Why did the Paraformaldehyde Price Change in July 2025? The paraformaldehyde Spot Price in North America increased by 8.3% quarter-over-quarter in Q2 2025, reflected in a bullish Price Index.

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

The paraformaldehyde (PFA) prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 1060 USD/MT in September. The market witnessed notable price increases driven by higher production costs and steady downstream demand. Supply chain disruptions and global economic factors further influenced this upward trend.

Explore IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of paraformaldehyde (PFA) pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Paraformaldehyde market size will be USD 954.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.60% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 381.68 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 286.26 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 357.7 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 47.71 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 19.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% from 2024 to 2031.
The granules segment is predicted to increase rapidly throughout the projection period.

Market Dynamics of Paraformaldehyde Market

Key Drivers for Paraformaldehyde Market

The booming automotive sector will drive the market's growth

The automotive sector is a significant market for paraformaldehyde, as it is utilized in the synthesis of paints and topcoats for high-quality car finishes. The worldwide car sector is expanding, with rising vehicle production and sales, which is likely to propel the market forward during the forecast period. For example, according to estimates from the India Brand Equity Foundation, India's automobile sector would be the world's fifth-largest in 2020, with 3.49 million units sold in both commercial and passenger vehicles. Similarly, the European Automobile Manufacturers Association forecasts that hybrid electric vehicles would account for 11.9% of total automobile sales in 2020, up from 5.7% in 2019. Such enormous growth in the global automotive sector is predicted to enhance the use of paraformaldehyde, which will drive market growth throughout the forecast period.

Expanding agriculture sector will fuel market growth

Paraformaldehyde is most commonly used in agriculture, where it is used to synthesize a variety of agricultural compounds such as fungicides, pesticides, and herbicides. The agriculture industry is expanding internationally with increased production, which is likely to boost market growth. According to the India Brand Equity Foundation, India's horticultural crop production reached a record 331.05 million metric tonnes in 2020-21, up 10.5 million metric tonnes from the previous fiscal year. Similarly, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada reported that farmers' revenue from the sale of agricultural commodities reached a record US$ 68.7 billion. Such a significant increase in the agriculture sector is predicted to magnify the use of paraformaldehyde, which will influence the market

Restraint Factor for the Paraformaldehyde Market

Potential Health and Environmental Concerns

One market limitation is the potential health and environmental risks connected with its use. Paraformaldehyde is classed as a dangerous material, and high levels can cause respiratory irritation and other health problems. Additionally, the release of paraformaldehyde into the environment might have a negative impact on ecosystems. These concerns have resulted in stronger laws and more scrutiny of paraformaldehyde's use and handling, potentially limiting market growth

Impact of Covid-19 on the Paraformaldehyde Market

The COVID-19 epidemic has significantly impacted the Paraformaldehyde business. The initial outbreak caused considerable disruptions in supply chains, manufacturing activities, and fluctuations in demand across multiple sectors. Industries that rely heavily on paraformaldehyde, such as construction and automotive, have seen a downturn, hurting the market adversely. However, demand in the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors was generally consistent, mitigating the overall market impact. The pandemic also increased the demand for disinfectants and sterilizing chemicals, presenting new opportunities for paraformaldehyde uses. Despite the hurdles, the market's resiliency is clear as it navigat...

The global Paraformaldehyde (PFA) market stood at approximately 660 thousand tonnes in 2024 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.06% during the forecast period until 2035.

The Europe Paraformaldehyde Market would witness market growth of 4.9% CAGR during the forecast period (2023-2030). In the year 2020, the Europe market's volume surged to 237.46 kilo tonnes, showcasing a growth of 4.3% (2019-2022). The utilization of paraformaldehyde in agrochemical formulations un

Global Paraformaldehyde PFA CAS 30525 89 4 market size 2025 was XX Million. Paraformaldehyde PFA CAS 30525 89 4 Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.

In 2024, the Indian paraformaldehyde market decreased by -11.9% to $8.9M, falling for the second consecutive year after two years of growth. Overall, consumption showed a pronounced decline. Paraformaldehyde consumption peaked at $17M in 2018; however, from 2019 to 2024, consumption remained at a lower figure.

Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Market Outlook

The global paraformaldehyde (PFA) market size was valued at approximately USD 550 million in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 850 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for PFA in various applications such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and resins. The expanding chemical industry and the rising need for high-performance materials also contribute significantly to the market's growth. Additionally, the development of new industrial applications and advancements in production technologies further bolster the market outlook.

