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    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market

    ID: MRFR/CnM/4774-HCR
    200 Pages
    Chitranshi Jaiswal
    September 2025

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Research Report By Application (Food Industry, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, Oil and Gas, Paper and Pulp), By Product Form (Powder, Granules, Liquid), By End Use (Food Additive, Thickening Agent, Stabilizer, Emulsifier), By Grade (Industrial Grade, Food Grade, Pharmaceutical Grade) and By Regional (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa)-Forecast to 2035

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    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Summary

    As per Market Research Future Analysis, the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market was valued at 1.53 USD Billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to 2.5 USD Billion by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 4.17% from 2025 to 2035. The market is driven by increasing demand in the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, and personal care sectors, where CMC is utilized for its thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying properties.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    The Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market is experiencing significant growth due to various trends.

    • Food Industry Market Value in 2024: 0.45 USD Billion; Projected to reach 0.76 USD Billion by 2035.
    • Pharmaceuticals Market Value in 2024: 0.35 USD Billion; Expected to grow to 0.58 USD Billion by 2035.
    • Personal Care Market Value in 2024: 0.25 USD Billion; Anticipated to rise to 0.41 USD Billion by 2035.
    • Construction Sector Growth Rate: 5.3% annually, enhancing CMC consumption.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2023 Market Size USD 1.53 Billion
    2024 Market Size USD 1.59 Billion
    2035 Market Size USD 2.5 Billion
    CAGR (2025-2035) 4.17%

    Major Players

    Key Companies include FMC Corporation, CP Kelco, The Dow Chemical Company, AkzoNobel, and BASF.

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Trends

    The Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market is witnessing significant trends driven by increased demand in various sectors. One key market driver is the growth of the food industry, where carboxymethyl cellulose is widely used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in food products.

    The rising trend towards processed and packaged foods has further fueled its application, as consumers seek convenience and longer shelf lives.

    Additionally, the pharmaceutical sector is escalating the use of carboxymethyl cellulose in drug formulations due to its properties as a binder and disintegrant, catering to the growing need for advanced healthcare solutions.

    The global market is also opening up more opportunities, especially in developing areas where industrialisation is on the rise. More people are becoming aware of eco-friendly practices, and more people are choosing natural and organic products. This is a big chance for manufacturers who can come up with new uses for bio-based carboxymethyl cellulose.

    Also, the focus on eco-friendly packaging solutions, which is being pushed by global efforts to cut down on waste, opens up new ways for products to be used in the market.

    Recent trends show that research and development are focused on improving the properties and functions of carboxymethyl cellulose, making it a useful additive in many fields, such as cosmetics and personal care.

    Moreover, advancements in production technologies are leading to improved product quality and consistency, strengthening its appeal. As regulatory bodies across the globe refine standards for food additives and pharmaceuticals, there is a strong inclination towards compliance-driven formulations, promoting safer and more effective products in the market.

    Overall, the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market is set to evolve, consistently adapting to emerging consumer needs and industry shifts.

    Market Segment Insights

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Segment Insights

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Application Insights

    The Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market, particularly focusing on the Application segment, reflects significant growth and application across various industries such as Food, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, Oil and Gas, and Paper and Pulp.

    In 2024, the valuation for the Food Industry stands at 0.57 USD billion, and it is projected to reach 0.89 USD billion by 2035, showcasing its importance as a thickening agent and stabilizer in food products, which is crucial for enhancing texture and shelf life.

    The Pharmaceuticals application, valued at 0.38 USD billion in 2024 and expected to grow to 0.59 USD billion by 2035, plays a fundamental role in drug formulation, owing to its properties of viscosity modification and controlled release, which significantly enhance therapeutic efficacy.

    Personal Care products, including lotions, creams, and hair care items, are anticipated to grow from 0.25 USD billion in 2024 to 0.39 USD billion by 2035; the ability of carboxymethyl cellulose to act as a film-forming agent and emulsion stabilizer is vital for product performance and consumer satisfaction in this segment.

    In the Oil and Gas industry, the market is valued at 0.2 USD Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to 0.31 USD Billion by 2035, where carboxymethyl cellulose is essential in drilling mud formulations, enhancing fluid viscosity and stability in adverse environmental conditions.

