GITNUXREPORT 2026

Materials Chemicals Industry Statistics

The global chemicals industry is a large, growing, and evolving market driven by multiple sectors.

Min-ji Park

Min-ji Park

Research Analyst focused on sustainability and consumer trends.

First published: Feb 13, 2026

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Key Statistics

Statistic 1

The global specialty chemicals market was valued at USD 1,100 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2024 to 2030, driven by demand in electronics and pharmaceuticals.

Statistic 2

Chemical industry revenues worldwide reached approximately 4.8 trillion euros in 2022, with a forecasted growth to 5.5 trillion euros by 2025 at 4.5% CAGR.

Statistic 3

The Asia-Pacific chemicals market accounted for 45% of global market share in 2023, valued at over 2.3 trillion USD, fueled by rapid industrialization in China and India.

Statistic 4

Basic chemicals segment dominated the market with 38% share in 2022, generating revenues of 1.95 trillion USD globally due to high-volume commodity production.

Statistic 5

Green and bio-based chemicals market expected to grow from 142 billion USD in 2023 to 285 billion USD by 2032 at 8.1% CAGR, driven by sustainability regulations.

Statistic 6

Petrochemicals market size was 631.82 billion USD in 2023, projected to reach 1,064.15 billion USD by 2032 with 5.9% CAGR amid rising plastic demand.

Statistic 7

The fine chemicals market valued at 198.5 billion USD in 2022 is anticipated to expand to 285.3 billion USD by 2030, growing at 4.6% CAGR.

Statistic 8

Agrochemicals industry global revenue hit 258.4 billion USD in 2023, expected to grow to 350 billion USD by 2030 at 4.4% CAGR due to food security needs.

Statistic 9

Polymer chemicals market reached 614 billion USD in 2023, forecasted to hit 912 billion USD by 2031 at 5.1% CAGR from packaging and automotive sectors.

Statistic 10

Inorganic chemicals market size stood at 1,050 billion USD in 2022, projected to grow to 1,450 billion USD by 2030 at 4.2% CAGR.

Statistic 11

Water treatment chemicals market valued at 42.3 billion USD in 2023, expected to reach 60.5 billion USD by 2030 with 5.2% CAGR due to urbanization.

Statistic 12

Adhesives and sealants chemicals market was 68.8 billion USD in 2022, set to grow to 95.2 billion USD by 2030 at 4.1% CAGR.

Statistic 13

Global paints and coatings market reached 164.5 billion USD in 2023, projected to 212 billion USD by 2030 at 3.7% CAGR from construction boom.

Statistic 14

Electronic chemicals market size was 52.6 billion USD in 2022, anticipated to reach 85.4 billion USD by 2030 growing at 6.3% CAGR.

Statistic 15

Textile chemicals market valued at 26.8 billion USD in 2023, expected to hit 36.2 billion USD by 2030 at 4.4% CAGR.

Statistic 16

Rubber chemicals market stood at 8.5 billion USD in 2022, projected to 11.9 billion USD by 2030 at 4.3% CAGR from tire manufacturing.

Statistic 17

Global lubricants chemicals market reached 152 billion USD in 2023, forecasted to 180 billion USD by 2030 at 2.5% CAGR.

Statistic 18

Construction chemicals market was 48.6 billion USD in 2022, set to grow to 74.3 billion USD by 2030 at 5.5% CAGR.

Statistic 19

Paper and pulp chemicals market valued at 22.1 billion USD in 2023, expected to reach 28.4 billion USD by 2030 at 3.7% CAGR.

Statistic 20

Explosives chemicals market size was 15.2 billion USD in 2022, projected to 20.1 billion USD by 2030 at 3.8% CAGR from mining activities.

Statistic 21

Global flavors and fragrances chemicals market hit 31.5 billion USD in 2023, anticipated to 42.8 billion USD by 2030 at 4.5% CAGR.

Statistic 22

Cleaning chemicals market reached 78.4 billion USD in 2022, set to 110.2 billion USD by 2030 at 4.3% CAGR due to hygiene awareness.

Statistic 23

Dyes and pigments chemicals market valued at 42.7 billion USD in 2023, expected to 58.9 billion USD by 2030 at 4.7% CAGR.

Statistic 24

Surfactants chemicals market was 37.2 billion USD in 2022, projected to 52.1 billion USD by 2030 at 4.3% CAGR from personal care.

Statistic 25

Catalysts chemicals market size stood at 28.4 billion USD in 2023, forecasted to 38.7 billion USD by 2030 at 4.5% CAGR.

Statistic 26

Plastic additives chemicals market reached 54.6 billion USD in 2022, set to 78.3 billion USD by 2030 at 4.6% CAGR.

Statistic 27

Global fertilizers chemicals market was 215 billion USD in 2023, expected to 280 billion USD by 2030 at 3.9% CAGR.

