• Cat-intel
  • MedIntelliX
  • Resources
  • About Us
  • Request Free Sample ×

    Kindly complete the form below to receive a free sample of this Report

    Leading companies partner with us for data-driven Insights

    clients tt-cursor

    Polyols Market

    ID: MRFR/CnM/4656-CR
    225 Pages
    Chitranshi Jaiswal
    July 2025

    Polyols Market Research Report Information by Type (PPG Series, Polyether Polyol for Flexible Foam, Polyether Polyol for Rigid Foam, Polyester Polyol, Polymeric Polyol, Others), by Molecular Weight (1-1000, 1000-2000, 2000-5000, Above 5000), by Application (Flexible polyurethane foam, Rigid polyurethane foam, Coatings, Adhesives & sealants, Elastomers), by End-Use (Building & Construction, Automotive, Furnishings, Packaging, Electronics, Others) and Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa)...

    Share:
    Download PDF ×

    We do not share your information with anyone. However, we may send you emails based on your report interest from time to time. You may contact us at any time to opt-out.

    Polyols Market Infographic
    Purchase Options
    $ 4,950.0
    $ 5,950.0
    $ 7,250.0

    Polyols Market Summary

    As per Market Research Future Analysis, the Global Polyols Market was valued at USD 29.51 Billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 30.66 Billion in 2024 to USD 41.37 Billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period. The market is driven by increasing demand in the construction and automotive industries, particularly for energy-efficient polyurethane products. Polyether polyols dominate the product segment, while flexible foam is the largest application segment. The Asia-Pacific region holds over 50% of the market share, led by China and India, with North America and Europe following due to their demand for sustainable materials.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    Key trends driving the Polyols market include industrialization, energy efficiency, and diverse applications.

    • Polyols market projected to reach USD 41.37 Billion by 2032; CAGR of 6.2% from 2024 to 2032.
    • Asia-Pacific accounts for over 50% of global market share; driven by rapid industrialization.
    • Flexible foam segment held over 27.0% market share by volume in 2017; widely used in furniture and automotive.
    • Polyether polyols expected to maintain dominance due to their properties and applications in various industries.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2023 Market Size USD 29.51 Billion
    2024 Market Size USD 30.66 Billion
    2032 Market Size USD 41.37 Billion
    CAGR 6.2%

    Major Players

    Major players include BASF SE, Covestro AG, Royal Dutch Shell Plc, The Dow Chemical Company, Mitsui Chemicals, Wanhua Chemical Group, LANXESS AG, Huntsman Corporation, Stepan Company, and Repsol SA.

    Polyols Market Drivers

    Market Growth Projections

    Expansion in the Personal Care Sector

    The Global Polyols Market Industry is witnessing significant expansion within the personal care sector, where polyols are utilized in formulations for moisturizers, shampoos, and other cosmetic products. The hydrophilic properties of polyols contribute to improved moisture retention and skin feel, making them increasingly popular among manufacturers. As consumer preferences shift towards natural and sustainable ingredients, polyols are positioned to benefit from this trend. The industry's growth is anticipated to be robust, with projections indicating a market size of 64.7 USD Billion by 2035, driven by the rising demand for innovative personal care solutions.

    Increased Focus on Sustainable Products

    The Global Polyols Market Industry is experiencing a heightened focus on sustainability, as consumers and manufacturers alike prioritize eco-friendly products. Polyols derived from renewable sources, such as bio-based feedstocks, are gaining traction in various applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. This shift towards sustainable sourcing aligns with global environmental initiatives and consumer preferences for greener alternatives. As the market adapts to these changes, the demand for bio-based polyols is likely to increase, contributing to the overall growth of the industry. The emphasis on sustainability is expected to shape product development and innovation in the coming years.

    Rising Demand for Low-Calorie Sweeteners

    The Global Polyols Market Industry experiences a notable surge in demand for low-calorie sweeteners, driven by increasing health consciousness among consumers. Polyols, such as erythritol and xylitol, are favored for their reduced caloric content compared to traditional sugars. As the market evolves, the industry is projected to reach a valuation of 32.4 USD Billion in 2024, reflecting a growing preference for healthier alternatives in food and beverage applications. This trend is further supported by regulatory approvals and consumer awareness campaigns promoting sugar substitutes, which are likely to enhance the market's growth trajectory.

    Growing Applications in the Automotive Industry

    The Global Polyols Market Industry is increasingly finding applications in the automotive sector, particularly in the production of polyurethane foams used for seating and insulation. Polyols are essential components in the formulation of these foams, providing durability and comfort. As automotive manufacturers focus on lightweight materials to enhance fuel efficiency, the demand for polyols is expected to rise. This trend is further supported by regulatory pressures to reduce emissions, which could drive innovation in material science. The industry's growth prospects appear promising, as the automotive sector continues to evolve towards more sustainable practices.

