Maleic Anhydride Market by Raw Material, Application (Unsaturated Polyester Resins, 1,4-Butanediol, Additives, Malic Acid), End-User Industry, & Region for 2026-2032

Maleic Anhydride Market Valuation - 2026-2032

Increasing demand for unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs) in the construction and automotive industries is driving the growth of the maleic anhydride market. This trend is further supported by the rising adoption of lightweight materials in these sectors, where maleic anhydride is a key component. According to the analyst from Verified Market Research, the Maleic Anhydride Market is estimated to reach a valuation of USD 3.84 Billion over the forecast subjugating around USD 3.03 Billion valued in 2024.

The rapid expansion of the maleic anhydride market is primarily driven by the increasing application of maleic anhydride in the production of specialty chemicals and additives across various industries. This growth is fueled by rising demand for environmentally friendly products and innovations in bio-based chemical production. It enables the market to grow at a CAGR of 3.30% from 2026 to 2032.

Maleic Anhydride Market: Definition/ Overview

Maleic Anhydride is defined as an organic compound derived from the oxidation of benzene or butane. It is commonly characterized by its crystalline white appearance and is widely used in the production of various chemicals. This compound is primarily utilized as a key intermediate in the manufacturing of unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs), which are applied in industries such as construction, automotive, and marine. Additionally, it is used to formulate lubricate oil additives, agricultural chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.

Increasing demand for sustainable materials has contributed to the growth of maleic anhydride across several sectors. The rising adoption of lightweight and energy-efficient products, particularly in the automotive and construction industries, has further driven market expansion. These growth factors, coupled with innovations in bio-based anhydrides, are expected to fuel the market's upward trajectory in the coming years.

How has the Increasing Demand for Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPRs) Impacted the Growth of the Maleic Anhydride Market?

The growth of the maleic anhydride market has been significantly influenced by the increasing demand for unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs). Asia-Pacific region accounts for 40% of global UPR consumption, driven by rapid infrastructure development. UPRs, which are widely used in automotive, construction, and marine industries, are being driven by a shift toward lightweight materials and energy-efficient solutions.

Maleic Anhydride is utilized as a key raw material in the production of UPRs, and its demand has been rising in line with the growing adoption of composites and fiberglass-reinforced plastics. Lightweight material demand in electric vehicles has increased UPR consumption by 25% in the automotive sector since 2020. The expansion of infrastructure projects and renewable energy installations has also boosted the consumption of UPRs, further accelerating the growth of the maleic anhydride market.

What Challenges are Being Faced by the Maleic Anhydride Market Due to the Volatility of Raw Material Prices?

The maleic anhydride market has been constrained by the volatility in raw material prices, particularly due to the reliance on butane and benzene, which are derived from petroleum. Fluctuations in crude oil prices, driven by geopolitical tensions and supply-demand imbalances, have created uncertainty in production costs for maleic anhydride.

The instability has negatively affected profit margins and created challenges for manufacturers to maintain competitive pricing. Additionally, rising energy costs and stringent environmental regulations on petrochemical processes have further added to production pressures, resulting in pricing volatility within the maleic anhydride market.

Category-Wise Acumens

How is the Automotive Industry's Growing Demand for Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPRs) Influencing the Maleic Anhydride Market?

According to VMR analyst, the automotive industry's growing demand for unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs) has significantly impacted the maleic anhydride market. UPRs are widely used in the production of lightweight components and fiberglass-reinforced plastics, which are critical for vehicle weight reduction and fuel efficiency.

The use of maleic anhydride in the manufacturing of UPRs has risen as automakers shift toward more sustainable and energy-efficient materials. This trend is being driven by stringent emissions regulations and consumer preference for fuel-efficient vehicles, leading to increased consumption of UPR-based components.

The automotive sector's adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid models has also amplified the need for high-performance materials, further boosting demand for Maleic Anhydride in UPR production. As a result, the automotive industry's emphasis on lightweight materials is expected to drive sustained growth in the maleic anhydride market.

Will the Shift Toward n-butane-based Maleic Anhydride Impact the Growth of the Maleic Anhydride Market?