Statistic 28

Pharmaceutical chemicals market valued at 145 billion USD in 2022, projected to 210 billion USD by 2030 at 4.7% CAGR.

Statistic 29

Global solvents chemicals market hit 32.8 billion USD in 2023, anticipated to 45.2 billion USD by 2030 at 4.6% CAGR.

Statistic 30

Ethylene production worldwide totaled 182 million metric tons in 2023, marking a 3.2% increase from 2022 due to demand in polyethylene manufacturing.

Statistic 31

Global ammonia production reached 192 million metric tons in 2023, up 2.8% YoY, primarily for fertilizers and industrial uses.

Statistic 32

Propylene output globally hit 122 million metric tons in 2023, growing 4.1% driven by polypropylene and propylene oxide production.

Statistic 33

Methanol production worldwide was 110 million metric tons in 2023, a 5.5% rise attributed to fuel and chemical feedstock demand.

Statistic 34

Benzene production totaled 52 million metric tons globally in 2023, increasing 2.9% from petrochemical expansions in Asia.

Statistic 35

Toluene global production reached 28 million metric tons in 2023, up 3.4% YoY due to solvent and explosives applications.

Statistic 36

Xylene isomers (PX) production was 70 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, growing 4.7% for purified terephthalic acid.

Statistic 37

Polyethylene production globally stood at 112 million metric tons in 2023, a 3.8% increase from packaging sector growth.

Statistic 38

Polypropylene output hit 85 million metric tons in 2023 worldwide, up 4.2% driven by automotive and consumer goods.

Statistic 39

PVC production reached 58 million metric tons globally in 2023, growing 3.1% amid construction recovery.

Statistic 40

Polystyrene production was 22 million metric tons in 2023 worldwide, increasing 2.5% for insulation and packaging.

Statistic 41

Urea production totaled 185 million metric tons globally in 2023, up 2.7% for agricultural fertilizers.

Statistic 42

Phosphoric acid production reached 55 million metric tons in 2023, a 3.9% rise from phosphate rock processing.

Statistic 43

Sulfuric acid global production was 290 million metric tons in 2023, growing 1.8% for fertilizers and metals.

Statistic 44

Chlorine production hit 78 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, up 2.4% for PVC and water treatment.

Statistic 45

Caustic soda output was 92 million metric tons globally in 2023, increasing 3.1% from pulp and paper demand.

Statistic 46

Hydrogen peroxide production reached 5.2 million metric tons in 2023, a 4.5% growth for bleaching and electronics.

Statistic 47

Acetic acid global production totaled 18 million metric tons in 2023, up 3.6% for vinyl acetate monomer.

Statistic 48

Butadiene production was 14 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, growing 4.8% for synthetic rubber.

Statistic 49

Styrene monomer output hit 32 million metric tons in 2023 globally, up 2.9% from polystyrene demand.

Statistic 50

Titanium dioxide production reached 8.1 million metric tons in 2023, increasing 3.2% for paints and coatings.

Statistic 51

Soda ash production was 65 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, a 2.7% rise for glass manufacturing.

Statistic 52

Zeolites production totaled 3.5 million metric tons in 2023 globally, growing 5.1% for detergents and catalysis.

Statistic 53

Adipic acid output hit 3.2 million metric tons in 2023, up 3.9% for nylon production.

Statistic 54

Maleic anhydride production was 2.1 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, increasing 4.2% for resins.

Statistic 55

Phthalic anhydride global production reached 5.8 million metric tons in 2023, a 3.5% growth.

Statistic 56

Ethylene oxide production totaled 28 million metric tons in 2023, up 4.1% for surfactants and antifreeze.

Statistic 57

Propylene glycol output was 3.8 million metric tons globally in 2023, growing 5.3% for food and pharma.

Statistic 58

US chemical employment totaled 538,000 direct jobs in 2023, supporting 1.1 million indirect jobs.

Statistic 59

China hosted 45% of global chemical production capacity with 2.2 million employees in 2023.

Statistic 60

EU-27 chemical workforce numbered 1.2 million in 2023, with 5.5% female representation growth.

Statistic 61

India chemicals sector employed 1.5 million people in 2023, projected 2 million by 2025.

Statistic 62

Middle East chemicals jobs reached 250,000 in 2023, driven by petrochemical expansions in Saudi Arabia.

Statistic 63

Brazil chemical industry employed 120,000 directly in 2023, with 400,000 total value chain jobs.

Statistic 64

Japan chemical workforce was 350,000 in 2023, facing 2% annual decline due to aging population.

Statistic 65

South Korea chemicals employed 180,000 in 2023, 15% increase in R&D roles.

Statistic 66

Germany chemical sector had 460,000 employees in 2023, export-oriented with high skills.

