Why did the Citric Acid Price Change in July 2025? Q2 Citric acid spot price displayed a volatile but overall upward trajectory, with prices averaging 810 USD/MT in April, dipping slightly in May (-0.62%), before rebounding in June to 811 USD/MT (+0.75% MoM)—an average quarter-over-quarter (QoQ) fluctuation of approximately +0.67%.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Citric Acid in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

In February 2025, the average citric acid export price amounted to $703 per ton, remaining constant against the previous month.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Citric Acid (Powder) in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

In February 2025, the average citric acid import price amounted to $2,974 per ton, with an increase of 8% against the previous month.

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Citric Acid Market Size 2024-2028

The citric acid market size is forecast to increase by USD 2.78 billion at a CAGR of 9.45% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven primarily by the increasing demand for citric acid in the detergent and cleaner industry. This sector's expansion is attributed to the rising consumer preference for eco-friendly and biodegradable cleaning products. Furthermore, the trend toward organic food additives is boosting the market, as citric acid is extensively used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in various food applications. However, the availability of substitutes such as lactic acid poses a challenge to market growth. Producers must differentiate themselves by focusing on product innovation, cost competitiveness, and sustainable production methods to maintain market share and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Companies seeking to navigate this landscape effectively should closely monitor consumer preferences, regulatory developments, and technological advancements to stay ahead of the competition.

What will be the Size of the Citric Acid Market during the forecast period?

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In the dynamic and evolving the market, various sectors continue to adopt this versatile compound for its numerous applications. Food security and economic factors drive the demand for citric acid as a process optimization tool in the production of functional foods, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. The market's continuous unfolding is marked by regulatory compliance, ensuring ph control and technology adoption. Food additives, natural ingredients, and regulatory changes shape the market landscape, with innovation pipeline and consumer needs at the forefront. Flavor enhancers and safety standards are crucial considerations, while renewable resources and microbial fermentation contribute to sustainability initiatives. Product innovation, carbon footprint, and pricing strategies are essential elements of competitive advantage, with quality assurance and research and development at the heart of supply chain efficiency improvements.
International standards and value proposition are key factors in global trade, as the market navigates supply chain disruptions, water conservation, and waste management. Brand loyalty and political factors influence the market, with cost optimization and energy efficiency essential for long-term success. The citric acid cycle's role as a buffering agent and acidity regulator further highlights its importance in various industries. Chelating agents and product differentiation cater to health and wellness trends, while circular economy and sustainability initiatives shape the future of this dynamic market. Shelf life and waste management remain critical concerns, as the market adapts to evolving consumer trends and international regulations.

How is this Citric Acid Industry segmented?

The citric acid industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Application

  Food and beverage
  Pharmaceuticals and personal care products
  Detergents and cleaners
  Others


Type

  Liquid
  Anhydrous


Distribution Channel

  Direct Sales
  Distributors
  Online


End-use Industry

  Industrial
  Household


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    KSA
    Oman
    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Argentina
    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Application Insights

The food and beverage segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic global market for citric acid, various factors are shaping its growth trajectory. The food and beverage industry's reliance on citric acid as a versatile additive, used for flavor fixation, bacterial stabilization, sterilization, and acidity regulation, positions it as a key player. The segment's expansion is driven by consumer trends toward packaged and convenience foods, with citric acid's role in extending shelf life and enhancing taste. Efficiency improvements and cost reduction are essential for businesses in this competitive landscape. Innovation pipelines are focused on green chemistry, microbial fermentation, and renewable resources to meet evolving customer needs and regulatory compliance.

Product differentiation through natural ingredients and clean labels is a strategic priority, with citric acid's role as a buffering agent and acidity regulator in functional foods gaining traction. Regulatory changes and safety standards are crucial considerations, with international standards ensuring consistency and consumer trust. Environmental

As of 2025, the global citric acid market is valued at approximately USD 3,179.1 million and is likely to register a CAGR of 3.7% to surpass USD 4,571.8 million by the end of 2035.

Country wise Insights

The Asia-Pacific citric acid market was estimated at $2.7B in 2024, stabilizing at the previous year. The total consumption indicated pronounced growth from 2012 to 2024: its value increased at an average annual rate of +2.4% over the last twelve-year period. The trend pattern, however, indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. Based on 2024 figures, consumption decreased by -23.3% against 2022 indices. As a result, consumption attained the peak level of $3.5B.

