Phthalic Anhydride Market Size, Sales, Production, Consumption, Import, Export, Growth Rate, Price, Volume and value forecast 2023 to 2029

In Business Insights
September 30, 2025

The global Phthalic Anhydride Market continues to show steady expansion, with its valuation reaching US$ 10.8 billion in 2022. According to the latest industry analysis, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.0%, reaching approximately US$ 14.23 billion by 2029. This growth is primarily driven by rising demand in key sectors like plasticizers, unsaturated polyester resins, and alkyd resins, especially in construction and automotive industries across developing regions where infrastructure development and vehicle production are accelerating rapidly.

Phthalic anhydride serves as a crucial intermediate in the chemical industry, primarily used in the manufacturing of plasticizers for flexible PVC, as well as in the production of resins for coatings and composites. Its wide-ranging applications in enhancing material flexibility and durability make it indispensable for industries aiming to improve product performance while navigating regulatory pressures. With growing emphasis on sustainable production methods, such as bio-based alternatives, producers and policymakers are actively promoting innovations that reduce environmental impact and support a more circular approach to chemical manufacturing.

Download FREE Sample Report: https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/download-sample/214928/phthalic-anhydride-market-2023-2029-251

Market Overview & Regional Analysis

Asia-Pacific leads the global phthalic anhydride market, propelled by robust industrial activities in major economies like China and India. The region thrives on extensive manufacturing bases for plastics and resins, coupled with ongoing urbanization projects and a surge in automotive production that heighten the need for high-quality plasticizers and polyester materials. However, while demand remains strong, supply chain dynamics and raw material availability continue to shape market trajectories here.

North America’s market evolution is supported by technological advancements in production efficiency and a focus on high-value applications in coatings and composites. Europe stands out with stringent environmental regulations that encourage cleaner production processes, such as those minimizing emissions from oxidation methods. Meanwhile, regions like Latin America and the Middle East & Africa exhibit considerable potential for expansion, though they grapple with infrastructural limitations and varying economic stability that could influence import dependencies.

Key Market Drivers and Opportunities

The phthalic anhydride market benefits from the worldwide push for enhanced material properties in end-user industries, including a boom in construction activities, expanding automotive sectors, and growing marine applications. Notably, plasticizers represent the dominant use, accounting for over half of consumption, with unsaturated polyester resins and alkyd resins following closely to support paints, coatings, and fiberglass products. Emerging uses in advanced composites for renewable energy infrastructure and lightweight automotive parts present exciting avenues for future development.

Further opportunities emerge from innovations in catalytic processes that improve yield and reduce energy use, alongside the rising integration of phthalic anhydride derivatives in eco-friendly formulations. Markets in Southeast Asia and South America, particularly for construction and packaging, offer substantial export potential as local industries modernize. Moreover, as global regulations favor non-phthalate alternatives, strategic shifts toward specialized, high-performance variants could unlock new growth paths for forward-thinking manufacturers.

Challenges & Restraints

The phthalic anhydride market encounters hurdles such as fluctuations in feedstock prices, particularly for o-xylene and naphthalene, alongside increasing scrutiny over health and environmental concerns related to phthalates. Overproduction in certain regions leads to price pressures, complicating profitability, while supply disruptions from geopolitical events add uncertainty. Additionally, the transition to greener alternatives poses adaptation challenges, as collection and recycling rates for derivative products remain inconsistent. Trade barriers, including tariffs on imports from key producing nations, further complicate global flows and risk escalating costs for downstream users.

Market Segmentation by Type

  • O-xylene Catalytic Oxidation
  • Naphthalene Catalytic Oxidation

Download FREE Sample Report: https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/download-sample/214928/phthalic-anhydride-market-2023-2029-251

Market Segmentation by Application

  • Plasticizers
  • UPR
  • Alkyd Resins
  • Others

Market Segmentation and Key Players

  • BASF
  • ExxonMobil
  • Aekyung
  • Thirumalai
  • Stepan
  • Koppers
  • UPC Group
  • Polynt
  • Proviron
  • Lanxess
  • CEPSA
  • Uralkhimprom
  • IG Petrochemicals
  • Nan Ya Plastics
  • Deza
  • Perstorp
  • Shenghe
  • Bluesail
  • Henan Qing’an Chemical
  • HongXin Company
  • Anhui Tongling Chemical
  • New Solar
  • Jiangsu Sanmu Group
  • Mitsubishi Gas Chemical

Report Scope

This report presents a comprehensive analysis of the global and regional markets for Phthalic Anhydride, covering the period from 2023 to 2029. 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

  • 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

  • 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 Phthalic Anhydride companies and industry experts. The survey covered various aspects, including:

  • Revenue and demand trends

  • Product types and recent developments

  • Strategic plans and market drivers

  • Industry challenges, obstacles, and potential risks

Get Full Report Here: https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/reports/214928/phthalic-anhydride-market-2023-2029-251

About 24chemicalresearch

Founded in 2015, 24chemicalresearch has rapidly established itself as a leader in chemical market intelligence, serving clients including over 30 Fortune 500 companies. We provide data-driven insights through rigorous research methodologies, addressing key industry factors such as government policy, emerging technologies, and competitive landscapes.

