Chitosan Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth and Forecast 2031

Report Description

Forecast Period	2027-2031
Market Size (2025)	USD 1.72 Billion
CAGR (2026-2031)	7.67%
Fastest Growing Segment	Bioprinting
Largest Market	Asia Pacific
Market Size (2031)	USD 2.68 Billion

Market Overview

The Global Chitosan Market will grow from USD 1.72 Billion in 2025 to USD 2.68 Billion by 2031 at a 7.67% CAGR. Chitosan is a linear polysaccharide derived from chitin, a structural element found primarily in the exoskeletons of crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs. Produced through the chemical deacetylation of chitin, this biopolymer is highly valued for its non-toxic, antimicrobial, and biocompatible properties. It serves as a critical ingredient across diverse sectors, functioning effectively as a flocculating agent in wastewater treatment, a natural preservative in the food and beverage industry, and a bioactive scaffold for tissue engineering and drug delivery within the pharmaceutical field.

The expansion of this market is primarily driven by the escalating global demand for sustainable and biodegradable alternatives to synthetic plastics alongside the increasing utilization of hemostatic agents in advanced wound care. However, the industry faces a significant hurdle regarding the consistent procurement of high-quality raw materials as production relies heavily on the seasonality and volume of seafood processing catch. According to the Marine Products Export Development Authority, in 2024, India exported 716,004 metric tons of frozen shrimp, illustrating the massive scale of crustacean processing by-products available to support the raw material requirements of the global chitosan manufacturing sector.

Key Market Drivers

The increasing adoption of biopesticides and biofertilizers in agriculture is a primary force propelling the Global Chitosan Market, as the polymer's ability to trigger plant defense mechanisms and enhance nutrient uptake becomes invaluable to sustainable farming. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have further amplified these benefits, allowing for precise delivery systems that significantly reduce chemical runoff while boosting crop performance. According to the Journal of Agricultural Chemistry and Environment, November 2024, research highlighting these efficiencies demonstrated that applying nano-chitosan loaded with nitrogen resulted in a grain yield increase of 104.83% compared to control groups. This scientific validation is encouraging the widespread integration of chitosan-based agrochemicals to meet global food security goals without compromising environmental integrity.

Simultaneously, the rising demand for eco-friendly water treatment solutions is reshaping the industry, with chitosan emerging as a superior biodegradable coagulant capable of replacing synthetic polymers in industrial wastewater management. This sectoral shift is supported by substantial capital inflows aimed at scaling production capacities to meet industrial requirements. According to GeekWire, May 2024, Tidal Vision raised $46.7 million in fresh funding to fuel the growth of its chitosan-based green chemistry technologies, including water purification systems. Sustaining this industrial expansion requires a consistent feedstock of crustacean shells. According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers, in 2024, shrimp exports to the United States reached USD 578 million by the end of the third quarter, indicating a robust and continuous supply of shell waste available for downstream chitosan processing.

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Key Market Challenges

The primary obstacle impeding the Global Chitosan Market is the inherent volatility surrounding the procurement of high-quality raw materials. Since chitosan production is entirely dependent on the waste by-products of the seafood processing industry, specifically the exoskeletons of shrimp and crabs, manufacturers are vulnerable to fluctuations in marine catch volumes. Unpredictable environmental conditions, strict fishing quotas, and disease outbreaks in aquaculture can cause sudden shortages in the availability of chitin. This supply chain instability makes it difficult for processors to guarantee consistent output or maintain stable pricing structures, thereby hesitating potential buyers in high-volume industrial sectors.

This dependency on irregular feedstock sources creates severe operational bottlenecks during periods of low catch. According to the Southern Shrimp Alliance, in 2024, shrimp landings in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico experienced a sharp downturn, registering a 45.8 percent decline compared to the historical average for the first half of the year. A contraction of this magnitude in the primary fishery directly correlates to a reduced volume of available shell waste for deacetylation. Consequently, chitosan manufacturers face immediate raw material scarcity, which restricts their capacity to scale production to meet the escalating requirements of the biomedical and packaging industries.