Global Citric Acid market size is expected to reach $5.37 billion by 2029 at 4.5%, citric acid market growth driven by increasing need for food safety

The global anhydrous citric acid market is poised for steady growth, projected to reach a value of $1762 million in 2025 and maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by the increasing demand from the food and beverage industry, particularly in processed foods and beverages where citric acid acts as a crucial flavor enhancer, preservative, and acidity regulator. Furthermore, the pharmaceutical and personal care sectors contribute significantly to market expansion due to citric acid's use in medications, cosmetics, and toiletries as a chelating agent and pH adjuster. The rising popularity of environmentally friendly cleaning products also fuels demand within the detergents and cleansers segment. Key players like ADM, Cargill, and Tate & Lyle are strategically investing in expanding production capacities and exploring innovative applications to capitalize on the market's potential. Competitive dynamics are characterized by both established multinational corporations and regional players, leading to a diverse landscape with varied pricing strategies and product offerings. The granular and powdered forms of anhydrous citric acid cater to specific application requirements, further segmenting the market. The market's growth trajectory is influenced by several factors. Technological advancements in production processes leading to higher efficiency and lower costs contribute positively. However, fluctuating raw material prices and potential supply chain disruptions pose challenges. Regional variations in consumption patterns also influence market dynamics; North America and Europe currently hold significant market shares, but rapidly growing economies in Asia Pacific are expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years. This ongoing expansion is predicted to drive further innovation and the exploration of new applications for anhydrous citric acid across various industries, further solidifying its position as a vital ingredient in a wide range of products.

China Export: Citric Acid data was reported at 95.415 USD mn in Mar 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 67.395 USD mn for Feb 2025. China Export: Citric Acid data is updated monthly, averaging 58.471 USD mn from Jan 2008 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 207 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 236.205 USD mn in Jul 2022 and a record low of 28.277 USD mn in Nov 2008. China Export: Citric Acid data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by General Administration of Customs. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s International Trade – Table CN.JA: USD: Export by Major Commodity: Value.

Electronic Grade Citric Acid Market size was valued at USD 0.7 Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 4.00 Billion by 2031 with a CAGR of 20.1% from 2024-2031.

Global Electronic Grade Citric Acid Market Drivers

Increased Demand in Electronics Industry: As electronics manufacturing grows, the demand for high-purity chemicals like electronic grade citric acid is rising, particularly as a cleaning agent and etching solution in semiconductor production.

Technological Advancements: Continuous advancements in electronics manufacturing processes require more sophisticated chemicals, including electronic grade citric acid, which can efficiently replace less environmentally friendly alternatives.

Global Electronic Grade Citric Acid Market Restraints

Regulatory Challenges: The production and use of electronic-grade citric acid are subject to strict regulations and standards in various regions. Compliance with these regulations can be costly and time-consuming for manufacturers.

High Production Costs: The manufacturing process for electronic-grade citric acid can be more complex than standard citric acid production, leading to higher production costs. This can affect pricing and market competitiveness.

The global anhydrous citric acid market is a substantial sector, valued at $1541.4 million in 2025. While the provided CAGR is missing, a reasonable estimation, considering typical growth rates in the chemical industry and the increasing demand driven by the food and beverage sectors, would place the CAGR between 4% and 6% for the forecast period (2025-2033). This indicates a steady expansion of the market, driven primarily by the rising demand for citric acid as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer in food and beverages. Further growth is fueled by its applications in the chemical industry, particularly in detergents and cleaning agents. The market segmentation by application (food, beverage, chemical, and others) and type (mesh size variations) reflects the diverse uses of anhydrous citric acid. Major players like Cargill, ADM, and Citrique Belge dominate the market, leveraging their established production capacities and global distribution networks. Regional distribution varies, with North America and Europe currently holding significant market shares, but growth potential in Asia-Pacific, driven by increasing consumption and industrialization, is considerable. While specific restraints aren't provided, potential challenges could include fluctuations in raw material prices (primarily sugarcane and corn) and stringent regulatory requirements for food additives. The projected growth trajectory suggests that the anhydrous citric acid market will continue to expand significantly over the next decade. The increasing preference for natural food additives, coupled with the expanding food processing industry, presents robust opportunities for market players. Innovation in applications, such as the development of new formulations for specific uses within the food and beverage sector and explorations into niche chemical applications, will also play a pivotal role in shaping market dynamics. Companies focusing on sustainable production practices and cost-effective solutions stand to gain a competitive edge. Regional expansion strategies targeting emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and Africa will be crucial for achieving sustained growth. The ongoing trend toward healthier food and beverage options further strengthens the position of citric acid as a vital ingredient in various consumer products. This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global anhydrous citric acid market, valued at approximately $2.5 billion in 2023, projecting robust growth to surpass $3.2 billion by 2028. The report delves into key market dynamics, competitive landscape, and future trends, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders across the value chain. This analysis incorporates data on production, consumption, pricing, and technological advancements, focusing on major players like Cargill, ADM, and Citrique Belge. Keywords: Anhydrous Citric Acid Market, Citric Acid Production, Citric Acid Price, Food Additives, Beverage Industry, Chemical Industry, Market Analysis, Market Trends, Market Size, Market Share.

