Biocides Market

Biocides Market Size:

The global biocides market size reached USD 9.5 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 13.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.12% during 2025-2033. Asia Pacific dominates the market attributed to rapid industrial innovation, expanding population, rising hygiene awareness, and increasing demand from water treatment and healthcare sectors. The increasing need for wastewater treatment solutions, the rising demand for clean and potable water, regulatory compliance promoting the use of biocides to maintain the health standards of individuals, and the growing product demand in producing cleaning agents are driving the biocides market value.

Market Size & Forecasts:

• Biocides market was valued at USD 9.5 Billion in 2024.
• The market is projected to reach USD 13.9 Billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 4.12% from 2025-2033.

Dominant Segments:

• Product: Halogen compounds hold the biggest market share attributed to their effectiveness, wide-ranging antimicrobial properties, and affordability. Their reliability, adaptability to different formulations, and capacity to provide consistent performance across various applications, making them a favored option.
• Application: Paints and coatings represent the largest segment because they are crucial for preventing microbial deterioration, enhancing product longevity, and preserving surface integrity. Increasing demand for durable finishes and improved protection in construction and industrial sectors further reinforces the extensive application of biocides in this area.
• Region: Asia Pacific dominates the biocides market owing to increasing need for better sanitation, higher adoption of modern water treatment technologies, and greater focus on regulatory compliance. Robust manufacturing abilities and growing infrastructure further facilitate the steady use of biocides in diverse commercial and institutional industries

Key Players:

The leading companies in biocides market include Akzo Nobel N.V., Albemarle Corporation, BASF SE, ChemTreat Inc. (Danaher Corporation), Clariant AG, Dow Inc., Finoric LLC, Lanxess AG, Shanghai Zhongxin Yuxiang Chemicals Co. Ltd., Solvay S.A., The Lubrizol Corporation (Berkshire Hathaway Inc.), Troy Corporation, and Wuxi Honor Shine Chemical Co. Ltd.

Key Drivers of Market Growth:

• Hygiene Demand in Daily Products: Individuals are prioritizing hygiene in daily life, driving the demand for antimicrobial protection in household and personal care items. Biocides enhance these products by preventing microbial growth, improving safety, and extending shelf life. This trend supports innovation and wider use across consumer goods.
• Shift Toward Eco-Friendly Biocides: There is a shift towards biocidal products that harmonize effectiveness with ecological safety. Producers are investing in eco-friendly, biodegradable formulas to achieve worldwide sustainability objectives and adhere to regulatory requirements. This shift promotes sustainable manufacturing, expands biocide uses, and enhances trust among individuals and businesses.
• Increasing Use in Protective Coatings and Sealants: Biocides in paints and sealants assist in preventing microbial harm that can weaken structures and diminish surface attractiveness. As the need for durable materials in tough conditions increases, these uses are broadening. Producers are concentrating on creating resilient, compliant mixtures for extended safeguarding.
• Focus on Public Health and Hygiene: Rising worry over microbial contamination in both public and private environments is driving the need for sanitation solutions. Biocides aid in infection control throughout various sectors by promoting cleaner and safer conditions.
• Growing Water Treatment Needs: The demand for safe, clean, and reusable water is increasing the significance of biocides in treatment systems. These agents stop microbial contamination, safeguard infrastructure, and maintain operational efficiency. The growing environmental worries and the need for regulatory compliance are catalyzing the demand for customized biocidal solutions.
• Applications in Textile and Apparel Industry: Biocides are utilized in textiles to uphold fabric cleanliness, avert microbial decay, and prolong product lifespan. Rising demand for odorless, durable, and environment-friendly fabrics is leading to the creation of biocidal treatments that align with safety regulations while improving material effectiveness.

Future Outlook:  

• Strong Growth Outlook: The biocides market is poised for sustained expansion, attributed to the increasing demand for effective microbial control solutions across diverse sectors. Continuous advancements in formulation technologies, rising environmental awareness, and the need for long-term product preservation are contributing to a stable and promising market trajectory globally.
• Market Evolution: The biocides market is undergoing significant transformation, marked by innovation in product development and a shift toward environmentally sustainable solutions. Enhanced regulatory frameworks and growing end-user awareness are encouraging the adoption of safer, more efficient biocidal agents, reflecting the market’s progression toward higher quality and performance standards.

