The global propylene glycol market has emerged as one of the most dynamic segments within the specialty chemicals industry, driven by its versatile applications across a wide spectrum of industries ranging from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to automotive, food and beverage, and construction. Propylene glycol (PG), a synthetic organic compound derived primarily from petrochemical sources such as propylene oxide, is valued for its unique properties including low toxicity, high solubility, humectant capability, chemical stability, and compatibility with a variety of other ingredients. Its multifunctional role as a solvent, carrier, stabilizer, humectant, and antifreeze agent has positioned it as a critical raw material in industries that are experiencing consistent global demand growth. The increasing emphasis on consumer safety, product quality, and regulatory compliance has further strengthened the market for USP- and food-grade propylene glycol, particularly in the pharmaceutical and food processing sectors where PG is used in medicines, syrups, processed foods, and beverages as an additive and preservative. On the industrial side, the compound is widely used in the production of unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs), which are essential in construction, marine, and automotive applications, reflecting strong demand from infrastructural development and transportation industries worldwide. Moreover, the market is being shaped by technological advancements, sustainability trends,

and the gradual shift toward bio-based propylene glycol derived from renewable resources such as glycerin. With rising environmental concerns and stringent regulations on petrochemical derivatives, bio-based PG is gaining traction as an eco-friendly alternative, supported by innovations in green chemistry and circular economy initiatives. Additionally, the increasing popularity of processed and packaged food, growing consumption of personal care products, and rising pharmaceutical manufacturing, especially in emerging economies across Asia-Pacific, are contributing significantly to market expansion.According to the research report “Global Propylene Glycol Market Outlook, 2030” published by Bonafide Research, the Global Propylene Glycol market is projected to reach market size of USD 6.48 Billion by 2030 increasing from USD 4.61 Billion in 2024, growing with 5.94% CAGR by 2025-30. A primary factor driving the market is the expanding use of unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs) in industries such as construction, marine, automotive, and electronics. With rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and increasing automobile production, UPR demand is rising, directly boosting propylene glycol consumption as a key raw material. Similarly, the compound’s unique properties such as low volatility, humectancy, and non-toxicity make it highly valuable in pharmaceuticals and personal care products, where it functions as a carrier in oral and topical medicines, cosmetics, lotion

s, and creams. The growth of the healthcare sector, along with rising awareness of personal hygiene and wellness, is fueling strong demand for pharmaceutical- and cosmetic-grade PG. Another important development in the market is the growing preference for bio-based propylene glycol, which addresses environmental concerns associated with petroleum-derived chemicals. Governments and regulatory bodies across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are promoting sustainability initiatives, encouraging manufacturers to adopt renewable feedstocks such as glycerin. The food and beverage industry is also contributing significantly to PG consumption, as it is used in processed food, beverages, flavorings, and colorants. Rising disposable incomes, changing dietary habits, and growing consumption of packaged and convenience foods in emerging economies are creating consistent opportunities for growth. Geographically, Asia-Pacific dominates the global market, led by China and India, due to their rapidly expanding construction, automotive, and food processing industries. The region also benefits from cost-effective manufacturing, availability of raw materials, and large-scale consumer bases.The excipients application segment dominates the global propylene glycol market primarily due to its widespread use in the pharmaceutical and personal care industries, where propylene glycol functions as a safe, reliable, and multifunctional ingredient. As an excipient, propylene glycol serves as a solv

ent, stabilizer, humectant, and carrier, making it indispensable in the formulation of oral medications, topical creams, ointments, and injectables. Its low toxicity, miscibility with water and many organic compounds, and ability to enhance drug solubility give it a significant edge over alternative excipients. With the pharmaceutical industry experiencing robust growth worldwide—fueled by rising chronic diseases, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and increasing demand for generic medicines—the need for excipients has expanded considerably, placing propylene glycol at the forefront of this segment. Propylene glycol is extensively used in lotions, creams, deodorants, shampoos, and makeup products as a moisturizing agent and stabilizer. The ongoing global trend toward enhanced skincare, grooming, and wellness products has further strengthened its demand, particularly in Asia-Pacific, which is witnessing strong consumer spending on beauty and personal care. Moreover, regulatory approvals of propylene glycol as a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) substance by organizations such as the U.S. FDA and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) provide confidence for its use in sensitive applications, reinforcing its acceptance across pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. The growing importance of biologics, complex drug formulations, and innovative delivery systems has also elevated the role of excipients like propylene glycol, as it ensures consistency, stability, and effect

