The global biocides market was valued at approximately USD 9.29 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2025 to 2030. This market growth is largely driven by demand from the consumer products sector, where biocides play an essential role in a wide range of goods. In this segment, biocides are incorporated into products like cleaning agents, cosmetics, disinfectants, sanitary wipes, laundry products, toothpaste, and various types of detergents. Beyond consumer products, biocides are also increasingly applied in other formulations, such as insecticides, preservatives, fungicides, antiseptics, and herbicides, reflecting their diverse utility across multiple industries.

The global biocides market comprises two primary types based on their mode of action: oxidizing and non-oxidizing biocides. Oxidizing biocides, which work by breaking down microorganisms through oxidation, are produced using chemicals such as sodium bromide, peracetic acid, and chlorine. In contrast, non-oxidizing biocides work through a different mechanism, often targeting specific cellular processes in microbes. These are produced with chemicals like 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one, among others, which are effective in preventing microbial growth in various applications.

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Stricter regulatory measures and an emphasis on sustainable development have led to a steady decrease in chemical production in the European Union. This reduction, combined with the comparatively higher production costs in the EU and the U.S., has provided a competitive edge to the Asia Pacific region, particularly countries like China, Japan, South Korea, India, and Taiwan. These countries benefit from readily available raw materials and lower production costs, enhancing their position in the global biocides market.

In the food industry, the demand for biocides is notably high as they play a vital role in controlling microbial contamination in food and beverages. Biocides are also applied to disinfect food storage containers, surfaces, and piping systems used in food logistics. As major multinational companies work to expand their product portfolios, they are increasingly focusing on innovations that minimize the potential hazards associated with biocides. This trend is anticipated to broaden the scope of biocide use in the food sector in the coming years.

End Use Segmentation Insights:

Within the biocides market, the paints and coatings segment held a significant revenue share of 26.0% during the forecast period. Paints and coatings are highly susceptible to microbial contamination, as they are often exposed to contaminants from water and air during bulk handling and storage. The use of biocides in this segment serves multiple purposes, including preserving the dry film, preventing microbial growth, and ensuring the preservation of the product within containers. Additionally, biocides help to prevent fungal growth on paint after it has dried and the film has formed. These agents are applied during the production process of paints and coatings and also in treating wastewater generated during their production. By applying biocides, manufacturers can prevent product degradation and ensure longevity and quality.

Water treatment is another major application for biocides. In this area, biocides are essential to prevent antifouling, biofilm formation, and contamination caused by bacteria or algae in a variety of water systems. These systems include cooling towers, pools and spas, paper manufacturing facilities, municipal drinking water treatment plants, and industrial water treatment operations. Commonly used biocides in these water treatment applications include chemicals such as hypobromous acid, sodium bromide, silver, bromine, hydrogen peroxide, stabilized bromine, chlorine tablets, calcium hypochlorite, sodium hypochlorite, quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), Bronopol, and isothiazolinones. These biocides play a crucial role in ensuring that water systems remain clean, uncontaminated, and free from biofouling, which helps maintain operational efficiency across various industries.

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