Stearic Acid Market Updates

Global Stearic Acid Market size was valued at USD 31.8 billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 34.28 billion in 2024 to USD 62.52 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period (2025-2032).

The stearic acid market is characterized by a mix of large multinational companies and smaller regional players. Key market leaders like BASF SE, Kao Corporation, and Vantage Specialty Chemicals are leveraging their extensive global networks to secure a strong market presence. BASF, for instance, focuses on enhancing its production capacity and expanding its product portfolio to cater to the growing demand for stearic acid in industries such as cosmetics and personal care. 'Wilmar International', 'BASF SE', 'Emery Oleochemicals', 'KLK Oleo (Kuala Lumpur Kepong)', 'IOI Oleochemicals', 'Oleon', 'VVF (Global) Limited', 'New Japan Chemical Co. Ltd', 'Croda International', '3F Industries Ltd.', 'RUGAO Shuangma Chemical Co. Ltd', 'Twin River Technologies', 'Kao Corporation', 'PT Musim Mas', 'Peter Greven GmbH & Co. KG'

Stearic acid is widely used in the production of personal care and cosmetic products such as creams, lotions, shampoos, and soaps due to its emulsifying and thickening properties. The growth in global personal care consumption, especially in emerging economies like India, China, and Brazil, is driving demand. Increasing disposable income, urbanization, and consumer preference for grooming and hygiene are further boosting the sector. Additionally, natural and plant-derived stearic acid is gaining preference among clean-label and organic beauty product manufacturers, further expanding its application in the cosmetics industry.

Short-Term: The stearic acid market will progressively expand during the next few years because cosmetic and personal care companies together with food producers increase their demand. The market growth will benefit from increasing consumer interest in using natural sustainable ingredients for formulations. The market dynamics show uncertainties because of both raw materials costing changes and supply chain interruptions which stem from geopolitical tensions.

Why is Asia Pacific Leading Stearic Acid Market in 2024?