The global boric acid market size was valued at USD 936.0 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 1,404.2 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.61% during 2025-2033. Asia-Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 43.2% in 2024, driven by strong demand from glass, ceramics, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals industries, alongside rapid industrialization and infrastructure growth.
Report Attribute
|
Key Statistics
|
---|---|
Base Year
|
2024 |
Forecast Years
|
2025-2033 |
Historical Years
|
2019-2024
|
Market Size in 2024
|
USD 936.0 Million |
Market Forecast in 2033
|
USD 1,404.2 Million |
Market Growth Rate (2025-2033) | 4.61% |
The increasing use of boric acid in glass and ceramics production is acting as a key driver of the boric acid market growth. For instance, in 2025, the borates market is growing, driven by demand in glass, agriculture, ceramics, and detergents. Borates enhance durability and heat resistance, contributing to over 65% of global glass production. Boric acid enhances thermal and mechanical properties, improving durability, chemical resistance, and transparency in specialty glass applications such as LCD screens, fiberglass, and laboratory glassware. The ceramics industry benefits from boric acid's ability to improve glaze adhesion and reduce thermal expansion, making it essential in tiles, porcelain, and advanced ceramics. Rising construction activities and technological advancements in high-performance glass and ceramics further contribute to demand, positioning boric acid as a critical raw material in these expanding industries.
The United States plays a significant role in the global boric acid market as a leading producer and exporter. Abundant boron reserves, particularly in California, support large-scale production, ensuring a steady supply for domestic and international markets. Key manufacturers invest in advanced refining technologies to enhance product purity for applications in glass, ceramics, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, stringent environmental regulations drive sustainable mining and processing practices. In January 2025, Ioneer Ltd secured an upsized $996 million loan from the U.S. DOE’s ATVM program to develop an on-site processing facility at the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project in Esmeralda County, Nevada. The U.S. also serves as a major consumer, with industries such as construction, electronics, and agriculture fueling demand, reinforcing the country's strategic importance in the global boric acid supply chain.
Expanding Feminine Hygiene Applications
Boric acid is gaining recognition in the feminine hygiene market due to its pH-balancing properties. In addition, it helps in addressing odor, itchiness, and discharge, thereby making it an effective solution for intimate health. Moreover, its incorporation into everyday products is driving its demand within the expanding personal care sector. The worldwide market for feminine hygiene products attained USD 29.1 Billion in 2024 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.15%, hitting USD 43.7 Billion by 2033. This expansion is driving the need for creative and efficient feminine care products, including those made with boric acid. For instance, in April 2024, Monistat introduced Boric Acid Feminine Cleansing Wipes, featuring a plant-based, fragrance-free formula with a pH-balanced boric acid complex. These wipes gently remove odor and discharge, promoting intimate health through daily use.
Increasing Demand in Clean Energy
Boric acid is significant in the clean energy industry, particularly in materials needed for energy storage and production. In contrast, its usage in sectors like electric transportation, highlights its importance in supporting sustainable technologies, thereby making it a vital component for industries focused on reducing environmental impact. This also represents one of the key boric acid market trends. The International Energy Agency (IEA) states that worldwide energy investment is expected to surpass USD 3 Trillion in 2024, with USD 2 Trillion designated for clean energy technologies and infrastructure. This significant investment is anticipated to boost the need for key materials such as boric acid, vital for batteries, solar panels, and various renewable energy uses. For instance, in January 2024, 5E Advanced Materials confirmed early success at its 5E Boron Americas Complex, with boric acid head grade surpassing 5.0%. The company operates four wells, extracting boric acid and lithium, aiming to support industries like clean energy and electric transportation.
Rising Use in Pharmaceutical Formulations
The pharmaceutical industry is increasingly utilizing boric acid in treatments for various health conditions. India Brand Equity Foundation anticipates that the pharmaceutical sector in India will expand at a CAGR exceeding 10%, hitting USD 130 Billion by 2030, thereby bolstering the demand for healthcare products based on boron. Moreover, it’s suitable for addressing bacterial imbalances and infections, thereby encouraging its adoption in medical formulations. This expanding use in health-related products is driving growth within this sector. For instance, in September 2024, O Positiv launched URO Boric Acid Suppository, formulated with boric acid, lactic acid, and aloe vera. This product provides relief from vaginal odor, itchiness, and discharge, supporting vaginal health by addressing bacterial imbalances.
IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global boric acid market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on purity, application, distribution channel, and end user.
Analysis by Purity:
≥99% stand as the largest component with around 88.6% share of the market in 2024, driven by its extensive use in high-end applications requiring superior quality and consistency. Industries such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and specialty glass manufacturing demand high-purity boric acid for its exceptional chemical stability and minimal impurities. The growing adoption of boric acid in high-performance glass, including LCD displays and optical lenses, further strengthens demand. Additionally, the increasing use of ≥99% purity boric acid in advanced ceramics and agriculture supports market expansion. With stringent regulatory standards emphasizing product purity, manufacturers continue investing in refining technologies to enhance the quality of boric acid, reinforcing this segment’s dominance in the global market.
Analysis by Application:
Ceramics & fiberglass leads the market with 26.7% share in 2024. The increasing demand for high-performance materials in construction, automotive, and electronics industries is driving this growth. Boric acid is widely used in ceramic glazes, fiberglass insulation, and specialty glass production due to its thermal resistance, durability, and chemical stability. The rise in infrastructure projects, smart cities, and energy-efficient buildings further fuels demand for fiberglass-based insulation materials. Additionally, the growing adoption of advanced ceramics in aerospace and electronics contributes to market expansion. Asia-Pacific, led by China and India, remains a key consumer due to rapid industrialization and increasing construction activities, strengthening the position of ceramics and fiberglass in the boric acid market.
Analysis by Distribution Channel:
Wholesale leads the market in 2024, driven by strong demand from bulk buyers across industries such as glass manufacturing, ceramics, agriculture, and flame retardants. Large-scale industrial consumers prefer wholesale procurement to ensure a consistent supply, cost efficiency, and streamlined logistics. Major manufacturers and distributors focus on expanding their wholesale operations to cater to the growing needs of construction, electronics, and pharmaceutical sectors. Additionally, increasing exports and trade agreements are bolstering wholesale distribution, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The rise of online B2B marketplaces and digital procurement solutions is further enhancing wholesale transactions, reinforcing its dominance as the primary distribution channel in the global boric acid market.
Analysis by End User:
Pharmaceuticals leads the market in 2024, driven by its widespread use in antiseptics, eyewash solutions, and dermatological treatments. Boric acid’s antifungal, antibacterial, and astringent properties make it a key ingredient in pharmaceutical formulations, including ointments, powders, and medicated dressings. Rising healthcare expenditures and increasing demand for over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription-based boric acid products further strengthen market growth. Stringent regulatory approvals for pharmaceutical-grade boric acid ensure high purity levels, fueling its adoption in medical applications. Additionally, ongoing research into boron-based therapeutics for cancer treatment and antimicrobial resistance enhances market prospects. With growing healthcare awareness and advancements in drug formulations, the pharmaceuticals sector remains a key driver of boric acid demand.
Regional Analysis:
In 2024, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest boric acid market share of 43.2%, driven by strong demand from industries such as glass manufacturing, ceramics, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. Countries like China, India, and Japan are major consumers, with rapid industrialization and infrastructure development fueling boric acid usage. The region's expanding electronics sector, particularly in LCD displays and fiberglass, further strengthens demand. Additionally, rising agricultural activities in India and Southeast Asia support boric acid’s use as a micronutrient in fertilizers. Increasing construction projects and stringent fire safety regulations also boost the adoption of boric acid-based flame retardants. With abundant boron reserves, cost-effective production, and high consumption rates, Asia-Pacific continues to lead the global boric acid market.
