Sizing and Thickening Agents Market
Report ID: SQMIG15E2893
Report ID: SQMIG15E2893
sales@skyquestt.com
USA +1 351-333-4748
Report ID:
SQMIG15E2893 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: December, 2025
Pages:
175
|Tables:
93
|Figures:
71
Global Sizing And Thickening Agents Market size was valued at USD 6.14 Billion in 2024 and is poised to grow from USD 6.49 Billion in 2025 to USD 10.19 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period (2026–2033).
The global sizing and thickening agents market growth is driven rapidly by rapid growth in the textile and paper industries, particularly across Asia pacific due to greater consumption of apparel and packaging. Demand for sustainable, bio-based, and eco-friendly agents is increasing as consumers become more aware and environmentally focused due to regulations, especially in Europe and North America. In addition, technology is allowing for more developments of high-performance agents with multi-functionality, 'clean-label' status, and increased efficiency for use in food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial situations. Demand for functional thickening agents will grow with the increase of demand for processed foods and trends in 'clean-label' and plant- based foods, pharmaceuticals as well as the construction industry and paints. There are developments in biopolymers, as well as digital textile printing that will help bring larger adoption of thickening agents, as government policies are being supportive of biodegradable and green chemistry agents, especially in China and India. All of these drivers will lead to substantial increases in business and solidify long-term investment into thickening agents and the size of that investment will be on-going new business and innovation in products.
How is the Marketplace Adopting Green Chemistry Solutions?
In the sizing and thickening agents industry, there is a transition to greener and biodegradable chemistries, driven by regulation and growing consumer preference. The development and commercialization of bio-based agents, such as alkyl ketene dimer (AKD) emulsions for use in paper and textiles, have driven new standards within the industry around both performance and sustainability. In an example of industry leadership, BASF recently purchased cutting-edge AKD emulsion technology and has publicly launched their first climate-neutral sizing agents, representing a new wave of performance, sustainability, and operational lead. These advancements encourage reduced environmental footprint and better acceptance in regulated industries, while providing yet another advantage for companies with sustainability as a core value versus those who simply view it as a trend.
Market snapshot - 2026-2033
Global Market Size
USD 5.8 billion
Largest Segment
Textile & Fibre
Fastest Growth
Paper & Paperboard
Growth Rate
5.8% CAGR
To get more insights on this market click here to Request a Free Sample Report
Global Sizing And Thickening Agents Market is segmented by Type, Form, Applications and region. Based on Type, the market is segmented into Starch, Hydrocolloids, Cellulose, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Styrene Derivatives and Mineral Agents. Based on Form, the market is segmented into Liquid Agents and Solid/Powder Agents. Based on Applications, the market is segmented into Textile & Fiber, Paper & Paperboard, Food & Beverages and Paints & Coatings. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.
As per the 2024 global sizing and thickening agents market analysis, starch-based sizing and thickening agents have the largest share of the market, because they are used widely in the textile industry, paper industry and in food. Starches come from natural sources including corn and wheat. They are low-cost and bio-based, they are also versatile, making them suitable and widely accepted in many applications, including yarn sizing in textiles and used as thickening agents in food processors to replace synthetics. The trend toward increased regulatory encouragement of bio-based chemicals reinforces their appeal to manufacturers and the continued improvement of the performance in starch thickening and sizing agents. Market innovation by companies like Cargill and Tate & Lyle promotes the continued utilization of starches in food applications and the ingredient continues to lead in this category.
Hydrocolloids (gums - guar, xanthan, carrageenan and gelatine) are the fastest growing segment by type because of their rapid movement in food, personal care and pharmaceutical application. These agents have multifunctional benefits such improved texture, improved viscosity, stability and clean label product appeal which aligns with consumer demand for plant-derived and natural food products. The introduction of clean label products and increased consumer preference towards specialty processed foods are driving the demand for hydrocolloids. Companies like CP Kelco and Ingredion are innovating in the hydrocolloid ingredients with new formulations that provide additional safety, allergen-free attributes.
Based on the 2024 global sizing and thickening agents market forecast, the textile and fibre sector holds the largest size, primarily because of the increasing need for strength, smoothness, and processability in both apparel and technical textiles, especially with industrialization occurring in countries such as China and India, plus technological advancements have made textile machinery easier to operate. As the performance of textiles continues to need improvements, there will be ongoing and supportive consumption of these agents in fabric manufacturing, such as fast fashion, sustainability, and industrial textiles. Many large companies such as BASF and AkzoNobel continue to be innovators and market leaders in the textile use sector as they are more accepted in textiles.
The paper and paperboard use sector represents the fastest growing sector as there is increased demand for sustainable, recyclable packaging of specialty papers for both e-commerce and consumer industries. Strict environmental regulations and consumer preference for green products allow for growing innovation for sizing and thickening agents. The emergence of new alkyl ketene dimer (AKD) and rosin-based size agents provide improved water and finish properties. Several large companies, such as BASF and Dow Chemical, are continuing to grow within this segment as they invest in high performing, climate friendly chemistries that will fulfil the rapidly changing needs of the packaging and specialty paper markets.