One of the primary growth factors for the paraformaldehyde market is its extensive use in the pharmaceutical industry. PFA is a crucial intermediate in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other medicinal compounds. With the growing global population and the increasing prevalence of various diseases, the demand for effective pharmaceutical products continues to rise, thereby boosting the need for paraformaldehyde. Moreover, advancements in medical research and biotechnology are likely to create new opportunities for PFA applications, further driving market growth.

Another significant growth driver is the rising demand for agrochemicals. Paraformaldehyde is a key ingredient in the production of various agrochemicals, including pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. As the global agricultural sector strives to enhance crop yields and protect crops from pests and diseases, the use of effective agrochemicals becomes essential. This, in turn, fuels the demand for paraformaldehyde. Additionally, the adoption of sustainable farming practices and the need for high-quality agricultural products further augment the market for agrochemicals, thereby driving the growth of the paraformaldehyde market.

The increasing application of paraformaldehyde in the production of resins, adhesives, and coatings is another crucial factor contributing to market growth. PFA is widely used as a crosslinking agent and stabilizer in various resin formulations, enhancing their performance and durability. The construction, automotive, and electronics industries, which heavily rely on high-performance resins, are witnessing robust growth, thereby propelling the demand for paraformaldehyde. Furthermore, the development of innovative coating solutions and the growing trend of using eco-friendly adhesives provide additional growth opportunities for the market.

On a regional scale, Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the paraformaldehyde market during the forecast period. The region's robust industrial base, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan, along with the presence of a large number of chemical manufacturing facilities, drives the demand for paraformaldehyde. Additionally, the growing population and rising disposable incomes in the region fuel the demand for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and high-performance materials. North America and Europe are also significant markets, driven by advancements in medical research, the chemical industry, and the presence of major market players. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are expected to witness moderate growth, supported by developing industrial sectors and increasing investments in infrastructure.

Purity Level Analysis

The paraformaldehyde market is segmented based on purity levels, including 95-97%, 97-99%, and >99%. The 95-97% purity segment holds a significant market share due to its widespread use in agricultural and industrial applications. This level of purity is sufficient for the production of agrochemicals, including pesticides and herbicides, which are essential for modern agriculture. The cost-effectiveness and adequate performance of 95-97% pure paraformaldehyde make it a preferred choice for various industrial applications. Additionally, the increasing adoption of sustainable farming practices and the need to enhance crop yields drive the demand for agrochemicals, thereby boosting the market for 95-97% pure paraformaldehyde.

The 97-99% purity segment is gaining traction in the paraformaldehyde market, primarily driven by its use in the production of high-performance resins and adhesives. This level of purity offers enhanced stability and performance characteristics, making it suitable for applications in the automotive, construction, and electronics industries. T

Paraformaldehyde Market was USD 778.96.0 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach a value of USD 1432.09 billion in 2034 and register a revenue CAGR of 7% during the forecast period.

The global paraformaldehyde market is projected to reach USD 553.9 million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4% during the forecast period. The market growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for paraformaldehyde in various applications, including agriculture, resins and adhesives, and paint and paint. In agriculture, paraformaldehyde is widely used as a soil fumigant to control pests and diseases. It is also used as a preservative in animal feed and fertilizer. In the resins and adhesives industry, paraformaldehyde is used as a crosslinking agent and curing agent. In the paint and paint industry, it is used as a pigment dispersant and film-forming agent. The increasing demand for these applications is expected to drive the growth of the paraformaldehyde market. The market is also witnessing the emergence of new technologies that are expanding the applications of paraformaldehyde. For instance, the development of environmentally friendly paraformaldehyde formulations is expected to open up new growth opportunities for the market.