Statistic 67

US Gulf Coast chemicals supported 2.5 million jobs regionally in 2023 economic impact.

Statistic 68

Southeast Asia chemicals employment hit 800,000 in 2023, led by Indonesia and Vietnam.

Statistic 69

Canada petrochemicals employed 55,000 in 2023, with Alberta hub at 30,000 jobs.

Statistic 70

Australia chemicals workforce 60,000 in 2023, focused on mining chemicals.

Statistic 71

Mexico chemical industry jobs totaled 200,000 in 2023, nearshoring boost.

Statistic 72

Russia chemicals employed 250,000 despite sanctions in 2023.

Statistic 73

Africa chemicals employment 150,000 in 2023, South Africa leading with 40,000.

Statistic 74

UK chemical sector 190,000 jobs in 2023, R&D intensive with 25,000 scientists.

Statistic 75

France chemicals employed 160,000 in 2023, specialty focus.

Statistic 76

Netherlands chemical workforce 90,000 in 2023, Rotterdam port hub.

Statistic 77

Global chemicals R&D staff totaled 500,000 in 2023, 40% in Asia.

Statistic 78

Safety training hours reached 25 million in US chemicals 2023, zero lost-time incidents goal.

Statistic 79

EU chemicals apprenticeships 50,000 new starts in 2023 for skills development.

Statistic 80

China chemicals vocational training covered 1 million workers in 2023 programs.

Statistic 81

India upskilled 300,000 chemical workers via government schemes in 2023.

Statistic 82

BASF SE reported revenues of 68.9 billion euros in 2023, down 11% YoY due to weak demand but EBITDA pre-exceptionals at 12.7 billion euros.

Statistic 83

Dow Inc. achieved net sales of 44.6 billion USD in 2023, a 10% decline from 2022, with operating EBIT of 3.5 billion USD.

Statistic 84

Linde plc generated sales of 32.9 billion USD in 2023, up 2% YoY, with adjusted operating profit of 8.7 billion USD.

Statistic 85

Air Liquide reported sales of 27.6 billion euros in 2023, growing 4.2%, with net profit group share at 3.4 billion euros.

Statistic 86

DuPont de Nemours Inc. had net sales of 12.1 billion USD in 2023, down 13%, but net income of 423 million USD.

Statistic 87

LyondellBasell Industries posted revenues of 41.1 billion USD in 2023, a 15% drop, with net income of 2.1 billion USD.

Statistic 88

Celanese Corporation reported net sales of 10.9 billion USD in 2023, down 7%, with adjusted EBIT of 1.9 billion USD.

Statistic 89

Eastman Chemical Company achieved sales of 9.2 billion USD in 2023, flat YoY, with earnings from continuing ops of 597 million USD.

Statistic 90

Covestro AG generated sales of 14.6 billion euros in 2023, down 20%, but EBITDA pre-exceptionals at 1.6 billion euros.

Statistic 91

Evonik Industries reported sales of 15.3 billion euros in 2023, down 13%, with adjusted EBITDA of 2.2 billion euros.

Statistic 92

Wanhua Chemical Group Co. achieved revenue of 153.3 billion CNY in 2023, up 3.8% YoY, with net profit of 15.1 billion CNY.

Statistic 93

Sinopec reported chemicals revenue of 1.2 trillion CNY in 2023, contributing to total profit of 57.3 billion CNY.

Statistic 94

SABIC generated revenues of 38.8 billion USD in 2023, down 24%, with net income of 0.4 billion USD.

Statistic 95

Formosa Plastics Corp. posted revenue of 1.05 trillion TWD in 2023, with net income of 38.2 billion TWD.

Statistic 96

Ineos Group had estimated revenues of 56 billion USD in 2023, with EBITDA around 4.5 billion USD despite market challenges.

Statistic 97

Mitsubishi Chemical Group reported net sales of 4.6 trillion JPY in FY2023, up 5%, with operating income of 262 billion JPY.

Statistic 98

Sumitomo Chemical Co. achieved net sales of 2.7 trillion JPY in FY2023, down 6%, net loss of 72 billion JPY.

Statistic 99

LG Chem Ltd. reported revenue of 55.1 trillion KRW in 2023, up 4%, with operating profit of 2.4 trillion KRW.

Statistic 100

Reliance Industries chemicals segment revenue was 7.3 trillion INR in FY2023, with EBITDA of 0.9 trillion INR.

Statistic 101

Petrobras chemicals (Braskem) revenue totaled 79 billion BRL in 2023, net income 3.8 billion BRL.

Statistic 102

TotalEnergies chemicals sales reached 17.5 billion euros in 2023, with EBITDA of 2.1 billion euros.

Statistic 103

ExxonMobil Chemical net sales were 38.3 billion USD in 2023, down 18%, earnings 4.2 billion USD.

