Industrial Alcohol Market

Global Industrial Alcohol Market Forecast

• The approximately US$158.6 Bn market for industrial alcohol (2022) poised reach US$282.5 Bn by 2030
• Industrial alcohol market size likely to expand at a CAGR of 8.6% between 2023 and 2030

Major Report Findings - Fairfield's Perspective

1. The key trend anticipated to fuel the industrial alcohol market growth is Industrial alcohols, especially ethanol, which are vital ingredients in pharmaceuticals, sanitizers, and disinfectants, driving demand in the healthcare sector, especially during pandemics.
2. Another major market trend expected to fuel the automotive and chemical sectors is the utilisation of industrial alcohols for various purposes, including as fuel additives and solvents, contributing to market growth.
3. Ethyl alcohol is a key component in cosmetics and personal care items, witnessing rising usage due to consumer preferences for alcohol-based products.
4. In 2022, ethyl alcohol, due to its versatile applications in various industries, holds the largest market share. Its use in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and alcoholic beverages contributes to its dominance.
5. Corn-based industrial alcohol stands out as the dominant category in the source segment due to its abundantly available and economically feasible for large-scale production.
6. Alcohol sourced from molasses is experiencing rapid growth due to the abundance of molasses as a byproduct of the sugar industry. Its sustainable sourcing contributes to its popularity.
7. In 2022, Asia Pacific will lead the industrial alcohol market due to the high demand from the pharmaceutical, automotive, and chemical sectors. Growing economies, especially in India and China, fuel the region's dominance.
8. North America is witnessing significant growth, attributed to the rising consumption of industrial alcohols in healthcare products and the increasing demand for biofuels, especially in the US, and Canada.

A Look Back and a Look Forward - Comparative Analysis

The industrial alcohol market is currently experiencing robust growth driven by a myriad of factors. Increasing applications across diverse sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food and beverages, and automotive fuels have significantly bolstered the demand for industrial alcohol.

Moreover, the rise in the use of industrial alcohol as a sanitizer and disinfectant during the COVID-19 pandemic further escalated its demand. The market is characterised by a surge in production capacities and strategic collaborations between key players, ensuring a steady supply chain.

The market witnessed staggered growth during the historical period 2018 - 2022. The industrial alcohol market witnessed steady expansion. This period was marked by technological advancements, especially in the fermentation and distillation processes, leading to improved alcohol yields and cost-efficiency.

Additionally, stringent regulations promoting the use of biofuels drove the market, with ethanol being a key component in the renewable energy sector. Growing awareness about sustainable practices also encouraged the adoption of bio-based industrial alcohol, contributing to market growth.

The industrial alcohol market is poised for significant growth. Anticipated advancements in biotechnology and fermentation techniques will enhance production efficiency and yield high-quality alcohol. The push towards green energy and the increasing emphasis on sustainable sourcing will drive the demand for bio-based industrial alcohol. Moreover, the escalating need for hand sanitizers, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products is expected to fuel market expansion. Collaborations between industry players and research institutions will likely lead to innovative product developments, ensuring the market's progression in a sustainable and technologically advanced direction.

Key Growth Determinants

• Expanding Market of Biofuels

The increasing demand for biofuels is driving market expansion. Ethanol, a type of industrial alcohol, is extensively used in the production of biofuels. As governments worldwide focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy sources, the demand for ethanol as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuels has surged.

Ethanol, derived mainly from sources such as sugarcane, corn, and grains, is used as a key ingredient in bioethanol production. This demand for bioethanol, driven by environmental concerns and regulations favouring cleaner energy, significantly contributes to the growth of the industrial alcohol market.

• Rising Demand from Pharma and Healthcare

Industrial alcohol finds extensive applications in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. It is a vital ingredient in the manufacturing of various medicinal products, disinfectants, and sanitizers. Particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for hand sanitizers and disinfectants, which often contain industrial alcohol, experienced a remarkable surge.

The rising emphasis on healthcare hygiene, coupled with the need for high-quality pharmaceuticals, ensures a continuous demand for industrial alcohol in these sectors. The versatile nature of industrial alcohol as an antiseptic and solvent makes it indispensable in pharmaceutical formulations, further boosting its market growth.

• Expanding Application in F&B

Industrial alcohol is widely used in the food and beverage industry for various purposes. It serves as a key ingredient in the production of flavour extracts food colouring, and as a solvent for food-grade extracts and essences. Moreover, industrial alcohol is utilised in the manufacturing of alcoholic beverages, acting as the primary component in spirits and liquors.

The rising demand for processed foods, beverages, and alcoholic drinks, especially in emerging economies, fuels the demand for industrial alcohol. Additionally, the industry's focus on product innovation and the development of new flavours further amplifies the market growth. The multifaceted applications of industrial alcohol in the food and beverage sector make it a significant driver of market expansion.

Major Growth Barriers

• Supply Chain Disruptions

The industrial alcohol market is experiencing supply chain disruptions. Factors such as transportation challenges, raw material shortages, and workforce issues can lead to interruptions in the production and distribution of industrial alcohol.

