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Microcrystalline Cellulose Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Source (Wood based, Non wood based), By Form (Powdered, Liquid), By Application (Pharmaceutical, Food & Beverages, Personal Care & Cosmetics, Paints & Coatings, Others), and Regional Analysis, 2024-2031
Pages: 170 | Base Year: 2023 | Release: March 2025 | Author: Versha V.
The market involves the production, distribution, and consumption of MCC, a refined, partially depolymerized cellulose derived from wood pulp or plant fibers. MCC is widely used as a functional ingredient in pharmaceuticals, food & beverages, cosmetics, and other industries, due to its binding, stabilizing, and bulking properties.
The global microcrystalline cellulose market size was valued at USD 1117.6 million in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 1175.7 million in 2024 to USD 1791.0 million by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.20% during the forecast period.
This growth is driven by the increasing demand across pharmaceutical, food & beverage, and personal care industries, due to MCC’s versatile applications as a binding, stabilizing, and anti-caking agent. The expanding pharmaceutical sector, particularly in emerging markets, is fueling the demand for MCC as an excipient in drug formulations.
Major companies operating in the microcrystalline cellulose industry are Fengchen Group Co., Ltd, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc., Ankit Pulps and Boards Pvt Ltd., Asahi Kasei Corporation, Roquette Frères, Sigachi Industries, SEPPIC, FMC Corporation, Wei Ming Pharmaceutical Mfg. Co., Ltd., Accent Microcell Ltd., DFE Pharma, Vivion, Quadra, Mingtai Chemical, and JRS PHARMA.
Rising consumer preference for clean-label and plant-based ingredients is propelling its adoption in food & cosmetic products. Technological advancements in cellulose processing and sustainable raw material sourcing further contribute to the market expansion.
Market Driver
"Growing Demand for Pharmaceutical Excipients"
The microcrystalline cellulose market is primarily driven by the rising demand for pharmaceutical excipients, due to the expanding global pharmaceutical sector. MCC plays a crucial role as an excipient in drug formulations, functioning as a binder and bulking agent in tablets and capsules, ensuring uniformity and stability in dosage forms.
The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, and cancer, has heightened the need for effective drug formulations that offer enhanced bioavailability, stability, and controlled release properties.
Pharmaceutical companies are investing in innovative drug delivery systems to improve patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes as the global burden of these diseases continues to rise. MCC plays a vital role in these advancements by ensuring uniformity in tablet formulations, enhancing disintegration, and improving the overall quality of oral solid dosage forms.
Market Challenge
"Supply Chain Disruptions and Raw Material Dependency"
A significant challenge in the microcrystalline cellulose market is the dependency on raw materials, primarily wood pulp and other plant-derived sources, which are subject to price volatility and supply chain disruptions. Manufacturers can explore alternative sustainable sources such as agricultural residues or microbial cellulose to reduce dependence on traditional wood pulp.
Additionally, investing in regional production facilities and diversifying supplier networks can enhance supply chain resilience. Technological advancements in cellulose extraction and processing can also improve yield efficiency, reducing reliance on scarce raw materials.
Market Trend
"Rising Demand for Clean-label and Plant-based Ingredients"
A key trend shaping the microcrystalline cellulose market is the increasing consumer preference for clean-label and plant-based ingredients across multiple industries, particularly in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. Consumers are becoming more conscious of product formulations, leading manufacturers to replace synthetic additives with natural, sustainable alternatives.
MCC, derived from plant-based cellulose, aligns with this demand, as it offers excellent functionality without compromising product purity or safety. In the pharmaceutical sector, the shift toward plant-derived excipients has encouraged manufacturers to invest in MCC-based formulations that meet stringent regulatory and consumer requirements.
Additionally, the growing demand for biodegradable and sustainable personal care products has positioned MCC as a viable ingredient in cosmetics and skincare formulations.
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Segmentation |
Details |
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By Source |
Wood based, Non wood based |
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By Form |
Powdered, Liquid |
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By Application |
Pharmaceutical, Food & Beverages, Personal Care & Cosmetics, Paints & Coatings, Others |
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By Region |
North America: U.S., Canada, Mexico |
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Europe: France, UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe |
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Asia Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia, ASEAN, South Korea, Rest of Asia Pacific |
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Middle East & Africa: Turkey, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa |
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South America: Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America |
Market Segmentation:
Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.
North America accounted for a microcrystalline cellulose market share of around 33.78% in 2023, with a valuation of USD 377.6 million. The region’s dominance is attributed to the strong presence of pharmaceutical and food industries, high demand for excipients in drug formulations, and strict regulatory standards ensuring the use of high-quality MCC.
The U.S. leads the regional market, due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, increasing R&D investments, and rising consumption of processed foods.
The microcrystalline cellulose industry in Asia Pacific is poised to grow at a significant CAGR of 7.12% over the forecast period, driven by expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing, increasing disposable income, and rising demand for functional food ingredients. Countries like China, India, and Japan are registering significant industrial expansion, fueling the adoption of MCC in pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic applications.
The region benefits from low-cost raw material availability, rapid urbanization, and growing investments in healthcare infrastructure, making it a key region in the market.
The global microcrystalline cellulose market is characterized by a large number of participants, including established corporations and rising organizations. Key market players focus on product innovation, capacity expansion, and strategic partnerships to strengthen their market position.
Leading companies emphasize high-purity MCC production, sustainability initiatives, and compliance with regulatory standards to cater to the growing demand from pharmaceutical, food & beverage, and personal care industries. Major players in the market engage in mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures to expand their global footprint.
Additionally, advancements in cellulose processing technologies and the introduction of organic & non-GMO MCC variants have intensified competition. Companies are also investing in regional production facilities to enhance supply chain resilience and reduce dependency on raw material imports.
The competitive landscape is expected to evolve further as companies focus on sustainable sourcing, cost-efficient production, and meeting the increasing demand for plant-based and clean-label excipients.
Recent Developments (New Product Launch)