    Technological Advancements in Production Processes

    Technological advancements in the production processes of polyols are playing a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and reducing costs within the Global Polyols Market Industry. Innovations such as enzymatic processes and biotechnological methods are being adopted to produce polyols more sustainably. These advancements not only improve yield but also minimize environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals. As a result, manufacturers are likely to experience increased profitability and competitiveness. The anticipated compound annual growth rate of 6.48% from 2025 to 2035 suggests that these technological improvements will significantly contribute to the market's expansion.

    Market Segment Insights

    Polyols

    Based on Type, this segment includes PPG Series, Polyether Polyol for Flexible Foam, Polyether Polyol for Rigid Foam, Polyester Polyol, Polymeric Polyol, Others. The Polyether Polyol for Flexible Foam segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Polyester Polyol segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Polyether Polyol for Flexible Foam represents one of the largest market segments due to its widespread use in producing flexible polyurethane foams. 

    These foams are key components in a variety of consumer and industrial products, such as furniture cushions, mattresses, automotive seating, and packaging materials. The primary appeal of polyether polyols in flexible foam production lies in their ability to offer excellent elasticity, softness, and resilience, ensuring high levels of comfort and durability. In the furniture and bedding industry, the demand for high-resilience foams, which provide superior comfort and durability, has boosted the consumption of polyether polyols.

    Automotive manufacturers also utilize these foams in car seats and interiors to enhance comfort and safety while meeting lightweight design standards that contribute to fuel efficiency.

    FIGURE 2: POLYOLS MARKET SHARE BY TYPE 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)

    Polyols

    Based on Molecular Weight, this segment includes 1-1000, 1000-2000, 2000-5000, Above 5000. The 2000-5000 segment dominated the global market in 2024, while it is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Polyols falling within the 2000-5000 molecular weight range are known for their enhanced elasticity, softness, and resilience. These properties make them the preferred choice for manufacturing high-performance flexible foams and elastomers. In the furniture and bedding industry, polyols of this range are extensively used to produce soft cushions and mattresses that offer superior comfort and durability. 

    Their higher molecular weight results in lower cross-linking density, which translates into increased flexibility and better impact absorption—ideal for cushioning applications. In the automotive sector, these polyols contribute to energy-absorbing components such as seat cushions and armrests, enhancing passenger comfort and safety.

    Polyols

    Based on Application, this segment includes Flexible polyurethane foam, Rigid polyurethane foam, Coatings, Adhesives & sealants, Elastomers. The Flexible polyurethane foam segment dominated the global market in 2024, while it is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Flexible polyurethane foam (FPF) is the largest application segment in the global polyols market, accounting for a significant share due to its widespread use in furniture, bedding, automotive, and packaging industries. 

    Known for its softness, flexibility, and cushioning properties, FPF is a preferred material for enhancing comfort and support. In the furniture and bedding sector, it is extensively used in mattresses, sofas, cushions, and pillows, offering superior comfort, durability, and resilience. The rising demand for high-quality, ergonomic furniture and the growing preference for memory foam mattresses have significantly boosted the use of FPF.

    Polyols

    Based on the End-Use, this segment includes Building & Construction, Automotive, Furnishings, Packaging, Electronics, Others. The Building & Construction segment dominated the global market in 2024, while it is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. The Building & Construction sector represents one of the most prominent end-users of polyols, driven by the increasing need for energy-efficient materials and sustainable construction practices. 

    Polyols are primarily utilized in the production of rigid polyurethane (PU) foams, which are extensively used as thermal insulators in walls, roofs, and floors of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. These foams offer superior insulation properties, helping to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

    Get more detailed insights about Polyols Market Research Report – Forecast Till 2035

    Regional Insights

    Based on the Region, the global Polyols are segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America and Middle East & Africa. The Asia-Pacific dominated the global market in 2024, while it is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Major demand factors driving the Asia-Pacific market are the rising demand for polyurethane foam in the construction industry and expanding automotive sector increases polyurethane foam consumption. China holds the largest share, contributing over 38% of the regional market, primarily due to its massive polyurethane (PU) consumption in construction and automotive sectors.

    The rising demand for energy-efficient buildings, especially in China, Japan, and South Korea, has significantly fueled the adoption of PU rigid foams, where polyols play a critical role. 