Statistic 104

Chevron Phillips Chemical estimated revenues of 15 billion USD in 2023, strong profitability from olefins.

Statistic 105

Westlake Chemical reported net sales of 13.2 billion USD in 2023, net income 1.1 billion USD.

Statistic 106

OQ Chemicals Group sales around 3.2 billion euros in 2023, EBITDA 0.6 billion euros.

Statistic 107

Arkema SA achieved sales of 11.8 billion euros in 2023, up 3%, recurring EBITDA 1.9 billion euros.

Statistic 108

Solvay (Syensqo spin-off) reported sales of 6.3 billion euros in 2023 for specialty chemicals.

Statistic 109

Clariant AG net sales 6.4 billion CHF in 2023, down 6%, EBITDA 1.1 billion CHF.

Statistic 110

Ashland Inc. generated revenue of 2.2 billion USD in FY2023, adjusted EBITDA 370 million USD.

Statistic 111

RPM International Inc. sales 7.3 billion USD in FY2023, net income 746 million USD.

Statistic 112

The chemical industry invested 18 billion euros in R&D in Europe in 2023, representing 1.8% of sales.

Statistic 113

Global chemical production CO2 emissions totaled 1.2 gigatons in 2023, accounting for 5% of industrial emissions.

Statistic 114

65% of European chemical companies achieved at least 20% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions since 2015 baseline.

Statistic 115

US chemical industry recycled 8.2 billion pounds of post-consumer plastics in 2023, up 5% from 2022.

Statistic 116

42% of global chemical production capacity is expected to be low-carbon ready by 2030 under net-zero scenarios.

Statistic 117

Bio-based chemicals production capacity reached 12 million tons globally in 2023, growing 15% YoY.

Statistic 118

Chemical sector water usage intensity fell 28% globally from 2010 to 2023 per ton of output.

Statistic 119

78% of top 100 chemical companies disclosed Scope 3 emissions in 2023, up from 55% in 2020.

Statistic 120

Renewable energy usage in chemical manufacturing rose to 18% of total energy in Europe by 2023.

Statistic 121

Plastic waste collected for recycling worldwide hit 50 million tons in 2023, with chemicals aiding advanced recycling.

Statistic 122

Chemical industry invested 2.5 billion USD in carbon capture projects in 2023 globally.

Statistic 123

35% reduction in VOC emissions achieved by US chemicals sector since 1990 baseline in 2023.

Statistic 124

Sustainable packaging chemicals market grew to 45 billion USD in 2023, 12% YoY increase.

Statistic 125

92% of European chemical sites certified under Responsible Care in 2023, covering safety metrics.

Statistic 126

Hydrogen production for chemicals shifted to green sources at 2% of total 95 million tons in 2023.

Statistic 127

Zero-waste to landfill achieved by 45% of global chemical majors' facilities in 2023.

Statistic 128

Bio-plastics production capacity expanded to 2.2 million tons globally in 2023, up 19%.

Statistic 129

Chemical sector PFAS emissions reduced 70% in Europe since 2015 through 2023 phase-outs.

Statistic 130

Energy efficiency improved by 25% in chemical production processes globally 2015-2023.

Statistic 131

Sustainable aviation fuel chemicals precursors production tripled to 0.6 million tons in 2023.

Statistic 132

Water recycling rate in chemicals reached 65% globally in 2023, saving 120 billion m3 annually.

Statistic 133

Biodiversity initiatives covered 15 million hectares by chemical companies in 2023 partnerships.

Statistic 134

Low-carbon ammonia pilots produced 0.1 million tons commercially in 2023.

Statistic 135

Circular plastics chemicals recycled 4 million tons into new products in 2023 globally.

Statistic 136

GHG intensity of methanol production dropped 15% in leading regions 2020-2023.

Statistic 137

55 chemical companies committed to 30% Scope 3 reduction by 2030 as of 2023.

Statistic 138

Europe chemical industry CO2 price impact led to 10% emissions cut in high-price scenarios 2023.

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Behind every innovation in electronics, agriculture, and sustainable packaging lies a titan industry now valued at over $1.1 trillion, and poised to reshape our world.

