The global chiral chemicals market size was valued at USD 71.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% from 2024 to 2030. The chiral chemicals market is driven by factors such as the increasing demand for single-enantiomer drugs in pharmaceuticals, advancements in asymmetric synthesis technology enhancing productivity and reducing costs, and expanding applications in agrochemicals, fragrances, and flavors. Regulatory requirements and R&D initiatives are also contributing to the growth.
The increasing need for enantiomerically pure products in drug formulations is a key factor, as companies focus on developing safer and more effective medications with higher therapeutic value. Moreover, the pharmaceutical industry's reliance on chiral chemicals to achieve optimal efficacy and minimize adverse effects is driving growth.
Technological advancements are also playing a significant role in propelling the chiral chemicals market. Innovations in production technologies, including asymmetric synthesis and advanced separation methods, have enhanced the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of chiral chemical manufacturing. This progress has enabled the development of new products with higher yields and reduced waste, making chiral chemicals more attractive to manufacturers. Furthermore, the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility is driving demand for eco-friendly agrochemicals and sustainable chemical control agents, which are reliant on chiral chemicals.
In addition, the flavors and fragrances industry is utilizing chiral chemicals to create complex and appealing scents, with consumers seeking more natural and sustainable options. As a result, manufacturers are responding to this demand by developing new products that incorporate chiral chemicals. The agrochemical market, particularly in regions such as China, is also expanding rapidly, contributing significantly to the overall demand for chiral chemicals. Overall, the drivers for the chiral chemicals market are rooted in the growing demand for high-quality pharmaceuticals, technological advancements, and shifting consumer preferences.
The traditional separation method segment dominated the chiral chemicals market with a market share of 44.1% in 2023. Manufacturers and researchers rely on established techniques such as crystallization, distillation, and chromatography to separate chiral components. These methods are well-known and scalable, allowing for seamless transition from laboratory to industrial scale, ensuring confidence and efficiency in the separation process.
Asymmetric preparation is expected to register the fastest CAGR of 9.7% over the forecast period. Asymmetric synthesis methods are crucial in creating chiral compounds where one enantiomer prevails, ensuring high efficacy and minimizing side effects. This is critical, as biological systems are sensitive to chirality, and regulatory bodies such as the FDA demand maximum purity standards for drugs, making chiral compounds a top priority.
The pharmaceuticals segment dominated the chiral chemicals market with a market share of 70.7% in 2023. The recognition of stereo selectivity in biological processes has driven the importance of chirality in drug design. Regulatory bodies, such as the FDA and EMEA, have issued guidelines emphasizing chirality's critical role. As a result, pharmaceutical companies are compelled to synthesize single-enantiomer medications, rather than racemic mixtures, to ensure product efficacy and compliance.
The agrochemicals segment is expected to register the fastest CAGR of 9.7% during the forecast period. The UN predicts a global population of 9.8 billion by 2050, driving up demand for food production. To meet this challenge, farmers are relying on agricultural chemicals, including chiral molecules such as pesticides and herbicides. These compounds' increased potency in lower concentrations makes them a favorable choice for agriculture.
North America chiral chemicals market dominated the global chiral chemicals market with a market share of 42.4% in 2023. Major pharmaceutical companies in North America invest heavily in research and development of new chemical entities, often requiring chiral building blocks or APIs. This investment fuels research into chiral chemicals and drives demand for them. The region's robust regulatory environment, led by the FDA, ensures high-quality standards for pharmaceutical production.
The chiral chemicals market in U.S. held significant market share in the North America chiral chemicals market 2023, with its prominent pharmaceutical industry driving demand. The country's manufacturing prowess enables it to export significant quantities of chiral chemicals to various global markets, contributing to market growth. The U.S.'s established presence in the pharmaceutical sector ensures a steady demand for chiral chemicals, fostering a robust market.
Asia Pacific chiral chemicals market is expected to register the fastest CAGR of 12.3% during the forecast period. The Asia Pacific market has experienced rapid growth over the past two decades, driven by increased demand for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty chemicals. Emerging economies such as China and India have expanded their manufacturing capabilities, leading to a surge in chiral chemical consumption for pharmaceutical applications, driving market growth.