    Government mandates like China’s "Green Building Action Plan" and Japan's "ZEB (Net Zero Energy Building) Roadmap" have further accelerated the use of PU insulation materials, increasing the demand for polyether polyols in particular. India, as the fastest-growing market in Asia Pacific, has witnessed a surge in polyol demand, driven by its booming construction and automotive industries. The "Smart Cities Mission" and "Housing for All" initiatives have led to substantial infrastructure development, where polyols are extensively used in roofing, wall insulation, and flooring applications.

    FIGURE 3: POLYOLS MARKET VALUE BY REGION 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)

    POLYOLS MARKET VALUE BY REGION 2024 AND 2035

    Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

    Further, the countries considered in the scope of the Application Tracking System Market are the US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, UK, Spain, Italy, China, India, Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Brazil, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, South Africa and others.

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    Many global, regional, and local vendors characterize the Polyols Market. The market is highly competitive, with all the players competing to gain market share. Intense competition, rapid advances in technology, frequent changes in government policies, and environmental regulations are key factors that confront market growth. The vendors compete based on cost, product quality, reliability, and government regulations. Vendors must provide cost-efficient, high-quality products to survive and succeed in an intensely competitive market.

    The major competitors in the market are Covestro AG, BASF SE, Dow, Shell, Huntsman International LLC, Coim USA Inc., Stepan Company, Palmer Holland, Inc., Solvay, PCC Group are among others. The Polyols Market is a consolidated market due to increasing competition, acquisitions, mergers and other strategic market developments and decisions to improve operational effectiveness.

    Key Companies in the Polyols Market market include

    Industry Developments

    • Q2 2024: Covestro starts up new world-scale plant for polycarbonate polyols in Shanghai Covestro announced the opening of a new world-scale plant for polycarbonate polyols in Shanghai, China, to meet growing demand in the Asia-Pacific region for high-performance polyurethane materials.
    • Q2 2024: BASF expands production capacity for polyether polyols at Antwerp site BASF increased its polyether polyols production capacity at its Antwerp, Belgium site, aiming to strengthen supply reliability for European customers in the polyurethane industry.
    • Q3 2024: Dow launches new bio-based polyols for sustainable polyurethane applications Dow introduced a new line of bio-based polyols designed for use in flexible and rigid polyurethane foams, targeting automotive and construction sectors seeking lower-carbon solutions.
    • Q3 2024: Huntsman inaugurates new polyols blending facility in India Huntsman opened a new polyols blending facility in Pune, India, to support local demand for polyurethane systems in the construction and automotive industries.
    • Q4 2024: Stepan Company acquires Invista’s polyester polyols business Stepan Company completed the acquisition of Invista’s polyester polyols business, expanding its product portfolio and manufacturing footprint in the global polyols market.
    • Q4 2024: Lanxess appoints new Head of Polyols Business Unit Lanxess announced the appointment of Dr. Julia Müller as the new Head of its Polyols Business Unit, effective November 2024.
    • Q1 2025: Covestro and Shell sign long-term supply agreement for bio-circular polyols Covestro entered a long-term agreement with Shell to secure supply of bio-circular polyols, supporting Covestro’s sustainability goals and expanding its renewable product offerings.
    • Q1 2025: Mitsui Chemicals to invest $100 million in new polyols plant in Thailand Mitsui Chemicals announced a $100 million investment to build a new polyols manufacturing facility in Thailand, aiming to serve Southeast Asian markets with advanced polyurethane materials.
    • Q2 2025: BASF and Wanhua Chemical form joint venture for polyols production in China BASF and Wanhua Chemical established a joint venture to build and operate a new polyols production facility in Yantai, China, targeting the growing demand for polyurethane in Asia.
    • Q2 2025: Huntsman secures major supply contract for polyether polyols with leading automotive OEM Huntsman signed a multi-year supply agreement to provide polyether polyols to a major global automotive manufacturer, supporting lightweight and energy-efficient vehicle production.
    • Q3 2025: Dow unveils new high-performance polyols for insulation applications Dow launched a new range of high-performance polyols specifically engineered for use in energy-efficient building insulation materials.
    • Q3 2025: Tosoh Corporation announces expansion of polyols production capacity in Japan Tosoh Corporation revealed plans to expand its polyols production capacity at its Nanyo complex in Japan, aiming to meet rising domestic and export demand.

