Philippines Citric Acid Market Size and Share Outlook - Forecast Trends and Growth Analysis Report (2024-2032)

Philippines Citric Acid Market Growth

Growing demand from the food and beverage sector, a shift in consumer preference towards natural additives such as citric acid, and the rise of the personal care sector are some of the influential drivers of Philippines citric acid market growth. Citric acid is readily utilised for its antioxidant properties and pH-adjusting capabilities in several cosmetic products.

There is a notable shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing practices in the Philippines. Manufacturers in the country are readily adopting bio-based techniques to manufacture citric acid, which is in line with global sustainability trends. Moreover, with the growing interest in green chemicals, citric acid is finding applications as a natural descaling agent in home care products, aligning with the growing demand for safer and more sustainable cleaning solutions.

Key Trends and Recent Developments

Growing food processing and pharmaceutical industries along with the development of eco-friendly cleaning products as well cost-effective supply of raw materials are accelerating the Philippines citric acid market value.

December 2023

Brentagg, a leading supplier of chemicals, including citric acid, launched a new warehouse facility in the Philippines. The warehouse was meant to enhance the accessibility of its products for Filipino customers. It spanned over an area of 4,000 square metres and had a storage capacity of 4,000 pallet positions.

July 2023

Leading citric acid manufacturer D&L Industries started commercial operations at its Philippines-based plant in Batangas. The company claimed that the plant shall henceforth be running with full-scale commercial operations, gearing the production of a range of personal care, cosmetics, cleaning, and health products made from organically sourced citric and other acids.

June 2022

Arxada, a major supplier of chemicals in the Filipino market, launched its new disinfectant solution Nugen Citric-Guard for household and professional wipes. The solution combined effective and active ingredients such as citric acid with a compostable viscose-based substrate.

Growth in the Food Processing Industry Boosting the Citric Acid Demand

The growing food processing and preservation industry in the Philippines is increasing the demand for citric acid, which is commonly used as a preservative, flavour enhancer, pH buffer, and antioxidant. According to the country’s National Statistics Office, food product manufacturing recorded a tremendous year-on-year growth in July 2024, with food processing and preserving being the primary contributors. While the value of the production index grew by 17.5% for the processing and preservation of fruits and vegetables, the same grew by 11.9% for seafood. A further increase in the supply of processed and preserved food for a longer shelf-life is expected to raise the demand for the citric acid industry.

Increased Use in the Pharmaceutical Sector Propelling Growth of Philippines Citric Acid Market

Citric acid is increasingly being used in the pharmaceutical industry, especially in manufacturing effervescent tablets. Other common uses include pH adjustment, taste masking, disintegration enhancer, and preservative. The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry registered a year-on-year growth of 26.4% in terms of the volume of net sales during June 2023. Owing to rising health concerns and a rapidly ageing population in the country, the sector is expected to record further growth, thereby impacting the citric acid market positively in the coming years.

Development of Eco-friendly Cleaning Products Creating New Market Opportunities

The use of eco-friendly cleaning products is gaining traction in the Filipino market, propelling the demand for citric acid as a natural ingredient. Key players are investing in this domain to enhance the sustainability of the cleaning industry, reducing the amount of non-biodegradable and non-recyclable waste it generates. For instance, a Filipino-owned social enterprise, LivClean, a pioneer in developing plant-based cleaning products, introduced a dishwashing concentrate, made from the essential oils of calamansi, a citrus fruit along with cleaning vinegar. The 100% citrus formulation is highly effective on grease and accumulated microbes, besides being fragrant and gentle on the hands. Such innovative efforts are poised to lead the citric acid industry in Philippines to long-term growth and sustainability.

Increased Sales of Raw Materials Driving the Supply of Citric Acid in the Philippines

Starch is an essential raw material to produce citric acid using bio-based techniques such as sugar fermentation. In July 2024, the net sales value of starch and starch products increased by 5.5% in the Philippines, indicating their high consumption in the citric acid manufacturing industry. As the sales further grow during the forecast period, the market is expected to witness an enhanced manufacturing and supply of citric acid across sectors.

Philippines Citric Acid Industry Segmentation

“Philippines Citric Acid Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Form

• Anhydrous
• Liquid

Market Breakup by Application

• Food and Beverages
• Household Detergents and Cleaners 
• Pharmaceuticals 
• Others

Philippines Citric Acid Market Share

Based on application, the market is divided into food and beverages, household detergents and cleaners, and pharmaceuticals, among others. The food and beverages sector accounts for a substantial market share due to its multiple uses such as enhancing the shelf life of products, acting as an emulsifying agent, and providing a sour or acidic taste to the food products. Additionally, it also serves as an antioxidant and prevents some food products such as packaged food and snacks from spoilage.