The global carboxymethyl cellulose market size is expected to reach USD 2,229.8 million by 2030, registering a CAGR of 4.4% from 2025 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The increasing consumption of cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and other personal care products globally is estimated to drive the market demand over the years ahead. In addition, the growing rate of adoption among consumers regarding the use of natural and eco-friendly personal care products is likely to enhance the consumption of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) or cellulose gum, mainly as a binding and stabilizing agent, in the next couple of years.
In terms of revenue, the cosmetic & application segment accounted for an industry share of 14.7% in 2016. Changing lifestyles and improving disposable income of consumers across various countries in the Asia Pacific region including India, China, and Malaysia are expected to enhance the growth of cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries in the next couple of years. Major cosmetics manufacturers are significantly investing in R&D and focusing on the implementation of new product branding and other marketing strategies to accelerate personal care sales across the globe.
CMC is incorporated as a key ingredient in various personal care products including creams, lotions, shampoos, face creams, and cold creams. Good binding, thickening, and stabilizing properties are the key attributes of this product owing to which it is increasingly being used in the processing of cosmetic formulations. Additionally, it owing to its property to impart moisture, the product is favorably consumed in the manufacturing of personal care products such as hair care and skincare goods. The usage of cellulose gum is not only limited to topical lotions, creams, and shampoos but it is also incorporated in the manufacturing of toothpaste, as it provides a smooth texture, possesses excellent salt tolerance, and acid resistance.
Request a free sample copy or view report summary: Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market Report
The high purity (Above 99%) segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 51.5% in 2024, primarily due to its extensive use in highly regulated sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food & beverages, and personal care.
The medium purity (90–99%) segment follows, capturing a substantial share due to its versatile end use across industrial domains, including oil & gas, textiles, and paper processing, where performance is crucial but not subject to the strict purity regulations of pharma or food use.
The food & beverages accounted for the largest revenue share of 42.9% in 2024, driven by the growing consumption of processed, convenience, and functional foods globally.
Other major segments such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics & personal care are experiencing steady growth, driven by the rising demand for high-purity excipients and plant-based cosmetic formulations.
Asia Pacific carboxymethyl cellulose market captured the largest revenue share of 40.7% in 2024, driven by its robust industrial base, growing consumer markets, and strong manufacturing capabilities.
Grand View Research has segmented the global carboxymethyl cellulose market report based on purity, end use, and region:
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Purity Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
High Purity (Above 99%)
Medium Purity (90-99%)
Low Purity (Below 90%)
Carboxymethyl Cellulose End Use Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Food & Beverages
Pharmaceuticals
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Oil & Gas
Pulp & Paper
Detergents & Cleaners
Other End Uses
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
Spain
France
Asia Pacific
China
Japan
India
South Korea
Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
Latin America
Brazil
Argentina
List of Key Players in Carboxymethyl Cellulose Market
Ashland Inc.
Dow Chemical Company
CP Kelco
Sevasa Industries Pvt Ltd
Nouryon
Lotte Fine Chemical Co.
Sudal Industries
Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG
Shandong Head Co., Ltd.
Zhejiang Tianyu Chemical
Shaanxi Jinye Biochemical
AkzoNobel (now Nouryon)
"The quality of research they have done for us has been excellent..."