The global palm methyl ester derivatives market size was valued at USD 1.57 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% from 2024 to 2030. Palm methyl ester derivatives are widely used in industries such as personal care, cosmetics, and household cleaning products. These derivatives act as emulsifiers, surfactants, and lubricants, essential in formulating soaps, detergents, and skin care products. With the rising global demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products in these sectors, the need for palm methyl ester derivatives continues to grow. Consumers are increasingly shifting toward products sourced from natural, renewable resources, further boosting the demand.
The growing use of these derivatives in biodiesel production contributes to the increasing demand for palm methyl ester derivatives. As governments and industries worldwide aim to reduce their carbon footprint, biodiesel, a renewable and biodegradable fuel, is gaining popularity as a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Palm methyl ester derivatives, key components in biodiesel production, are witnessing increased demand as countries enhance their biofuel mandates to meet renewable energy targets.
Moreover, the competitive cost of palm oil as a raw material plays a role in the increasing demand for palm methyl ester derivatives. Palm oil is a high-yielding crop available at a lower cost than other vegetable oils, making it a preferred feedstock for producing methyl ester derivatives. This economic advantage, coupled with its wide availability in regions like Southeast Asia, has led to its widespread adoption in various industries.
Lastly, the demand is also driven by the growing focus on sustainable agricultural practices and the circular economy. The production of palm methyl ester derivatives aligns with sustainability goals, as it encourages the use of renewable raw materials and reduces dependency on petrochemicals. This shift is particularly evident in regions such as Europe and North America, where stringent environmental regulations push industries toward more sustainable raw materials and processes.
The laurate segment held the largest market revenue share of 31.1% in 2023. Laurates, derived from palm methyl esters, are valued for their emulsifying, moisturizing, and cleansing properties, making them a key ingredient in cosmetics, soaps, and shampoos. Additionally, the growing trend towards bio-based and sustainable products has bolstered the demand for laurates, as they are considered environmentally friendly alternatives to petrochemical-based surfactants. The increasing focus on eco-friendly and biodegradable materials in consumer products continues to drive demand for laurate derivatives.
The oleate segment is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. Oleate is widely used as an emollient, surfactant, and emulsifying agent, enhancing the texture and stability of products. The growing consumer preference for natural and sustainable ingredients in personal care products has fueled the demand for oleate. Additionally, oleate's role in biodegradable lubricants, which are environmentally friendly, is gaining traction in industrial applications, contributing to the segment's rising demand.
The crude palm oil (CPO) segment held the largest market revenue share in 2023. CPO is a key raw material used in producing palm methyl esters, essential in various industries, including biofuels, cosmetics, and personal care products. The growing focus on sustainable and renewable energy sources has boosted the demand for biofuels, where palm methyl esters are widely used. CPO's abundant availability and lower production costs, particularly in major producing regions such as Southeast Asia, further contribute to its rising demand in the palm methyl ester derivatives market.
The palm kernel oil (PKO) segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. PKO contains a high concentration of lauric acid, making it an essential raw material in producing a wide range of derivatives such as surfactants, emulsifiers, and lubricants. These derivatives find applications in industries such as personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food processing, boosting the demand for PKO. Additionally, the sustainable sourcing of PKO, aligned with environmental concerns, further contributes to its rising demand as manufacturers seek eco-friendly alternatives in production processes.
North America market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. The region's growing focus on renewable and sustainable alternatives in various industries drives the increased demand. These derivatives are widely used in biodiesel production, gaining traction due to regulatory incentives to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Additionally, North America's personal care and cosmetic sectors are seeing a surge in demand for natural and eco-friendly ingredients, where palm methyl ester derivatives are used as emulsifiers and surfactants.
The U.S. market is projected to grow prominently in the coming years. The biofuels industry in the U.S. has seen a rise in the use of biodiesel derived from palm methyl esters due to regulatory support for cleaner energy and efforts to reduce carbon emissions. The versatility of these derivatives, combined with a push for sustainability and clean energy, has significantly contributed to their increasing demand in the U.S. market.
Europe market is projected to grow steadily in the coming future, focusing on sustainability and environmental protection. The strict regulations encouraging the utilization of renewable resources continue to drive the demand for the product. Countries such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands are leading the way in incorporating palm methyl ester derivatives in various industrial uses. Additionally, the market expansion in the region is strengthened by the existence of established manufacturers and research institutions that are dedicated to renewable chemicals.
Germany's market is witnessed as lucrative in this industry. The rising need for biofuels is the main factor driving the growth of Germany's palm methyl ester derivatives (PMED) market. The European Union has established challenging goals for renewable energy, especially in transportation. As one of the top countries in embracing renewable energy strategies, Germany strives to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and raise the portion of biofuels in its energy blend. This set of regulations promotes the adoption of palm methyl ester derivatives as a renewable option to fossil fuels.