In 2023, the amount of citric acid and its salts and esters imported into Turkey declined rapidly to 59K tons, shrinking by -41.4% compared with the previous year.

In 2024, the Australian citric acid market decreased by -1.2% to $24M, falling for the second year in a row after two years of growth. Over the period under review, consumption recorded pronounced growth. As a result, consumption attained the peak level of $41M. From 2023 to 2024, the growth of the market remained at a lower figure.

The United States citric acid market size reached 5,66,660 Tons in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach 6,27,240 Tons by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 1.12% during 2025-2033.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each sub-segment of the United States citric acid market report, along with forecasts at the country and regional level from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on application and form.

Citric Acid Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global citric acid market size reached USD 4.5 billion in 2024, exhibiting a robust performance driven by rising demand across multiple industries. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2025 to 2033, ultimately achieving a projected value of USD 7.1 billion by 2033. This growth trajectory is underpinned by the increasing utilization of citric acid as a key ingredient in food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products, coupled with growing consumer preference for natural and clean-label additives.

One of the primary growth factors for the citric acid market is the escalating demand for processed and convenience foods globally. As urbanization accelerates and lifestyles become busier, consumers are gravitating towards ready-to-eat meals, beverages, and packaged products. Citric acid is widely recognized for its role as an acidulant, flavor enhancer, and preservative in the food and beverage industry, which accounts for the largest share of its consumption. The ongoing shift towards healthier and natural food additives, as opposed to synthetic alternatives, has further amplified the adoption of citric acid due to its natural origin, non-toxic nature, and multifunctional properties. Additionally, the clean-label movement and regulatory support for natural ingredients are expected to continue fueling market growth.

Another significant driver for the citric acid market is its expanding application in the pharmaceutical and personal care sectors. Citric acid is extensively used in pharmaceuticals as a stabilizing agent, pH regulator, and effervescent component in various formulations. The rising prevalence of lifestyle diseases, growing aging population, and increasing healthcare expenditure are collectively boosting pharmaceutical production, thereby driving citric acid demand. In personal care and cosmetics, citric acid’s role as a pH adjuster, exfoliant, and preservative has become indispensable, especially with the surge in demand for organic and natural personal care products. The growing awareness of health and wellness, coupled with the trend towards sustainable and eco-friendly ingredients, is expected to further propel the market.

From an industrial perspective, citric acid is gaining traction in detergents, cleaners, and other non-food applications due to its excellent chelating, descaling, and biodegradable properties. As environmental regulations become more stringent and industries seek greener alternatives to conventional chemicals, citric acid is increasingly being adopted in household and industrial cleaning products. This trend is particularly prominent in developed markets, where sustainability and eco-friendliness are major purchasing criteria. The versatility of citric acid, combined with its cost-effectiveness and safety profile, positions it as a preferred choice for multiple industrial applications, significantly contributing to overall market expansion.

Regionally, Asia Pacific dominates the citric acid market, accounting for the largest share in 2024, followed by Europe and North America. The rapid growth in Asia Pacific can be attributed to the burgeoning food and beverage industry, rising disposable incomes, and expanding pharmaceutical production in countries like China and India. Europe remains a significant market due to stringent food safety regulations and high demand for natural additives. North America, while mature, continues to witness steady growth driven by innovation in food processing and increased adoption in non-food sectors. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets, with growing industrialization and urbanization fostering increased citric acid consumption.

