Global Chelating Agents Market: 2025 Insights & Forecast to 2035
The global chelating agents market is driven by increasing adoption of eco-friendly chelating agents in industrial and household applications, particularly for water treatment, pulp & paper processing, and cleaners & detergents. With continuous advances in green chelating technologies and rigorous regulatory frameworks promoting safer alternatives, the industry is experiencing strong innovation. Major players are expanding their product lines to cater to new segments such as pharmaceuticals and agriculture, capitalizing on rising environmental awareness and stringent emission controls. Between 2025 and 2035, the market is set to witness significant growth in Asia-Pacific and North America, fueled by investments in sustainable solutions.
Latest Market Dynamics
Key Drivers
Growing demand for eco-friendly and biodegradable chelating agents, bolstered by recent product launches such as BASF's Trilon M and Akzo Nobel's green chelating solutions.
Expansion in application areas including water treatment and agriculture, as evidenced by Dow's new line targeting industrial water systems.
Key Trends
Increased R&D investments in green chelation technologies, such as Nouryon's enzymatic synthesis processes.
Shifting regulations favoring non-phosphate-based agents, seen with recent EU directives influencing product portfolios across leading vendors.
Key Opportunities
Advances in enzymatic synthesis opening doors for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical use, with Merck KGaA investing in enzyme-based chelating solutions in 2025.
Rapid growth in Asian markets due to increasing industrialization and stricter environmental standards, highlighted by local expansions from Mitsubishi Chemical Group.
Key Challenges
Competition from low-cost traditional chelating agents, putting pressure on margins for companies like Tate & Lyle.
Raw material price volatility impacting supply chains and cost structures, notably observed by Huntsman Corporation in its 2025 reports.
Key Restraints
Stringent regulatory scrutiny over toxicity levels in certain chelating agents, especially nitrilotriacetic acid, impacting market entry.
High R&D and production costs associated with green chelating agents, challenging small and medium enterprises as seen in AVA Chemicals’ recent disclosures.
Global Chelating Agents Market Share by Type, 2025
In 2025, Aminopolycarboxylic Acid remains the dominant type within the chelating agents market, accounting for nearly half of the total share due to its widespread application across cleaners, water treatment, and industry. Sodium Gluconate's demand is also surging, especially in eco-sensitive markets. Meanwhile, niche segments like organophosphates and ethylenediamine cater to specialized industrial uses but face growth constraints from environmental regulations. Consumers are increasingly favoring 'green' chelating agents, steering vendor R&D investments toward meeting these emerging needs.
Global Chelating Agents Market Share by Application, 2025
The application landscape for chelating agents in 2025 is led by Water Treatment and Cleaners & Detergents, together making up over half the demand owing to strict water safety regulations and the rise in eco-friendly cleaning solutions. Pulp & Paper and Pharmaceuticals are also strong contributors, driven by quality and safety mandates in their respective industries. Expanding agricultural applications reflect increased micronutrient management needs, while specialty uses are gaining prominence in high-tech and specialty chemical sectors.
Global Chelating Agents Market Revenue (2020-2035)
The revenue trajectory of the global chelating agents market demonstrates robust growth from 2020 to 2035. In 2025, revenue is estimated at 5,700 million, up from 4,400 million in 2021, and projected to surpass 10,200 million by 2035. This sustained expansion is underpinned by stringent environmental norms, technological advancements, and rising deployment of chelating agents in emerging economies. Industries such as water treatment and pharmaceuticals will drive new sources of revenue as regulations tighten and innovation accelerates.
Global Chelating Agents Market Year-over-Year (%) Growth (2020-2035)
The year-over-year growth rate of the chelating agents market peaks at around 10.5% in 2025, driven by accelerated adoption of sustainable solutions and regulatory tailwinds. While high single-digit growth persists through 2028, rates gradually moderate as the market stabilizes and matures in established application sectors. Continued expansion in emerging markets and breakthrough innovations in green chemistry are expected to maintain positive momentum through the next decade.
Global Chelating Agents Market Share by Region, 2025
Asia-Pacific commands the largest share of the chelating agents market in 2025, driven by aggressive industrialization, urbanization, and regulatory initiatives in China, India, and Southeast Asia. North America and Europe follow, with well-established players focusing on compliance and innovation. Other regions, including the Middle East, Africa, and South America, are experiencing rising adoption rates due to increasing demand for water treatment and sustainable agrochemicals.
Global Chelating Agents Market Players Share, 2025
Market leaders such as BASF SE, Akzo Nobel N.V., and Dow Inc. collectively represent over half the share of the global chelating agents market in 2025. Their dominance is a result of diversified product portfolios, significant R&D investment, and geographic reach. Niche and regional players, such as AVA Chemicals and Saanvi Corp, capture specialized segments by offering customized and eco-friendly formulations, intensifying competition and innovation across the board.
Industrial buyers, including water treatment facilities, paper mills, and cleaning product manufacturers, make up the largest share of chelating agents consumption at 50% in 2025. Pharmaceutical and food processing companies together comprise roughly 30%, reflecting the growing use of chelating agents for high-value, application-specific needs. The remainder includes agriculture, personal care, and specialty chemical segments, each expanding steadily with increased product innovation.
Study Coverage
Metrics
Details
Years
2020-2035
Base Year
2025
Market Size
5700
Regions
North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East, Africa
June 2024: BASF SE launches an upgraded version of its Trilon M chelating agent line targeting reduced environmental impact.
July 2024: Nouryon announces new investments into enzymatic chelating agent synthesis for sustainable industrial applications.
August 2024: Mitsubishi Chemical Group inaugurates a production facility in India to meet rising APAC demand for green chelating agents.
September 2024: Dow Inc. introduces high-performance chelating agents specific to industrial water treatment in North America.
October 2024: Akzo Nobel collaborates with a leading European university to accelerate research on bio-based chelating solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Ankit
Senior Research Consultant
Ankit is a Senior Research Consultant specializing in market research, industry analysis, and business consulting across Chemical & Material. Ankit brings a commercially grounded perspective to sectors shaped by changing demand, innovation, and competitive dynamics, helping turn complex market trends into clear strategic insights for business decision-makers. With 10+ years of experience across research, analytics, and strategic advisory roles, Ankit has helped organizations translate data into actionable growth strategies.
Chemical & MaterialMarket ResearchIndustry AnalysisStrategic Consulting
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