Key Takeaways

  • The global specialty chemicals market was valued at USD 1,100 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2024 to 2030, driven by demand in electronics and pharmaceuticals.
  • Chemical industry revenues worldwide reached approximately 4.8 trillion euros in 2022, with a forecasted growth to 5.5 trillion euros by 2025 at 4.5% CAGR.
  • The Asia-Pacific chemicals market accounted for 45% of global market share in 2023, valued at over 2.3 trillion USD, fueled by rapid industrialization in China and India.
  • Ethylene production worldwide totaled 182 million metric tons in 2023, marking a 3.2% increase from 2022 due to demand in polyethylene manufacturing.
  • Global ammonia production reached 192 million metric tons in 2023, up 2.8% YoY, primarily for fertilizers and industrial uses.
  • Propylene output globally hit 122 million metric tons in 2023, growing 4.1% driven by polypropylene and propylene oxide production.
  • BASF SE reported revenues of 68.9 billion euros in 2023, down 11% YoY due to weak demand but EBITDA pre-exceptionals at 12.7 billion euros.
  • Dow Inc. achieved net sales of 44.6 billion USD in 2023, a 10% decline from 2022, with operating EBIT of 3.5 billion USD.
  • Linde plc generated sales of 32.9 billion USD in 2023, up 2% YoY, with adjusted operating profit of 8.7 billion USD.
  • The chemical industry invested 18 billion euros in R&D in Europe in 2023, representing 1.8% of sales.
  • Global chemical production CO2 emissions totaled 1.2 gigatons in 2023, accounting for 5% of industrial emissions.
  • 65% of European chemical companies achieved at least 20% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions since 2015 baseline.
  • US chemical employment totaled 538,000 direct jobs in 2023, supporting 1.1 million indirect jobs.
  • China hosted 45% of global chemical production capacity with 2.2 million employees in 2023.
  • EU-27 chemical workforce numbered 1.2 million in 2023, with 5.5% female representation growth.

The global chemicals industry is a large, growing, and evolving market driven by multiple sectors.

Global Market Trends

  • The global specialty chemicals market was valued at USD 1,100 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2024 to 2030, driven by demand in electronics and pharmaceuticals.
  • Chemical industry revenues worldwide reached approximately 4.8 trillion euros in 2022, with a forecasted growth to 5.5 trillion euros by 2025 at 4.5% CAGR.
  • The Asia-Pacific chemicals market accounted for 45% of global market share in 2023, valued at over 2.3 trillion USD, fueled by rapid industrialization in China and India.
  • Basic chemicals segment dominated the market with 38% share in 2022, generating revenues of 1.95 trillion USD globally due to high-volume commodity production.
  • Green and bio-based chemicals market expected to grow from 142 billion USD in 2023 to 285 billion USD by 2032 at 8.1% CAGR, driven by sustainability regulations.
  • Petrochemicals market size was 631.82 billion USD in 2023, projected to reach 1,064.15 billion USD by 2032 with 5.9% CAGR amid rising plastic demand.
  • The fine chemicals market valued at 198.5 billion USD in 2022 is anticipated to expand to 285.3 billion USD by 2030, growing at 4.6% CAGR.
  • Agrochemicals industry global revenue hit 258.4 billion USD in 2023, expected to grow to 350 billion USD by 2030 at 4.4% CAGR due to food security needs.
  • Polymer chemicals market reached 614 billion USD in 2023, forecasted to hit 912 billion USD by 2031 at 5.1% CAGR from packaging and automotive sectors.
  • Inorganic chemicals market size stood at 1,050 billion USD in 2022, projected to grow to 1,450 billion USD by 2030 at 4.2% CAGR.
  • Water treatment chemicals market valued at 42.3 billion USD in 2023, expected to reach 60.5 billion USD by 2030 with 5.2% CAGR due to urbanization.
  • Adhesives and sealants chemicals market was 68.8 billion USD in 2022, set to grow to 95.2 billion USD by 2030 at 4.1% CAGR.
  • Global paints and coatings market reached 164.5 billion USD in 2023, projected to 212 billion USD by 2030 at 3.7% CAGR from construction boom.
  • Electronic chemicals market size was 52.6 billion USD in 2022, anticipated to reach 85.4 billion USD by 2030 growing at 6.3% CAGR.
  • Textile chemicals market valued at 26.8 billion USD in 2023, expected to hit 36.2 billion USD by 2030 at 4.4% CAGR.
  • Rubber chemicals market stood at 8.5 billion USD in 2022, projected to 11.9 billion USD by 2030 at 4.3% CAGR from tire manufacturing.
  • Global lubricants chemicals market reached 152 billion USD in 2023, forecasted to 180 billion USD by 2030 at 2.5% CAGR.
  • Construction chemicals market was 48.6 billion USD in 2022, set to grow to 74.3 billion USD by 2030 at 5.5% CAGR.
  • Paper and pulp chemicals market valued at 22.1 billion USD in 2023, expected to reach 28.4 billion USD by 2030 at 3.7% CAGR.
  • Explosives chemicals market size was 15.2 billion USD in 2022, projected to 20.1 billion USD by 2030 at 3.8% CAGR from mining activities.
  • Global flavors and fragrances chemicals market hit 31.5 billion USD in 2023, anticipated to 42.8 billion USD by 2030 at 4.5% CAGR.
  • Cleaning chemicals market reached 78.4 billion USD in 2022, set to 110.2 billion USD by 2030 at 4.3% CAGR due to hygiene awareness.
  • Dyes and pigments chemicals market valued at 42.7 billion USD in 2023, expected to 58.9 billion USD by 2030 at 4.7% CAGR.
  • Surfactants chemicals market was 37.2 billion USD in 2022, projected to 52.1 billion USD by 2030 at 4.3% CAGR from personal care.
  • Catalysts chemicals market size stood at 28.4 billion USD in 2023, forecasted to 38.7 billion USD by 2030 at 4.5% CAGR.
  • Plastic additives chemicals market reached 54.6 billion USD in 2022, set to 78.3 billion USD by 2030 at 4.6% CAGR.
  • Global fertilizers chemicals market was 215 billion USD in 2023, expected to 280 billion USD by 2030 at 3.9% CAGR.
  • Pharmaceutical chemicals market valued at 145 billion USD in 2022, projected to 210 billion USD by 2030 at 4.7% CAGR.
  • Global solvents chemicals market hit 32.8 billion USD in 2023, anticipated to 45.2 billion USD by 2030 at 4.6% CAGR.