    Lastly, the Paper and Pulp segment, though smaller with values of 0.19 USD billion in 2024 and 0.32 USD billion in 2035, highlights its role in improving paper quality, reducing drainage time, and enhancing the strength of the paper products.

    The dynamics of the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market segmentation illustrate a strong demand driven by diverse applications across substantial industries, showcasing opportunities for innovation and development, while also addressing challenges like the need for sustainable sourcing and the impact of regulatory environments on market growth.

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Application Insights

    Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, Market Research Future Database, and Analyst Review

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Product Form Insights

    The Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market, particularly focusing on the Product Form segment, has been structured into distinct categories, namely Powder, Granules, and Liquid. In 2024, the overall market is expected to be valued at 1.59 billion USD, reflecting a strong interest in the various applications of carboxymethyl cellulose.

    The Powder form dominates the market due to its versatility and ease of use across numerous industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Granules are also significant, offering unique benefits in specific applications where higher viscosity is required.

    Liquid forms are gaining traction, particularly in sectors demanding quick solubility and ease of application. The market dynamics are influenced by various growth drivers, such as the rising demand for food additives and thickening agents, alongside increased consumer awareness regarding health and nutrition.

    However, challenges like price volatility of raw materials and stringent regulatory standards may impact market performance.

    Overall, the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market segmentation underscores the diverse applications and growing opportunities within the industry, with increasing global consumption reflecting its importance across multiple sectors.

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market End Use Insights

    The Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market exhibits a diverse landscape with significant applications in various End Use sectors, notably as Food Additives, Thickening Agents, Stabilizers, and Emulsifiers. In 2024, this market is projected to achieve a value of 1.59 billion USD, which reflects robust demand across these applications.

    Food Additives utilize Carboxymethyl Cellulose for its ability to enhance texture and stability in products, making it a vital ingredient in processed foods. Thickening Agents are essential in numerous industries, providing desirable consistency in sauces and desserts.

    The Stabilizer function ensures the longevity and quality of products, especially in dairy and beverage categories, while Emulsifiers play a critical role in maintaining the mixture of oil and water in sauces and spreads.

    The integration of these functionalities addresses increasing consumer preference for clean-label products, driving substantial growth within the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market.

    Factors such as rising health consciousness and demand for gluten-free options further propel market expansion. Overall, the importance of these applications underlines their significant contributions to market dynamics and consumer satisfaction on a global scale.

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Grade Insights

    The Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market, particularly in the Grade segment, showcases significant diversity and opportunity. By 2024, the market is expected to achieve a valuation of 1.59 USD billion, reflecting the steady demand across various applications.

    The Industry Grade segment is crucial for its extensive applicability in industries such as textiles, paints, and detergents due to its rheological properties, making it highly significant.

    The Food Grade variety plays an essential role in the food industry as a thickening and stabilizing agent, further enhancing its importance in food safety regulations and consumer preferences for quality.

    Meanwhile, the Pharmaceutical Grade segment is critical in drug formulation, contributing to the effectiveness of medications. Each of these grades addresses specific market needs, driving overall growth and expansion.

    The Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market statistics reveal that advancements in product formulations and increasing end-user diversification are key trends fueling this segment's evolution.

    Despite challenges including regulatory requirements and raw material availability, substantial growth opportunities exist, providing avenues for innovation and development in this sector globally.

    Regional Insights

    The Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market is poised for growth, with a significant focus on the Regional segment. In 2024, North America leads with a market valuation of 0.48 USD billion, reflecting its robust demand in various industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care.

    Europe follows closely with a valuation of 0.42 USD billion, driven by stringent regulations and an increasing emphasis on product quality.

    The Asia Pacific region, valued at 0.46 USD billion, shows promising growth due to rising industrialization and population dynamics, contributing to a burgeoning demand for carboxymethyl cellulose in applications ranging from textiles to cosmetics.

    South America and the Middle East, and Africa present smaller but notable shares, valued at 0.12 USD Billion and 0.11 USD Billion, respectively, in 2024, representing niche markets with potential for expansion.

    The growth landscape is influenced by trends like the shift towards sustainable product formulations and the expanding food and beverage sector, creating opportunities and challenges alike.

    Overall, the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market segmentation highlights diverse regional dynamics, positioning key players to leverage specific market attributes for strategic advantages.

