hydrocracking catalysts, including Unicracking™ and Unionfining™ technologies

UOP, a Honeywell company, is a pioneer in hydroprocessing, supplying catalysts that power over 1.5 million barrels per day of global refining capacity. Its solutions focus on maximizing yield and minimizing environmental impact in diesel and jet fuel production.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Current output exceeds 500,000 tons/year in licensed hydroprocessing units

• Target: Expand capacity to 1 million tons/year by 2027 through digital optimization

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4️⃣ 7. Haldor Topsoe

Headquarters: Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
Key Offering: TK-611 BRIM™ hydrocracking catalysts, advanced hydrotreating formulations

Haldor Topsoe serves a global clientele with high-performance catalysts for residue upgrading and clean fuel production. Renowned for its zeolite-based technologies, the company helps refiners process challenging feedstocks while complying with IMO 2020 regulations.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Geopolitical adaptations in catalyst supply for Eastern markets

• Ongoing R&D in synthetic catalysts for biofeedstock integration

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3️⃣ 8. Shell Catalysts & Technologies

Headquarters: The Hague, Netherlands
Key Offering: Shell hydrotreating catalysts, integrated solutions for lube oils and naphtha

Shell Catalysts & Technologies integrates its catalyst expertise with downstream refining operations, supplying solutions that achieve over 99% desulfurization in diesel streams. The company leads in Europe with technologies supporting the transition to renewable fuels.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Indigenous development of catalysts for Bharat Stage VI compliance

• Government collaborations to enhance hydroprocessing in emerging markets

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2️⃣ 9. Albemarle Corporation

Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
Key Offering: KF 870 series hydrotreating catalysts, hydrocracking catalysts for heavy oils

Albemarle holds a strong position in North America and Asia-Pacific with catalysts optimized for high-severity hydroprocessing. Its vertically integrated operations ensure reliable supply for major refiners upgrading shale and heavy crudes to meet Tier 3 standards.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Plans to produce 50% more renewable-compatible catalysts by 2030

• Expansion of hydrocracking supply chains in the US Gulf Coast

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1️⃣ 10. Advanced Refining Technologies (ART)

Headquarters: San Ramon, California, USA
Key Offering: ART hydrotreating catalysts, comprehensive solutions for diesel and residue applications

Advanced Refining Technologies, a Chevron and W.R. Grace joint venture, leads the global HPC market with catalysts used in over 40% of North American hydrotreating capacity. It specializes in formulations that extend cycle lengths and improve refinery margins in clean fuel production.

Innovation Initiatives:

• Full-spectrum solutions for global refiners in sustainable hydroprocessing

• Strategic alliances with technology providers for digital catalyst management

Read Full Report: Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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🌍 Outlook: The Future of Hydroprocessing Catalysts Is Cleaner and More Efficient

The hydroprocessing catalysts market is undergoing a dynamic shift. While traditional applications dominate in volume, the industry is investing billions in advanced formulations, digital optimization, and catalysts for renewable feedstocks to meet evolving environmental standards.

Hydroprocessing catalysts are specialized chemical agents used in refining processes to treat petroleum fractions with hydrogen. These catalysts play a crucial role in removing impurities like sulfur, nitrogen, and metals while improving fuel quality through processes such as hydrotreating and hydrocracking. The primary catalyst types include nickel, palladium, and platinum-based formulations, with hydrotreating accounting for 78% of the market share. The market growth is driven by stringent environmental regulations on fuel quality and increasing demand for cleaner petroleum products. While diesel hydrotreat applications dominate with 27% market share, the rising adoption of ultra-low sulfur diesel standards globally is accelerating demand. Major players like Advanced Refining Technologies, Albemarle, and Shell Catalysts & Technologies collectively hold 55% market share, leveraging their technological expertise in catalyst formulations.

The global push for cleaner transportation fuels has become a major catalyst for hydroprocessing catalyst demand. With over 40 countries implementing ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) standards requiring less than 15 ppm sulfur content, refiners must upgrade existing units or install new hydroprocessing facilities. This regulatory pressure stems from growing environmental concerns – diesel vehicles account for more than 50% of nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions in urban areas worldwide. Hydroprocessing catalysts enable refiners to meet these strict specifications while maintaining processing efficiency, creating sustained market demand. Recent expansions in refinery capacity across developing nations further amplify this effect, with Asia-Pacific leading in new hydroprocessing unit installations.