  • Plant-level capacity tracking
  • Real-time price monitoring
  • Techno-economic feasibility studies

With a dedicated team of researchers possessing over a decade of experience, we focus on delivering actionable, timely, and high-quality reports to help clients achieve their strategic goals. Our mission is to be the most trusted resource for market insights in the chemical and materials industries.

International: +1(332) 2424 294 | Asia: +91 9169162030

Website: https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/24chemicalresearch

Phthalic anhydride, a versatile organic compound, plays a pivotal role in modern industrial processes. As a white crystalline solid or molten liquid, it exhibits unique chemical properties that make it essential for derivative production. While its irritating odor and reactivity with oxidants demand careful handling, these characteristics also underscore its utility in high-performance applications. Produced mainly through the oxidation of o-xylene or naphthalene using vanadium-based catalysts, the compound’s synthesis has evolved to enhance efficiency and safety.

In the realm of plasticizers, phthalic anhydride dominates by enabling flexible PVC materials used in flooring, cables, and automotive interiors. This segment’s growth ties directly to booming construction and consumer goods sectors, where durability and cost-effectiveness are paramount. Furthermore, its role in unsaturated polyester resins supports composite materials for boats, wind turbine blades, and building panels, aligning with global sustainability goals as industries seek lightweight alternatives to traditional metals.

Alkyd resins, another key area, leverage phthalic anhydride for paints and coatings that provide protective finishes in automotive and marine environments. These resins offer excellent adhesion and weather resistance, making them ideal for harsh conditions. However, as environmental concerns mount, manufacturers are exploring ways to incorporate bio-derived feedstocks, potentially reshaping supply chains and opening doors for innovation.

Looking deeper into market dynamics, the influence of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict has rippled through supply lines, affecting raw material costs and production capacities. Despite these setbacks, the sector’s resilience shines through, with manufacturers adapting by optimizing operations and diversifying sources. This adaptability not only mitigates risks but also fosters long-term stability.

From a production standpoint, the o-xylene route has gained prominence due to its higher yield and lower costs compared to naphthalene-based methods, particularly in regions with abundant petrochemical resources. Yet, both processes contribute to a balanced portfolio, ensuring supply meets diverse demands. Industry experts note that ongoing R&D focuses on catalyst improvements to boost selectivity and reduce byproducts, which could significantly lower operational expenses.

In terms of end-use, the construction industry’s expansion in Asia fuels demand for phthalic anhydride-derived products, as urban development requires robust, flexible materials. Similarly, the automotive sector’s shift toward electric vehicles introduces opportunities for advanced composites in battery casings and interiors. Marine applications, though niche, benefit from corrosion-resistant coatings, supporting global trade and offshore activities.

Challenges persist, however, with regulatory pressures targeting phthalate safety in consumer products. Agencies worldwide are tightening standards, prompting a move toward safer alternatives, though phthalic anhydride itself remains vital for industrial uses. Price volatility in crude oil derivatives adds another layer, as does the need for better waste management to address hydrolysis byproducts.

Opportunities abound in emerging markets, where infrastructure investments create a fertile ground for growth. Collaborations between chemical firms and end-users could accelerate adoption of high-performance resins, while circular economy initiatives recycle phthalic acid derivatives, reducing virgin material needs. As technology advances, hybrid production methods might blend traditional oxidation with green chemistry principles.

Key players in the market are navigating these waters by investing in capacity expansions and strategic partnerships. For instance, major producers are enhancing their o-xylene facilities to capitalize on cost advantages, while others explore naphthalene routes in regions with legacy infrastructure. This competitive positioning ensures a dynamic landscape where innovation drives differentiation.

Surveys of manufacturers reveal optimism tempered by caution; revenue trends point upward, but demand fluctuations require agile responses. Recent developments include process optimizations that cut energy use by up to 20% in some plants, alongside product variants tailored for specific applications like low-VOC coatings. Strategic plans emphasize sustainability, with many firms committing to carbon footprint reductions.

Drivers such as urbanization and industrialization continue to propel the market, yet obstacles like raw material scarcity and trade tensions loom large. Potential risks include supply disruptions from natural disasters or policy shifts, underscoring the importance of diversified sourcing. Overall, the phthalic anhydride sector stands at a crossroads, balancing tradition with transformation.

Regional breakdowns highlight Asia’s dominance, with China leading production due to integrated petrochemical complexes. Europe’s focus on compliance drives premium product development, while North America’s innovation hubs push boundaries in specialty applications. In South America and Africa, untapped potential lies in growing manufacturing bases, though infrastructure upgrades are essential.

The report’s scope extends to detailed forecasts, segmenting by type to reveal growth potentials in catalytic oxidation methods. Application-wise, plasticizers’ lead is unchallenged, but UPR and alkyds show promise in renewables. Competitor analysis delves into revenues and sales shares, profiling leaders’ strategies from expansions to mergers.

Industrial chain examination covers upstream feedstocks like o-xylene from refineries, through production, to downstream uses in plastics and coatings. Policy analyses address emission controls and trade agreements impacting global flows. In conclusion, phthalic anhydride’s market trajectory reflects broader chemical industry trends toward efficiency and sustainability.

With a projected CAGR reflecting resilient demand, stakeholders should prioritize R&D to stay ahead. This comprehensive view equips businesses to forge growth strategies amid evolving challenges, ensuring informed decisions in a competitive arena.