As per MRFR analysis, the India Activated Carbon Market Size was estimated at 477 (USD Million) in 2023. The India Activated Carbon Market Industry is expected to grow from 650(USD Million) in 2024 to 1,200 (USD Million) by 2035. The India Activated Carbon Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 5.732% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Key India Activated Carbon Market Trends Highlighted
The India Activated Carbon Market is witnessing significant trends driven by increasing environmental awareness and stricter regulatory measures. The government of India has been implementing various initiatives aimed at improving air and water quality, which is pushing industries towards adopting activated carbon for filtration and purification processes. This trend aligns with the global focus on sustainable practices, prompting various sectors, including water treatment, pharmaceuticals, and food processing, to utilize activated carbon for its effective adsorption properties. Furthermore, the rise in industrial activities has generated a surge in demand for activated carbon to control emissions and manage waste.As a result, suppliers and manufacturers are likely to improve their production techniques, positively impacting the quality of activated carbon products. There is an increase in the use of coconut shell-based activated carbon due to its sustainability and high adsorption capacity. In the past few years, there has been a noticeable increase in the focus on developing green and sustainable solutions, which has resulted in increased investment in R&D by companies. There is a growing interest in the collaboration between manufacturers and Technology companies to design state-of-the-art products and new applications. Also, with the increasing level of urbanization in India, there is likely to be an increase in the use of activated carbon in water treatment plants, which creates prospects in this area.
The focus on improving living conditions in urban areas supports the increased use of activated carbon in various applications, making it an appealing market segment for investments and growth.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
India Activated Carbon Market Drivers
Increasing Environmental Regulations
The India Activated Carbon Market industry is poised to benefit from the increasing stringency of environmental regulations imposed by the Indian government. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has been actively promoting policies aimed at reducing air and water pollution. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, over 20 major industries in India (such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and food processing) fall under strict pollution control norms that require the usage of activated carbon for air and wastewater treatment.The increasing enforcement of these regulations is expected to drive the demand for activated carbon, with the industry estimated to witness upward growth due to enhanced compliance requirements. Companies like Indian Activated Carbon Limited and K.C. Wong Activated Carbon are well-positioned to fulfill this rising demand, given their established market presence and technology expertise, contributing significantly to India's activated carbon market growth.
Rising Water Treatment Needs
The need for effective water treatment solutions is on the rise in India, with about 600 million people lacking access to clean drinking water. The government's 'Jal Jeevan Mission' aims to bring tap water to every rural household by 2024, boosting the need for efficient water purification technologies. Activated carbon plays a crucial role in the filtration process by removing organic compounds, chlorine, and other impurities from water. As more local municipalities and private entities look to improve water quality, the demand for activated carbon is set to increase significantly.Established players such as Nirma Limited and Tata Chemicals are actively participating in this space, creating a favorable outlook for the India Activated Carbon Market industry as water treatment rates are expected to climb steadily.
Growth in Pharmaceutical and Food Processing Industries
The pharmaceutical and food processing sectors in India are experiencing monumental growth, driven by increasing investments and consumer demands. The Indian pharmaceutical market was estimated at over USD 42 billion and is expected to grow 2.5 times to reach USD 130 billion by 2030. Similarly, the food processing sector is projected to be worth USD 470 billion by 2025. Both sectors rely on activated carbon for various applications, including purification, decolorization, and filtration, to maintain quality and safety.With companies like Sun Pharmaceutical Industries and Britannia Industries showing great strides in production capabilities, the growth in these industries is expected to create robust demand for the India Activated Carbon Market industry, thus contributing to overall market expansion.