Supply chain disruptions can cause delays in fulfilling orders and impact the overall market stability. These disruptions often arise from unforeseen events like natural disasters, pandemics, or geopolitical tensions, making it challenging for businesses to maintain a consistent supply of industrial alcohol.

• Stringent Regulatory Compliance

Stringent regulatory compliance poses a restraint on the industrial alcohol market. Various regulations and standards govern the production, distribution, and use of industrial alcohol, especially in the pharmaceutical, healthcare, and food industries. Meeting these standards requires significant investments in quality control measures and adherence to safety protocols.

Non-compliance can result in legal consequences and damage to the market reputation of manufacturers. Keeping up with the evolving regulatory landscape, ensuring product safety, and meeting the diverse requirements of different regions pose challenges for industrial alcohol producers.

Key Trends and Opportunities to Look at

1. Biofuel Demand Surge

The industrial alcohol market is witnessing a trend fuelled by the rising demand for biofuels. Governments globally are promoting renewable energy sources, leading to increased use of ethanol as a biofuel. This trend is particularly popular in North America, and Europe. Key companies are investing in research to enhance the efficiency of biofuel production, leveraging advanced fermentation technologies.

2. Sustainable Sourcing and Production

Consumers and businesses alike are increasingly seeking eco-friendly products. Manufacturers are adopting sustainable sourcing practices, such as using agricultural residues for alcohol production, reducing their carbon footprint. This trend is gaining traction in Asia Pacific, where environmental concerns are significant. Companies are investing in green technologies and promoting their environmentally friendly practices to gain consumer trust.

3. Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Applications

The industrial alcohol market is experiencing growth in pharmaceutical and healthcare applications. With the rise in healthcare awareness, alcohol-based sanitizers, and disinfectants are in high demand globally. This trend is notable in regions like North America, and Asia Pacific.

Key players are focusing on developing high-purity industrial alcohol suitable for medical applications, adhering to stringent quality standards. Brands are leveraging this trend by marketing their products as essential components in healthcare and hygiene solutions, catering to a growing market segment.

How Does the Regulatory Scenario Shape this Industry?

The industrial alcohol market operates within a stringent regulatory framework influenced by various entities and guidelines. Regulatory bodies like the US FDA, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in Europe enforce standards for industrial alcohol used in pharmaceuticals and healthcare products. Additionally, environmental protection agencies worldwide regulate the production and disposal of industrial alcohol, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Region-specific changes are evident in Asia Pacific, where governments are implementing stricter regulations to promote sustainable sourcing practices, aligning with global environmental goals. For instance, India's National Biofuel Policy promotes ethanol production from agricultural residues, influencing the sourcing dynamics in the region. These regulations significantly impact market players, necessitating investments in sustainable practices and adherence to quality standards to meet the diverse and evolving regulatory requirements across regions.

Fairfield’s Ranking Board

Top Segments

1. Ethyl Alcohol Receives Tailwinds from Pharma, Cosmetics, and Beverages

Ethyl alcohol emerges as the dominant category, capturing a significant market share of approximately 60%. Ethyl alcohol's dominance can be attributed to its widespread applications across various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and alcoholic beverages. Its versatility, high purity, and suitability for a multitude of uses make it a preferred choice among manufacturers and consumers alike. As a result, ethyl alcohol continues to lead the market, serving as a fundamental ingredient in the production processes of numerous essential products.

Furthermore, the fastest-growing category, isopropyl alcohol, stands out with remarkable momentum, witnessing an annual market share growth of approximately 10%. This surge can be attributed to the rising demand for isopropyl alcohol-based sanitizers and disinfectants, especially in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. The ongoing global focus on health and hygiene, coupled with the need for effective sanitising solutions, has propelled the demand for Isopropyl Alcohol.

2. Corn Holds a Commanding Share of Nearly 40%

In 2022, corn emerged as the dominant category, capturing a substantial market share of approximately 40%. This dominance can be attributed to the widespread availability of corn as a raw material and its efficient conversion into alcohol. Corn-based industrial alcohol finds extensive applications in sectors like pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and cosmetics. Its versatility, coupled with favourable characteristics such as high purity and lower production costs, has established corn as a preferred source among manufacturers.

Molasses stands out as the fastest-growing category, experiencing a remarkable annual growth rate of around 12%. Molasses, a by-product of the sugar refining process, has gained significant traction due to its eco-friendly and sustainable nature. As industries increasingly focus on environmentally responsible practices, molasses-based industrial alcohol has witnessed a surge in demand. Its applications in biofuels, organic chemicals, and animal feed additives have contributed to its rapid growth.

Regional Frontrunners

Asia Pacific Benefits from Pacing Development of Auto, Pharma, and Personal Care Industries in Key Economies

Asia Pacific continues to dominate the global industrial alcohol market, contributing a substantial revenue share of approximately 45%. Several factors contribute to the region's leading position. The robust industrialisation and rapid economic growth in countries like China, and India have led to increased demand for industrial alcohol across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, automotive, and cosmetics. The availability of abundant raw materials, such as corn, and sugarcane, in countries like China, and Brazil supports the production of industrial alcohol.