Global Market Trends Interpretation

We are a planet industriously painting, gluing, cleaning, feeding, healing, and building ourselves into the future, one highly specialized and increasingly green chemical reaction at a time.

Production Volumes

  • Ethylene production worldwide totaled 182 million metric tons in 2023, marking a 3.2% increase from 2022 due to demand in polyethylene manufacturing.
  • Global ammonia production reached 192 million metric tons in 2023, up 2.8% YoY, primarily for fertilizers and industrial uses.
  • Propylene output globally hit 122 million metric tons in 2023, growing 4.1% driven by polypropylene and propylene oxide production.
  • Methanol production worldwide was 110 million metric tons in 2023, a 5.5% rise attributed to fuel and chemical feedstock demand.
  • Benzene production totaled 52 million metric tons globally in 2023, increasing 2.9% from petrochemical expansions in Asia.
  • Toluene global production reached 28 million metric tons in 2023, up 3.4% YoY due to solvent and explosives applications.
  • Xylene isomers (PX) production was 70 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, growing 4.7% for purified terephthalic acid.
  • Polyethylene production globally stood at 112 million metric tons in 2023, a 3.8% increase from packaging sector growth.
  • Polypropylene output hit 85 million metric tons in 2023 worldwide, up 4.2% driven by automotive and consumer goods.
  • PVC production reached 58 million metric tons globally in 2023, growing 3.1% amid construction recovery.
  • Polystyrene production was 22 million metric tons in 2023 worldwide, increasing 2.5% for insulation and packaging.
  • Urea production totaled 185 million metric tons globally in 2023, up 2.7% for agricultural fertilizers.
  • Phosphoric acid production reached 55 million metric tons in 2023, a 3.9% rise from phosphate rock processing.
  • Sulfuric acid global production was 290 million metric tons in 2023, growing 1.8% for fertilizers and metals.
  • Chlorine production hit 78 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, up 2.4% for PVC and water treatment.
  • Caustic soda output was 92 million metric tons globally in 2023, increasing 3.1% from pulp and paper demand.
  • Hydrogen peroxide production reached 5.2 million metric tons in 2023, a 4.5% growth for bleaching and electronics.
  • Acetic acid global production totaled 18 million metric tons in 2023, up 3.6% for vinyl acetate monomer.
  • Butadiene production was 14 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, growing 4.8% for synthetic rubber.
  • Styrene monomer output hit 32 million metric tons in 2023 globally, up 2.9% from polystyrene demand.
  • Titanium dioxide production reached 8.1 million metric tons in 2023, increasing 3.2% for paints and coatings.
  • Soda ash production was 65 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, a 2.7% rise for glass manufacturing.
  • Zeolites production totaled 3.5 million metric tons in 2023 globally, growing 5.1% for detergents and catalysis.
  • Adipic acid output hit 3.2 million metric tons in 2023, up 3.9% for nylon production.
  • Maleic anhydride production was 2.1 million metric tons worldwide in 2023, increasing 4.2% for resins.
  • Phthalic anhydride global production reached 5.8 million metric tons in 2023, a 3.5% growth.
  • Ethylene oxide production totaled 28 million metric tons in 2023, up 4.1% for surfactants and antifreeze.
  • Propylene glycol output was 3.8 million metric tons globally in 2023, growing 5.3% for food and pharma.

Production Volumes Interpretation

While the world obsessed over tech, 2023 quietly proved we're still utterly, chemically dependent on growing things, building things, cleaning things, and wrapping things, with our entire civilization humming along on a rising tide of carbon chains and industrial reactions.