US accounts for 84.50% of the market in North America. The United States boric acid market is experiencing steady growth, driven by its wide range of industrial and commercial applications. Boric acid is widely used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, ceramics, and glass manufacturing. The rising demand for high-quality glass and fiberglass products, particularly in the construction and automotive sectors, is significantly contributing to market expansion. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that construction expenditures in December 2024 were projected at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of USD 2,192.2 Billion, indicating ongoing expansion in infrastructure and real estate developments. This trend is further driving the demand for boric acid in cement additives, insulation materials, and specialty glass manufacturing. Additionally, boric acid’s role as an essential component in flame retardants and wood preservatives is further boosting its demand. The increasing adoption of boric acid in agriculture as a micronutrient for plant growth is another key factor supporting market growth. Its use in pest control products and household disinfectants is also gaining traction. Furthermore, advancements in boron-based specialty chemicals are expanding their application scope across multiple industries.
The North American boric acid market is driven by strong demand from industries such as glass, ceramics, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. The United States holds a dominant position due to abundant boron reserves, particularly in California, and the presence of major producers like Rio Tinto. For instance, in 2025, North America holds 25% of the global borates market, with the U.S. producing 80% regionally. California’s Boron Mine supplies 60%, while glass and insulation consume over 40% of regional borate demand. Advancements in high-performance glass manufacturing, including LCD screens and fiberglass, are fueling market growth. Additionally, boric acid’s use as a micronutrient in agriculture supports demand in the region’s expanding farming sector. Stringent environmental regulations are encouraging sustainable mining and processing practices. Rising investments in research and development to enhance product purity and application versatility further contribute to market expansion, positioning North America as a key supplier in the global boric acid industry.
The Europe boric acid market is witnessing steady growth due to its diverse industrial applications and increasing demand across various sectors. Boric acid is extensively used in the glass and ceramics industries, where it enhances durability, heat resistance, and chemical stability. The rising construction and automotive industries are further fueling its consumption of fiberglass and insulation materials. The demand for boric acid in ceramics is particularly strong, as it improves the strength and thermal resistance of ceramic tiles. The European ceramic tiles market reached USD 11.2 Billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.99% during 2025-2033, reaching USD 14.7 Billion. This growth reflects the increasing adoption of high-quality ceramic products, further driving boric acid consumption. In addition to industrial uses, boric acid plays a key role in agriculture as a micronutrient essential for plant growth. Its presence in household and industrial cleaning products, flame retardants, and pharmaceuticals is also contributing to market expansion.
The Asia Pacific boric acid market is growing rapidly, fueled by its widespread use in various industries, including glass, ceramics, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. The increasing demand for high-quality glass and fiberglass products in construction and automotive applications is a major driver of market growth. Additionally, boric acid is extensively used in electronics manufacturing, particularly in semiconductor production. With the Indian semiconductor market projected to surpass USD 55 Billion by 2026, as per Semi, the demand for boric acid in this sector is expected to rise, as it plays a crucial role in semiconductor fabrication. Boric acid, a micronutrient used in agriculture, pest control, and household disinfectants, is gaining popularity due to its role in soil fertility and crop yield. The growing industrial base and technological advancements are driving market growth. Investments in infrastructure development, industrial manufacturing, and semiconductor production are expected to increase demand, with Asia Pacific dominating global manufacturing and exports.
The Latin America boric acid market is expanding, driven by its applications in agriculture, construction, and industrial manufacturing. The increasing demand for high-performance glass and ceramics, particularly in the construction sector, is contributing to market growth. In Brazil, for instance, the construction market reached USD 150.0 Billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4% during 2025-2033, reaching USD 211.4 Billion. This growth is further driving the demand for boric acid in construction-related materials. Boric acid’s role in agriculture as a plant micronutrient is also gaining importance, supporting better crop yields. Additionally, its use in wood preservation, flame retardants, and household cleaning products is further boosting demand. With the region’s growing focus on industrial and infrastructure development, the boric acid market is expected to experience steady expansion across multiple industries in the coming years.
