Expanding Applications of Mono Propylene Glycol Fuel Market Growth Across Industries

Monopropylene glycol is essential in the pharmaceutical sector for its dual function as a solvent and excipient, greatly improving the stability and effectiveness of medications. According to the American Gas Association, the US pharmaceutical manufacturing industry generates US$663 billion in economic contributions and support. The Indian pharmaceutical industry, with 3,000 drug companies and approximately 10,500 manufacturing units, is expected to reach US$ 130 billion by 2030 according to IBEF. MPG's characteristics like improving solubility, being compatible with biological systems, versatility, being recognized by regulations, and cost-efficiency, confirm its importance in pharmaceutical formulations.

Mono-propylene glycol has various applications in other sectors as well; it is considered a very versatile chemical. It is used as a solvent and carrier, and at times also stabilizes in food as an additive. The demand for processed and packaged food items increases at a faster rate, which in turn directly supports the consumption of mono-propylene glycol. Interestingly, the United States FDA allows food use by mono-propylene glycol, including alcoholic beverages in concentrations as high as up to 5%.  MPG, being a hydrating agent with preservative properties, is in great demand as an additive to packaged foods and beverages. Apart from food applications, this compound finds great value in the cosmetics and personal care industries due to its hydrating characteristics. Expansions of these industries fuel further the demand for MPG. For instance, the automobile industry requires MPG because it is used in antifreeze, and coolant formulations, as well as other versions of car fluids. The increase in vehicle production and maintenance activities is contributing to higher MPG consumption. A prominent example of a leading player in the MPG market is Dow Inc., which supplies both food-grade and cosmetic-grade propylene glycol. The expanding applications in these end-use industries are significantly driving the growth of the MPG market.
Mono Propylene Glycol Market Report

Cost-Effective Production and Sustainability Propel Mono Propylene Glycol Market

The increasing emphasis on sustainability is creating significant opportunities in the mono-propylene glycol (MPG) market, particularly with the shift toward bio-based products. As global demand for eco-friendly chemicals rises, MPG manufacturers are presented with a growing market for bioMPG, derived from renewable resources such as plant-based feedstocks. This trend aligns both with environmental objectives and consumers' and regulators' demand for less damaging alternatives. For instance, Dow Inc. recently introduced two new sustainable propylene glycol products in North America in March 2024. When consumers and regulators were urged toward more bio-based solutions, the market strengthened its future prospects by calling attention to Braskem and Sojitz's joint venture, Sustainea, aimed at producing bioMPG at an industrial scale. These innovations underscore the significant demand for bio-based MPG in sectors such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food & beverages, where sustainability is becoming a key purchasing criterion. The combination of regulatory pressure and consumer demand positions bioMPG as a high-growth segment within the broader chemical industry.

The mono-propylene glycol (MPG) market presents a significant opportunity driven by the abundant availability of key raw materials, particularly propylene oxide (PO), which is predominantly derived from petroleum and natural gas. In 2023, United States exports of Methyloxirane (propylene oxide) reached approximately US$372 million, with a total quantity of 332.8 million kilograms, indicating a robust supply chain for the production of MPG.  This ensures strong availability of raw materials, placing MPG as a cost-competitive product in nearly all industries-from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics, food and beverages, and industrial applications. The favorable environmental and safety profile of MPG has come as a boon compared with the other alternatives such as ethylene glycol (EG). A less toxic and non-carcinogenic material like MPG is a preferred choice for industries where product safety and environmental impact will be prominent.

Advanced production techniques, such as the direct oxidation process and hydroformylation method have greatly optimized the production of MPG, significantly increasing both efficiency and reducing cost. Innovations of such kind have played important roles in making MPG more accessible to a wider range of industries and thereby paving the way for a wider adoption of MPG. Overall, the general cost of MPG production is lower, giving industries requiring high volumes a competitive advantage. From the automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, among others-industrial groupings, this means the benefit is not only from cost savings but also from cost scalability because of the capability of meeting existing demand and growth potential.

