Kaolin Market to Record CAGR of 5.2% Over 2025-2032; Growing Product Use in Paper Sector to Drive Market Growth

The global kaoline market size was valued at USD 4.21 billion in 2024 and is predicted to reach USD 4.40 billion in 2025. The market is anticipated to touch USD 6.28 billion by 2032, recording a CAGR of 5.2% over 2025-2032.

Fortune Business Insights™ presents this information in its latest report titled “Kaolin Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Application (Paper, Ceramic & Sanitary Ware, Fiberglass, Paints & Coatings, Rubber, Plastics, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032”.

Kaolin, also referred to as Kaolinite Al2Si2O5(OH)4 or china clay, is a material made up of a tetrahedral sheet of silica that is linked through oxygen atoms to an alumina layer, forming a layered silicate mineral. Its various applications, including those in paper, ceramics, and sanitary ware, can be attributed to its chemical traits, such as resistance to chemicals and its role as an adsorbent. It also has waterproofing qualities due to hydrogen bonds in its structure, which prevent it from swelling. The growing use of this product across different applications is anticipated to propel market expansion.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the global market in 2020, leading to a temporary suspension of mining activities and a decline in production levels due to lockdowns and restrictions. This disrupted supply chains for industries relying on kaolinite, such as paper, ceramics, and construction. However, by 2023, the market rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, driven by increased demand in sectors such as paper packaging and ceramics, as well as the growth of e-commerce.

BASF Sells its Kaolin Minerals Business to KaMin

In November 2021, KaMin purchased BASF SE's kaolin minerals division, which generated revenue of USD 177.0 million in 2020. This purchase encompasses manufacturing facilities loacated in Daceyville, Toddville, Edgar, and Gordon, as well as associated mines, reserves, and mills in Toomsboro and Sandersville in Georgia, U.S.

Growing Product Use in Paper Sector to Drive Market Growth

The global market is largely driven by its growing use in the paper sector. The material is primarily used in the paper industry as a filler, as it enhances characteristics such as paper opacity, fiber stretch, printability, and brightness. As the global paper sector continues to grow, especially in developing countries with increasing literacy rates and consumption of packaging, the demand for high-quality materials rises.  This request spans different types of paper, including printing and writing paper as well as packaging materials. The distinct characteristics of the product make it essential in the process of paper production. Its small particle size and inert characteristics enable it to fill gaps and improve the surface qualities of paper. Consequently, this results in better print quality and a more polished, attractive end product, which ultimately propels the kaolin market growth.

However, the presence of alternatives in the end-use sectors is obstructing the market's growth.

Top Companies Adopt Various Strategies to Stay Competitive and Increase Their Market Presence

The top five companies in the global market are Imerys S.A., Ashapura Group, EICL Limited, Sibelco, and Thiele Kaolin Company. These manufacturers are expanding their operations to stay competitive and face challenges from new companies. They are also forming contracts, making acquisitions, and partnering with other industry leaders to increase their market presence and reach.

Notable Industry Development

• January 2023: Sibelco revealed that it utilized various materials in the glass batch to enhance melting efficiency and lower the overall carbon footprint associated with glass production. The company's goal is to reach a 5% yearly reduction in scope 1 and 2 emissions intensity from 2021 until 2030.

List of the Companies Profiled in the Report

• Imerys S.A. (France)
• Ashapura Minechem Ltd. (India)
• EICL Limited (India)
• Sibelco (Belgium)
• KaMin LLC (U.S.)
• Thiele kaolin Company (U.S.)
• LB Minerals, Ltd. (Australia)
• Quarzwerke GmbH (Germany)
• Sedlecký kaolin a. s. (Czech Republic)
• I-Minerals Inc. (U.S.)
• W. R. Grace & Co. (U.S.)
• 20 Microns (India)

To get a detailed report summary and research scope of this market, click here:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/kaolin-market-102352

Further Report Findings

• The European region dominated the global market in 2024, with a valuation of USD 1.74 billion, making it the largest consumer. This region is projected to experience significant growth in the coming years, driven by growing demand for the product across various industries, including rubber, plastic, paper, and glass. Additionally, the rising manufacturing and use of china clay in applications such as automotive, paper, ceramics, and sanitary ware are further propelling market growth.
• In terms of volume, Asia Pacific held the major kaolin market share in 2024. This growth can be attributed to the rising demand for the product in applications including ceramics, refractories, cement, and paper. Moreover, economic growth in Japan, China, and India is leading to an increased demand for ceramics for both household and institutional uses, further fueling this growth.
• In terms of application, the paper segment held the largest share of the market in 2024, driven by the growing need for paper in packaging and printing. The surge in global e-commerce activities is also contributing to increased product demand. The desirable properties of this material, such as brightness, opacity, and strength, make it ideal for use in paper, enhancing its printability.

Table of Segmentation