The global paraformaldehyde market, valued at $753 million in 2025, is poised for significant growth driven by the increasing demand from various sectors. The construction industry's reliance on resins and adhesives, coupled with the expanding agricultural sector's need for pesticides and fertilizers containing paraformaldehyde, are key drivers. Furthermore, the paint and coating industry's adoption of paraformaldehyde for its unique properties contributes to market expansion. The market is segmented by purity level (91-93% and 95-97%), with higher purity grades commanding a premium. Geographically, Asia Pacific, led by China and India, represents a substantial market share due to robust industrial growth and rising construction activities. North America and Europe also contribute significantly, driven by established chemical industries and stringent environmental regulations. While specific CAGR data is missing, considering the growth drivers and the industry's typical expansion rates, a conservative estimate would place the CAGR between 4% and 6% for the forecast period (2025-2033). Competition is relatively concentrated, with major players like Celanese, Ercros, and Merck alongside several regional manufacturers vying for market dominance through innovation and strategic partnerships. Challenges include fluctuating raw material prices and environmental concerns regarding formaldehyde emissions, requiring manufacturers to adopt sustainable production methods and comply with stricter regulations. Looking ahead to 2033, the market's trajectory suggests continued growth propelled by increasing urbanization, industrial expansion, and the ongoing development of new applications for paraformaldehyde in diverse sectors. The focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives will influence the market, driving innovation towards greener production processes and biodegradable substitutes. This will create opportunities for companies that prioritize sustainability and invest in research and development of eco-friendly paraformaldehyde alternatives. The competitive landscape will likely remain relatively consolidated, with larger players focusing on expansion through strategic acquisitions, partnerships, and technological advancements to enhance their market share and profitability. Regional variations in growth rates will be influenced by the economic development and regulatory frameworks of individual countries, creating lucrative opportunities in emerging markets with high growth potential.

Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Market Outlook

The global paraformaldehyde (PFA) market size was valued at approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1.9 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period. The market's growth is largely driven by its increasing utilization across various end-user industries, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. The robust rise in demand for agrochemicals and resins, particularly in developing regions, also contributes significantly to this positive growth trajectory.

One of the primary growth factors for the paraformaldehyde market is its pivotal role in the production of various resins, such as phenolic resins, urea-formaldehyde, and melamine-formaldehyde. These resins are extensively used in the manufacturing of adhesives, coatings, and molding materials, which are integral to numerous industrial applications. As industrialization and urbanization continue to accelerate, particularly in emerging economies, the demand for these resins is expected to bolster the paraformaldehyde market. Additionally, ongoing advancements in resin technologies further amplify their application scope, thereby promoting market expansion.

Another significant driver is the agricultural sector's increasing reliance on paraformaldehyde-based agrochemicals. As global populations rise, the need for enhanced agricultural productivity becomes paramount. Agrochemicals such as pesticides and herbicides, which incorporate paraformaldehyde, play a crucial role in safeguarding crop health and maximizing yields. Growing awareness regarding sustainable farming practices and the advent of innovative agrochemical formulations are likely to further elevate the demand for paraformaldehyde. Consequently, this sector is anticipated to witness substantial growth, directly impacting the overall market.

The pharmaceutical industry's burgeoning growth also positively impacts the paraformaldehyde market. Paraformaldehyde is used as a disinfectant and fixative in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. With the increasing prevalence of hospital-acquired infections and the rising emphasis on sterilization in medical facilities, the demand for paraformaldehyde is expected to see a consistent uptrend. Moreover, the pharmaceutical sector's expansion, fueled by rising healthcare expenditure and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, further contributes to the market's growth.

From a regional perspective, Asia Pacific leads the global paraformaldehyde market, driven by rapid industrialization, extensive agricultural activities, and significant investments in the healthcare sector. Countries such as China and India are at the forefront, owing to their large-scale production and consumption of paraformaldehyde. The region's burgeoning middle class and increasing urbanization further augment market demand. In contrast, developed regions like North America and Europe exhibit steady growth, supported by advanced industrial practices and stringent regulations promoting the use of high-purity paraformaldehyde in various applications.

Purity Level Analysis

The paraformaldehyde market is segmented based on purity levels into four primary categories: 91-93%, 94-96%, 97-99%, and others. The 91-93% purity segment is primarily utilized in agricultural applications, particularly in the production of agrochemicals such as pesticides and herbicides. This segment is critical for the agricultural industry due to its efficacy in protecting crops and enhancing yields. The increasing global demand for food and the push towards sustainable farming practices make this segment vital for market growth.

The 94-96% purity segment finds extensive use in the production of phenolic resins and urea-formaldehyde resins. These resins are integral to various industrial applications, including adhesives, coatings, and molding materials. The growing construction and automotive sectors significantly drive the demand for these resins, thereby propelling the growth of the 94-96% purity paraformaldehyde market. The segment's robustness is further supported by continuous innovations aimed at enhancing resin performance and application.

