The Ethylene Oxide Market Report is Segmented by Derivative (Ethylene Glycols, Ethoxylates, Ethanolamines, and More), Application (Polyester Fiber and PET Resins, Surfactants and Detergents, and More), End-User Industry (Automotive, Agrochemicals, Food and Beverage, and More), Feedstock (Petro-Based Ethylene and Bio-Ethylene), and Geography (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa).

In 2022, the market volume of ethylene oxide worldwide amounted to nearly 31.58 million metric tons. It is forecast that the market volume of this organic compound will grow to around 36.45 million metric tons worldwide in the year 2030.

In Q3 2025, North America Ethylene Oxide Price Index rose by 5.0% quarter-over-quarter, supported by exports. Check detailed insights for Europe and APAC.

The Ethylene Oxide market size is projected to grow from USD 31.28 Bn in the year 2022 to USD 37.13 Bn by 2029 at a CAGR of 3.15% from 2021-2029.

In terms of revenue, Ethylene Glycols was the leading Application with 34.58% share of total Ethylene Oxide market.

In terms of revenue, Automotive was the leading End-user with 31.17% share of total Ethylene Oxide market in 2021

Asia Pacific was the dominated region with 36.47% of total revenue market share in 2021.

Ethylene oxide is excessively used in the manufacturing process of other chemicals. Most ethylene oxide is used to manufacture ethylene glycol which is used in automotive antifreeze. Over the years, the need for vehicles has increased as the population has grown. Almost every family in the world owns at least one vehicle. People rely on automobiles as a need are drastically increasing.
According to the study, global car sales was increase to roughly 66.7 million vehicles in 2021, up from around 63.8 million units in 2020. Almost half of worldwide customers (46 percent) are thinking about buying a car in the next 12 months, up from 35% in April 2020. Hence, rising automotive industry is directly stimulating the demand for EO and thus urging its growth across the globe.
Moreover, wide usage of ethylene oxide in other end-use industries, including textile, pharmaceutical, and various other sectors is enhancing its demand and thus the market will show exponential growth rate in coming years.

Factors hampering Ethylene Oxides Market:

The usage of EO is associated with several disadvantage as it is a costly and time taking process. Further, it is potentially hazardous to health. Acute exposure to EO may result in irritation of eyes, skin, gastrointestinal or respiratory tracts and even cause central nervous system depression. Chronic inhalation has been linked to the formation of cataracts, cognitive impairment, neurologic dysfunction, and disabling polyneuropathies.
Thus, EU followed by various regions across the globe has banned its use as a pesticide back in 1991. The EU set out its maximum residue levels (MRLs) for ethylene oxide in a range of foods and products in regulation (EC) No 396/2005 and its subsequent amendments. These levels vary from 0.02mg/kg to 0.1mg/kg, depending on the nature of the product.

Ethylene oxide is a colourless, combustible gas with a faintly pleasant smell that is created from ethylene by the process of direct oxidation. Since it is manufactured industrially by the oxidation of ethylene in the presence of a silver catalyst, it is also known as oxirane.

It is created using petrochemical-based raw ingredients such as ethane, naphtha, and propane, which are acquired from the distillation of crude oil. In addition to other industrial uses, ethylene oxide is extensively used in the chemical and medical industries.

The global Ethylene Oxide market stood at nearly 27986 thousand tonnes in 2024 and is expected to grow at a steady CAGR of 4.63% during the forecast period until 2035.

Ethylene Oxide Market Size Surpasses $ 41,764.11 Mn by 2031 with a CAGR of 3.1%. the high demand for polyester fiber for the manufacturing of a variety of industries along with the growing demand for PET in packaging applications is driving the growt

The Ethylene Oxide Market size is expected to reach USD 56.4 billion in 2034 registering a CAGR of 4.4%. This Ethylene Oxide Market research report highlights market share, competitive analysis, demand dynamics, and future growth.

Global Ethylene Oxide Market size was worth around USD 36.73 billion in 2023 and is predicted to grow to around USD 53.65 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 4.30%.

India Ethylene Oxide Market achieved a total market volume of 311.82 thousand Metric Tonnes in 2024 and is poised for strong growth in the forecast period to reach 382.97 thousand Metric Tonnes in 2030, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.52% through 2030.

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The ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market has the potential to grow by USD 19.55 billion during 2021-2025, and the market’s growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 4.89%.

This ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market research report provides valuable insights on the post COVID-19 impact on the market, which will help companies evaluate their business approaches. Furthermore, this report extensively covers market segmentation by product (ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol) and geography (APAC, Europe, North America, MEA, and South America). The ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market report also offers information on several market vendors, including BASF SE, Dow Inc., Formosa Plastics Corp., INEOS Group Holdings SA, LG Electronics Inc., LyondellBasell Industries NV, Reliance Industries Ltd., Royal Dutch Shell Plc, and Saudi Basic Industries Corp. among others.

What will the Ethylene Oxide and Ethylene Glycol Market Size be in 2021?

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Ethylene Oxide and Ethylene Glycol Market: Key Drivers and Trends

The developments in end-user industries are notably driving the ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market growth, although factors such as fluctuation in prices of raw materials may impede market growth. Our research analysts have studied the historical data and deduced the key market drivers and the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol industry. The holistic analysis of the drivers will help in predicting end goals and refining marketing strategies to gain a competitive edge.

This ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market analysis report also provides detailed information on other upcoming trends and challenges that will have a far-reaching effect on the market growth. The actionable insights on the trends and challenges will help companies evaluate and develop growth strategies for 2021-2025.

Who are the Major Ethylene Oxide and Ethylene Glycol Market Vendors?

The report analyzes the market’s competitive landscape and offers information on several market vendors, including:

BASF SE
Dow Inc.
Formosa Plastics Corp.
INEOS Group Holdings SA
LG Electronics Inc.
LyondellBasell Industries NV
Reliance Industries Ltd.
Royal Dutch Shell Plc
Saudi Basic Industries Corp.

The vendor landscape of the ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market entails successful business strategies deployed by the vendors. The ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market is fragmented and the vendors are deploying various organic and inorganic growth strategies to compete in the market.

To make the most of the opportunities and recover from post COVID-19 impact, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments.

Download a free sample of the ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market forecast report for insights on complete key vendor profiles. The profiles include information on the production, sustainability, and prospects of the leading companies.

Which are the Key Regions for Ethylene Oxide and Ethylene Glycol Market?

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46% of the market’s growth will originate from APAC during the forecast period. China and Japan are the key markets for ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol in APAC.

The report offers an up-to-date analysis of the geographical composition of the market. APAC has been recording a significant growth rate and is expected to offer several growth opportunities to market vendors during the forecast period. The surge in demand for PET packaging will facilitate the ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market growth in APAC over the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis of the geographical composition of the market, competitive intelligence, and regional opportunities in store for vendors.

What are the Revenue-generating Product Segments in the Ethylene Oxide and Ethylene Glycol Market?

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The ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market share growth by the ethylene oxide segment has been significant. This report provides insights on the impact of the unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19 on market segments. Through these insights, you can safely deduce transformation patterns in consumer behavior, which is crucial to gauge segment-wise revenue growth during 2021-2025 and embrace technologies to improve business efficiency.

This report provides an accurate prediction of the contribution of all the segments to the growth of the ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol market size. Furthermore, our analysts have indicated actionable market insights on post COVID-19 impact on each segment,

Market Research Intellect's Ethylene Glycol And Ethylene Oxide Market Report highlights a valuation of USD 45.2 billion in 2024 and anticipates growth to USD 65.8 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 5.2% from 2026-2033.Explore insights on demand dynamics, innovation pipelines, and competitive landscapes.

The global Ethylene Oxide market size is expected to grow from USD 44,000 million in 2019 to USD 77,900 million by 2026, at a CAGR of 8.5% from 2020-2026

In 2024, the global ethylene oxide market increased by 3.4% to $803M, rising for the fourth consecutive year after two years of decline. Overall, consumption, however, continues to indicate a relatively flat trend pattern. Over the period under review, the global market attained the peak level at $915M in 2013; however, from 2014 to 2024, consumption failed to regain momentum.

KSA Ethylene Oxide Market is projected to grow significantly by 2030, driven by petrochemical expansion and healthcare demand, with key segments in ethylene glycol and chemical manufacturing.

UAE Ethylene Oxide Market is projected to reach $450 Mn by 2030, growing at 6.2% CAGR, driven by healthcare demand and petrochemical expansion.

Global Ethylene Oxide and Ethylene Glycol Market size was valued at USD 75.4 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 103.5 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.0% from 2025 to 2032.

Ethylene Oxide and Ethylene Glycol Market Drivers

Growing Demand for Polyester: Ethylene glycol is a crucial raw material for the production of polyester fibers and resins, widely used in textiles, packaging, and automotive applications. The growing demand for polyester products in various industries drives the market for both ethylene oxide (a precursor to ethylene glycol) and ethylene glycol itself

Increasing Use of Antifreeze: Ethylene glycol is a primary component of antifreeze solutions used in automotive engines and industrial cooling systems. The rising demand for vehicles, especially in developing economies, fuels the need for antifreeze and consequently, ethylene glycol production.