Healthcare establishments are necessitating strict infection control procedures. The increasing number of hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic facilities is driving the need for sterilization and disinfection products. Biocides are essential in minimizing healthcare-associated infections, making them a fundamental part of hospital sanitation processes. Besides this, authorities and regulatory agencies are implementing stringent regulations on microbial management to safeguard public health and safety. These regulations require the use of authorized biocidal products in agriculture, water treatment, and manufacturing. Adhering to these standards support the market growth as industries are required to utilize certified and efficient biocides to fulfill legal and operational obligations. Moreover, water shortages and contamination are driving investment in innovative water purification technologies. Biocides are essential for managing microbial development in drinking water and wastewater systems. With the rising global demand for safe and reusable water, the requirement for efficient biocidal agents in treatment plants is also growing, contributing to the market growth.

Biocides Market Trends:

Increasing Use in Personal Care and Household Products

Individuals are progressively looking for efficient antimicrobial safeguarding in everyday items like soaps, detergents, surface cleaners, and other household hygiene products to uphold cleanliness and avert the transmission of harmful microorganisms. This change in user preferences is influenced by increased awareness about individual health, home hygiene, and the importance of microbial management in preventing disease and contamination. Biocides are crucial for improving the effectiveness of these products by preventing the proliferation of bacteria and fungi, thus prolonging shelf life and guaranteeing safety during application. As a result, producers are concentrating on developing formulations that provide a blend of potent antimicrobial effectiveness and environmental mindfulness, satisfying regulatory standards and user demands. The growing need for convenience, hygiene, and safe living spaces is further leading to the incorporation of biocidal substances into various everyday products.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Biocidal Solutions

With the growing consciousness about environmental conservation, ecological effects, and chemical safety, manufacturers and individuals alike are looking for alternatives that provide effective microbial management with reduced toxicity and enhanced biodegradability. This continual change in preference is encouraging biocide manufacturers to invest in green chemistry, research, and innovation, leading to the creation of new, safer formulations that comply with strict global environmental standards. The focus on sustainable biocides aligns with global initiatives to lessen pollution, decrease the release of harmful chemicals, and promote circular economy methods. For businesses, embracing eco-friendly biocidal options not only meets regulatory requirements but also bolsters corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals and enhances brand reputation. This shifting demand is expanding the range of biocide uses, promoting ongoing innovation, and supporting the market growth.

Rising Applications in Protective Coatings and Sealants

The increasing application of biocides in protective coatings and sealants is a major factor influencing the expansion of the biocides market. These applications necessitate dependable microbial management to avert harm from bacteria, fungi, and algae, which can jeopardize structural integrity and diminish the aesthetic charm of surfaces. Biocides integrated into coatings and sealants improve product longevity by inhibiting biofilm development and microbial deterioration, especially in regions subjected to high humidity, variable temperatures, and environmental pollutants. With the rapid growth of global construction and infrastructure development, the need for protective materials possessing inherent antimicrobial features is also increasing. The IMARC Group states that the worldwide construction market for buildings achieved USD 6.8 Trillion in 2024, indicating the size and growth opportunities of the industry. The growing demand is motivating manufacturers to develop biocidal formulations that provide lasting effectiveness, wide material compatibility, and adherence to regulations, thus fostering ongoing market growth in the protective coatings sector.

Biocides Market Growth Drivers:

Growing Focus on Public Health and Hygiene

With the rising awareness about microbial contamination and its associated risks, there is an increase in the demand for products that provide cleanliness, sanitation, and infection control. Biocides are essential for ensuring sanitary conditions in residential, commercial, and institutional environments. This growing demand is backed by initiatives from both public and private entities to adopt improved hygiene practices. Additionally, industries like healthcare, hospitality, and food processing demand rigorous microbial regulation, which greatly enhances market expansion. The demand for dependable and efficient antimicrobial agents is increasing as health-focused individuals and companies look for lasting solutions to avoid bio-contamination. These elements together influence the biocides market growth, generating continuous chances for product innovation and extensive uptake in various regions and sectors.