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Regional Insights

    Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, Market Research Future Database, and Analyst Review

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    The competitive landscape of the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market is characterized by a blend of established players and emerging companies that are striving to enhance their market positions.

    This market is witnessing significant growth due to increasing demand for carboxymethyl cellulose, which is widely utilized in a variety of applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial processes.

    The players in this market are focusing on product innovation, quality improvement, and strategic partnerships to capture a larger market share. Competitive strategies often include mergers and acquisitions, product diversification, and geographical expansion, which are crucial for sustaining growth in a rapidly evolving market environment.

    SE Tylose holds a strong position in the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market, leveraging its extensive experience and expertise in the sector. The company is recognized for its high-quality carboxymethyl cellulose products that cater to diverse applications such as construction, paints, and the food industry.

    Its strengths lie in its robust production capabilities, advanced technology, and a strong emphasis on research and development, which enable the company to consistently meet the evolving needs of its clients.

    SE Tylose's global presence allows it to serve a wide customer base, enhancing its responsiveness to market trends and customer preferences. The company's investment in sustainability and quality assurance has helped it build a strong brand reputation in the global arena.

    CP Kelco plays a significant role in the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market, known for its wide range of innovative products and solutions. The company specializes in providing high-performance carboxymethyl cellulose that is utilized across various sectors, including food, personal care, and industrial applications. Its strengths are rooted in its commitment to product quality, customer service, and technological advancements.

    CP Kelco’s global footprint allows it to cater to different regional markets effectively, ensuring that it meets local demands while maintaining high standards.

    The company is also involved in strategic mergers and acquisitions to enhance its product offerings and expand its market reach. Its focus on sustainability and research initiatives positions CP Kelco favorably to capture future market opportunities while aligning with the growing trend toward environmentally friendly products.

    Industry Developments

    • Q2 2024: Ashland launches new high-purity pharmaceutical-grade carboxymethyl cellulose for controlled drug release applications Ashland announced the commercial launch of a new high-purity, pharmaceutical-grade carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) designed for use in advanced controlled drug release formulations, expanding its specialty excipient portfolio for the pharmaceutical industry.
    • Q1 2024: Nouryon expands carboxymethyl cellulose production capacity at its facility in the Netherlands Nouryon completed a major capacity expansion at its Delfzijl, Netherlands site to meet growing demand for carboxymethyl cellulose in food, pharmaceutical, and personal care applications, enhancing supply reliability for European customers.
    • Q3 2024: CP Kelco announces partnership with leading food manufacturer to develop clean-label CMC solutions CP Kelco entered a strategic partnership with a major European food manufacturer to co-develop clean-label carboxymethyl cellulose ingredients for use in plant-based and gluten-free food products.
    • Q2 2024: Dow introduces bio-based carboxymethyl cellulose for sustainable packaging applications Dow launched a new line of bio-based carboxymethyl cellulose products targeting the sustainable packaging sector, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil-based additives and improve the environmental profile of packaging materials.
    • Q4 2024: Daicel opens new R&D center focused on advanced cellulose derivatives including CMC Daicel inaugurated a new research and development center in Japan dedicated to innovation in cellulose derivatives, with a focus on developing next-generation carboxymethyl cellulose for pharmaceutical and industrial applications.
    • Q1 2025: J.M. Huber announces acquisition of specialty CMC producer in India J.M. Huber Corporation acquired a leading Indian manufacturer of specialty carboxymethyl cellulose, strengthening its global supply chain and expanding its presence in the fast-growing Asia-Pacific market.
    • Q2 2025: CP Kelco secures multi-year supply contract with major pharmaceutical company for high-purity CMC CP Kelco signed a multi-year agreement to supply high-purity carboxymethyl cellulose to a top global pharmaceutical company for use in oral drug formulations.
    • Q3 2025: Nouryon appoints new Vice President for Cellulose Ethers business Nouryon announced the appointment of a new Vice President to lead its global Cellulose Ethers business, which includes carboxymethyl cellulose, as part of its strategy to accelerate growth in specialty chemicals.
    • Q2 2024: Ashland receives regulatory approval for food-grade CMC in China Ashland secured regulatory approval from Chinese authorities for its food-grade carboxymethyl cellulose, enabling expanded sales into the rapidly growing Chinese food and beverage market.
    • Q4 2024: Dow partners with packaging giant to pilot CMC-based biodegradable films Dow entered a pilot collaboration with a leading global packaging company to develop and test biodegradable films using Dow’s new CMC formulations, targeting single-use packaging applications.
    • Q1 2025: Daicel signs joint development agreement with European pharma company for novel CMC excipients Daicel entered a joint development agreement with a major European pharmaceutical company to co-create novel carboxymethyl cellulose excipients for next-generation drug delivery systems.
    • Q2 2025: J.M. Huber opens new CMC production facility in Southeast Asia J.M. Huber Corporation inaugurated a new carboxymethyl cellulose manufacturing plant in Southeast Asia to meet rising regional demand from food, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors.