Key Market Trends

The Expansion of Chitosan Applications in Clean Beauty and Cosmeceutical Products is rapidly emerging as a transformative trend, driven by the industry's shift toward sustainable, non-animal ingredients to replace synthetic polymers. Brands are increasingly utilizing high-purity, fungal-derived chitosan for its film-forming and antimicrobial properties, which function as effective bio-based alternatives to silicones and preservatives in skincare and haircare formulations. This transition is further accelerated by the demand for vegan and non-allergenic products, prompting manufacturers to commercialize vegetal grades that bypass the allergen risks associated with crustacean-sourced materials. According to KitoZyme, March 2024, the company launched KiOsmetine, a patented 100% natural origin, non-GMO fungal chitosan specifically designed to provide eco-friendly encapsulation and conditioning benefits for the personal care market.

Simultaneously, the Integration of Chitosan in Advanced Wound Care and Surgical Dressings is evolving beyond simple hemostasis to address complex chronic conditions through bioactive tissue regeneration. Innovations in this sector are focused on developing sophisticated hydrogels and scaffolds that actively accelerate the healing process in diabetic and venous ulcers, offering superior clinical outcomes compared to traditional standard-of-care methods. This therapeutic efficacy is generating substantial clinical validation, which is crucial for the widespread commercial adoption of these next-generation medical devices. According to Primex Iceland, July 2024, a clinical trial published in 'BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care' demonstrated that patients treated with the company's chitosan-based ChitoCare gel experienced a significantly greater reduction in wound surface area of 92.0% compared to 37.0% in the placebo group.

Segmental Insights

Bioprinting is rapidly establishing itself as the fastest-growing segment in the Global Chitosan Market, fueled by the escalating demand for innovative tissue engineering solutions. Industry analysis indicates that chitosan is becoming a preferred bio-ink material due to its structural resemblance to glycosaminoglycans, which allows it to effectively mimic the human extracellular matrix. This unique characteristic supports cell viability and proliferation, making it essential for developing three-dimensional tissue scaffolds. Consequently, the sector is expanding as research institutions and pharmaceutical companies increasingly adopt chitosan-based hydrogels for regenerative medicine and advanced drug testing applications.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific dominates the global chitosan market, primarily driven by the abundant availability of raw materials from the thriving seafood industry in China, Japan, and Vietnam. The region benefits from a well-established aquaculture sector that ensures a consistent supply of crustacean shells for large-scale processing. Additionally, rising demand for water treatment solutions and agricultural products supports extensive local consumption. Manufacturers in this region leverage these resources to produce high volumes at competitive costs. Consequently, the combination of raw material security and diverse industrial applications secures the region's leading status in the global marketplace.

Recent Developments

In February 2025, Tidal Vision, a biotechnology company specializing in chitosan-based chemistries, secured $140 million in Series B financing to scale its operations globally. This funding round was led by Cambridge Companies SPG and included participation from strategic partners such as Milliken & Company. The capital was designated to expand production capacities and enhance research and development resources for chitosan applications in water treatment, agriculture, and material science. The CEO of Tidal Vision stated that the investment would facilitate the construction of new infrastructure in Europe and the United States to better serve customers in critical industries.
In July 2024, DPH Biologicals formed a strategic partnership with KitoZyme, a manufacturer of fungal chitosan, to introduce a new seed treatment technology named ChitoNox FC to the United States market. This collaboration aimed to provide a sustainably sourced biological crop protection solution that defended seedlings against nematodes and soil-borne diseases. The Chief Technology Officer of DPH Biologicals noted that the product offered a plant-based alternative to traditional crustacean-derived chitosan, delivering multiple modes of action including antimicrobial effects and root development enhancement. Commercial availability for the product was scheduled for the 2025 crop season.
In July 2024, Primex Iceland announced the publication of a significant clinical study in the British Medical Journal regarding its chitosan-based medical device for wound care. The research demonstrated that the company's wound healing gel significantly increased the healing rate of chronic diabetic foot ulcers compared to standard treatments. This breakthrough highlighted the efficacy of the company's bioactive chitosan products in promoting tissue regeneration and managing complex wounds. The study results supported the wider adoption of this marine-based biopolymer in advanced medical applications and reinforced the company's position in the chronic wound management sector.
In June 2024, Chinova Bioworks entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Hawkins Watts to introduce its proprietary mushroom fiber extract into the food and beverage sectors of Australia and New Zealand. This partnership focused on the distribution of a natural preservative ingredient derived from the stems of white button mushrooms, which was designed to extend shelf life and maintain freshness. The Chief Operating Officer of Chinova Bioworks highlighted that collaborating with a respected distributor would streamline the supply chain for regional manufacturers seeking clean-label alternatives to artificial preservatives and facilitate global expansion.

