Bio-lubricants Market

Bio-Lubricants Market 2024, Size And Trends:

The global bio-lubricants market size reached USD 2.40 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 3.21 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.3% during 2025-2033. The market is experiencing stable growth driven by the increasing awareness among individuals about the benefits of bio-based products on health, stringent environmental regulations to curb pollution levels, and rising focus on maintaining vehicle performance.

Bio-Lubricants Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: The market is witnessing steady growth due to the increasing focus on maintaining sustainability goals, coupled with fluctuations in crude oil prices.
• Key Market Trends: The market is showcasing rapid growth on account of stringent environmental regulations and the rising focus on maintaining vehicle performance.
• Geographical Trends: North America leads the market, driven by favorable government initiatives.
• Competitive Landscape: Some of the major market players in the bio-lubricants industry include Bechem, Castrol Limited, Cortec Corporation, Emery Oleochemicals, Fuchs, Kluber Lubrication, Kuwait Petroleum, Polnox Corporation, Shell plc, and TotalEnergies, among many others.
• Challenges and Opportunities: While the market faces challenges, such as limited awareness, it also encounters opportunities on account of increasing preferences for sustainable products.

Bio-Lubricants Market Trends:

Stringent environmental regulations

The increasing demand for bio-lubricants due to stringent environmental regulations across the globe is propelling the growth of the market. Traditional lubricants are manufactured from fossil fuels and pose risks to ecosystems due to their non-biodegradable nature and potential for environmental contamination. In addition, bio-lubricants offer a greener alternative as they are derived from renewable resources, such as vegetable oils or animal fats. Their biodegradability and lower toxicity make them an attractive solution in various applications. Furthermore, people are facing severe respiratory issues due to harmful pollution levels. According to Statista, the Indian state of Rajasthan had the highest number of people affected with acute respiratory infections at over 3.6 million cases in 2021.

Rising awareness about the benefits of bio-based products

The increasing awareness among individuals about the benefits of bio-based products is supporting the bio-lubricants market growth. Bio-lubricants are usually safer to handle and use as compared to petroleum-based lubricants. They are less toxic and pose fewer health risks to workers and individuals. They have a high VI, lubricity, and flashpoint and superior shear resistance than mineral oils. Furthermore, the rising production of bio-lubricants to fulfil the demand of various industries is bolstering the market growth. Besides this, the production value of bio-based lubricants was 38.8 million euros in 2021 in Europe as reported by Statista.

Increasing focus on maintaining vehicle performance

The escalating demand for bio-lubricants on account of the rising focus on maintaining vehicle performance is strengthening the market growth. There are many uses of bio-lubricants market but is mainly used to reduce friction between two mechanical parts, primarily to lower wear and deterioration of metal surfaces and to ensure smooth operation and the absence of contaminants. They minimize the risks of frequent failures and accidents and enhance the durability or life cycle of vehicles. Besides this, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways claims that there were 4,12,432 unfortunate incidences of road accidents during 2021. Moreover, in 2020, the country saw an unprecedented decrease in accidents, fatalities, and injuries.

Bio-Lubricants Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on base oil type, application, and end use industry.

Breakup by Base Oil Type:

• Vegetable Oils
• Animal Fats

Animal fats account for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the base oil type. This includes vegetable oils and animal fats. According to the report, animal fats represented the largest segment.

Animal fats bio-lubricants are sourced from livestock processing by-products, such as beef tallow, poultry fat, and pork lard. These animal fats undergo refining and processing to produce bio-lubricants. These lubricants assist in reducing reliance on finite fossil fuels and contributing to environmental sustainability. In addition, the growing adoption of eco-friendly products due to the rising environmental pollution is offering a positive bio-lubricants market outlook. People are increasingly suffering from various severe diseases due to poor air quality. According to the European Environment Agency, there were about 253,000 premature deaths from chronic exposure to fine particulate matter in 2021.

Breakup by Application:

• Hydraulic Fluids
• Metalworking Fluids
• Chainsaw Oils
• Mold Release Agents
• Two-Cycle Engine Oils
• Gear Oils and Greases
• Others

Two-cycle engine oils hold the largest share of the industry

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the application have also been provided in the report. This includes hydraulic fluids, metalworking fluids, chainsaw oils, mold release agents, two-cycle engine oils, gear oils and greases, and others. According to the report, two-cycle engine oils accounted for the largest market share.

