Sophorolipid Market Size, Trends and Growth Analysis by 2027

The global sophorolipid market was valued at approximately US$ 374.85 million in 2019 and is anticipated to grow to US$ 547.02 million by 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.0% from 2020 to 2027.

Sophorolipids are recognized as promising biosurfactants due to their biodegradability and minimal ecological toxicity. These compounds are derived from natural sources and are increasingly viewed as viable alternatives to petrochemical products, including detergents and pesticides. Their effectiveness in emulsifying oil into smaller droplets is expected to enhance their adoption in previously untapped markets, particularly as oil dispersants. Additionally, sophorolipids are beneficial in formulations for hard surface cleaning and as rinse aids in automatic dishwashing. Their low foaming characteristics and surface activity open up further applications across various sectors.

In agriculture, sophorolipids are utilized in pesticides and other agrochemicals. They also find extensive use in household and industrial detergents, as well as in personal care and cosmetic products, including shampoos, hand wash liquids, and soaps. The rising demand for sophorolipids across diverse end-use industries such as oil and energy, agriculture, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and consumer goods is driving significant market growth.

The sophorolipid market is categorized by type into two main segments: lactonic sophorolipid and acidic sophorolipid. In 2019, the acidic sophorolipid segment held a larger market share, while the lactonic sophorolipid segment is projected to experience a higher CAGR during the forecast period from 2020 to 2027. Acidic sophorolipids are amphiphilic molecules, which means they exhibit surfactant properties. As biosurfactants, they offer several advantages over synthetic alternatives, including lower toxicity, enhanced biodegradability, and cost-effective production methods. Acidic sophorolipids are particularly effective foaming agents with superior water solubility, making them suitable for applications in the dairy, cosmetics, and bioremediation sectors. Acid sophorolipid (ASL), a bola amphiphilic compound, enhances the surfactant properties of crude sophorolipids. Its structure, featuring two hydrophilic ends attached to a hydrophobic oleic acid skeleton, allows ASL to serve as an excellent drug delivery vehicle, comparable to other bola amphiphiles. ASL is characterized as a simple, water-soluble, mono-component, and responsive molecule.

Geographically, the global sophorolipid market is divided into regions including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East and Africa. In 2019, Europe dominated the market, followed by North America and Asia Pacific. Within Europe, Germany led the market, with the UK and France following closely. Economically advanced countries in Europe, such as Germany, the UK, and Russia, are experiencing significant growth in the adoption of advanced technological solutions. Beyond the chemical sector, industries such as pharmaceuticals, polymers, agrochemicals, and cosmetics are expanding in the region, further propelling the growth of the sophorolipid market. The increasing demand for sophorolipids from sectors like oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture, and food is a key driver of market expansion in Germany. Additionally, the presence of major market players, including Allied Carbon Solutions and others, contributes to the market's growth dynamics.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, has had a profound impact on global markets. By November 2020, countries such as China, Italy, Iran, Spain, South Korea, France, Germany, and the United States were among the hardest hit in terms of confirmed COVID-19 cases and fatalities. According to the World Health Organization, there were approximately 54,771,888 confirmed cases and around 1,324,249 deaths globally as of November. The pandemic has led to widespread lockdowns, travel restrictions, and business closures, adversely affecting economies and industries worldwide. The chemicals and materials sector, in particular, has faced significant challenges due to disruptions in supply chains, cancellations of technology events, and office closures. China, being a major manufacturing hub and raw material supplier, has been severely impacted, with lockdowns affecting production facilities in key regions like North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. These disruptions have hindered manufacturing activities, delivery schedules, and sales of various goods. Furthermore, international travel bans have obstructed business collaborations and partnership opportunities, further constraining the growth of the chemicals and materials industry.

Key players in the global sophorolipid market include Allied Carbon Solutions Co., Ltd, Givaudan, Evonik Industries AG, Holiferm, Saraya Co., Ltd, and Mg Intobio Co., Ltd.

The overall size of the global sophorolipid market has been determined through a combination of primary and secondary research methods. The research process begins with comprehensive secondary research utilizing both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data related to the market. Additionally, numerous primary interviews are conducted with industry participants and experts to validate and analyze the collected data. Participants in this research include industry professionals such as VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers, as well as external consultants like valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the global sophorolipid market.