Advancements in Water Treatment and Resource Management

Biocides are essential for preserving microbial equilibrium in water systems, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, and guaranteeing the efficiency of treatment operations. With increasing worries about water shortage and contamination, worldwide funding in sophisticated water purification technologies keeps expanding. The UN Environment Programme states that by 2025, 1.8 billion people may encounter what the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) refers to as “absolute water scarcity,” underscoring the critical demand for sustainable water management strategies. As a reaction, industries, local governments, and farming operations are progressively opting for biocidal substances that comply with environmental and safety regulations. Tailored formulations are being created to meet various treatment requirements while ensuring adherence to regulations. As infrastructure grows and global attention on resource conservation increases, the need for dependable, efficient biocides in water treatment is growing.

Increasing Implementation in Textile and Apparel Industry

The textile and apparel sector is progressively integrating biocides to improve fabric cleanliness, avert microbial breakdown, and minimize odors. Biocides assist in minimizing fabric degradation from mold and bacteria throughout production, storage, and usage, enhancing product lifespan and user comfort while complying with safety and hygiene standards. According to the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), the Indian textiles and apparel industry is estimated to increase at a 10% CAGR, reaching US$ 350 Billion by 2030, with exports projected to hit US$ 100 Billion, highlighting the sector’s swift growth. With the increase in sustainability and health consciousness, the demand for antimicrobial fabrics is growing, encouraging advancements in environmentally safe biocidal solutions that preserve fabric quality while being eco-friendly. This trend establishes the textile sector as a major factor for biocides market growth.

Biocides Industry 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 product and application.

Breakup by Product:

• Halogen Compounds
• Metallic Compounds
• Organosulfur Compounds
• Organic Acids
• Phenolics
• Others
   

Halogen compounds account for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product. This includes halogen compounds, metallic compounds, organosulfur compounds, organic acids, phenolics, and others. According to the report, halogen compounds represented the largest segment.

Biocides that are halogenated, in particular, chlorinated, brominated, and iodinated ones, are driving the market due to their strong antimicrobial activities. Water treatment, industrial processes, healthcare as well as agriculture are some of the industries that make extensive use of these compounds for microbial control. Some qualities that have made halogen-based biocides worth considering include a wider range of action against viruses, algae, fungi, and bacteria, helping to ensure safety and hygiene in products. Besides, they often last long and remain unchanged over a long period, making them favorable options for different uses. The demand for halogen-based biocides is expected to rise due to increasing importance being placed on higher levels of hygiene by industries while environmental regulations change, thereby driving market growth and innovation in biocide formulations.

Breakup by Application:

• Water Treatment
• Food and Beverage
• Personal Care
• Wood Preservation
• Paints and Coatings
• Construction
• Others
   

Paints and coatings 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 water treatment, food and beverage, personal care, wood preservation, paints and coatings, construction, and others. According to the report, paints and coatings accounted for the largest market share.

The paints and coatings industry is using biocides to prevent microbial contamination and degradation in formulations. Biocides serve as critical additives protecting paints and coatings from microbial attack hence extending shelf life as well as maintaining performance. Thus, given the increasing need for durable coatings that are high quality within the construction, automotive, and industrial sectors, effective microorganism control becomes necessary. Product integrity is preserved by biocides, which provide continuous protection from fungi, bacteria, or algae, hence enhancing sustainability.

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
   

Asia-Pacific leads the market, accounting for the largest biocides market share

The market research 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, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest market share.

The Asia-Pacific is a significant propeller of biocide market growth due to quick industrialization and urbanization as well as increasing concerns about hygiene. There are growing populations in this region, which increases demand for water treatment, agriculture, healthcare, and construction, hence promoting the use of biocides. Another factor that contributes to the industry’s growth is strict regulatory policies forcing manufacturers to use preservatives in their products, as well as other measures to prevent the growth of harmful microbes. Besides, rapid infrastructure development and manufacturing activities necessitate the use of biocides to eliminate microbes. China was the country in the Asia-Pacific region with the highest investment in infrastructure in 2020. With extensive infrastructure development projects across various sectors, there is a heightened demand for biocides to ensure the durability and longevity of these structures.