Regional and Employment Data

  • US chemical employment totaled 538,000 direct jobs in 2023, supporting 1.1 million indirect jobs.
  • China hosted 45% of global chemical production capacity with 2.2 million employees in 2023.
  • EU-27 chemical workforce numbered 1.2 million in 2023, with 5.5% female representation growth.
  • India chemicals sector employed 1.5 million people in 2023, projected 2 million by 2025.
  • Middle East chemicals jobs reached 250,000 in 2023, driven by petrochemical expansions in Saudi Arabia.
  • Brazil chemical industry employed 120,000 directly in 2023, with 400,000 total value chain jobs.
  • Japan chemical workforce was 350,000 in 2023, facing 2% annual decline due to aging population.
  • South Korea chemicals employed 180,000 in 2023, 15% increase in R&D roles.
  • Germany chemical sector had 460,000 employees in 2023, export-oriented with high skills.
  • US Gulf Coast chemicals supported 2.5 million jobs regionally in 2023 economic impact.
  • Southeast Asia chemicals employment hit 800,000 in 2023, led by Indonesia and Vietnam.
  • Canada petrochemicals employed 55,000 in 2023, with Alberta hub at 30,000 jobs.
  • Australia chemicals workforce 60,000 in 2023, focused on mining chemicals.
  • Mexico chemical industry jobs totaled 200,000 in 2023, nearshoring boost.
  • Russia chemicals employed 250,000 despite sanctions in 2023.
  • Africa chemicals employment 150,000 in 2023, South Africa leading with 40,000.
  • UK chemical sector 190,000 jobs in 2023, R&D intensive with 25,000 scientists.
  • France chemicals employed 160,000 in 2023, specialty focus.
  • Netherlands chemical workforce 90,000 in 2023, Rotterdam port hub.
  • Global chemicals R&D staff totaled 500,000 in 2023, 40% in Asia.
  • Safety training hours reached 25 million in US chemicals 2023, zero lost-time incidents goal.
  • EU chemicals apprenticeships 50,000 new starts in 2023 for skills development.
  • China chemicals vocational training covered 1 million workers in 2023 programs.
  • India upskilled 300,000 chemical workers via government schemes in 2023.

Regional and Employment Data Interpretation

While the West nervously counts and trains its smaller, specialized workforces, Asia's chemical juggernaut is powered by a massive labor force that's rapidly upskilling, proving that global chemical production might be increasingly a question of sheer manpower and disciplined training rather than just technological might.

Revenue and Profitability

  • BASF SE reported revenues of 68.9 billion euros in 2023, down 11% YoY due to weak demand but EBITDA pre-exceptionals at 12.7 billion euros.
  • Dow Inc. achieved net sales of 44.6 billion USD in 2023, a 10% decline from 2022, with operating EBIT of 3.5 billion USD.
  • Linde plc generated sales of 32.9 billion USD in 2023, up 2% YoY, with adjusted operating profit of 8.7 billion USD.
  • Air Liquide reported sales of 27.6 billion euros in 2023, growing 4.2%, with net profit group share at 3.4 billion euros.
  • DuPont de Nemours Inc. had net sales of 12.1 billion USD in 2023, down 13%, but net income of 423 million USD.
  • LyondellBasell Industries posted revenues of 41.1 billion USD in 2023, a 15% drop, with net income of 2.1 billion USD.
  • Celanese Corporation reported net sales of 10.9 billion USD in 2023, down 7%, with adjusted EBIT of 1.9 billion USD.
  • Eastman Chemical Company achieved sales of 9.2 billion USD in 2023, flat YoY, with earnings from continuing ops of 597 million USD.
  • Covestro AG generated sales of 14.6 billion euros in 2023, down 20%, but EBITDA pre-exceptionals at 1.6 billion euros.
  • Evonik Industries reported sales of 15.3 billion euros in 2023, down 13%, with adjusted EBITDA of 2.2 billion euros.
  • Wanhua Chemical Group Co. achieved revenue of 153.3 billion CNY in 2023, up 3.8% YoY, with net profit of 15.1 billion CNY.
  • Sinopec reported chemicals revenue of 1.2 trillion CNY in 2023, contributing to total profit of 57.3 billion CNY.
  • SABIC generated revenues of 38.8 billion USD in 2023, down 24%, with net income of 0.4 billion USD.
  • Formosa Plastics Corp. posted revenue of 1.05 trillion TWD in 2023, with net income of 38.2 billion TWD.
  • Ineos Group had estimated revenues of 56 billion USD in 2023, with EBITDA around 4.5 billion USD despite market challenges.
  • Mitsubishi Chemical Group reported net sales of 4.6 trillion JPY in FY2023, up 5%, with operating income of 262 billion JPY.
  • Sumitomo Chemical Co. achieved net sales of 2.7 trillion JPY in FY2023, down 6%, net loss of 72 billion JPY.
  • LG Chem Ltd. reported revenue of 55.1 trillion KRW in 2023, up 4%, with operating profit of 2.4 trillion KRW.
  • Reliance Industries chemicals segment revenue was 7.3 trillion INR in FY2023, with EBITDA of 0.9 trillion INR.
  • Petrobras chemicals (Braskem) revenue totaled 79 billion BRL in 2023, net income 3.8 billion BRL.
  • TotalEnergies chemicals sales reached 17.5 billion euros in 2023, with EBITDA of 2.1 billion euros.
  • ExxonMobil Chemical net sales were 38.3 billion USD in 2023, down 18%, earnings 4.2 billion USD.
  • Chevron Phillips Chemical estimated revenues of 15 billion USD in 2023, strong profitability from olefins.
  • Westlake Chemical reported net sales of 13.2 billion USD in 2023, net income 1.1 billion USD.
  • OQ Chemicals Group sales around 3.2 billion euros in 2023, EBITDA 0.6 billion euros.
  • Arkema SA achieved sales of 11.8 billion euros in 2023, up 3%, recurring EBITDA 1.9 billion euros.
  • Solvay (Syensqo spin-off) reported sales of 6.3 billion euros in 2023 for specialty chemicals.
  • Clariant AG net sales 6.4 billion CHF in 2023, down 6%, EBITDA 1.1 billion CHF.
  • Ashland Inc. generated revenue of 2.2 billion USD in FY2023, adjusted EBITDA 370 million USD.
  • RPM International Inc. sales 7.3 billion USD in FY2023, net income 746 million USD.

