Global Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Product Form;
Crystalline, Liquid, and FlakesBy Product Type;
Technical Grade, Pharmaceutical Grade, and Food GradeBy Form;
Solid and LiquidBy Application;
Agrochemicals, Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals, Food & Beverages, and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market Overview
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market (USD Million)
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market was valued at USD 928.96 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 1,222.44 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.0%.
Global Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 4.0 %
Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
---|---|
Base Year | 2024 |
CAGR (%) | 4.0 % |
Market Size (2024) | USD 928.96 Million |
Market Size (2031) | USD 1,222.44 Million |
Market Concentration | High |
Report Pages | 375 |
Major Players
- AkzoNobel N.V.
- CABB Group
- Nufarm Limited
- Niacet Corporation
- Jubilant Life Sciences Limited
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Global Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market is expanding rapidly due to its extensive application in agrochemicals, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. A primary use of MCAA lies in the creation of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), an essential ingredient across multiple sectors. The agrochemical industry accounts for over 35% of total consumption, largely for manufacturing herbicides and crop protection agents.
Increased Utilization in Chemical Manufacturing
The rising production of chemical intermediates has amplified MCAA’s relevance. It is instrumental in synthesizing compounds such as glycine and thioglycolic acid, which are crucial to numerous end-use applications. Approximately 28% of MCAA output is used in intermediate manufacturing, driven by the increasing demand for value-added specialty chemicals.
Technological Advancements in Production
Advances in chlorination processes and catalytic technology are contributing to higher production efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Eco-efficient manufacturing has been embraced by more than 18% of industry participants, supporting compliance with stringent safety and emission norms while optimizing operational costs.
Growing Preference for Bio-Based Alternatives
Sustainability trends are prompting a gradual transition towards bio-based MCAA alternatives, particularly in regions with strict environmental mandates. Though still emerging, 12% of the market is shifting towards greener variants, reflecting a broader move toward eco-conscious chemical sourcing and reduced reliance on synthetic inputs.
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market Recent Developments
-
In 2023, CABB Group GmbH expanded its MCAA production capacity at its Pratteln, Switzerland facility to cater to increasing demand in industries like agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals.
-
In 2021, Atul Ltd and Nouryon formed a joint venture to establish a monochloroacetic acid (MCAA) production facility in Gujarat, India, aiming to meet the growing demand in the Asia-Pacific region.
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market has been segmented by Product Form, Product Type, Form, Application, and Geography.
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, Segmentation by Product Form
The Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market has been segmented by Product Form into Crystalline, Liquid, and Flakes.
Crystalline
The crystalline form of monochloroacetic acid is one of the most commonly used in the market due to its high purity and suitability for applications in the pharmaceutical, agricultural, and chemical industries. It represents a significant portion of the market, with a share of about 40%. Crystalline MCAA is preferred in the production of herbicides, pesticides, and specialty chemicals, as it offers easy handling and precise dosage control.
Liquid
The liquid form of monochloroacetic acid is widely used in industrial processes, especially for synthesizing acrylic acid and other chemical derivatives. It holds around 35% of the market share due to its versatility and ease of use in continuous processes. The liquid form is also a preferred choice in detergents, personal care products, and water treatment chemicals, where it can be easily mixed and applied.
Flakes
Flakes of monochloroacetic acid are primarily used in applications that require solid formulations and are especially prevalent in the chemical and agriculture sectors. This product form accounts for approximately 25% of the market. Flakes are favored for their storage stability, convenient transportation, and ease of handling in pesticide and herbicide production.
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, Segmentation by Product Type
The Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market has been segmented by Product Type into Technical Grade, Pharmaceutical Grade, and Food Grade.
Technical Grade
The technical grade of monochloroacetic acid is widely used across a range of industrial applications, including the production of herbicides, pesticides, and other specialty chemicals. It represents a significant portion of the market, accounting for about 50% of the total market share. This grade is preferred in industries where high purity is not the primary concern but cost-effectiveness and performance are key factors.
Pharmaceutical Grade
The pharmaceutical grade of monochloroacetic acid is produced with stringent quality controls to meet the standards required for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. It is utilized in the synthesis of various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and contributes to approximately 30% of the market. Its high purity makes it a crucial component in medication production and healthcare formulations.