Form Analysis

The citric acid market by form is primarily segmented into anhydrous and monohydrate types, each serving distinct industrial needs and applications. Anhydrous citric acid, which is citric acid in its water-free form, is widely preferred in applications requiring moisture-sensitive formulations. Its stability and ease of handling make it ideal for use in dry blends, powdered beverages, and pharmaceutical tablets. In 2024, anhydrous citric acid accounted for the majority share of the market due to its versatility and longer shelf life. Its adoption is further bolstered by the growing trend of health supplements and effervescent products, where moisture control is critical to product performance and consumer safety.
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According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Citric Acid market size will be USD 3.7 billion in 2024 and will expand at the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.30% from 2024 to 2031. Market Dynamics of Citric Acid Market Key Drivers for Citric Acid Market Growing Expansion of Pharmaceutical and Cosmetics Industry - The pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries significantly contribute to the growth of citric acid market. In pharmaceuticals, citric acid is utilized for its anticoagulant properties and as an acidity regulator in various formulations. In cosmetics, it serves as a pH adjuster and preservative in skincare and personal care products. The growing consumer awareness and demand for effective and safe health and beauty products propel the market, driven by citric acid's multifunctional benefits and its status as a natural ingredient. The growth of the food & beverage industry is anticipated to drive the Citric Acid market's expansion in the years ahead. Key Restraints for Citric Acid Market The increased competition from alternative acidulants in the food industry limits the Citric Acid industry growth growth. The market also faces significant difficulties related to supply chain disruptions due to environmental factors. Introduction of the Citric Acid Market The Citric Acid market stands as a vital component of various industries, spanning from food and beverage to pharmaceuticals and personal care. Renowned for its multifaceted applications, Citric Acid serves as a pivotal ingredient, lending its acidic and preservative properties to countless products. Its prevalence in food and beverage manufacturing arises from its roles in flavor enhancement, pH regulation, and as a natural preservative. Moreover, its eco-friendly nature and biodegradability further bolster its appeal in today's environmentally conscious market landscape. However, the Citric Acid market faces challenges such as supply chain disruptions triggered by environmental factors and escalating competition from alternative acidulants. Despite these hurdles, sustained demand from a myriad of industries, coupled with ongoing research and development efforts to enhance production efficiency, underscore the resilient and dynamic nature of the Citric Acid market, poised for continued growth and innovation.

In 2024, after three years of growth, there was decline in the U.S. citric acid market, when its value decreased by -3.8% to $1.4B. The market value increased at an average annual rate of +2.6% over the period from 2012 to 2024; the trend pattern indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. As a result, consumption reached the peak level of $1.5B, and then contracted in the following year.

The global fermented citric acid market, valued at $768 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by increasing demand across diverse sectors. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2025 to 2033 signifies a substantial expansion opportunity. Key drivers include the rising consumption of processed foods and beverages, escalating demand in the pharmaceutical industry for citric acid as a pharmaceutical excipient and in the production of various drug formulations, and the growing popularity of natural and clean-label ingredients in personal care products. The food and beverage industry remains a dominant application segment, fueled by citric acid's use as a flavor enhancer, preservative, and acidity regulator. Within the types segment, Citric Acid Anhydrous (CAA) holds a larger market share due to its higher concentration and versatility, though Citric Acid Monohydrate (CAM) also maintains significant demand. Geographic expansion is another key driver, with the Asia-Pacific region anticipated to exhibit robust growth due to rapid economic development and rising disposable incomes, which increase demand for processed foods and beverages. Growth within the market will be moderated by factors such as fluctuating raw material prices and stringent regulatory frameworks surrounding food additives. However, innovation in citric acid production methods and the ongoing exploration of its applications in emerging sectors like bioplastics and biofuels are expected to mitigate these restraints and further drive market expansion. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of large multinational corporations and regional players. The presence of both large-scale and smaller manufacturers ensures a dynamic market with varied product offerings and price points. This competitive environment, coupled with continued innovation and expanding applications, promises substantial growth for the fermented citric acid market in the coming years.