Despite the global energy transition, diesel remains the backbone of commercial transportation and industrial operations, with global demand projected to grow at 1.5% annually through 2030. This sustained consumption creates continuous demand for hydrotreating catalysts, particularly as refiners process heavier crude slates that require more intensive treatment. The market for residue upgrading catalysts shows particular strength, growing at 5.2% annually as refineries maximize bottom-of-the-barrel conversion. Recent catalyst formulations demonstrate 20-30% longer cycle lengths compared to previous generations, significantly improving refinery economics while meeting product quality targets.

Innovations in catalyst formulations are driving market expansion through improved activity, selectivity and stability. New generation catalysts incorporating advanced metals like tungsten and rhenium demonstrate 15-20% higher activity than conventional cobalt-molybdenum systems, allowing refiners to process difficult feedstocks at lower pressures. Recent developments in catalyst supports, including shaped extrudates and tailored pore structures, have reduced pressure drops by up to 30% while maintaining catalyst effectiveness. These technological improvements translate directly to refinery profitability by enabling higher throughput, longer run lengths, and reduced energy consumption.

While hydroprocessing offers clear refining benefits, the substantial capital requirements create significant barriers to adoption. A new 50,000 barrels per day hydroprocessing unit requires upwards of $500 million in capital investment, with catalyst costs typically representing 3-5% of the total. Smaller refiners, particularly in developing regions, often lack access to financing for these large-scale projects. Operational expenses present another hurdle – hydroprocessing consumes significant amounts of hydrogen (15-20% of operating costs) and requires continuous catalyst replenishment, making the technology cost-prohibitive for some market participants.

The hydroprocessing catalyst market remains vulnerable to fluctuations in precious metal markets since many formulations incorporate platinum, palladium and other rare metals. When nickel prices rose 45% in 2023, catalyst manufacturers faced severe margin pressure as contractual agreements limited their ability to adjust prices accordingly. These cost pressures sometimes force refiners to delay catalyst change-outs, potentially compromising product quality. Moreover, geopolitical tensions affecting metal supply chains have increased lead times for certain catalyst formulations by 30-60 days, disrupting refinery maintenance schedules.

The global shift toward electric vehicles and alternative energies presents fundamental challenges to hydroprocessing catalyst demand. With battery electric vehicle penetration projected to reach 30% of new car sales by 2030 in major markets, gasoline demand appears set for structural decline. However, the transition timeline for heavy transport remains uncertain, maintaining diesel demand in the medium term. Catalyst manufacturers must carefully calibrate R&D investments and production capacity to balance near-term opportunities against long-term risks, creating complex strategic planning challenges.

Modern refineries increasingly process challenging crude slates including heavy oils, shale-derived crudes and biofeedstocks, each requiring specialized catalyst formulations. The variable composition of these feedstocks makes catalyst selection and process optimization increasingly difficult. Integration challenges emerge when attempting to process bio-based feeds in conventional hydroprocessing units – oxygen compounds in renewable diesel feedstocks can cause rapid catalyst deactivation if not properly managed. These technical hurdles require continual catalyst innovation to maintain system reliability and product quality standards.

The emerging renewable fuels market presents substantial growth potential for hydroprocessing catalyst suppliers. With 135 renewable diesel projects announced globally representing over 7 billion gallons of future capacity, demand for specialized hydrotreating catalysts could triple by 2030. These applications require catalysts capable of processing high-oxygen content feedstocks while minimizing hydrogen consumption – technical challenges that leading suppliers are actively addressing through tailored catalyst systems. The sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market, projected to reach $15 billion by 2030, represents another major opportunity as airlines commit to 10% SAF blends by 2030 in key markets.

Advanced analytics and digital monitoring tools create new service-based revenue streams for catalyst suppliers. Real-time catalyst performance monitoring systems, when combined with machine learning algorithms, can predict deactivation patterns and optimize change-out schedules with 85-90% accuracy. Several leading refiners have reported 5-15% reductions in catalyst consumption through these digital solutions. As the industry shifts toward outcome-based contracting models, catalyst suppliers able to offer comprehensive performance guarantees and optimization services stand to gain market share.

The Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) market is segmented based on type into hydrotreating catalysts (subtypes: NiMo, CoMo, and others), hydrocracking catalysts, and others. Hydrotreating catalysts dominate due to high demand for cleaner fuels. By application, diesel hydrotreat leads owing to strict environmental regulations, followed by lube oils, naphtha, residue upgrading, and others. By end-user, refineries account for the largest share due to high consumption of HPCs, with petrochemical plants and others also significant.

The global Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) market features a moderately consolidated structure, dominated by specialized chemical manufacturers with strong technological capabilities. Advanced Refining Technologies (ART), a joint venture between Chevron and W.R. Grace, leads the market with a comprehensive portfolio for hydrotreating and hydrocracking applications. Their market position is reinforced by long-term partnerships with major oil refiners. Albemarle Corporation and Shell Catalysts & Technologies collectively account for over 35% market share (2024), benefiting from their vertically integrated operations and extensive refinery client networks across North America and Asia-Pacific. Both companies have recently expanded catalyst production facilities to address growing clean fuel regulations.

Strategic investments in next-generation catalysts are shaping the competitive dynamics. Haldor Topsoe launched its latest TK-611 BRIM™ hydrocracking catalyst series in 2023, demonstrating 15% higher activity compared to previous generations, while Axens introduced HyBradx™ technology for ultra-low sulfur diesel production. Moreover, Chinese players like Sinopec and CNPC are gaining prominence through cost-competitive offerings and government-supported refinery modernization programs. Their market share in Asia grew by 2.8% between 2020-2024.

The global hydroprocessing catalysts market is witnessing significant growth due to increasing refinery capacity expansions, particularly in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions. Driven by rising energy demands and stricter environmental regulations, refiners are investing heavily in hydroprocessing units to produce cleaner fuels. Countries like China and India are leading this expansion, with China accounting for nearly 30% of global hydroprocessing catalyst demand in 2024. Furthermore, the transition to ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) specifications across major economies continues to propel adoption of advanced hydrotreating catalysts.

With conventional crude reserves declining, refiners are increasingly processing heavy and sour crude oils, requiring more sophisticated catalyst formulations. Recent advancements in metal-loaded zeolites and mesoporous supports have enhanced catalyst activity and lifetime for residue upgrading applications. These innovations are particularly crucial as residue upgrading accounts for approximately 18% of the HPC market. Manufacturers are focusing on developing catalysts with higher resistance to metal poisons and improved thermal stability to handle these challenging feedstocks.

Environmental mandates worldwide continue to reshape the hydroprocessing catalysts landscape. The implementation of IMO 2020 sulfur regulations and evolving national standards for transportation fuels have significantly increased demand for hydrotreating solutions. In Europe, the push for renewable fuels under the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II) is creating new opportunities for hydroprocessing catalysts in biofuels production. The market is responding with specialized catalysts capable of processing mixed feedstocks while maintaining high product yields and meeting stringent emission standards.

Refiners are increasingly adopting digital solutions to optimize catalyst performance and lifecycle management. Advanced predictive analytics tools are being deployed to monitor catalyst activity in real-time, potentially extending run lengths by 15-20%. This digital transformation is complemented by growing adoption of catalyst rejuvenation services, which allow refiners to maximize the value of their catalyst investments. Major players are integrating these services with their product offerings, creating comprehensive solutions that address both technical and economic considerations in hydroprocessing operations.

North America is a mature yet steadily growing market for hydroprocessing catalysts, driven by the region’s stringent environmental regulations and the need to upgrade aging refinery infrastructure. The U.S. dominates demand, with refiners focusing on cleaner fuel production to comply with EPA Tier 3 standards, which mandate ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD). Canada and Mexico are also investing in hydroprocessing capacity, particularly for heavy crude upgrading. Major players such as Advanced Refining Technologies (ART) and Albemarle hold significant market share here, supplying catalysts tailored to complex refinery operations. However, market growth is somewhat restrained by high initial investment costs and the gradual shift toward renewable energy alternatives.