To get detailed segments analysis, Request a Free Sample Report
As per the sizing and thickening agents market regional analysis, the Asia Pacific region is the leading region. Rapid industrialization, significant growth in textile and paper industries, and government policies that support the production of sustainable manufactured products are the core drivers for the growth in the region. The demand for textile sizing and paperboard-based food packaging is primarily driven by countries like China and India, where a large labour force, growing export markets and significant industry expansion is on the rise. The growth and increase in awareness of eco-friendly agents also contribute to demand, and the region’s stronghold of both production and demand is further enhanced by significant investment of technology and infrastructure along with abundant raw materials.
China leads the Asia Pacific region and has the largest market size for sizing and thickening agents. The textile industry's density of development, its significant manufacturing base, and the growth in paperboard packaging all act as demand drivers. Government initiatives promoting green chemistry and sustainable industry practices, as well as the use of bio-based and biodegradable agents in production, have also driven their growth. The country's strong export orientation and investment in R&D also help support a continual flow of innovations with price a continual consideration for competitiveness. The density of domestic and international firms manufacturing sizing and thickening agents in China, has established China as the main driver of the regional market.
India is currently the fastest growing country in the region sizing and thickening agents market. The growing textile industry, fast-growing paper market, rising disposable income, and acknowledgement of sustainable manufactured goods are all factors that are all contributing to the demand for sizing and thickening agents. Government entities are also improving industry modernization in eco-friendly chemicals, which supports demand for sizing and thickening agents. The growing dynamics of the food and pharmaceutical sectors are also increasing demand for thinning agents in end-use products. The potential for favourable export opportunities combined with rising domestic consumption supports the view that India is a great market opportunity with growth in CAGR in future years.
There are strict regulations regarding the environment and sustainability on behalf of consumers which continues to spur the market. The market is driven by the advanced textile, paper, and packaging industries of Europe, which focus on innovation around sustainable, and biodegradable non-food contact sizing and thickening agents that focus on better performance. Another contributor to the growth, is the growth of demands for non-food contact and industrial agents within the construction and automotive industries. The growth of sizing and thickening agents are being encouraged by advances in technology and government incentives for green chemistry, which have contributed to the growth of the market overall.
Germany held the largest sizing and thickening agents market share in Europe, because of its strong industrial base in textiles, automotive, and packaging. Germany has strong regulations and practices with environmental sustainability, and these regulations enhance the competitiveness of the sizing and thickening agents market. With Germany's strong emphasis on research and development, their country focuses on innovation of new bio-based or durable synthetic compounds. Additionally, Germany serves as an export centre for engineered textiles and engineered products within Europe, and this focus adds to Germany's importance in the sizing and thickening agents market.
Poland is benefitting from a rapidly expanding textile and paper industry, more foreign investments and modernization of industry, all of which are creating growth in demand. Poland also has a relative advantage in production costs compared to most of Europe, making it an attractive location for manufacturers with supply chains seeking to take advantage of production efficiencies. Government support to encourage sustainable chemical usage, along with environmental compliance will also stimulate market uptake. In addition, Poland’s geographic position as a springboard to the European market promotes growth in export opportunities, which clouds the potential for a positive CAGR in the market.
France has an extensive industrial base, including a robust textile, paper and packaging industry, which therefore drives a steady demand for these agents. The country is also focused on sustainability and instigated environmental legislation has propelled sustainable alternatives such as eco-friendly, biodegradable sizing and thickening agents into the mainstream. Also, the innovative environment in France leads R&D projects that explore high-performance and high bio-content agents, all of which enhances its competitive edge. Consumer demand is increasing due to the robust food and pharmaceutical sectors, and a skilled workforce that has a strong manufacturing base consolidates France’s market position.
North America’s increasing market penetration reflects its maturing industrial base that has a healthy demand from textiles, paper and packaging industries. The region is primarily focused on sustainability through increasing use and development of eco-friendly and bio-based agents fuelled by green standards and strict environmental regulations. Innovations in green chemistry and high-performance agent development in the United States provides the region advantages in manufacturing. Growth in the food processing and pharmaceutical industries also support increasing consumption in these markets. Its infrastructure and technology adoption and knowledgeable consumers help maintain its lead behind Asia Pacific.
The US remains a significant player in the North American market, the extensive textile and paper industry hospitality considerable amounts of high-quality sustainable agents, which help to support its viability. Additionally, strict regulatory processes that are protective of the environment are pushing this aspect of the supply chain toward bio-based and biodegradable options over conventional agents. Furthermore, the US ecosystem invests heavily in R&D combined with both BASF and Dow chemical being domestically developed. Finally, with an emerging consumer pattern focused toward clean-label and natural ingredient consumption, we see increasing growth of advanced agents in the food and pharmaceutical industry.