Recent Trends in the Mono Propylene Glycol Industry

  • Growing shift towards bio-based MPG derived from renewable sources
  • Advances in production technology
  • Growth in industrial and consumer applications
  • Increased use of personal care products
  • Innovations in production resulting in higher purity grades
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Counterfeit Products and Stricter Regulations Challenge the Mono Propylene Glycol Market

The identification of falsified products in the market can lead to heightened regulatory scrutiny and more stringent compliance requirements. This shift is likely to increase operational costs for legitimate manufacturers as they adapt to stricter regulations and enhanced quality assurance protocols. For example, in April 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued an alert about the detection of falsified Dow USP/EP Propylene Glycol in Pakistan. Falsified products, which are often sold at reduced prices, can disrupt market pricing structures and introduce unfair competition. This can force legitimate companies to lower their prices, potentially impacting their profitability. The emergence of counterfeit Dow USP/EP Propylene Glycol presents a significant challenge to the MPG market, affecting consumer trust, regulatory compliance, and overall market dynamics. Proactive measures to address these issues are essential for mitigating their impact and supporting sustained market growth.

Increasing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products is pushing companies to adopt greener practices and explore alternative solutions, potentially influencing the demand for monopropylene glycol (MPG). A recent development in this trend is Essential Lab’s introduction of Propanediol, a corn sugar-derived alternative to propylene glycol, to its extensive range of cosmetic ingredients. Propanediol, with its bio-based origins, reduced carbon footprint, and favorable safety profile, presents a compelling natural alternative to MPG. Its appeal is particularly strong among consumers and industries committed to sustainability and environmental impact. However, factors such as cost considerations and market adoption will play a critical role in its wider acceptance. As the market for green and sustainable products expands, Propanediol's growing presence may act as a constraint on the growth of the MPG market. Companies will need to navigate these evolving preferences and consider incorporating sustainable alternatives to maintain competitiveness and meet consumer expectations.

The mono-propylene glycol (MPG) market faces increasing scrutiny due to concerns over its potential toxicity at elevated concentrations, particularly in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. As consumer awareness of health and safety risks rises, regulatory bodies are expected to impose stricter guidelines. This shift may drive demand for safer, non-toxic alternatives, influencing product formulations and manufacturing practices within industries relying on MPG. The market's future growth may hinge on innovation in safer chemical substitutes.

Sustainable Product Launches and Partnerships Boost BioMPG Market Expansion

New product launches are poised to drive positive developments in the mono-propylene glycol (MPG) market by addressing the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions, enhancing competitive advantages, and stimulating market growth and innovation. For instance, in March 2024, Dow, a chemical producer, introduced two new propylene glycol (PG) products in North America. These offerings utilize bio-circular and circular feedstocks, catering to a diverse array of applications and aligning with growing sustainability trends in the industry. Recent developments in ORLEN Południe have greatly influenced the sustainable innovation growth rate in the mono-propylene glycol market. Poland's largest biofuels producer, ORLEN Południe, reported results on the first year of operation for its BioPG plant back in May 2023. This facility will convert glycerol, into renewable propylene glycol (BioPG). Annual capacity: 30,000 metric tons the plant will enable the ORLEN Group to support its strategic goal of achieving CO2 neutrality by 2050. It is poised to cover 75% of Poland's propylene glycol demand, providing eco-friendly MPG alternatives and helping meet pressure from consumers and regulators to promote more sustainable solutions.

In December 2023, Braskem, a leader in industrial-scale bioproducts production, and Sojitz, a globally oriented trading company based in Japan, announced the launch of Sustainea, which will focus on the production and marketing of bio-based mono propylene glycol (bioMPG). This initiative comes after the approval of their joint venture by antitrust authorities, a process that began in March 2022. A multi-functional product, mono propylene glycol (MPG) could be found in unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) which is widely applied to the construction sector and even to cosmetics. This collaboration with Braskem and Sojitz will be very advantageous for the penetration of markets and resource-sharing arrangements, ensuring easy access to the market and further growth in the bioMPG segment.
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Rising Demand in India, China, and Japan Drives Boom in the Asia-Pacific MPG Market