Expansion of the PET Industry: Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a widely used plastic for packaging (bottles, containers) and textiles. The growth of the PET industry, driven by the increasing demand for packaged food and beverages, directly impacts the demand for ethylene glycol, a key raw material in PET production.

Industrial Applications: Ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol have diverse industrial applications, including the production of surfactants, solvents, and other chemicals. The expansion of various industries, such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and personal care, drives demand for these products.

Ethylene Oxide Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global ethylene oxide market size reached USD 34.8 billion in 2024, reflecting robust demand across multiple industries. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period, positioning the industry to achieve a value of approximately USD 52.3 billion by 2033. This growth trajectory is primarily attributed to the increasing utilization of ethylene oxide in chemical intermediates, sterilization processes, and the burgeoning healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors worldwide. As per our comprehensive analysis, the ethylene oxide market is poised for sustained expansion, driven by evolving applications and advancements in downstream industries.

The growth of the ethylene oxide market is significantly influenced by its critical role as a chemical intermediate in the production of ethylene glycol, which is a foundational element for manufacturing polyester fibers and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resins. The textile and packaging industries, in particular, have witnessed exponential growth in recent years, fueling the demand for PET bottles and polyester-based products. This, in turn, has propelled the consumption of ethylene oxide. Moreover, the ongoing shift towards sustainable packaging solutions and the rising preference for lightweight, recyclable materials have further augmented the use of ethylene oxide derivatives. The market is also benefiting from technological advancements in production processes, which have enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental impact, making ethylene oxide more attractive to end users.

Another key driver for the ethylene oxide market is its indispensable application in sterilization, especially in the healthcare sector. With mounting concerns regarding hospital-acquired infections and stringent regulatory standards for medical device sterilization, ethylene oxide has emerged as the preferred sterilizing agent due to its efficacy in eliminating pathogens without damaging delicate equipment. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of effective sterilization, leading to a surge in demand for ethylene oxide in hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities. Additionally, the expansion of healthcare infrastructure in emerging economies and the increasing volume of surgical procedures globally are expected to sustain the demand for ethylene oxide-based sterilization solutions over the coming years.

The pharmaceutical and agrochemical sectors represent additional growth avenues for the ethylene oxide market. In pharmaceuticals, ethylene oxide is utilized in the synthesis of various active pharmaceutical ingredients and excipients. The ongoing R&D activities, coupled with rising investments in drug development, have amplified the consumption of ethylene oxide in this segment. In the agrochemical industry, ethylene oxide is employed in the formulation of herbicides, pesticides, and fumigants, which are crucial for enhancing crop yields and ensuring food security. The global emphasis on increasing agricultural productivity, particularly in developing regions, is anticipated to bolster the demand for ethylene oxide in agrochemical applications.

In addition to its applications in the healthcare and agrochemical sectors, the ethylene oxide market is also influenced by the production of ortho-xylene, a key aromatic hydrocarbon. Ortho-xylene is primarily used as a precursor for the synthesis of phthalic anhydride, which is essential in the manufacture of plasticizers, resins, and dyes. The demand for ortho-xylene is on the rise due to its widespread use in the production of flexible PVC products and alkyd resins, which are integral to the coatings and paints industry. As the construction and automotive sectors continue to expand, the consumption of ortho-xylene is expected to grow, further impacting the dynamics of the ethylene oxide market. The interrelation between these chemicals highlights the interconnected nature of the petrochemical industry and underscores the importance of strategic resource management.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific has established itself as the dominant player in the ethylene oxide market, accounting for the largest share of both production and consumption. The region's rapid industrialization, expanding textile and packaging industries, and burgeo

The global ethylene oxide market size reached approximately USD 33.13 Billion in 2024. The market is assessed to grow at a CAGR of 4.40% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of around USD 50.96 Billion by 2034.

The size of the Ethylene Oxide Market was valued at USD 3154.1 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 7157.82 Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 12.42% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: Investments in bio-based ethylene oxide production facilities

, Partnerships for developing innovative ethylene oxide-based materials

, Acquisitions and mergers to strengthen market positions. Key drivers for this market are: Rising demand for polyethylene and polyethylene-based products Growing population and disposable income. Potential restraints include: Fluctuating feedstock prices Stringent environmental regulations. Notable trends are: Sustainable production using bio-based feedstocks Development of ethylene oxide-based polymers with enhanced properties.