According to VMR Analyst, the shift toward n-butane-based maleic anhydride is impacting the growth of the maleic anhydride market due to its cost-effectiveness and lower environmental impact compared to benzene-based production methods. The adoption of n-butane as a primary raw material has been driven by the reduced emissions and lower production costs associated with it.

Additionally, n-butane-based maleic anhydride is favored for its higher yield efficiency and reduced reliance on petrochemical derivatives like benzene, which are subject to volatile pricing. As environmental regulations on benzene use tighten, the transition to n-butane-based production has been accelerated, making it a more sustainable and financially viable option for manufacturers. This shift is expected to create further opportunities for growth in the maleic anhydride market, especially as industries prioritize eco-friendly production methods and reduced operational costs.

Country/Region-wise Acumens

What Factors are Contributing to Asia Pacific's Dominance in the Maleic Anhydride Market?

According to VMR analyst, Asia Pacific's dominance in the maleic anhydride market has been driven by several factors, including rapid industrialization, increasing demand for unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs), and the growing automotive and construction industries in countries like China, India, and Japan.

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing significant industrial growth, leading to increased demand for construction materials and automotive products. According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the urban population in Asia is projected to rise from 2.6 billion in 2015 to nearly 3.5 billion by 2030, indicating a substantial market for maleic anhydride applications in construction and consumer goods.

The region's access to abundant raw materials and low-cost labor has further encouraged the expansion of maleic anhydride production facilities. Rising infrastructure projects in emerging economies and the increasing demand for lightweight materials in the automotive sector have accelerated the consumption of UPRs, thereby boosting the demand for maleic anhydride.

How is the Growing Automotive Sector in Europe Driving the Demand for Maleic Anhydride?

According to VMR analyst, the growing automotive sector in Europe has been driving the demand for maleic anhydride, particularly due to the increasing adoption of lightweight materials and composites used in vehicle manufacturing. European automakers are focusing on reducing vehicle weight to improve fuel efficiency and comply with stringent emission regulations, which has led to a rise in the use of unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs) derived from maleic anhydride.

The automotive sector in Europe is another key driver for maleic anhydride consumption, particularly as manufacturers seek lightweight materials to enhance fuel efficiency. The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) reported that over 9.7 million vehicles were produced in Europe in 2021, with a growing emphasis on electric vehicles (EVs). This transition is expected to bolster the demand for maleic anhydride, which is essential for manufacturing composites and coatings used in automotive applications.

Competitive Landscape

The Maleic Anhydride Market's competitive landscape is characterized by a varied range of companies, including technology developers, plant operators, and service providers, all striving for market share in an increasingly dynamic and growing industry.

Some of the prominent players operating in the maleic anhydride market include:

Changzhou Yabang Chemical Co., Ltd.

Gulf Advanced Chemical Industries Co., Ltd.

Huntsman Corporation

LANXESS AG

Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation

Ningbo Jiangning Chemical Co., Ltd.

Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.

Polynt-Reichhold Group

Shanxi Qiaoyou Chemical Co., Ltd.

Zibo Qixiang Tengda Chemical Co., Ltd.

Latest Developments

In June 2023, PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad (PCG) reached the final investment decision to fully acquire a 113 kilo-tons per annum Maleic Anhydride plant located in Gebeng, Kuantan, with production expected to commence in the second half of 2025. This acquisition aims to broaden PCG's product portfolio and enhance its derivatives offerings.

In May 2025, BASF launched a new trilobite-shaped Maleic Anhydride catalyst designed to increase profitability for PBAT applications, offering a higher yield and reduced energy consumption compared to traditional catalysts.

In November 2021, IndianOil announced plans to set up India's first mega-scale Maleic Anhydride plant at its Panipat Refinery, aiming for a capacity of 120 KTA and set to significantly reduce India's import dependence.

Maleic Anhydride Market, By Category

• Raw Material:
• n-Butane-based Maleic Anhydride
• Benzene-based Maleic Anhydride
• Application:
• Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPR)

1,4-Butanediol (BDO)

• Additives
• Copolymers
• Fumaric Acid
• Malic Acid
• End-User Industry:
• Automotive
• Construction
• Electronics
• Textile
• Food & Beverage
• Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
• Region:
• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle East & Africa