Two-cycle engine oils are special oils that are designed for use in two-stroke engines. They benefit in avoiding the formation of deposits on the exhaust ports, spark plugs, and pistons, thereby keeping the engines clean while ensuring enhanced lubrication. The rising adoption of two-cycle engine oils, as they reduce wear and lower emissions, is supporting the market growth. Furthermore, on 5 July 2021, Delhi-based automotive component maker ‘Steelbird International’ expanded its product range with the launch of engine oil and lubricants for two-wheelers.

Breakup by End Use Industry:

• Power Generation
• Automotive
• Heavy Equipment
• Food & Beverage
• Metallurgy & Metalworking
• Chemical Manufacturing
• Others

Automotive represents the leading market segment 

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the end use industry. This includes power generation, automotive, heavy equipment, food and beverage, metallurgy and metalworking, chemical manufacturing, and others. According to the report, automotive represented the largest segment.

The increasing utilization of bio-lubricants in the automotive sector due to their low toxicity, improved performance, and regulatory compliance is impelling the market growth. Bio-lubricants are used in engines to reduce friction between moving parts, such as pistons, crankshafts, and bearings. They provide enhanced lubrication properties, ensuring smooth operation, reducing wear and tear, and extending engine life. Apart from this, the escalating demand for bio-lubricants on account of the rising number of vehicles around the world is propelling the market growth. For instance, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) states that the overall passenger vehicle sales increased from 30,69,523 to 38,90,114 units in the financial year 2022-2023 as compared to the previous year.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

North America leads the market, accounting for the largest bio-lubricants market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America represents the largest regional market for bio-lubricants.

The growing demand for bio-lubricants due to rising environmental issues is offering a positive market outlook. In addition, governing agencies in the region are encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly products by implementing stringent environmental regulations, which is bolstering the market growth. Apart from this, people are increasingly preferring sustainable products that benefit in lowering greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Furthermore, in 2022, GHG emissions totaled 6,341.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents in the United States. Emissions increased in 2022 by 1% as compared to the previous year, as stated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Key Regional Takeaways:

Asia Pacific Bio-Lubricants Market Analysis

The Asia Pacific region has tremendous growth potential in the market for bio-lubricants with rising environmental laws, industrialization, and growing awareness of sustainability. China, India, and Japan are experiencing an accelerated shift toward eco-friendly options in the manufacturing and automobile industries. The increasing involvement of automotive OEMs, along with government efforts to decrease carbon emissions, is driving the use of bio-based lubricants in transport and industrial equipment. The agriculture and marine industries are also increasingly interested in biodegradable lubricants to prevent soil and water pollution. Nevertheless, the production costs are high, and there are restricted domestic production capacities within a number of developing nations. However, developments in feedstock technology and conducive policy environments are increasingly closing the gap. In light of increasing pressure on industries to comply with environmental norms and green public procurement policies, Asia Pacific is likely to emerge as a leader in the world's bio-lubricants market.

Europe Analysis of the Bio-Lubricants Market

Europe is still a leader in the use of bio-lubricants, fueled by strict environmental policies, including REACH and the EU Ecolabel, and the continent's tradition of sustainability. Germany, France, and Nordic countries are the leaders in embracing bio-based lubricants in the automotive, industrial, and marine applications. The government has actively promoted and provided incentives for adopting biodegradable and non-toxic lubricants, which has inspired industries to move away from petroleum-derived substitutes. The area also has access to a well-developed feedstock supply chain, with rapeseed oil and other vegetable oils being easily available for production. Moreover, consumer awareness of environmental responsibility and business sustainability objectives is driving product choices in various segments. Europe's established infrastructure, research and development (R&D) investment, and favorable regulatory environment continue to support innovation in the sector. With industries driving for reduced emissions and cleaner working environments, Europe should continue to lead the development of the future of the bio-lubricants market.

North America Bio-Lubricants Market Analysis

North America is a robust and continually rising market for bio-lubricants, supported by environmental consciousness, governmental backing, and sophisticated industrial bases. The United States and Canada are prominent contributors, mostly in applications like automotive, agriculture, marine, and industrial machinery. Government agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) encourage the utilization of environmentally acceptable lubricants (EALs), and as a result, there has been greater adoption in government and private sectors. Increased concern regarding dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions is also encouraging companies to seek renewable and biodegradable alternatives. Although price sensitivity and scarce availability of high-performance bio-lubricants have been challenges, continuous R&D activities are ensuring the cost effectiveness and product performance improve. The presence of leading market players and robust technological capabilities also ensure innovation. As there is an increasing trend toward sustainable operations and more corporate environment commitments, North America remains a key driver in the progress of the bio-lubricants market.