    Market Segmentation

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Grade Outlook

    • North America
    • Europe
    • South America
    • Asia Pacific
    • Middle East and Africa

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market End Use Outlook

    • Industrial Grade
    • Food Grade
    • Pharmaceutical Grade

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Regional Outlook

    • North America
    • Europe
    • South America
    • Asia Pacific
    • Middle East and Africa

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Application Outlook

    • Powder
    • Granules
    • Liquid

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Product Form Outlook

    • Food Additive
    • Thickening Agent
    • Stabilizer
    • Emulsifier

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric Details
    Market Size 2023 1.53 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 2024 1.59 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 2035 2.5 (USD Billion)
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 4.2% (2025 - 2035)
    Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Base Year 2024
    Market Forecast Period 2025 - 2035
    Historical Data 2019 - 2024
    Market Forecast Units USD Billion
    Key Companies Profiled SE Tylose, CP Kelco, Kraton Corporation, ShinEtsu Chemical, Viscotec, Ashland, HERCULES, Berg + Schmidt, Lamberti, BASF, FMC Corporation, Dow, Merck KGaA
    Segments Covered Application, Product Form, End Use, Grade, Regional
    Key Market Opportunities Growing demand in the food industry, Expanding applications in pharmaceuticals, Increasing use in personal care, Rise in the oil and gas industry, Advancements in manufacturing processes
    Key Market Dynamics Rising demand in the food industry, growth in the pharmaceutical sector, increasing application in cosmetics, expanding end-use industries, and environmentally friendly alternatives
    Countries Covered North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Chitranshi Jaiswal
    Research Analyst Level I

    In her 3 years of experience in the market research field, she has handled critical cross-domain projects. She has an in-depth knowledge of market estimation & analysis, problem-solving, primary as well as secondary research, and team management.She holds an engineering degree and is an MBA professional from a well-known university, capable of evaluating the market and competitive conditions. An exceptional strategist with excellent communication skills and a passion for delivering cutting-edge & practical insights for the market. Proficient in multi-tasking, and can successfully deal with competing demands, while maintaining complete confidentiality. Generated business through active client and project development, networking, and high-quality responses. Her knowledge and skills have helped in making solid business decisions, securing funding from investors, and avoiding business failures.

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    FAQs

    What is the expected market size of the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market in 2024?

    The Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market is expected to be valued at 1.59 USD billion in 2024.

    What is the expected market size of the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market by 2035?

    By 2035, the market is anticipated to reach a value of 2.5 USD billion.

    What is the projected CAGR for the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market from 2025 to 2035?

    The expected CAGR for the market from 2025 to 2035 is 4.2%.

    Which region is expected to dominate the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market by 2035?

    By 2035, North America is expected to dominate the market with a projected value of 0.77 USD billion.

    What are the market values for the Food Industry application by 2035?

    The Food Industry application is projected to reach a value of 0.89 USD billion by 2035.

    What are the expected market sizes for the Pharmaceuticals application by 2024 and 2035?

    The Pharmaceuticals application is valued at 0.38 USD billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to 0.59 USD billion by 2035.

    Who are the key players in the Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market?

    Major players in the market include SE Tylose, CP Kelco, and Kraton Corporation, among others.

    What is the market value of the Personal Care application in 2024?

    The Personal Care application is valued at 0.25 USD billion in 2024.

    How much is the market for Oil and Gas applications expected to grow by 2035?

    The Oil and Gas application market is expected to grow to 0.31 USD billion by 2035.

    What is the expected growth of the Middle East and Africa region by 2035?

    The Middle East and Africa region is projected to grow to a market value of 0.14 USD billion by 2035.

    Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Research Report - Forecast till 2035 Infographic
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