Oxalic Acid Market By Product Type (Synthetic Oxalic Acid, Natural Oxalic Acid); By Application (Textile Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Food Industry, Metal Cleaning & Polishing); By End-User (Chemical Manufacturers, Pharmaceuticals, Food and Beverage Producers, Metal Fabricators); Global Insights & Forecast (2025 - 2030)

As per Intent Market Research, the Oxalic Acid Market was valued at USD 1.7 Billion in 2024-e and will surpass USD 2.4 Billion by 2030; growing at a CAGR of 6.6% during 2025 - 2030.

The oxalic acid market is witnessing significant growth due to its wide range of applications across various industries such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, food, and metal cleaning. Oxalic acid, a naturally occurring organic compound, is used in various chemical processes including as a reducing agent, cleaning agent, and a key intermediate in the production of other chemicals. Its role in industrial applications such as metal cleaning and textile processing has increased its demand in recent years.

Additionally, the growing use of oxalic acid in the pharmaceutical and food industries for specific formulations further propels the market's expansion. The ongoing emphasis on environmentally friendly processes, coupled with advancements in synthetic production techniques, is contributing to the evolution of the oxalic acid market, making it a critical compound in modern manufacturing processes.

Synthetic Oxalic Acid Product Type is Largest Owing to Cost-Effectiveness and Versatility

Synthetic oxalic acid is the largest product type in the oxalic acid market, owing to its cost-effectiveness, consistent quality, and versatility across a range of applications. Synthetic production methods are more widely used compared to natural extraction, as they allow for bulk production and provide a higher yield of oxalic acid at lower costs.

Synthetic oxalic acid is essential in industries such as metal cleaning, textile processing, and chemical manufacturing, where it is used for rust removal, bleaching, and as an intermediate in the production of other chemicals. The growing demand for synthetic oxalic acid is primarily driven by its use in industrial processes, which require high purity and large-scale quantities. This makes synthetic oxalic acid a dominant force in the market, particularly in chemical manufacturing and metal fabricating sectors.

Textile Industry Application is Largest Owing to Extensive Use in Bleaching and Dyeing

The textile industry is the largest application segment in the oxalic acid market, driven by its widespread use in bleaching, dyeing, and finishing processes. Oxalic acid is an effective agent for removing rust stains from fabrics and is also employed in the preparation of various textile dyes, enhancing their color intensity and durability. Its ability to provide cleaner, brighter results in the textile finishing process has made it a crucial component in textile manufacturing, particularly in the production of cotton and synthetic fabrics. As the global textile industry continues to expand, particularly in regions such as Asia-Pacific, the demand for oxalic acid in textile processing is expected to remain strong, securing its position as the largest application segment in the market.

Pharmaceutical Industry End-User is Largest Owing to Use in Drug Formulations and Detoxification

The pharmaceutical industry is the largest end-user of oxalic acid, primarily due to its role in drug formulations and detoxification processes. Oxalic acid is used in the synthesis of certain pharmaceutical products, including antibiotics and other chemical intermediates. Additionally, it plays a role in the detoxification of heavy metals in the body and is sometimes included in therapeutic formulations to address issues related to kidney stones. The growing pharmaceutical market, particularly in emerging economies, is driving the demand for high-quality oxalic acid to meet the needs of drug manufacturers. As healthcare needs continue to evolve and pharmaceutical production expands globally, oxalic acid’s role in the pharmaceutical industry will remain critical, sustaining its dominant position as the largest end-user.

Metal Cleaning & Polishing Application is Fastest Growing Owing to Increasing Demand for Surface Treatment

The metal cleaning and polishing application is the fastest growing segment in the oxalic acid market, driven by its increasing use in surface treatment processes across various industries. Oxalic acid is highly effective in cleaning metal surfaces, removing rust, scale, and corrosion, and polishing metal parts to a smooth finish. It is particularly valuable in the automotive, construction, and manufacturing industries, where the cleaning and maintenance of metal surfaces are essential for the functionality and aesthetic appeal of metal components. As industries continue to prioritize the quality and durability of metal parts, particularly in high-performance sectors like automotive and aerospace, the demand for oxalic acid in metal cleaning and polishing applications is experiencing rapid growth, making this one of the fastest expanding segments in the market.

Chemical Manufacturers End-User is Fastest Growing Owing to Use in Chemical Synthesis

The chemical manufacturing industry is the fastest growing end-user of oxalic acid, driven by its use as a key intermediate in the production of various chemicals and materials. Oxalic acid is involved in the synthesis of a range of chemicals including oxalates, formic acid, and certain pharmaceutical intermediates, which are widely used in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. The increasing demand for oxalic acid in chemical processes, coupled with the growing production of specialty chemicals, is fueling market growth. As chemical manufacturers continue to expand their operations globally, particularly in emerging economies, the need for oxalic acid as a raw material for chemical synthesis is expected to accelerate, solidifying its position as the fastest growing end-user in the market.

Asia-Pacific Region is Largest Owing to Robust Manufacturing and Industrial Growth

The Asia-Pacific region is the largest market for oxalic acid, owing to its strong manufacturing base, growing chemical and pharmaceutical industries, and expanding textile sector. Countries such as China and India are key players in the oxalic acid market, where the demand for oxalic acid in textile processing, chemical manufacturing, and metal cleaning applications is significant. The rapid industrialization and increasing demand for consumer goods in these countries are contributing to the growing use of oxalic acid in a variety of manufacturing processes. Additionally, the region's pharmaceutical and food industries are expanding, driving the need for oxalic acid in drug formulations and food production. With Asia-Pacific continuing to dominate global manufacturing and industrial activities, it is expected to remain the largest market for oxalic acid.

Leading Companies and Competitive Landscape

The oxalic acid market is highly competitive, with key players such as Hubei Yihua Chemical Industry, Jiangsu Sopo, and U.S. Oxo Chemical Co. dominating the market. These companies are focusing on product innovation, increasing production capacity, and expanding their global footprint to stay competitive. Strategic mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships are common as companies seek to enhance their product offerings and enter new markets. As demand for oxalic acid continues to grow, particularly in emerging markets, leading players are investing in advanced production technologies to offer high-quality, cost-effective products. Moreover, the increasing focus on sustainability and the development of natural oxalic acid alternatives is shaping the competitive landscape, with companies focusing on environmentally friendly production processes to meet evolving consumer preferences and regulatory standards..

List of Leading Companies:

• The Dow Chemical Company
• Lianyungang Taile Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.
• Hebei Lvxu Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Jining Xinxin Chemical Industrial Co., Ltd.
• Yunnan Tin Company Limited
• Oxalic Acid Co., Ltd.
• UBE Industries, Ltd.
• Huasheng Group Co., Ltd.
• Merck KGaA
• Changzhou Huarui Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Shandong Haihua Group Co., Ltd.
• Solvay SA
• Qingdao Binhai Oxalic Acid Co., Ltd.
• Hubei Chusheng Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Honghe Chemical Co., Ltd.

Recent Developments:

• The Dow Chemical Company introduced a new method for producing oxalic acid more sustainably, aiming for reduced environmental impact in November 2024.
• Lianyungang Taile Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. expanded its oxalic acid production capacity in October 2024 to meet rising demand in the textile and metal cleaning industries.
• Merck KGaA launched a new oxalic acid-based solution for use in the pharmaceutical sector in September 2024.
• Hebei Lvxu Chemical Co., Ltd. partnered with a major chemical manufacturer to develop plant-based oxalic acid in August 2024.
• Solvay SA announced the acquisition of a leading oxalic acid production facility in China to strengthen its market presence in Asia in July 2024

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