iveness of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).The construction end-user segment holds the largest share of the global propylene glycol market because of its critical role in producing unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs), which are widely used in building materials, composites, and coatings. Propylene glycol is a key raw material in UPR manufacturing, and these resins are essential for applications such as pipes, tanks, panels, flooring, claddings, and roofing components. With the construction industry witnessing steady growth worldwide—driven by urbanization, infrastructure investments, and housing demand—the consumption of propylene glycol for UPRs has surged, making construction the dominant end-user category. The compound’s excellent chemical stability, resistance to corrosion, and compatibility with fiberglass reinforcement make it ideal for producing durable materials required in modern infrastructure. Countries across Asia-Pacific, particularly China and India, are undertaking large-scale construction and infrastructure development projects, which directly boost demand for propylene glycol-based materials. Similarly, in developed regions such as North America and Europe, the renovation of old infrastructure and adoption of advanced construction composites also sustain market growth. The growing emphasis on sustainable and energy-efficient construction is further driving the use of advanced materials containing propylene glycol. Additionally, its relatively low env

ironmental impact compared to other synthetic chemicals makes it a favorable choice in the industry, especially as regulations tighten around sustainable practices.The petroleum-based source type dominates the global propylene glycol market because of its established production process, large-scale availability of raw materials, and cost competitiveness compared to bio-based alternatives. Petroleum-derived propylene glycol is produced through the hydration of propylene oxide, a process that has been widely adopted for decades and is supported by a robust supply chain across major petrochemical hubs worldwide. This method ensures consistency in quality, high yield, and large-volume production capacity, enabling it to meet the strong demand from diverse end-use industries such as pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, construction, automotive, and personal care. The abundance of petroleum-based feedstock and mature technologies make this source type highly efficient, reliable, and cost-effective compared to bio-based production, which is still developing and faces scalability challenges. Industries such as construction and automotive, which consume propylene glycol in large quantities for unsaturated polyester resins, antifreeze, de-icing fluids, and lubricants, rely heavily on petroleum-based sources due to the high demand for bulk supply and performance stability. While environmental concerns and sustainability goals are pushing investments into bio-based propylene glycol, the pet

rochemical route remains the preferred option for industries where cost efficiency and immediate availability outweigh green considerations. The versatility of petroleum-based propylene glycol also makes it suitable across purity grades, ranging from industrial to food and pharmaceutical applications, reinforcing its stronghold across global markets. Moreover, rapid industrialization in Asia-Pacific, particularly in China and India, has increased the demand for petroleum-based propylene glycol, as these countries benefit from large petrochemical complexes and cost-effective production models.The pharmaceutical grade type of propylene glycol is witnessing significant growth due to rising global healthcare demand, stricter regulatory standards, and the compound’s crucial role as a safe and effective excipient in drug formulations. Pharmaceutical-grade propylene glycol is characterized by its high purity, non-toxic nature, and compliance with stringent standards such as those set by the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) and European Pharmacopeia (Ph. Eur.). These attributes make it suitable for sensitive applications in oral, injectable, and topical medicines where product safety, stability, and effectiveness are paramount. With the expansion of the global pharmaceutical industry, driven by the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, aging populations, and rising access to healthcare in developing economies, the demand for pharmaceutical-grade PG is accelerating. The key factors behind th

is growth is the increasing importance of excipients in modern drug delivery systems. Propylene glycol functions as a solvent, carrier, stabilizer, and humectant, enabling the efficient formulation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The surge in demand for generics, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and innovative formulations such as biologics and controlled-release medications has amplified the use of pharmaceutical-grade PG. Furthermore, regulatory approvals and recognition of propylene glycol as a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) ingredient provide strong assurance of its safety profile, further boosting adoption across pharmaceutical manufacturers. The personal care and cosmetic industry also contributes to the growth of this grade type, as pharmaceutical-grade propylene glycol is preferred in products like lotions, creams, and dermatological formulations due to its purity and skin-friendly properties.