The Middle East and Africa boric acid market is witnessing gradual growth, driven by its applications in construction, agriculture, and industrial sectors. The demand for boric acid in high-quality glass and ceramics production is increasing, particularly in infrastructure projects. Significantly, as reported by the International Trade Administration, Saudi Arabia’s construction industry, which is projected to be worth USD 70.33 Billion in 2024, is anticipated to grow to USD 91.36 Billion by 2029, thereby increasing the demand for boric acid in insulation and building materials. Additionally, boric acid is gaining traction in flame retardants, wood preservation, and household cleaning solutions. With rising industrialization and infrastructure development, the boric acid market in the region is expected to grow steadily, supporting various key industries.
The boric acid market is characterized by the presence of major global players focusing on production capacity expansion, technological advancements, and sustainable sourcing. Leading companies dominate the market with extensive boron reserves and advanced processing facilities. For instance, in March 2025, Rio Tinto and Edify Energy signed agreements for solar and battery hybrid power, securing 90% of Smoky Creek and Guthrie’s Gap output for 20 years for Gladstone aluminum operations. Competitive strategies include mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships to strengthen market presence and expand distribution networks. Increasing regulatory compliance and environmental sustainability efforts are driving innovation in extraction and refining processes. Additionally, growing demand across industries such as agriculture, glass, and pharmaceuticals intensifies competition, compelling companies to enhance product quality and supply chain efficiency.
The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the boric acid market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:
Report Features | Details |
---|---|
Base Year of the Analysis | 2024 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Units | Million USD |
Scope of the Report | Exploration of Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Catalysts and Challenges, Segment-Wise Historical and Predictive Market Assessment:
|
Purities Covered | <99%, ≥99% |
Applications Covered | Flame Retardants, Ceramics and Fiberglass, Wood Preservatives, Nutritional Supplements, Pest Control, Others |
Distribution Channels Covered | Wholesale, E-Commerce, Retail Stores, Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Independent Stores, Others |
End Users Covered | Pharmaceuticals, Agricultural, Chemical Processing, Building and Construction, Nuclear, Others |
Regions Covered | Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, Latin America, Middle East and Africa |
Countries Covered | United States, Canada, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico |
Companies Covered | 3M Company, Avantor Inc., Eti Maden, Gujarat Boron Derivatives Pvt. Ltd., Indo Borax & Chemicals Limited, Minera Santa Rita S.R.L., Organic Industries Pvt. Ltd., Quiborax SA, SCL Italia S.p.A., Singhania International Limited, Sociedad Industrial Tierra S.A., The Chemical Company, Tomiyama Pure Chemical Industries Ltd., U.S. Borax Inc. (Rio Tinto plc), etc. |
Customization Scope | 10% Free Customization |
Post-Sale Analyst Support | 10-12 Weeks |
Delivery Format | PDF and Excel through Email (We can also provide the editable version of the report in PPT/Word format on special request) |
Key Benefits for Stakeholders:
The boric acid market was valued at USD 936.0 Million in 2024.
IMARC estimates the boric acid market to reach USD 1,404.2 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.61% during 2025-2033.
The boric acid market is driven by increasing product demand in glass, ceramics, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. Its role in flame retardants, antiseptics, and fertilizers boosts adoption. Stringent fire safety regulations, advancements in high-performance glass, and growing agricultural activities further fuel market growth. Expanding industrialization and construction also contribute to rising demand.
Asia Pacific currently dominates the market with 43.2%, driven by high demand from glass, ceramics, agriculture, and pharmaceutical industries. Rapid industrialization, infrastructure growth, and expanding electronics manufacturing further boost consumption. Strong agricultural activities and increasing use in flame retardants contribute to the region’s dominance, supported by abundant boron reserves and cost-effective production.
Some of the major players in the boric acid market include 3M Company, Avantor Inc., Eti Maden, Gujarat Boron Derivatives Pvt. Ltd., Indo Borax & Chemicals Limited, Minera Santa Rita S.R.L., Organic Industries Pvt. Ltd., Quiborax SA, SCL Italia S.p.A., Singhania International Limited, Sociedad Industrial Tierra S.A., The Chemical Company, Tomiyama Pure Chemical Industries Ltd., U.S. Borax Inc. (Rio Tinto plc), etc.