The global microcrystalline cellulose market size is expected to reach USD 2,267.5 million by 2033, registering a CAGR of 7.8% from 2026 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is valued for its properties, such as being a versatile excipient in pharmaceuticals, a stabilizer & thickener in personal care & cosmetics, and an effective binder & filler in food & beverages. In addition, as the popularity of natural and sustainable ingredients grows, MCC derived from renewable resources like wood pulp is preferred over synthetic alternatives, further driving the market.
Microcrystalline cellulose is typically produced through controlled hydrolysis of cellulose, which can be sourced from various natural sources such as wood pulp, cotton, or other plant fibers. The process involves treating cellulose with mineral acids or enzymes to break down with cellulose fibers into crystalline particles. Enzymatic hydrolysis, advanced processing, green solvents, and nanotechnology are some of the technological advancements in the current market scenario.
The increasing usage of the product in the personal care & cosmetics sector is one of the major driving factors for the consumption of MCC over the coming years. MCC is utilized in the personal care & cosmetics industry in products, such as toothpaste, skin cream, and makeup formulations as viscosity modifiers, emulsion stabilizers, and texture enhancers. The expanding personal care & cosmetics sector, driven by increasing consumer awareness of skincare and grooming, contributes to the increasing application of the product.
On the other hand, fluctuations in the prices of raw materials such as cellulose pulp can impact the production and prices of final microcrystalline cellulose. Additionally, competition from other cellulose-based products or synthetic alternatives may influence pricing dynamics, potentially restricting market growth.
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By source, the wood based source segment dominated the market in 2025, accounting for 63.9% of total revenue, due to its established reliability and broad industrial acceptance. The non-wood based source segment is expected to expand at the fastest pace, registering a CAGR of 8.4% from 2026 to 2033.
By form, the powdered form segment held the leading position in the market in 2025, capturing 60.3% of total revenue, due to its wide applicability and ease of handling. The liquid form segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 8.3% from 2026 to 2033.
By end-use, the pharmaceutical segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 33.9% in 2025. The personal care segment is expected to experience the fastest expansion, registering a CAGR of 8.2% from 2026 to 2033
The Asia Pacific microcrystalline cellulose industry led the global market in 2025, accounting for 37.8% of total revenue. China held over 43.9% revenue share of the Asia Pacific microcrystalline cellulose market.
Grand View Research has segmented global microcrystalline cellulose market report based on source, form, end-use, and region:
Microcrystalline Cellulose Source Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Wood Based
Non-Wood Based
Microcrystalline Cellulose Form Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Powdered
Liquid
Microcrystalline Cellulose End-use Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Pharmaceutical
Personal Care
Food & Beverages
Paints & Coatings
Other End-use
Microcrystalline Cellulose Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
Spain
France
Asia Pacific
China
Japan
South Korea
Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
Latin America
Brazil
Argentina
List of Key Players of Microcrystalline Cellulose Market
JRS Pharma
FMC BioPolymer
DFE Pharma GmbH & Co. KG
Asahi Kasei Corporation
Roquette Frères
International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF)
Mingtai Chemical Co., Ltd.
Sigachi Industries Pvt. Ltd.
Anhui Sunhere Pharmaceutical Excipients Co., Ltd.
Accent Microcell Pvt. Ltd.
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