Revenue and Profitability Interpretation

Amidst a sea of mostly flat or falling revenues, the chemical giants are proving that while you can't always control the top line, a sharp focus on costs and specialty markets can still squeeze out a handsome profit.

Sustainability Initiatives

  • The chemical industry invested 18 billion euros in R&D in Europe in 2023, representing 1.8% of sales.
  • Global chemical production CO2 emissions totaled 1.2 gigatons in 2023, accounting for 5% of industrial emissions.
  • 65% of European chemical companies achieved at least 20% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions since 2015 baseline.
  • US chemical industry recycled 8.2 billion pounds of post-consumer plastics in 2023, up 5% from 2022.
  • 42% of global chemical production capacity is expected to be low-carbon ready by 2030 under net-zero scenarios.
  • Bio-based chemicals production capacity reached 12 million tons globally in 2023, growing 15% YoY.
  • Chemical sector water usage intensity fell 28% globally from 2010 to 2023 per ton of output.
  • 78% of top 100 chemical companies disclosed Scope 3 emissions in 2023, up from 55% in 2020.
  • Renewable energy usage in chemical manufacturing rose to 18% of total energy in Europe by 2023.
  • Plastic waste collected for recycling worldwide hit 50 million tons in 2023, with chemicals aiding advanced recycling.
  • Chemical industry invested 2.5 billion USD in carbon capture projects in 2023 globally.
  • 35% reduction in VOC emissions achieved by US chemicals sector since 1990 baseline in 2023.
  • Sustainable packaging chemicals market grew to 45 billion USD in 2023, 12% YoY increase.
  • 92% of European chemical sites certified under Responsible Care in 2023, covering safety metrics.
  • Hydrogen production for chemicals shifted to green sources at 2% of total 95 million tons in 2023.
  • Zero-waste to landfill achieved by 45% of global chemical majors' facilities in 2023.
  • Bio-plastics production capacity expanded to 2.2 million tons globally in 2023, up 19%.
  • Chemical sector PFAS emissions reduced 70% in Europe since 2015 through 2023 phase-outs.
  • Energy efficiency improved by 25% in chemical production processes globally 2015-2023.
  • Sustainable aviation fuel chemicals precursors production tripled to 0.6 million tons in 2023.
  • Water recycling rate in chemicals reached 65% globally in 2023, saving 120 billion m3 annually.
  • Biodiversity initiatives covered 15 million hectares by chemical companies in 2023 partnerships.
  • Low-carbon ammonia pilots produced 0.1 million tons commercially in 2023.
  • Circular plastics chemicals recycled 4 million tons into new products in 2023 globally.
  • GHG intensity of methanol production dropped 15% in leading regions 2020-2023.
  • 55 chemical companies committed to 30% Scope 3 reduction by 2030 as of 2023.
  • Europe chemical industry CO2 price impact led to 10% emissions cut in high-price scenarios 2023.

Sustainability Initiatives Interpretation

The chemical industry’s progress toward sustainability resembles a brilliant but messy alchemist, transforming billions in R&D and rising recycling rates into real, if uneven, reductions in its formidable environmental footprint while racing to scale low-carbon solutions before the clock runs out.

Sources & References