Asia Pacific held the largest market revenue share of 59.3% in 2023. Countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia, among the largest producers of palm oil globally, play a critical role in the region's availability and supply of palm methyl ester derivatives. The increasing awareness of environmentally sustainable products and the push for bio-based alternatives to petrochemicals also drive this demand. Additionally, growing industrialization and urbanization in countries such as China and India have increased consumption of these derivatives in applications ranging from detergents to cosmetics, further boosting the market.
China held the largest regional market revenue share in 2023. With the ongoing urbanization in China, more and more consumers are becoming aware of their health, wellness, and personal grooming. This pattern has increased the need for personal care products, cosmetics, and household cleaning items that contain palm methyl ester derivatives as the main components. The modern way of life requires efficient and eco-friendly products, leading to an increase in market expansion.
The Middle East & Africa is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. The growing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives in industries such as personal care, cosmetics, and food processing drives the demand. As countries in the region, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, push for greener initiatives, bio-based chemicals such as palm methyl ester are becoming more popular as substitutes for traditional petrochemical-based products. Additionally, the rising middle-class population and urbanization in key markets drive demand for personal care and household products, where palm methyl ester derivatives are commonly used as emulsifiers and surfactants.
Some key companies in the palm methyl ester derivatives market include Cremer North America, LP; Carotino Group; Procter & Gamble; KLK OLEO; Ecogreen Oleochemicals; Kao Corporation; and others.
KLK OLEO's PALMERE Fractionated Methyl Esters, sourced from vegetable oils, are used in various applications. These methyl esters are bio-fuel components, lubricant additives, and solvents. In personal care products, they function as ingredients for emulsifiers and inhibitors of crystal formation. Moreover, PALMERE methyl esters play a role in chemical intermediates, creating environmentally friendly surfactants and unique specialty chemicals.
Citation Generator Cremer North America, LP is a Cincinnati-based oleochemical supplier, part of the global CREMER Holding Company. It specializes in sustainable oleochemicals derived from natural fats and oils. Its offerings span contract manufacturing, storage, packaging, and analytical services. Cremer North America serves diverse industries, including foods, pharmaceuticals, personal care, soaps, paints, textiles, and agriculture.
The following are the leading companies in the palm methyl ester derivatives market. These companies collectively hold the largest market share and dictate industry trends.
Report Attribute |
Details |
Market size value in 2024 |
USD 1.67 Billion |
Revenue forecast in 2030 |
USD 2.45 Billion |
Growth Rate |
CAGR of 6.6% from 2024 to 2030 |
Base year for estimation |
2023 |
Historical data |
2018 - 2022 |
Forecast period |
2024 - 2030 |
Quantitative units |
Units in Tons and Revenue in USD Million and CAGR from 2024 to 2030 |
Report coverage |
Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
Segments covered |
Source, Product, Region |
Regional scope |
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, MEA |
Country scope |
U.S., Canada, Mexico, UK, Germany, France, China, India, South Korea, Australia, Brazil, Argentina, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa |
Key companies profiled |
Cremer North America, LP; Carotino Group; Procter & Gamble; KLK OLEO; Ecogreen Oleochemicals; Kao Corporation; Wilmar International Ltd; Future Prelude Sdn Bhd; PMC Biogenix, Inc.; Vantage Specialty Ingredients; Pacific Oleochemicals Sdn Bhd; Acme-Hardesty Company; Zhejiang Haiyan Fine Chemical Industry Co., Ltd |
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 palm methyl ester derivatives market report based on product, source, and region.
Palm Methyl Ester Derivatives Market Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Caprylate
Fatty Alcohols
Solvent/Co-Solvent
Agriculture
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Lubricant and additives
Food
Others
Laurate
Fatty Alcohols
Solvent/Co-Solvent
Chemical Synthesis
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Paints and inks
Others
Myristate
Fatty Alcohols/Fatty Methyl Ester Sulfonate (FMES)
Detergent
Lubricant
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Others
Palmitate
Detergents
Lubricant and additives
food and beverage
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Others
Stearate
Soaps and detergents
Lubricant and additives
Food
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Others
Oleate
Fatty Alcohols
Solvent/Co-Solvent
soaps and detergents
Lubricant and additive
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Others
Linoleate
Solvent/Co-Solvent
Soap and detergent
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Food
Others
Other Products
Palm Methyl Ester Derivatives Market Source Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Crude Palm Oil (CPO)
Palm Kernel Oil (PKO)
Palm Methyl Ester Derivatives Market Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
UK
Germany
France
Asia Pacific
China
India
South Korea
Australia
Central & South America
Brazil
Argentina
Middle East and Africa (MEA)
UAE
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
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