Key Market Players

Panvo Organics Pvt Ltd.
GTC Bio Corporation
DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
Kitozyme, LLC
KIMICA Corporation
Dainichiseika Color & Chemicals Mfg Co. Ltd
Heppe Medical Chitosan GmbH
Meron Group
Qingdao Yunzhou Biochemistry Co. Ltd.
Organisan Corporation

By Source	By Application	By Region
Prawns Shrimps Crabs Lobsters and Others	Agriculture & Horticulture Filtration Winemaking Medical Use Bioprinting Biotechnology and Others	North America Europe Asia Pacific South America Middle East & Africa

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Chitosan Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Chitosan Market, By Source:

Prawns
Shrimps
Crabs
Lobsters and Others

Chitosan Market, By Application:

Agriculture & Horticulture
Filtration
Winemaking
Medical Use
Bioprinting
Biotechnology and Others

Chitosan Market, By Region:

North America

United States
Canada
Mexico

Europe

France
United Kingdom
Italy
Germany
Spain

Asia Pacific

China
India
Japan
Australia
South Korea

South America

Brazil
Argentina
Colombia

Middle East & Africa

South Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Chitosan Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Chitosan Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

Global Chitosan Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]

Table of content

1. Product Overview

1.1. Market Definition

1.2. Scope of the Market

1.2.1. Markets Covered

1.2.2. Years Considered for Study

1.2.3. Key Market Segmentations

2. Research Methodology

2.1. Objective of the Study

2.2. Baseline Methodology

2.3. Key Industry Partners

2.4. Major Association and Secondary Sources

2.5. Forecasting Methodology

2.6. Data Triangulation & Validation

2.7. Assumptions and Limitations

3. Executive Summary

3.1. Overview of the Market

3.2. Overview of Key Market Segmentations

3.3. Overview of Key Market Players

3.4. Overview of Key Regions/Countries

3.5. Overview of Market Drivers, Challenges, Trends

4. Voice of Customer

5. Global Chitosan Market Outlook

5.1. Market Size & Forecast

5.1.1. By Value

5.2. Market Share & Forecast

5.2.1. By Source (Prawns, Shrimps, Crabs, Lobsters and Others)

5.2.2. By Application (Agriculture & Horticulture, Filtration, Winemaking, Medical Use, Bioprinting, Biotechnology and Others)