Latin America Bio-Lubricants Market Analysis

Latin America is becoming an interesting region in the bio-lubricants market, aided by its agricultural wealth and growing emphasis on environmental sustainability. Brazil, Argentina, and Chile are capitalizing on their availability of vegetable oils and other bio-based feedstocks to create domestically sourced lubricants. Growth in industrial activity and development in the mining, agriculture, and transportation sectors are creating a demand for environmentally friendly alternatives to lubricants derived from petroleum. Government initiatives toward encouraging green technologies and minimizing environmental deterioration are increasingly facilitating the uptake of bio-lubricants, particularly in vulnerable regions like water bodies and agricultural ecosystems. Nevertheless, weaker technological infrastructure and decreased awareness in some regions are challenges to the adoption in many areas. Despite this, the escalating international collaborations, investment in renewable technology, and expanding demand for environmentally friendly industrial solutions are opening up new opportunities. With further policy consistency and investment in education and innovation, Latin America will see significant progress in bio-lubricants in the future.

Middle East and Africa Bio-Lubricants Market Analysis

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) market is slowly turning to bio-lubricants as sustainable options, primarily spurred by environmental issues and economic diversification efforts away from petroleum. Whereas conventionally dependent on mineral oil-based lubricants, some GCC countries, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, are launching green policies and promoting environmentally friendly industrial practices. In Africa, areas with high agricultural production, including South Africa and Kenya, offer opportunities for local bio-based feedstocks. Mining, transportation, and marine industries are of specific interest, where the application of biodegradable lubricants helps reduce environmental damage. Infrastructure development, availability of products, and cost competitiveness remain the challenges. Nevertheless, global cooperation, campaigns, and government-sponsored environmental programs are slowly liberalizing the market. As green industrial change gathers pace in MEA, the region can anticipate having a more organized and regionally aligned bio-lubricants market in the future.

Competitive Landscape:

Key players in the market are introducing eco-friendly lubricants to reduce carbon footprint in the environment while maintaining their social responsibility. They are also engaging in partnerships, which is increasing bio-lubricants market demand. For example, RSC Bio Solutions and Standard Sekiyu Osaka Hatsubaisho Co., Ltd (SSOH) announced a new distribution partnership on 6 December 2021 to meet the growing demand for environmentally acceptable lubricant (EAL) offerings in Japan for marine and industrial applications. Apart from this, major manufacturers are focusing on expanding their facilities to cater to the needs of diverse sectors. On 31 March 2023, ExxonMobil unveiled that it is investing nearly USD $110 million to build a lubricant manufacturing plant at the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation’s Isambe Industrial Area in Raigad. As a result, these initiatives by companies enhance the bio-lubricants market price worldwide.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the global bio-lubricants market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Bechem
• Castrol Limited
• Cortec Corporation
• Emery Oleochemicals
• Fuchs
• Kluber Lubrication
• Kuwait Petroleum
• Polnox Corporation
• Shell plc
• TotalEnergies

Bio-Lubricants Market News:

• May 2024 – Kraton Corporation unveiled its new Sylvasolv bio-based oil product line, which is a significant milestone in the development of sustainable industrial solutions. Designed to be used in adhesives, coatings, sealants, and lubricants, Sylvasolv provides high performance based on renewable natural feedstocks, providing a cleaner alternative to petroleum-based oils in India's expanding bio-economy.
• April 2024 – Savsol Lubricants introduced Savsol Ester 5, a biodegradable lubricant from edible oil fatty acids for automotive and rail applications. Indigenously developed, it reflects a departure from petroleum-based products. Savita Oil Technologies is India's lone manufacturer, serving key OEMs such as Tata Motors and Hero MotoCorp. 
• 2 November 2022, Shell signed agreement to acquire ECL business of PANOLIN, which includes environmentally considerate lubricants (ECL) product formulations, hydraulics, gears, universal tractor transmission oils, biodegradable engine oils (HDEO), turbine oils, chainsaw oils and greases for machine lubrication.
• February 2022, BP Plc acquired a 30% stake in Green Biofuels (GBF), the UK’s largest provider of hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO). GBF products are made from renewable feedstocks, such as vegetable oils and animal oils and fat.
• 17 November 2022, Chevron Corporation unveiled additional environmentally acceptable lubricant (EAL) for marine vessels that are formulated with biodegradable components.

Bio-Lubricants Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the bio-lubricants market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global bio-lubricants market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the bio-lubricants industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.