The mono-propylene glycol market is dominated by key regions, and Asia-Pacific is the largest in terms of production as well as consumption. The world's largest consumer and producer of MPG are the majority, driven by sectors that are expanding rapidly-for example, automotive, pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and personal care. This trend is highly driven by the automotive industry's demand for antifreeze and coolants, as well as the increasing rate of using MPG in cosmetic and personal care products. The Asian Development Bank report points out that growth in developing Asia and the Pacific during the first half of 2024 has mainly been strong, mainly driven by strong domestic demand and a gradual recovery in exports. For example, it is projected to grow at 3.3% in 2024 while expecting the region to reach 4% in 2025. However, the population in APAC is large and continues to grow, thus being the largest force behind consumer goods and products that depend on MPG. Beyond China, other important markets within APAC include India, Japan, and South Korea. These countries are witnessing an uptick in MPG demand driven by increased industrial activities and the rising adoption of MPG across various sectors.

The United States maintains a dominant position in the North American mono-propylene glycol (MPG) market, driven by substantial consumption in sectors such as antifreeze and coolants, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. The region benefits from a well-established chemical manufacturing infrastructure, which supports the growing demand for MPG across various applications. Demand from the automotive sector has been the driving force in North America while growing adoption in personal care and pharmaceutical products has further pushed its demand. Innovation and product development in the United States have very significantly contributed to the wide-scale adoption of MPG across industries. United States exports of propylene glycol in 2023 were US$173.07 million equivalent to 123.35 million kilograms, and this again reinforces the role of the region in the global MPG market. All these factors bring North America to the head of the list of the most rapidly growing regions for mono propylene glycol, with steady growth both by internal demand as well as through cross-border trade.
The report provides a detailed overview of the mono propylene glycol market insights in regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa. The country-specific assessment for the mono propylene glycol market has been offered for all regional market shares, along with forecasts, market scope estimates, price point assessment, and impact analysis of prominent countries and regions. Throughout this market research report, Y-o-Y growth and CAGR estimates are also incorporated for every country and region, to provide a detailed view of the mono propylene glycol market. These Y-o-Y projections on regional and country-level markets brighten the political, economic, and business environment outlook, which are anticipated to have a substantial impact on the growth of the mono-propylene glycol market. Some key countries and regions included in the mono-propylene glycol market report are as follows:
North America United States, Canada
Latin America Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Rest of Latin America
Europe Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Sweden, Austria, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia & New Zealand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Rest of Asia Pacific
Middle East and Africa GCC Countries, South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Israel, Iran, Kenya, Turkey, Rest of MEA

Mono Propylene Glycol Market Research Report Covers In-depth Analysis on:

  • Mono propylene glycol market detailed segments and segment-wise market breakdown
  • Mono propylene glycol market dynamics (Recent industry trends, drivers, restraints, growth potential, opportunities in mono propylene glycol industry)
  • Current, historical, and forthcoming 10 years market valuation in terms of mono propylene glycol market size (US$ Mn), volume (Tons), share (%), Y-o-Y growth rate, CAGR (%) analysis
  • Mono propylene glycol market demand analysis
  • Mono propylene glycol market pricing analysis over the forecast period (by key segment and by region)
  • Mono propylene glycol market regional insights with region-wise market breakdown
  • Competitive analysis – key companies profiling including their market share, product offerings, and competitive strategies.
  • Latest developments and innovations in mono mono-propylene glycol market
  • Regulatory landscape by key regions and key countries
  • Supply chain and value chain analysis in mono propylene glycol market
  • Mono propylene glycol market sales and distribution strategies
  • A comprehensive overview of the parent market
  • A detailed viewpoint on mono propylene glycol market forecast by countries
  • Mergers and acquisitions in mono mono-propylene glycol market
  • Essential information to enhance market position
  • Robust research methodology

- Frequently Asked Questions -

What are the driving factors for the growth of the mono-propylene glycol market?

The market growth is fueled by increasing demand in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries, as well as its usage in antifreeze and de-icing applications in the automotive sector.

What are the key challenges in the mono-propylene glycol market?

Challenges include fluctuating raw material prices, regulatory constraints, and the emergence of alternative materials that could replace mono-propylene glycol in certain applications, affecting its market share.

What are the future growth prospects for the mono-propylene glycol market?

The mono propylene glycol market is expected to experience steady growth, driven by rising demand in diverse sectors, increasing consumer preference for eco-friendly products, and ongoing industrial applications.