The chiral chemicals market in China dominated the Asia Pacific chiral chemicals market with a revenue share of 41.5% in 2023. China has established a comprehensive industrial system for large-scale chiral chemical production, featuring modern plants with advanced technologies. Abundant raw materials and competitive costs enable China to produce chiral compounds efficiently and cost-effectively, solidifying its position as a major producer in the global market.
Europe chiral chemicals market held a significant market share in 2023. European nations boast renowned research centers and universities, fostering innovation in chemical and pharmaceutical research. This environment enables the development of cutting-edge methods and technologies for chiral synthesis, ensuring Europe's competitiveness in the production of high-quality chiral chemicals. The EU's stringent drug safety and efficacy standards rely on the use of highly pure chiral compounds.
The chiral chemicals market in Germany is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. Germany boasts a robust industrial base, featuring advanced production sectors and a skilled workforce. The government and private sector invest significantly in driving innovation, yielding notable advancements in chemical science. This focus on innovation has enabled the development of improved asymmetric synthesis methods, crucial for efficient and sustainable production of high-quality chiral chemicals.
Some key companies in the chiral chemicals market include Solvias; Ascensus; Chiral Technologies; Johnson Matthey; and BASF; among others. Owing to increasing competition, market participants have been implementing tactics and strategies such as new product launches, enhanced distribution, new product launches, geographical expansion and more.
Ascensus provides reagents that facilitate complex chemical transformations. These transformations are crucial in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and others, where precision and quality are paramount.
Johnson Matthey operates in diverse sectors including catalysis, precious metals, and specialty chemicals. Through its significant research and development efforts, the company has established itself as a prominent expert in the synthesis of chiral chemicals, offering innovative solutions.
The following are the leading companies in the chiral chemicals market. These companies collectively hold the largest market share and dictate industry trends.
In July 2024, Chiracon GmbH shared research on a groundbreaking approach, offering an efficient and eco-friendly strategy for developing high-value chemical compounds.
In March 2024, W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. announced the expansion of its fine chemical CDM facility in South Haven, enhancing its capacity to serve customers.
In December 2023, Johnson Matthey partnered with Basecamp Research to accelerate the adoption of biocatalysis solutions. The collaboration successfully expanded biocatalysis offerings, reducing energy consumption and waste in the pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals sectors.
In April 2023, Daicel Chiral Technologies announced the availability of CHIRALPAK IM-3, a new immobilized selector offering improved robustness, expanding mobile phase combinations for method development and improvement.
Report Attribute |
Details |
Market size value in 2024 |
USD 77.4 billion |
Revenue forecast in 2030 |
USD 125.8 billion |
Growth rate |
CAGR of 8.4% from 2024 to 2030 |
Base year for estimation |
2023 |
Historical data |
2018 - 2022 |
Forecast period |
2024 - 2030 |
Quantitative units |
Revenue in USD million/billion and CAGR from 2024 to 2030 |
Report coverage |
Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
Segments covered |
Technology, application, region |
Regional scope |
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, MEA |
Country scope |
U.S., Canada, Mexico, UK, Germany, France, China, India, Japan, Brazil, Argentina |
Key companies profiled |
Solvias.; Ascensus.; Daicel Chiral Technologies; Johnson Matthey; BASF SE; W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn.; PerkinElmer Inc.; Codexis, Inc.; Dow; LUMITOS AG |
Customization scope |
Free report customization (equivalent up to 8 analysts working days) with purchase. Addition or alteration to country, regional & segment scope. |
Pricing and purchase options |
Avail customized purchase options to meet your exact research needs. Explore purchase options |
This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global chiral chemicals market report based on technology, application, and region:
Technology Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Traditional Separation Method
Asymmetric Preparation Method
Asymmetric Synthesis Method
Asymmetric Catalysis Method
Biological Separation Method
Other Separation Methods
Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Pharmaceuticals
Agrochemicals
Flavors/Fragrances
Other Applications
Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
UK
Germany
France
Asia Pacific
China
India
Japan
Latin America
Brazil
Argentina
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