Furthermore, the growing adoption of industrial alcohol in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries for the manufacturing of sanitizers, disinfectants, and medicines has significantly boosted the market. Additionally, the region's booming agricultural sector has led to increased production of feed and food products, further fuelling the demand for industrial alcohol.

North America Anticipates Approximately 7% Rise in Sales Through 2030

North America is poised to experience substantial growth in industrial alcohol sales, with a projected increase of around 7% during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to several key factors. The region's well-established pharmaceutical and healthcare industries rely heavily on industrial alcohol for production of hand sanitizers, disinfectants, and medical supplies, especially amid ongoing health concerns and the need for stringent hygiene practices.

Moreover, the robust demand for industrial alcohol in the automotive sector, where it is utilised in the manufacturing of cleaner-burning fuels and engine coolants, further propels the market growth. Additionally, North America's thriving cosmetics and personal care industry extensively utilises industrial alcohol in the production of various products, contributing to increased sales.

Fairfield’s Competitive Landscape Analysis

In the competitive landscape, companies are focusing on research and development to create high-quality industrial alcohol while optimising production costs. Strategic collaborations and mergers and acquisitions are common trends among market players to strengthen their market presence. Moreover, expanding product portfolios to cater to diverse industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and automotive, provides opportunities for growth.

Who are the Leaders in the Global Industrial Alcohol Space?

1. Archer Daniels Midland
2. Cargill
3. DuPont
4. INEOS
5. LyondellBasell
6. Mitsubishi Chemical
7. Sasol
8. Sinopec
9. Taiyo Chemical
10. TotalEnergies
11. Unilever
12. Vinnolit
13. Yara International
14. BASF
15. Dow 

Significant Company Developments

New Product Launch

• July 2020: Green Plains Wood River LLC has recently installed a distinct 25-million-gallon plant, designed and built by ICM, Inc., aimed at manufacturing FCC-grade alcohol for both local and international markets. The company anticipates upgrading its production methods within the next four to six months to enable the production of USP-grade alcohol. This expansion will bolster the company's production capacities at Wood River, showcasing its unwavering dedication to fulfilling the growing customer need for top-quality alcohol.
• May 2020: PKN ORLEN has acquired a license and basic engineering design package for an isopropanol unit as it aims to enhance its phenol production capabilities at its Płock plant. If approved, this project will make PKN ORLEN the fifth company globally to adopt this pioneering technology.
• April 2020: Through its Solvents & Phenol Specialties Business Unit, Steqens is a significant player in the European market for high-value oxygenated solvents. It has plans to invest in a second isopropanol (IPA) production facility on the French chemical platform in Roussillon. With this expansion, Seqens' capacity to produce IPA globally annually will rise by more than 70%.

Distribution Agreement

• March 2020: MGP Ingredients acquired New Columbia Distilleries LLC (U.S.). This acquisition improved the company's hold in the U.S. and allowed it to serve a larger consumer base.
• May 2020: To produce more sustainable products, Procter & Gamble and Cargill joined up to develop new technology that is nature-powered and transforms lactic acid into bio-based acrylic acid. Cargill was given an exclusive license by P&G, enabling it to further develop and market this technology. This technology will eventually be used in a variety of applications, such as superabsorbent polymers in absorbent hygiene products and thickeners in home paints, among others.

An Expert’s Eye

Demand and Future Growth

The industrial alcohol market is poised for substantial growth in the long term, driven by a confluence of factors. The rising demand for biofuels as a sustainable energy source is boosting the need for industrial alcohol, which serves as a key ingredient in biofuel production. As global awareness about environmental conservation grows, the demand for eco-friendly fuel alternatives is expected to surge, sustaining the market growth. Additionally, the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors will continue to be major consumers of industrial alcohol.

Supply Side of the Market

According to our analysis, the industrial alcohol market faces challenges related to raw material procurement and production efficiency. Sourcing quality raw materials, such as sugarcane, corn, and grains, is essential for producing industrial alcohol. Fluctuations in agricultural yields due to climate change and market demand can impact the availability and pricing of these raw materials, posing challenges for manufacturers.

Production efficiency and technological advancements in alcohol production methods are vital. Innovations in fermentation and distillation processes are necessary to enhance productivity and reduce production costs. Additionally, adherence to stringent regulatory standards regarding the purity and quality of industrial alcohol is essential to ensure a competitive edge in the market.

Global Industrial Alcohol Market is Segmented as Below:

By Type:

• Ethyl Alcohol
• Methyl Alcohol
• Isopropyl Alcohol
• Isobutyl Alcohol
• Others

By Source:

• Sugarcane & Bagasse
• Corn
• Grains
• Molasses
• Fuels

By Geographic Coverage:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada 
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • U.K.
  • France
  • Italy
  • Turkey
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe 
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Southeast Asia
  • Rest of Asia Pacific 
• Latin America 
  • Brazil 
  • Mexico 
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America 
• Middle East & Africa  
  • GCC 
  • South Africa
  • Egypt
  • Nigeria
  • Rest of the Middle East & Africa