The 97-99% purity segment is predominantly used in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. This high-purity paraformaldehyde is essential for applications requiring stringent sterilization and disinfection standards, such as in medical facilities and laboratories. The increasing focus on healthcare infrastructure development and the rising incidence of

The paraformaldehyde market is projected to reach a value of 587 million by 2033, expanding at a 3.9% CAGR from 2025 to 2033. The increasing demand for paraformaldehyde in the production of resins and adhesives, paints and coatings, and agriculture is driving market growth. The increasing use of paraformaldehyde in water treatment applications is also contributing to the market's expansion. Key trends influencing the market include the growing adoption of bio-based paraformaldehyde, which is more environmentally friendly and sustainable than traditional fossil fuel-based paraformaldehyde. The increasing demand for formaldehyde-free products is also driving the development of new and innovative paraformaldehyde-based products. Moreover, the rising demand for paraformaldehyde in emerging economies, such as China and India, is expected to further fuel market growth. The market is expected to witness significant growth in the Asia Pacific region, owing to the increasing demand for paraformaldehyde from the region's rapidly growing construction and automotive industries.

For the third year in a row, the EU paraformaldehyde market recorded growth in sales value, which increased by 13% to $67M in 2024. The total consumption indicated a prominent increase from 2012 to 2024: its value increased at an average annual rate of +5.8% 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 increased by +118.8% against 2014 indices.

The global paraformaldehyde market was valued at USD 1.99 Billion in 2024. The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.60% during the forecast period of 2025-2034. The growing demand for wrinkle-free and durable textiles is resulting in an increased reliance on paraformaldehyde in textile finishing processes. The quality characteristics of paraformaldehyde, such as improved strength and longevity of textiles primarily drive the market growth. In turn, all these factors have resulted in the market attaining a valuation of USD 3.43 Billion by 2034.

Paraformaldehyde is available in various grades, including technical, food, and pharmaceutical grades. Technical-grade paraformaldehyde is primarily used in the production of resins and agrochemicals, while food-grade paraformaldehyde is utilized in food preservation. Pharmaceutical-grade paraformaldehyde is used in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals. Recent developments include: March 2022: Ercros S.A. (Spain), Chlorine Derivatives Division, Intermediate Chemicals Division, and Pharmaceuticals Division make up the three business divisions of Ercros, an industrial group with a century-long history. Almost half of its sales are exported to more than 103 countries, mostly in the EU, and it is a market leader in the major markets where it does business., January 2022: The company carries out its production under a voluntary commitment that it has made in relation to the safety of its facilities and the health of people, respect for the environment, the quality of its products and dialogue and transparency in relation to society., February 2021: The products of the intermediate chemicals and pharmaceutical divisions represent an important share of the world market. With paraformaldehyde, Ercros ranks first in the world ranking. It is also a leader in the market for fusidic acid and fosfomycin.. Notable trends are: Rising consumer products are driving the market growth.

The global paraformaldehyde market, valued at $587 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by increasing demand from key industries. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a consistent expansion, primarily fueled by the rising utilization of paraformaldehyde in the production of resins and polymers for diverse applications including construction, automotive, and consumer goods. Growth is also supported by its use as a disinfectant and preservative in various industries, contributing to market expansion. While specific restraining factors are not provided, potential challenges could include fluctuating raw material prices, stringent environmental regulations, and the emergence of alternative materials. However, ongoing research and development in the field suggest that paraformaldehyde will maintain its position as a crucial component in several manufacturing processes. The market's segmentation, although not detailed, likely includes variations in purity, form (powder, granules), and applications. The competitive landscape, featuring key players like Ercros, Celanese, and Merck, suggests a moderately consolidated market, with opportunities for both established players and new entrants to innovate and capitalize on the anticipated growth. The significant players in the paraformaldehyde market are strategically positioned to benefit from the increasing demand. Their established distribution networks and technological expertise provide a strong foundation for sustained market presence. Further expansion might be achieved through strategic collaborations, acquisitions, and investments in research and development. Furthermore, market diversification into new applications and regions is likely to drive future growth. While precise regional breakdowns are unavailable, a geographically diversified strategy is expected given the global nature of the target industries. The historical period (2019-2024) provides a benchmark for understanding past market performance, enabling more accurate projections for the forecast period. The continued expansion of several key industries will likely support the consistent growth of the paraformaldehyde market.

The Paraformaldehyde (PFA) market plays a critical role in various industries, serving as a vital chemical compound derived from formaldehyde. Paraformaldehyde is primarily utilized in the production of resins, plastics, and pharmaceuticals, among other applications. Its unique properties, including high purity and

Uncover Market Research Intellect's latest Paraformaldehyde Research Market Report, valued at USD 300 billion in 2024, expected to rise to USD 450 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2026 to 2033.