India Activated Carbon Market Segment Insights:
Activated Carbon Market Product Type Insights
The India Activated Carbon Market exhibits a diverse landscape, driven by several product types, primarily categorized into Powdered, Granular, and Others. Each of these types serves unique applications, catering to distinct industrial needs. Powdered activated carbon is often utilized in liquid phase applications due to its high surface area and porosity, making it highly effective in water treatment processes, which have been crucial in India, considering the growing concerns over water pollution and the need for sustainable solutions. Granular activated carbon, on the other hand, is predominant in air filtration and adsorption applications, where its efficacy in capturing harmful constituents from gases plays an essential role in improving air quality amidst India's rapid urbanization and industrial advancement.Moreover, the "Others" category encompasses various forms of activated carbon, including extruded and pelletized, which are gaining traction due to specialized uses in agriculture and medical fields. The segmentation of the India Activated Carbon Market is further influenced by factors such as growing industrialization, environmental regulations related to air and water quality, and the increasing adoption of green technologies. Market players are continually innovating to enhance efficiency and sustainability in production processes, thus driving growth in these segments.The interplay of these factors illustrates a dynamic market, with each product type playing a vital role in addressing environmental challenges and meeting industrial demands. As regions across India strive toward sustainable development, the relevance of each category within the India Activated Carbon Market underscores its importance in contemporary applications, spotlighting a significant potential for growth. The insights derived from these market dynamics suggest a comprehensive understanding of the regional needs that continue to shape the trajectory of activated carbon applications in the country.This evolving landscape highlights the opportunities for further advancements in product types, positioning India as a key player in the activated carbon industry not only locally but also on the international front. As stakeholders in the India Activated Carbon Market capitalize on these factors, the statistics and data emerging from their operational metrics will provide comprehensive insights, fostering informed decisions in this growth-oriented market segment.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Activated Carbon Market Raw Material Insights
The Raw Material segment of the India Activated Carbon Market plays a crucial role in shaping the overall dynamics of the industry. The segment encompasses various sources such as Coal, Coconut, Wood, Peat, and others, each contributing distinct advantages based on their physical and chemical characteristics. Coal-based activated carbon is widely utilized due to its strong adsorption capabilities, often making it a preferred choice for water purification and air filtration applications. On the other hand, coconut shell-derived activated carbon is gaining traction for its high surface area and pore volume, which enhances its effectiveness in catalytic processes and the food and beverage industry.Wood-based activated carbon, while less dominant, offers an eco-friendly alternative, appealing to the growing demand for sustainable products. Peat, although generally used in specialty applications, presents unique properties that can benefit specific niche markets. The diversity in raw materials not only broadens the market potential but also aligns with the increasing regulations for environmentally friendly manufacturing practices in India. As the India Activated Carbon Market continues to expand, driven by the growing demand in water treatment, air filtration, and other sectors, the insights gained from the Raw Material segment will be crucial in assessing future trends, revenue generation, and competitive positioning within the industry.
Activated Carbon Market Application Insights
The Application segment of the India Activated Carbon Market encompasses key functions crucial for various industrial processes, significantly impacting environmental sustainability. This market segment is mainly divided into Liquid-Phase and Gas-Phase applications, with both playing vital roles in water treatment and air purification. The need for Liquid-Phase activated carbon is intensifying, driven by increasing water pollution levels and stringent regulations regarding effluent treatment. It serves to remove organic compounds and impurities from water, thus contributing to public health and safety.On the other hand, Gas-Phase activated carbon finds its significance in air treatment systems, effectively adsorbing volatile organic compounds and harmful gases, which is essential in urban areas facing pollution challenges. The demand in this segment is influenced by rising industrial activities and increasing awareness of environmental protection, creating ample opportunities for innovation in activated carbon technologies. The India Activated Carbon Market data shows a steady inclination towards applications that enhance efficiency in both air and water treatment processes, reflecting growing concerns over environmental quality and sustainability.
Activated Carbon Market End User Insights
The India Activated Carbon Market showcases significant diversification across multiple end user applications, playing a pivotal role in various industries. Water treatment emerges as a crucial sector, vital for ensuring clean and safe drinking water, while food and beverage processing utilizes activated carbon for removing impurities and enhancing product quality, reflecting growing health consciousness among consumers. The pharmaceutical and medical industry also relies heavily on activated carbon for its properties in drug purification and medical device manufacturing, emphasizing its critical importance for public health.Automotive applications leverage activated carbon for pollution control, contributing significantly to environmental sustainability and compliance with stringent emission regulations. Air purification helps improve urban air quality, particularly in densely populated areas of India, as regulatory bodies increasingly prioritize public health initiatives. Mining and textiles sectors deploy activated carbon to streamline process efficiency and ensure compliance with environmental standards. Electronics manufacturers utilize activated carbon in various applications, underscoring its versatility in high-tech industries, while 'others' categories incorporate unique applications that further enrich the activated carbon scope in India.Overall, as these sectors continue to expand, the demand for activated carbon is anticipated to grow, driven by environmental concerns and regulatory pressures across industries.
India Activated Carbon Market Key Players and Competitive Insights:
The India Activated Carbon Market has been witnessing significant competition and transformation in recent years, driven by increasing industrialization, stringent environmental regulations, and rising awareness regarding air and water pollution. The market comprises various key players who strive to enhance their product offerings and expand their market reach. Players in this market engage in innovative manufacturing techniques, product diversification, and strategic partnerships to strengthen their foothold in the ever-evolving landscape of activated carbon production. With applications spanning from water purification to air filtration and specialty applications in pharmaceutical and food industries, the competitive dynamics are continuously influenced by factors such as technology advancements, pricing strategies, and sustainability initiatives.Royal Dutch Shell has established a notable presence in the India Activated Carbon Market, focusing on providing high-quality activated carbon solutions. Their strengths lie in their extensive research and development capabilities, allowing them to create customized and innovative products tailored to meet diverse customer needs. Royal Dutch Shell emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility, aligning their product offerings with current market trends that favor eco-friendly materials. Their established brand reputation, combined with a robust distribution network, enables them to effectively serve industries such as water treatment, air purification, and industrial processes within India. The company’s commitment to quality and performance further elevates its standing in a competitive market.Thermax Limited plays a significant role in the India Activated Carbon Market through its comprehensive portfolio of products and services. The company specializes in providing activated carbon solutions for various applications, including flue gas treatment, air and water treatment, and various industrial applications. Thermax Limited is recognized for its innovation and customer-centric approach, which enables them to develop effective solutions tailored to specific market demands. Their strengths include a solid manufacturing infrastructure, a wide market presence across India, and a focus on sustainability through energy-efficient solutions. The company is also engaged in strategic partnerships and collaborations to enhance its product offerings, reflecting its commitment to growth in this sector. With a focus on mergers and acquisitions, Thermax Limited is well-positioned to expand its capabilities and maintain its competitive edge in the activated carbon landscape in India.