Food Grade
The food grade of monochloroacetic acid is used in food processing, especially for the production of preservatives and as a flavoring agent in some food products. It accounts for around 20% of the market share. The strict regulations around food safety and quality control make this grade highly regulated but essential in ensuring food safety and enhancing the shelf life of products.
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, Segmentation by Form
The Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market has been segmented by Form into Solid and Liquid.
Solid
The solid form of monochloroacetic acid is primarily used in industrial applications that require stability and ease of handling. It holds a substantial portion of the market, accounting for approximately 60% of the total share. Solid MCAA is preferred in the manufacturing of pesticides, herbicides, and chemical intermediates, where high purity and controlled release are essential for effectiveness.
Liquid
The liquid form of monochloroacetic acid is widely used in applications where ease of application and blending with other chemicals are important. It represents around 40% of the market share. Liquid MCAA is commonly used in synthesis processes for acrylic acid and other chemical derivatives, as well as in the production of detergents, personal care products, and water treatment chemicals.
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, Segmentation by Application
The Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market has been segmented by Application into Production of Agrochemicals, Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals, Food & Beverages, and Others.
Production of Agrochemicals
The agrochemical industry accounts for a major share of MCAA consumption, contributing to nearly 35% of the global demand. MCAA is crucial in the production of herbicides like glyphosate and other crop protection chemicals. Its role in enhancing agricultural yield and crop quality continues to drive market growth in this segment. The rise in global food demand has further boosted its relevance.
Personal Care
In the personal care segment, MCAA is widely used in the synthesis of surfactants and thickening agents. Representing approximately 20% of the total application share, it plays a role in formulating cleansers, shampoos, and moisturizers. The increasing demand for organic and safe personal care products has significantly driven its use in this sector.
Pharmaceuticals
The pharmaceutical industry utilizes MCAA in the manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), including ibuprofen and dichloroacetic acid. Holding around 15% of the application market, MCAA’s ability to serve as a chemical intermediate makes it vital in drug production. Ongoing advancements in therapeutic drugs continue to expand its pharmaceutical applications.
Food & Beverages
MCAA finds niche applications in the food and beverage industry, particularly in the production of preservatives and acidulants. Though it comprises only 10% of the market share, its role in enhancing shelf life and stabilizing food formulations is notable. Regulatory approvals in limited regions have allowed its selective use.
Others
The others category, including applications in plastics, dyes, and adhesives, accounts for the remaining 20% of MCAA usage. Its versatility as a chemical building block contributes to its demand across various industrial processes. Continued research into specialty chemicals is expected to uncover new opportunities in this segment.
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market Share (%), by Geographical Region
North America
The North American market for monochloroacetic acid holds a significant share, driven by the strong demand in industries such as chemical production, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. This region accounts for approximately 30% of the global market. The United States, in particular, is a major contributor due to its well-established manufacturing capabilities and high consumption of MCAA-based products in various sectors like pesticides and herbicides.
Europe
Europe is another key market for monochloroacetic acid, contributing around 25% to the global market. The demand in Europe is primarily fueled by the region’s focus on agricultural chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK have well-developed industries that require high-quality MCAA, particularly for herbicide production and other chemical formulations.
Asia Pacific
The Asia Pacific region is the largest market for monochloroacetic acid, accounting for over 35% of the global market share. This region’s rapid industrialization, growing agricultural sector, and increasing demand for pharmaceuticals are key factors driving growth. Countries such as China and India are major consumers, with significant production of herbicides, pesticides, and chemical intermediates.
Middle East and Africa
The Middle East and Africa market for monochloroacetic acid is growing steadily, with the region holding a share of about 5% of the global market. The demand is primarily driven by the expanding agriculture sector and growing chemical manufacturing industries in countries like Saudi Arabia and South Africa. As the region focuses on improving food production and agricultural yield, the use of MCAA in pesticides and herbicides is increasing.
Latin America
Latin America accounts for approximately 5% of the monochloroacetic acid market. Countries like Brazil and Argentina are experiencing growth in demand due to the expansion of the agricultural sector, where MCAA is heavily used in the production of pesticides and herbicides. This region is also seeing increasing industrialization, leading to a rise in the use of MCAA in chemical manufacturing.
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces—Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities—affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation, and Innovation.
Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development |
Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance |
Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances |
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Growing demand for agrochemical intermediates
- Expansion of the pharmaceutical sector
- Increasing production of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)
-
Rising industrialization in emerging economies - Rising industrialization in emerging economies is a key driver fueling the growth of the monochloroacetic acid (MCAA) market. As countries across Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East experience rapid economic development, there is a sharp increase in demand for chemicals used in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and textiles—sectors where MCAA serves as a critical intermediate. This industrial expansion is leading to heightened consumption of MCAA in the synthesis of products such as carboxymethyl cellulose, thioglycolic acid, and various agrochemicals.
The shift of manufacturing hubs to these developing regions due to favorable labor costs and supportive government policies is creating a sustained need for raw materials like MCAA. Infrastructure development, growing chemical processing industries, and increased local production of consumer goods are contributing to a strong supply chain network. These trends collectively position emerging economies as high-potential markets for MCAA manufacturers aiming to scale production and meet growing domestic and international demand.
Restraints
- Stringent environmental regulations
- Health and safety concerns
- Volatility in raw material prices
-
Availability of alternative chemicals - One of the key challenges to the growth of the monochloroacetic acid (MCAA) market is the emergence of chemical substitutes that can fulfill similar roles across various industries. These alternatives are gaining traction due to their lower environmental impact, reduced toxicity, and in some cases, more favorable pricing. In applications such as agrochemicals, personal care, and surfactants, manufacturers are increasingly exploring these options to enhance safety and meet evolving regulatory standards.
Technological advancements in synthetic chemistry have further accelerated the development of efficient and sustainable compounds that can replace MCAA in production processes. This growing shift toward eco-conscious and cost-competitive solutions is creating downward pressure on MCAA demand, particularly in regions with strict environmental policies. As substitution becomes more feasible and attractive, it could potentially limit the future growth and market share of MCAA-based products.
Opportunities
- Development of bio-based MCAA
- Growth in personal care and cosmetics industry
- Technological advancements in production processes
-
Expansion into emerging markets -Expanding operations into emerging markets presents a strong growth opportunity for the monochloroacetic acid (MCAA) market. Countries in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa are witnessing rapid industrialization, population growth, and urbanization, which in turn is driving increased demand for agrochemicals, surfactants, and specialty chemicals—key end-use applications for MCAA. These regions offer untapped market potential, with rising consumption of goods that rely on MCAA in their production processes.
Growing agricultural needs, especially in regions with large rural populations, are boosting the use of MCAA-based herbicides and pesticides. As governments in these countries prioritize food security and crop productivity, the adoption of advanced agrochemical inputs is expected to increase. MCAA plays a critical role in the production of glyphosate and other essential herbicides, making it a vital raw material for the agricultural sector in these emerging economies.
Establishing regional production and distribution hubs in emerging markets can help manufacturers reduce logistical costs, improve market responsiveness, and navigate local trade regulations more effectively. Strategic partnerships, capacity expansions, and localization of supply chains will be essential to capturing the significant demand growth projected in these regions, making emerging markets a cornerstone of long-term expansion strategies for MCAA producers.
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market include;
- Nouryon
- CABB Group GmbH
- Shandong Minji Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Jubilant Ingrevia Limited
- PCC Group
- Archit Organosys Limited
- Denak Co., Ltd.
- Akzo Nobel N.V.
- Niacet Corporation
- Merck KGaA
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Market Share Analysis
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Product Form
- Market Snapshot, By Product Type
- Market Snapshot, By Form
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
-
Growing demand for agrochemical intermediates
-
Expansion of the pharmaceutical sector
-
Increasing production of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)
-
Rising industrialization in emerging economies
-
-
Restraints
-
Stringent environmental regulations
-
Health and safety concerns
-
Volatility in raw material prices
-
Availability of alternative chemicals
-
- Opportunities
-
Development of bio-based MCAA
-
Growth in personal care and cosmetics industry
-
Technological advancements in production processes
-
Expansion into emerging markets
-
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, By Product Form, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Crystalline
- Liquid
- Flakes
- Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, By Product Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Technical Grade
- Pharmaceutical Grade
- Food Grade
- Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, By Form, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Solid
- Liquid
- Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Agrochemicals
- Personal Care
- Pharmaceuticals
- Food & Beverages
- Others
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) Market, By Product Form, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Nouryon
- CABB Group GmbH
- Shandong Minji Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Jubilant Ingrevia Limited
- PCC Group
- Archit Organosys Limited
- Denak Co., Ltd.
- Akzo Nobel N.V.
- Niacet Corporation
- Merck KGaA
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market