The global potassium hydroxide market size is anticipated to reach USD 4,844.9 million by 2033 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 3.7% during the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is driven by rising demand across key sectors such as agriculture, chemicals, and energy. Increasing use in potassium-based fertilizers, biodiesel production, and industrial applications such as soaps, batteries, water treatment, and fuel growth. Technological advancements in chlor-alkali processes and growing emphasis on green chemistry and sustainability also contribute to long-term market expansion and regional diversification. The market offers strong growth prospects driven by sustainability goals, biofuel adoption, and rising demand for energy storage and alkaline batteries. Its role in carbon capture, water purification, and green technologies aligns with global environmental initiatives. Growing use in high-purity pharmaceutical and food-grade applications further supports market expansion into specialized, high-value segments.
The pellets segment is expected to grow fastest, with a CAGR of 4.3% from 2025 to 2033 during the forecast period. Growth is driven by rising demand in emerging markets, where solid potassium hydroxide (KOH) offers easier storage, transport, and precise dosing. Superior shelf life and advancements in low-moisture pelletizing support its use in fertilizers, food processing, and high-purity industrial applications. The industrial-grade segment led the market with a 67.4% revenue share in 2024, driven by its broad use in soaps, detergents, textiles, paper, and water treatment. It balances purity and cost, meeting bulk demand in the chemical and agricultural sectors. Reliable quality from membrane and diaphragm processes and strong supply chain networks support its continued market dominance.
Asia Pacific dominated the global market with a 39.8% share in 2024, driven by rapid industrial growth in China, India, and South Korea. High production capacity, especially in China, supports strong regional demand across biofuels, electronics, and water treatment. Integrated chlor-alkali infrastructure, affordable raw materials, and supportive manufacturing and sustainability policies further boost growth.
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The biodiesel production segment is set to grow fastest, driven by rising demand for sustainable fuels and stricter carbon reduction goals in Europe and North America. KOH is favored as a transesterification catalyst, with its use expanding alongside biodiesel plant growth, government incentives, and investment in green fuel infrastructure.
Europe is expected to grow fastest with a CAGR of 4.1%, driven by a focus on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and strict environmental norms. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK are boosting demand through investments in biodiesel, batteries, and water treatment. Supportive regulations and emphasis on green chemistry encourage innovation in high-purity for specialized applications.
Key industry participants include Solvay, BASF, Dow, Occidental Petroleum Corporation (OxyChem), Olin Corporation, UNID, Merck KGaA, American Elements, Airedale Chemical Company Limited, Altair Chemical S.r.l., Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited, INEOS KOH Inc., ERCO Worldwide, HAINAN HUARONG CHEMICAL CO., LTD.
In February 2024, INEOS Inovyn introduced an Ultra-Low Carbon chlor-alkali range, including caustic potash, using renewable energy and ISCC PLUS certification. The launch supports downstream sustainability goals and enhances the company’s low-carbon position in the global market.
Grand View Research has segmented the global potassium hydroxide market based on form, grade, application, and region:
Potassium Hydroxide Form Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Liquid
Pellets
Flakes
Powder
Potassium Hydroxide Grade Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Industrial Grade
Food Grade
Pharmaceutical Grade
Potassium Hydroxide Application Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
Soap & Detergent Manufacturing
Fertilizer Production
Biodiesel Production
Chemical Manufacturing
Water Treatment
Textile Processing
Food Processing
Other Applications
Potassium Hydroxide Region Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2033)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
UK
France
Italy
Spain
Asia Pacific
China
India
Japan
South Korea
Latin America
Brazil
Argentina
Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
List of Key Players in the Potassium Hydroxide Market
Solvay
BASF
Dow
Occidental Petroleum Corporation (OxyChem)
Olin Corporation
UNID
Merck KGaA
American Elements
Airedale Chemical Company Limited
Altair Chemical S.r.l.
Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited
INEOS KOH Inc.
ERCO Worldwide
HAINAN HUARONG CHEMICAL CO., LTD.
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