5.2.3. By Region

5.2.4. By Company (2025)

5.3. Market Map

6. North America Chitosan Market Outlook

6.1. Market Size & Forecast

6.1.1. By Value

6.2. Market Share & Forecast

6.2.1. By Source

6.2.2. By Application

6.2.3. By Country

6.3. North America: Country Analysis

6.3.1. United States Chitosan Market Outlook

6.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

6.3.1.1.1. By Value

6.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

6.3.1.2.1. By Source

6.3.1.2.2. By Application

6.3.2. Canada Chitosan Market Outlook

6.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

6.3.2.1.1. By Value

6.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

6.3.2.2.1. By Source

6.3.2.2.2. By Application

6.3.3. Mexico Chitosan Market Outlook

6.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

6.3.3.1.1. By Value

6.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

6.3.3.2.1. By Source

6.3.3.2.2. By Application

7. Europe Chitosan Market Outlook

7.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.1.1. By Value

7.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.2.1. By Source

7.2.2. By Application

7.2.3. By Country

7.3. Europe: Country Analysis

7.3.1. Germany Chitosan Market Outlook

7.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.1.1.1. By Value

7.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.1.2.1. By Source

7.3.1.2.2. By Application

7.3.2. France Chitosan Market Outlook

7.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.2.1.1. By Value

7.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.2.2.1. By Source

7.3.2.2.2. By Application

7.3.3. United Kingdom Chitosan Market Outlook

7.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.3.1.1. By Value

7.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.3.2.1. By Source

7.3.3.2.2. By Application

7.3.4. Italy Chitosan Market Outlook

7.3.4.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.4.1.1. By Value

7.3.4.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.4.2.1. By Source

7.3.4.2.2. By Application

7.3.5. Spain Chitosan Market Outlook

7.3.5.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.5.1.1. By Value

7.3.5.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.5.2.1. By Source

7.3.5.2.2. By Application

8. Asia Pacific Chitosan Market Outlook

8.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.1.1. By Value

8.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.2.1. By Source

8.2.2. By Application

8.2.3. By Country

8.3. Asia Pacific: Country Analysis

8.3.1. China Chitosan Market Outlook

8.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.1.1.1. By Value

8.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.1.2.1. By Source

8.3.1.2.2. By Application

8.3.2. India Chitosan Market Outlook

8.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.2.1.1. By Value

8.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.2.2.1. By Source

8.3.2.2.2. By Application

8.3.3. Japan Chitosan Market Outlook

8.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.3.1.1. By Value

8.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.3.2.1. By Source

8.3.3.2.2. By Application

8.3.4. South Korea Chitosan Market Outlook

8.3.4.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.4.1.1. By Value

8.3.4.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.4.2.1. By Source

8.3.4.2.2. By Application

8.3.5. Australia Chitosan Market Outlook

8.3.5.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.5.1.1. By Value

8.3.5.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.5.2.1. By Source

8.3.5.2.2. By Application

9. Middle East & Africa Chitosan Market Outlook

9.1. Market Size & Forecast

9.1.1. By Value

9.2. Market Share & Forecast

9.2.1. By Source

9.2.2. By Application

9.2.3. By Country

9.3. Middle East & Africa: Country Analysis

9.3.1. Saudi Arabia Chitosan Market Outlook

9.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

9.3.1.1.1. By Value

9.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

9.3.1.2.1. By Source

9.3.1.2.2. By Application

9.3.2. UAE Chitosan Market Outlook

9.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

9.3.2.1.1. By Value

9.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

9.3.2.2.1. By Source

9.3.2.2.2. By Application

9.3.3. South Africa Chitosan Market Outlook

9.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

9.3.3.1.1. By Value

9.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

9.3.3.2.1. By Source

9.3.3.2.2. By Application

10. South America Chitosan Market Outlook

10.1. Market Size & Forecast

10.1.1. By Value

10.2. Market Share & Forecast

10.2.1. By Source

10.2.2. By Application

10.2.3. By Country

10.3. South America: Country Analysis

10.3.1. Brazil Chitosan Market Outlook

10.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

10.3.1.1.1. By Value

10.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

10.3.1.2.1. By Source

10.3.1.2.2. By Application

10.3.2. Colombia Chitosan Market Outlook

10.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

10.3.2.1.1. By Value

10.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

10.3.2.2.1. By Source

10.3.2.2.2. By Application

10.3.3. Argentina Chitosan Market Outlook

10.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

10.3.3.1.1. By Value

10.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

10.3.3.2.1. By Source

10.3.3.2.2. By Application

11. Market Dynamics

11.1. Drivers

11.2. Challenges

12. Market Trends & Developments

12.1. Merger & Acquisition (If Any)

12.2. Product Launches (If Any)

12.3. Recent Developments

13. Global Chitosan Market: SWOT Analysis

14. Porter's Five Forces Analysis

14.1. Competition in the Industry

14.2. Potential of New Entrants

14.3. Power of Suppliers

14.4. Power of Customers

14.5. Threat of Substitute Products

15. Competitive Landscape

15.1. Panvo Organics Pvt Ltd.

15.1.1. Business Overview

15.1.2. Products & Services

15.1.3. Recent Developments

15.1.4. Key Personnel

15.1.5. SWOT Analysis

15.2. GTC Bio Corporation

15.3. DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

15.4. Kitozyme, LLC

15.5. KIMICA Corporation

15.6. Dainichiseika Color & Chemicals Mfg Co. Ltd

15.7. Heppe Medical Chitosan GmbH

15.8. Meron Group

15.9. Qingdao Yunzhou Biochemistry Co. Ltd.

15.10. Organisan Corporation

16. Strategic Recommendations

17. About Us & Disclaimer

Report Description

Table of content

Figures and Tables

Frequently asked questions

What was the market size of the Global Chitosan Market in 2025?

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