The growth in the Canadian market is a function of increased production in the textile and food sector, paired with an increasing need for environmentally safe chemicals, as well as chemicals that are sustainable. The federal and provincial support offered to foster green manufacturing and clean technologies is influencing market penetration. Canada encourages innovations and is increasingly aligning regulations with global sustainability standards while presenting opportunities to increase market share for bio-based agents. In addition, significant growth in the pharmaceutical and packaging commitments are contributing to greater levels of consumption and projected strong CAGR in this market sector.
To know more about the market opportunities by region and country, click here to
Buy The Complete Report
Industrial Growth and Urbanisation
Demand for Sustainable Solutions
Regulatory Challenges
Raw Material Price Volatility
Request Free Customization of this report to help us to meet your business objectives.
The sizing and thickening agents industry is highly competitive. Various globally significant players, including BASF SE, Ashland Global Holdings Inc., Cargill Incorporated, CP Kelco, and The Dow Chemical Company, comprise most of the market share. All the companies have a strong emphasis on innovation, providing sustainable chemistries, and the development of bio-based products. Companies are taking actions for growth in various ways, such as, but not limited to, mergers and acquisitions, expansions, and new product launches. Regional leaders in the sizing and thickening agents market are leveraging increasing market opportunities in places like Asia Pacific and North America by investing in R&D related to sustainable chemistries. Additionally, evolving technologies and integration of partnerships are increasing competition and intensity among firms, as companies work to develop more efficient, sustainable, and applicable products in the market.
SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
As per SkyQuest analysis, the sizing and thickening agents market is experiencing moderate growth as end-use industries, such as textiles, paper, food, and pharmaceuticals, are increasing their demand. The fastest-growing segment is expected to be Asia Pacific, which is fuelled by rapid industrialization and government support in adopting sustainable manufacturing principles in the regions. The noted increase in consumer preference for bio-based and biodegradable products is shifting demand away from synthetic agents, particularly in Europe and North America. In addition to this shift of focus from synthetic agents to bio-based agents, technological advances are heavily favouring the introduction of eco-friendly, multi-functional sizing and thickening agents to improve product performance across all applications. While growth opportunities are expected for well-established international agents due to ever-increasing regulations, maintaining compliance may be a challenge with the rise in hard to determine raw material prices. R&D focused on ski-based solutions may be an opportunity for leading companies to build resilience among added competition, especially as R&D focused on novel biosurfactants appears to be driven by consumer preferences. Pressures and growth prospects for the sizing and thickening agents market remain positive, primarily based on sustainability demand, growth in global consumption.
| Report Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size value in 2024 | USD 6.14 Billion |
| Market size value in 2033 | USD 10.19 Billion |
| Growth Rate | 5.8% |
| Base year | 2024 |
| Forecast period | 2026-2033 |
| Forecast Unit (Value) | USD Billion |
| Segments covered |
|
| Regions covered | North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA) |
| Companies covered |
|
| Customization scope | Free report customization with purchase. Customization includes:-
|
To get a free trial access to our platform which is a one stop solution for all your data requirements for quicker decision making. This platform allows you to compare markets, competitors who are prominent in the market, and mega trends that are influencing the dynamics in the market. Also, get access to detailed SkyQuest exclusive matrix.
Table Of Content
Executive Summary
Market overview
Parent Market Analysis
Market overview
Market size
KEY MARKET INSIGHTS
COVID IMPACT
MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK
Market Size by Region
KEY COMPANY PROFILES
Methodology
For the Sizing and Thickening Agents Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:
1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.
2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the Sizing and Thickening Agents Market.
3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.
4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.
Analyst Support
Customization Options
With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Sizing and Thickening Agents Market:
Product Analysis: Product matrix, which offers a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of companies.
Regional Analysis: Further analysis of the Sizing and Thickening Agents Market for additional countries.
Competitive Analysis: Detailed analysis and profiling of additional Market players & comparative analysis of competitive products.
Go to Market Strategy: Find the high-growth channels to invest your marketing efforts and increase your customer base.
Innovation Mapping: Identify racial solutions and innovation, connected to deep ecosystems of innovators, start-ups, academics, and strategic partners.
Category Intelligence: Customized intelligence that is relevant to their supply Markets will enable them to make smarter sourcing decisions and improve their category management.
Public Company Transcript Analysis: To improve the investment performance by generating new alpha and making better-informed decisions.
Social Media Listening: To analyze the conversations and trends happening not just around your brand, but around your industry as a whole, and use those insights to make better Marketing decisions.
REQUEST FOR SAMPLE
REQUEST FREE CUSTOMIZATION
Want to customize this report? This report can be personalized according to your needs. Our analysts and industry experts will work directly with you to understand your requirements and provide you with customized data in a short amount of time. We offer $1000 worth of FREE customization at the time of purchase.
Feedback From Our Clients
USA (+1) 351-333-4748
