The Global Papermaking Retention Agent Market was valued at USD 1.85 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2.62 Billion by 2030, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.1% during the forecast period (2024–2030). This growth is being driven by the increasing demand for high-quality paper products, the expansion of the packaging sector, and the accelerating adoption of sustainable and efficient papermaking processes worldwide.

As the paper industry transforms toward enhanced productivity and environmental sustainability, the spotlight is on the key chemical suppliers who are driving innovation, improving efficiency, and enabling cleaner production technologies. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Papermaking Retention Agent Industry—a mix of chemical giants, specialty manufacturers, and sustainability pioneers shaping the future of global paper manufacturing.

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🔟 1. Seiko PMC Corporation

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Polyacrylamide (PAM) retention aids, Cationic agents, Drainage aids

Seiko PMC Corporation is a leading global supplier of paper chemicals, renowned for its high-performance retention and drainage systems. Their advanced polymer technologies optimize fiber and filler retention, significantly improving paper quality and machine efficiency for major paper mills worldwide.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Development of bio-based and low-carbon footprint retention polymers

• Advanced microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) compatibility solutions

• Commitment to reducing water and energy consumption in papermaking processes

Download FREE Sample Report: Papermaking Retention Agent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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9️⃣ 2. Kemira

Headquarters: Helsinki, Finland
Key Offering: Fennopol retention aids, FennoSize sizing agents, Wet-end chemicals

Kemira is a global chemicals company deeply integrated into the pulp and paper industry. Their comprehensive portfolio of retention and drainage solutions helps papermakers achieve superior sheet formation, better process control, and improved efficiency, particularly in packaging and board applications.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Pioneering closed-loop water system technologies

• Development of recyclable and compostable paper chemistry solutions

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8️⃣ 3. Solenis

Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware, USA
Key Offering: Percol retention polymers, Optimer coagulants, Clarifloc flocculants

Solenis specializes in high-performance retention systems for the paper industry, offering tailored solutions for various paper grades. Their expertise in water treatment and process chemistry provides papermakers with comprehensive solutions for improving yield and reducing environmental impact.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Sustainable chemistry programs focusing on biodegradable polymers

• Digital solutions for real-time process optimization and chemical dosing

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7️⃣ 4. BASF SE

Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Germany
Key Offering: Basoplast retention aids, Cartafix fixatives, Sizes and dispersants

BASF provides innovative chemical solutions for the paper industry, including advanced retention agent systems that enhance paper quality and production efficiency. Their global presence and strong R&D capabilities make them a preferred partner for paper manufacturers seeking reliable performance chemicals.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

Research into renewable raw materials for chemical production

• Carbon-neutral production roadmap for key paper chemicals

Download FREE Sample Report: Papermaking Retention Agent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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6️⃣ 5. DuPont

Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware, USA
Key Offering: Retention polymers, Drainage aids, Coagulants

DuPont offers advanced material science solutions for the paper industry, including high-efficiency retention agents that improve fiber and filler retention. Their chemical technologies support paper manufacturers in achieving better runnability and product quality across various paper grades.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Focus on water reduction and effluent quality improvement technologies

• Development of chemistry for recycled fiber optimization

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5️⃣ 6. Nuoer Group

Headquarters: Guangzhou, China
Key Offering: Cationic PAM, Anionic PAM, Amphoteric retention aids

Nuoer Group is a significant player in China’s paper chemicals market, providing cost-effective retention agent solutions for the rapidly expanding Asian paper industry. Their product range supports various paper grades from tissue to packaging board.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Localized production to reduce supply chain carbon footprint

• Custom formulations for specific regional papermaking conditions

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4️⃣ 7. Hansol Chemical

Headquarters: Seoul, South Korea
Key Offering: Retention aids, Sizing agents, Coating chemicals

Hansol Chemical is a leading chemical company in South Korea with strong expertise in paper chemicals. Their retention agent systems are designed to optimize paper machine performance and enhance final product quality for both domestic and international markets.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Investment in green chemistry R&D for paper applications

• Partnerships with paper mills for customized solution development

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3️⃣ 8. Sinofloc

Headquarters: Beijing, China
Key Offering: Various grades of Polyacrylamide, Cationic polymers

Sinofloc specializes in water-soluble polymers, including retention agents for the paper industry. Their extensive product portfolio and manufacturing capacity make them a key supplier to paper mills across China and emerging Asian markets.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Expansion of high-performance polymer production facilities

• Focus on cost-effective solutions for mass-market paper production

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2️⃣ 9. Yixing Bluwat Chemicals

Headquarters: Yixing, China
Key Offering: Specialty polymers, Retention aids, Flocculants

Yixing Bluwat Chemicals is a specialized manufacturer of water treatment and paper chemicals, offering tailored retention agent solutions. Their technical expertise and responsive customer service have established them as a reliable partner for paper manufacturers.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Development of environment-friendly polymer technologies

• Continuous improvement of product efficiency and performance

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1️⃣ 10. Balaji Chem Solutions

Headquarters: Mumbai, India
Key Offering: Paper chemicals, Retention systems, Process aids

Balaji Chem Solutions serves the growing Indian paper industry with comprehensive chemical solutions, including effective retention agents. Their understanding of local market needs and cost structures makes them an important player in South Asia’s paper chemical landscape.

Innovation and Sustainability Initiatives:

• Focus on solutions for small and medium paper mills

• Development of cost-effective retention systems for recycled paper

Get Full Report Here: Papermaking Retention Agent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

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🌍 Outlook: The Future of Papermaking Retention Agents Is Smarter and Greener

The papermaking retention agent market is undergoing a significant transformation. While traditional chemicals continue to dominate, the industry is increasingly adopting smart formulations, bio-based materials, and digital optimization technologies to meet sustainability goals and efficiency demands.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

• Growing demand for sustainable and biodegradable retention agents

• Increasing adoption of digital monitoring and dosing systems

• Rising focus on water conservation and closed-loop systems

• Expansion of packaging paper and board production globally

Get Full Report Here: Papermaking Retention Agent Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies listed above are not only supplying essential chemicals to the paper industry—they’re enabling the sustainable transformation of global paper manufacturing.