Global Citric Acid Market Grows at a Staggering CAGR of 4.2%

Introduction

Citric acid is a mild organic acid naturally present in citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and limes. It appears as a colorless, crystalline substance with a distinct sour taste and is widely utilized in the food and beverage industry as a preservative, acidulant, and flavor enhancer. Additionally, citric acid is a key metabolic component, acting as an intermediate in the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), which is crucial for energy production in living organisms. Beyond food, it serves pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and cleaning industries due to its chelating properties, which help remove metal ions and prevent oxidation. Industrially, it is employed in water treatment and eco-friendly cleaning solutions, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional chemicals.

The global citric acid market is witnessing steady growth, driven by its increasing adoption across food, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors. The rising preference for natural preservatives and acidulants has fueled citric acid’s widespread use in food processing, carbonated drinks, and dairy products. Its pH-regulating and flavor-enhancing properties have further boosted demand in confectionery and ready-to-eat foods. Additionally, the pharmaceutical industry significantly contributes to market expansion, with citric acid being a key ingredient in effervescent tablets, anticoagulants, and vitamin supplements. Furthermore, its increasing incorporation into biodegradable cleaning products—as an alternative to harsh chemicals—underscores its growing demand due to its non-toxic and environmentally friendly nature.

Market Dynamics

Rising demand for clean label and natural ingredients drives market growth

The global shift toward clean label products has transformed consumer preferences, compelling the food industry to prioritize natural, additive-free ingredients. This change is largely driven by growing awareness of the health risks associated with artificial additives such as flavorings, colorants, texturizers, fat substitutes, and sweeteners.

• A Nielsen survey revealed that 75% of global consumers are willing to pay a premium for food products that emphasize clean label attributes, including the absence of artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

To meet this demand, manufacturers are increasingly sourcing citric acid from plant-based origins, including citrus fruits, vegetables, and microbial fermentation. Various organizations have also launched initiatives promoting organic ingredients in the food and beverage industry, reinforcing the shift toward natural and sustainable product formulations.

The increasing use of sulfuric acid in wastewater treatment presents significant opportunities

Emerging bio-based production techniques and sustainable sourcing strategies are revolutionizing citric acid manufacturing. Traditionally produced via sugar fermentation, recent advancements focus on leveraging renewable resources, such as agricultural waste and plant-based feedstocks. These innovations reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower carbon emissions, and align with the industry’s transition toward sustainable practices.

Moreover, responsible raw material sourcing minimizes environmental impact while ensuring a steady supply of high-quality citric acid. These advancements pave the way for cost-effective, eco-friendly production, catering to the growing demand for natural ingredients in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics while reinforcing sustainability goals.

• By 2025, Russia aims to become self-sufficient in citric acid production, reducing imports by 2027. The construction of the Citron (Voronezh region) and Organic Acids (Tula region) plants is already in progress, marking a significant step toward domestic production.

Regional Analysis

The Asia-Pacific region dominates the global citric acid market, driven by rapidly expanding food and beverage industries and increasing industrial applications. Factors such as urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and shifting dietary habits have led to higher consumption of processed foods, soft drinks, and ready-to-eat meals, all of which require citric acid as a preservative and acidity regulator.

China, India, and Indonesia serve as key production hubs, benefiting from cost-efficient manufacturing, abundant raw material availability, and strong supply chains. Among them, China is the world’s largest producer and exporter of citric acid, supplying a substantial portion of the global market. Additionally, the region’s well-established export network ensures seamless distribution to international markets.

• According to Worldometers.info, Asia’s population accounts for 59.05% of the global total in 2024, growing at an annual rate of 0.96%. This demographic surge is expected to sustain long-term demand for citric acid across food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors.

Key Highlights

• The global citric acid market size was valued at USD 3,626.11 million in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 3,776.95 million in 2025 to USD 5,232.99 million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period (2025-2033).
• Based on function, the global market is segmented into acidulant, antioxidant, preservative, and flavoring agent. Acidulant function segment holds the highest market share.
• Based on form, the global market is segmented into anhydrous citric acid, citric acid monohydrate, and liquid citric acid. Anhydrous citric acid segment captures the largest market share
• Based on application, the global market is segmented into food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics & personal care, industrial applications, and others. Food and beverage segment captures the largest market share.
• Based on distribution channel, the global market is segmented into direct and indirect. Direct segment captures the largest market share.
• Based on region, the global market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. Asia-Pacific dominates the global market.

Competitive Players

1. Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
2. Cargill Incorporated
3. Tate & Lyle
4. COFCO Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (Cofco Biochemical Corp.)
5. Hawkins Pharmaceutical Group
6. Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG
7. RZBC Group Co. Ltd.
8. Finoric LLC.
9. Nacalai Tesque Inc.
10. Merck Co. & KGaA
11. Gadot Biochemical Industries Ltd.
12. Kenko Corporation
13. Fresenius Medical Care
14. Citribel nv

Recent Developments

• In March 2024, during the Food Ingredients China 2024 event in Shanghai, Shandong Ensign Industry Co., Ltd. recognized UTS for achieving "TOP 3 sales of citric acid in Russia," underscoring their strong market presence in the region.
• In April 2024, plans were announced for the establishment of two new citric acid production facilities in Russia, located in the Voronezh and Tula regions. These facilities are slated to commence operations in 2025, aiming to bolster domestic production and reduce reliance on imports.

Segmentation

1. By Function
   1. Acidulant
   2. Antioxidant
   3. Preservative
   4. Flavoring Agent
2. By Form
   1. Anhydrous Citric Acid
   2. Citric Acid Monohydrate
   3. Liquid Citric Acid
3. By Source
   1. Natural Citric Acid
   2. Fermentation-based Citric Acid
4. By Application
   1. Food & Beverages
   2. Pharmaceuticals
   3. Cosmetics & Personal Care
   4. Industrial Applications
   5. Others
5. By Distribution Chanel
   1. Direct
   2. Indirect