PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1891509
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1891509
The global adipic acid market recorded a market size of USD 5.55 billion in 2024, reflecting steady demand from nylon, polyurethane, and plasticizer manufacturing industries. Adipic acid is a white, crystalline dicarboxylic acid primarily produced through the oxidation of cyclohexane or cyclohexanol-cyclohexanone mixtures. Its role as a key intermediate in the production of nylon 6,6 positions it as a critical raw material for automotive, textile, industrial, and consumer goods applications. Rising urbanization, infrastructure development, and improved living standards in developing economies supported market demand during 2024.
In 2025, the adipic acid market is projected to reach a value of USD 5.79 billion, driven by expanding consumption of nylon 6,6 fibers and resins across automotive and textile sectors. Automotive manufacturers increasingly rely on nylon 6,6 for lightweight and high-performance components such as airbags, seat belts, fuel system parts, and engine components. At the same time, the textile industry continues to use nylon fibers in apparel, carpets, and industrial fabrics due to their durability, elasticity, and resistance to wear. These factors collectively support stable market growth in 2025.
By 2032, the global adipic acid market is forecast to attain a value of USD 7.86 billion, indicating sustained long-term expansion. This growth outlook is supported by increasing demand for polyurethane materials in construction, furniture, and appliance insulation, as well as rising applications of adipate esters as plasticizers in flexible PVC products. The market's progression reflects both volume growth and diversification of end-use applications, particularly in emerging economies where industrial output continues to rise.
Impact of COVID-19 on Market Performance
The COVID-19 pandemic had a noticeable impact on the adipic acid market during its initial phases. Lockdowns, logistics disruptions, and temporary shutdowns of manufacturing facilities led to reduced production and weakened demand from key end-use industries, including automotive, textiles, and construction. Many producers operated at reduced capacities as global manufacturing slowed. However, as economic activity resumed, the market experienced a gradual recovery. The rebound was closely aligned with the revival of automotive production, infrastructure projects, and construction activities, helping restore demand momentum.
Market Trends and Growth Drivers
One of the key trends shaping the adipic acid market is the rising usage of polyurethane across diverse applications. Adipic acid is an essential raw material in the production of polyurethane resins used in flexible and rigid foams, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers. Flexible polyurethane foams are widely used in mattresses, furniture, and automotive seating, while rigid foams play a crucial role in building insulation and appliance manufacturing. The growing emphasis on energy-efficient buildings and durable consumer products is creating long-term growth opportunities for polyurethane, thereby supporting adipic acid demand.
Another major growth driver is the increasing adoption of nylon 6,6. Nylon 6,6 fiber accounted for the largest application share in 2024, supported by its extensive use in industrial, automotive, and aerospace applications. Nylon 6,6 resin is estimated to hold a 31.1% market share in 2024, highlighting its importance in engineering plastics. As manufacturing and industrial activities expand globally, particularly in emerging markets, the consumption of nylon-based materials is expected to remain strong.
Regional Market Insights
Asia Pacific dominated the global adipic acid market in 2024, holding a 46.49% market share and generating USD 2.58 billion in market value. Rapid industrialization in China and India, along with the region's role as a global manufacturing hub, continues to drive consumption. Expanding textile, automotive, and plastics industries in countries such as China, India, Vietnam, and Bangladesh are key contributors to regional growth. In China alone, the nylon 6,6 resin segment is estimated to account for 31.2% of the market in 2024.
North America maintains stable demand supported by its strong automotive sector and extensive use of nylon 6,6 in airbag fabrics and vehicle components. Europe is witnessing a shift toward sustainable production, with increasing investments in bio-based adipic acid and low-emission manufacturing technologies. Latin America benefits from growth in textile and apparel manufacturing, particularly in Brazil, while the Middle East & Africa region is experiencing rising demand due to investments in downstream petrochemicals and plastics manufacturing.
Competitive Landscape
The adipic acid market is consolidated, with leading players such as BASF SE, Ascend Performance Materials, INVISTA, LANXESS, and Solvay focusing on production efficiency, sustainability initiatives, and technological innovation. Recent developments in 2024, including emissions reduction projects and sustainability certifications, highlight the industry's strategic shift toward environmentally responsible production.
Overall, the adipic acid market demonstrates steady growth from 2024 to 2032, supported by strong fundamentals across nylon, polyurethane, and plasticizer applications, with Asia Pacific remaining the key growth engine.
CAGR CAGR of 4.4% during 2025-2032
Segmentation By Application
By Region