Leading Key Players in the Biocides Industry:

Key players in this market contribute significantly towards its growth through strategic investments in research and development (R&D), product innovation, and new market expansion strategies. These firms consistently invent better formulations of biocides, which meet evolving legal demands alongside emerging microbial challenges within diverse industries. On top of all this, it is only through these key players with wide-reaching distribution networks as well as a robust presence within various sectors that new markets become accessible while still meeting diverse consumer needs. Also, some companies can use partnerships with others or merger opportunities to ensure their positions in the market are maintained at high levels while competition also goes up steadily.

The market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• Akzo Nobel N.V.
• Albemarle Corporation
• BASF SE
• ChemTreat Inc. (Danaher Corporation)
• Clariant AG
• Dow Inc.
• Finoric LLC
• Lanxess AG
• Shanghai Zhongxin Yuxiang Chemicals Co. Ltd.
• Solvay S.A.
• The Lubrizol Corporation (Berkshire Hathaway Inc.)
• Troy Corporation
• Wuxi Honor Shine Chemical Co. Ltd

(Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)

Latest News:

• January 2025: South Korea's Ministry of Environment approved 15 biocidal products under the K-BPR, including disinfectants, insecticides, and algicides. These products underwent safety and efficacy assessments and are now authorized for sale with validity periods ranging from 3 to 10 years. The Ministry aims to complete safety verifications for all biocidal products by Dec 2025.
• February 2025: Plant Biodefenders Ltd (PBL) launched six organic Vuruga biocide products in Tanzania to protect key crops like coffee, maize, and cotton. Developed after six years of research, the products are registered by the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA) and aim to improve crop yields and food security. This innovation also positions Tanzania to benefit from the growing global organic biocide market.
• June 2024: Rovensa Next and Limaru NV announced a 10-year exclusive partnership to develop and distribute Rovensa’s Orange Oil for biocide applications in the EU-27 and Great Britain. This partnership emphasized sustainability and innovation in the biocide industry.
• May 2024: The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) announced a streamlined process for consultations on biocidal active substances. This allowed for a more efficient collection of information on alternatives and derogation criteria during the evaluation process.
• April 2024: LANXESS launched Aqucar® A 20, a new EPA-approved microbiocide designed for oil and gas applications. This 20% Dimethyloxazolidine-based product provided long-term microbial control in reservoirs, preventing issues like biofilm formation and corrosion. It was freeze-stable, biodegradable, and cost-effective for use in both water and hydrocarbons.
• February 2024: At Paint India 2024, LANXESS showcased innovative solutions for the paints & coatings industry. The company's Material Protection Products (MPP) highlighted sustainable biocides like Rocima® and Kathon®, essential for preventing microbial growth. 
• March 15, 2024: AkzoNobel announced that it will boost the capabilities of North American powder coatings sites.
• February 20, 2024: Albemarle Corporation announced a definitive agreement with the BMW Group to deliver battery-grade lithium to help the automaker pursue high-performance electric vehicles (EVs).
• March 28, 2024: BASF SE has announced that it will showcase consumer products made with bio-based Ultramid polyamide at CHINAPLAS 2024. The company co-created smart glasses with Huawei. These glasses contain 39% bio-content in the glasses temple.

Biocides Market Report Scope:

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the global biocides market performed so far, and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What are the drivers, restraints, and opportunities in the global biocides market?
• What is the impact of each driver, restraint, and opportunity on the global biocides market?
• What are the key regional markets?
• Which countries represent the most attractive biocides market?
• How big is the global biocides market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the product?
• Which is the most attractive product in the biocides market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the application?
• Which is the most attractive application in the biocides market?
• What is the competitive structure of the market?
• Who are the key players/companies in the global biocides market?

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 biocides market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global biocides 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 biocides 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.