Europe‘s HPC market is shaped by rigorous environmental policies under the EU’s Refinery Directive and REACH regulations, which emphasize cleaner fuel specifications and reduced emissions. Countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands lead in adopting hydrotreating catalysts to produce low-sulfur fuels, while Eastern Europe shows slower adoption due to economic constraints. The region’s refineries are increasingly investing in hydrocracking catalysts to maximize distillate yields, particularly for aviation and marine fuels. European R&D investments in catalyst efficiency remain high, with companies like Haldor Topsoe and Shell Catalysts & Technologies driving innovation. Nonetheless, the market faces challenges from declining crude oil demand and policy shifts toward biofuels.

The Asia-Pacific region is the largest and fastest-growing HPC market, accounting for over 40% of global demand, led by China and India. Rapid industrialization, expanding refining capacities, and stricter fuel quality standards (e.g., China VI and Bharat Stage VI) are propelling growth. China’s state-owned refiners, including Sinopec and CNPC, dominate domestic catalyst consumption, while India relies on imports and joint ventures. Hydrotreating applications, especially for diesel, remain dominant, though investments in residue upgrading catalysts are rising. Southeast Asia is emerging as a growth hotspot due to refinery expansions in Indonesia and Malaysia. However, cost sensitivity and uneven regulatory enforcement in less developed markets slow the adoption of advanced catalyst technologies.

South America‘s HPC market is fragmented, with Brazil being the primary driver due to its large refining base and Petrobras-led investments in heavy crude processing. Argentina and Venezuela show limited growth due to economic instability and underinvestment in refinery upgrades. The region prioritizes hydrotreating catalysts for diesel production, though adoption of hydrocracking technologies lags behind global averages. While regional players like Argentina’s YPF are exploring catalyst partnerships, political risks and inconsistent policies hinder long-term market expansion. Nonetheless, Brazil’s recent focus on refining self-sufficiency presents opportunities for HPC suppliers.

The Middle East is a strategic HPC market, with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries leading demand due to massive refinery expansions and integrated petrochemical projects. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are investing heavily in hydrocracking catalysts to boost middle distillate production and meet export demands. Africa’s market remains underdeveloped, though South Africa and Nigeria show potential with limited refinery upgrades. The region benefits from proximity to feedstock and low production costs, attracting global players like Axens and UOP. However, geopolitical tensions and reliance on imported catalyst technologies in Africa constrain faster growth, despite long-term opportunities in cleaner fuel initiatives.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

• Rapid expansion in renewable diesel and SAF production capacity in the EU, US, and Asia

• Regulatory mandates for ULSD and low-sulfur fuels driving catalyst upgrades by 2030

• Digitalization of refinery operations and real-time catalyst monitoring

• Strategic alliances between catalyst suppliers and refiners for sustainable innovations

Read Full Report: Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies listed above are not only powering global refining—they’re spearheading the transition to cleaner, more efficient energy pathways.

This report presents a comprehensive analysis of the global and regional markets for Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC), covering the period from 2024 to 2032. It includes detailed insights into the current market status and outlook across various regions and countries, with specific focus on sales, sales volume, and revenue forecasts, as well as detailed segmentation by type and application.

In addition, the report offers in-depth profiles of key industry players, including company profiles, product specifications, production capacity and sales, revenue, pricing, gross margins, and sales performance. It further examines the competitive landscape, highlighting the major vendors and identifying the critical factors expected to challenge market growth.

As part of this research, we surveyed Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) manufacturers and industry experts. The survey covered various aspects, including revenue and demand trends, product types and recent developments, strategic plans and market drivers, and industry challenges, obstacles, and potential risks.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is the current market size of Global Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) Market?

-> The global Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) market was valued at USD 1,713 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2,261 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period.

Which key companies operate in Global Hydroprocessing Catalysts (HPC) Market?

-> Key players include Advanced Refining Technologies (ART), Albemarle, Shell Catalysts & Technologies, Haldor Topsoe, UOP, Axens, Johnson Matthey, Sinopec, CNPC, and SJEP.

What are the key growth drivers?

-> Key growth drivers include increasing demand for cleaner fuels, stringent environmental regulations, and refinery capacity expansions.

Which region dominates the market?

-> Asia-Pacific is the largest and fastest-growing market, driven by rising energy demand in China and India, while North America remains a key player due to shale oil production.

What are the emerging trends?

-> Emerging trends include development of high-activity catalysts, adoption of renewable feedstocks, and advancements in catalyst regeneration technologies.