Surfactants: market to approach $67bn by 2031

Driven by the rise of sustainable and bio-based formulations, the sector is expected to record a compound annual growth rate of 5.08% between 2026 and 2031, according to MarketsandMarkets. Its value is forecast to increase from $52.25bn (approximately €45.3bn) to $66.95bn (€58bn) over the period. Cosmetics represented the second-largest end-use segment by value in 2025, supported in particular by strong demand for premium haircare products and the growing number of formulations designed for colour-treated, textured or damaged hair, as well as sensitive scalps. This trend is fuelling demand for surfactant systems combining effective cleansing, high-quality foam and enhanced sensory performance. Asia-Pacific accounted for 39.9% of the global market in 2025.