    Polyols Market Segmentation

    Polyols by Type Outlook

    • PPG Series
    • Polyether Polyol for Flexible Foam
    • Polyether Polyol for Rigid Foam
    • Polyester Polyol
    • Polymeric Polyol
    • Others

    Polyols by Molecular Weight Outlook

    • 1-1000
    • 1000-2000
    • 2000-5000
    • Above 5000

    Polyols by Application Outlook

    • Flexible polyurethane foam
    • Rigid polyurethane foam
    • Coatings
    • Adhesives & sealants
    • Elastomers

    Polyols by End-Use Outlook

    • Building & Construction
    • Automotive
    • Furnishings
    • Packaging
    • Electronics
    • Others

    Polyols Regional Outlook

    • North America
      • US
      • Canada
      • Mexico
    • Europe
      • Germany
      • France
      • UK
      • Spain
      • Italy
      • Rest of Europe
    • Asia-Pacific
      • China
      • India
      • Japan
      • Thailand
      • South Korea
      • Rest of Asia-Pacific
    • South America
      • Brazil
      • Argentina
      • Rest of South America
    • Middle East & Africa
      • Saudi Arabia
      • UAE
      • Qatar
      • Oman
      • South Africa
      • Rest of Middle East & Africa

    Future Outlook

    Polyols Market Future Outlook

    The Global Polyols Market is projected to grow at a 6.48% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by increasing demand in the automotive and food industries.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Develop bio-based polyols to cater to eco-conscious consumers.
    • Invest in R&D for high-performance polyols in insulation applications.
    • Expand distribution networks in emerging markets to capture new customer segments.

    By 2035, the Polyols Market is expected to achieve substantial growth, reflecting evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements.

    Market Segmentation

    Regional Outlook

    • US
    • Canada
    • Mexico

    Polyols by Type Outlook

    • PPG Series
    • Polyether Polyol for Flexible Foam
    • Polyether Polyol for Rigid Foam
    • Polyester Polyol
    • Polymeric Polyol
    • Others

    Polyols Regional Outlook

    • US
    • Canada
    • Mexico

    Polyols by End-Use Outlook

    • Building & Construction
    • Automotive
    • Furnishings
    • Packaging
    • Electronics
    • Others

    Polyols by Application Outlook

    • Flexible polyurethane foam
    • Rigid polyurethane foam
    • Coatings
    • Adhesives & sealants
    • Elastomers

    Polyols by Molecular Weight Outlook

    • 1-1000
    • 1000-2000
    • 2000-5000
    • Above 5000

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric

    Details

    Market Size 2024

    USD 32.40 Billion

    Market Size 2025

    USD 34.47 Billion

    Market Size 2035

    USD 64.66 Billion

    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)

    6.49% (2025-2035)

    Base Year

    2024

    Forecast Period

    2025-2035

    Historical Data

    2019-2023

    Forecast Units

    Value, Volume (USD Billion, Kilo Tons)

    Report Coverage

    Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends

    Segments Covered

    By Type, By Molecular Weight, By Application, By End-Use

    Geographies Covered

    North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa

    Countries Covered

    The US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, UK, Spain, Italy, China, India, Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Brazil, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, South Africa

    Key Companies Profiled

    Covestro AG, BASF SE, Dow, Shell, Huntsman International LLC, Coim USA Inc., Stepan Company, Palmer Holland, Inc., Solvay, PCC Group

    Key Market Opportunities

    ·         Increasing Demand for Bio-Based Polyols in Green Products

    ·         Expanding packaging industry driving demand for rigid foams

    Key Market Dynamics

    ·         Rising Demand for Polyurethane Foams in the Construction Industry

    ·         Expanding Automotive Sector Increases Polyurethane Foam Consumption

    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.

    Leave a Comment

    FAQs

    How much is the Polyols Market?

    USD 32.40 Billion is the Polyols Market in 2024

    Which Type holds the largest market share?

    The Polyether Polyol for Flexible Foam segment by Type holds the largest market share and grows at a CAGR of 6.71 % during the forecast period.

    Which region holds the largest market share in the Polyols Market?

    Asia-Pacific holds the largest market share in the Polyols Market.

    Who are the prominent players in the Polyols Market?

    Covestro AG, BASF SE, Dow, Shell, Huntsman International LLC, Coim USA Inc., Stepan Company, Palmer Holland, Inc., Solvay, PCC Group are prominent players in the Polyols Market.

    Which Molecular Weight segment led the Polyols Market?

    The 2000-5000 segment dominated the market in 2024.

    Polyols Market Research Report – Forecast Till 2035 Infographic
    Free Sample Request

    Kindly complete the form below to receive a free sample of this Report

    Customer Stories

    “I am very pleased with how market segments have been defined in a relevant way for my purposes (such as "Portable Freezers & refrigerators" and "last-mile"). In general the report is well structured. Thanks very much for your efforts.”

    Victoria Milne Founder
    Case Study
    Chemicals and Materials