Key Companies in the India Activated Carbon Market Include:
Royal Dutch Shell
Thermax Limited
Oxbow Activated Carbon
Norit Activated Carbon
Kuraray Chemical
Eagle Activated Carbon
Tiger Filtration
Advent International
Jacobi Carbons
Pure Environmental
Watts Water Technologies
Haycarb PLC
Silcarbon Aktivkohle GmbH
Carbotech Activated Carbon
India Activated Carbon Market Industry Developments
The India Activated Carbon Market has been experiencing dynamic developments in recent months. Notably, companies like Thermax Limited and Jacobi Carbons are optimizing their production capabilities to meet rising demand in water treatment applications. In September 2023, Royal Dutch Shell announced an expansion of its activated carbon production facility in Gujarat, aimed at enhancing supply to both domestic and international markets. Additionally, Oxbow Activated Carbon and Eagle Activated Carbon have been collaborating to innovate new products tailored to the evolving environmental regulations in India. In terms of mergers and acquisitions, recent activities are limited; however, notable transactions in the global activated carbon sphere may influence the Indian market dynamics. For instance, Advent International's acquisition of a significant stake in Norit Activated Carbon is expected to strengthen its market position, as highlighted in August 2023. The Indian Activated Carbon Market is projected to grow considerably, supported by the increasing emphasis on air and water purification technologies, benefitting major players like Watts Water Technologies and Haycarb PLC. Over the past two years, government initiatives promoting sustainable practices and reducing pollution have prompted a surge in demand for activated carbon solutions across various sectors in India.
India Activated Carbon Market Segmentation Insights
Activated Carbon MarketProduct TypeOutlook
Powdered
Granular
Others
Activated Carbon MarketRaw MaterialOutlook
Coal
Coconut
Wood
Peat
Others
Activated Carbon MarketApplicationOutlook
Liquid-Phase
Gas-Phase
Activated Carbon MarketEnd UserOutlook
Water Treatment
FoodBeverage Processing
PharmaceuticalMedical
Automotive
Air Purification
Mining
Textiles
Electronics
Others
Report Scope:,,,,,,,,,,,,,
| Report Attribute/Metric Source: | Details |
| MARKET SIZE 2018 | 477.0(USD Million) |
| MARKET SIZE 2024 | 650.0(USD Million) |
| MARKET SIZE 2035 | 1200.0(USD Million) |
| COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) | 5.732% (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 Million |
| KEY COMPANIES PROFILED | Royal Dutch Shell, Thermax Limited, Oxbow Activated Carbon, Norit Activated Carbon, Kuraray Chemical, Eagle Activated Carbon, Tiger Filtration, Advent International, Jacobi Carbons, Pure Environmental, Watts Water Technologies, Haycarb PLC, Silcarbon Aktivkohle GmbH, Carbotech Activated Carbon |
| SEGMENTS COVERED | Product Type, Raw Material, Application, End User |
| KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES | Growing demand from water treatment, Rising air pollution control needs, Expansion in industrial applications, Increasing use in pharmaceuticals, Sustainable product innovations |
| KEY MARKET DYNAMICS | growing industrial applications, rising environmental regulations, increasing demand for water treatment, expansion of food and beverage industry, advancements in activated carbon technologies |
| COUNTRIES COVERED | India |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The projected market size of the India Activated Carbon Market in 2024 is valued at 650.0 USD Million.
The expected market valuation for the India Activated Carbon Market by 2035 is 1200.0 USD Million.
The expected CAGR for the India Activated Carbon Market from 2025 to 2035 is 5.732 %.
In 2024, Granular Activated Carbon is projected to hold the largest market share valued at 290.0 USD Million.
The market size for Powdered Activated Carbon in 2035 is expected to reach 480.0 USD Million.
Some key players in the India Activated Carbon Market include Royal Dutch Shell, Thermax Limited, and Oxbow Activated Carbon.
The projected market size for the 'Others' segment in 2024 is valued at 100.0 USD Million.
The Granular segment is projected to be valued at 560.0 USD Million in 2035.
Key applications driving the growth of the India Activated Carbon Market include water treatment, air purification, and chemical industries.
Challenges affecting the growth of the India Activated Carbon Market may include regulatory hurdles and sourcing of raw materials.
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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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