Potassium Iodide Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Sales Channel (Direct, Indirect), By End Use (Pharmaceutical, Food Additives, Industrial, Laboratory & Analytical Uses, Water Treatment & Disinfection, Others), By Region and Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Potassium Iodide Market was valued at USD 443.82 Million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 627.59 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 4.37% during the forecast period. As a stable iodine compound, potassium iodide plays a critical role in protecting the thyroid gland during nuclear emergencies, while also serving as a key ingredient in medical formulations and dietary supplements.

One of the primary drivers of the potassium iodide market is the increasing demand from the pharmaceutical industry. The compound is extensively used in the formulation of expectorants, antiseptics, and thyroid medications. With the rising prevalence of thyroid-related disorders and respiratory ailments, especially in emerging economies, manufacturers are ramping up production to meet growing requirements. Moreover, global health authorities and governments are maintaining potassium iodide stockpiles for emergency preparedness, further contributing to market expansion.

Despite its broad applications, the potassium iodide market faces challenges such as regulatory compliance, supply chain disruptions, and fluctuating raw material costs. In particular, the supply of iodine, a key input in potassium iodide production, is sensitive to geopolitical factors and natural resource limitations, which could impact market stability.

Key Market Drivers

Growth in Pharmaceutical Industry

The global potassium iodide market is experiencing significant momentum, driven in large part by the sustained growth of the pharmaceutical industry. The global pharmaceutical industry has witnessed substantial expansion over the past two decades, reaching an estimated revenue of approximately USD 1.6 trillion in 2023. This remarkable growth has elevated the industry's scale to a level comparable to the gross domestic products (GDPs) of major economies such as Spain, Mexico, or Australia. As a vital component in various medicinal formulations, potassium iodide has garnered increasing demand owing to its broad therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of thyroid-related disorders, radiation emergencies, and as an expectorant in respiratory medications.

One of the primary contributors to this demand is the rising incidence of thyroid disorders such as goiter and hyperthyroidism, which are often linked to iodine deficiency. According to 2023 reports, iodine deficiency remains the leading global cause of goiters, impacting an estimated 2.2 billion individuals. The prevalence and incidence of goiter correlate directly with the severity of iodine deficiency. In regions with mild deficiency, goiter incidence ranges from 5% to 20%. This rate rises to 20%–30% with moderate deficiency and exceeds 30% in areas experiencing severe iodine deficiency. Potassium iodide, being an efficient iodine supplement, plays a critical role in addressing these conditions, prompting pharmaceutical companies to expand its use in both prescription and over-the-counter medications. This trend is further supported by growing awareness among consumers and healthcare professionals regarding the importance of iodine in maintaining thyroid health.

Growth in Food Industry

The steady expansion of the global food industry has emerged as a significant driver of the potassium iodide market. The Food & Drink market is projected to generate total revenue of USD 2.00 billion in 2022. Furthermore, revenue from in-app purchases (IAP) within this segment is expected to reach approximately USD 308.76 million during the same period. As food manufacturers increasingly focus on nutritional enhancement and compliance with public health regulations, the demand for iodine fortification especially in table salt and processed foods has risen sharply. Potassium iodide, due to its high iodine content and stability, is widely used as a fortifying agent to address iodine deficiency, a public health concern in many regions across the globe.

One of the primary factors fueling market demand is the widespread implementation of mandatory salt iodization programs in both developing and developed economies. Health authorities in regions such as Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and parts of Africa have enacted policies that require food-grade salt to be iodized using potassium iodide or potassium iodate. This has led to sustained demand from bulk salt producers and food processors, boosting the overall consumption of potassium iodide.

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Key Market Challenges

Volatility in Raw Material Availability

One of the primary challenges confronting the global potassium iodide market is the volatility in the availability of its raw materials, particularly iodine. Iodine is a critical precursor in the production of potassium iodide, and fluctuations in its supply can significantly disrupt the manufacturing process, affecting both production timelines and costs. This volatility poses a notable risk to the stability of the potassium iodide market, especially considering the compound's widespread applications in the pharmaceutical, nutrition, and industrial sectors.

The global iodine supply chain is heavily concentrated in a few regions, particularly in countries such as Chile, Japan, and the United States. Chile is the world's largest producer of iodine, and any disruptions in mining activities, due to factors like labor strikes, natural disasters, or geopolitical tensions, can directly impact iodine availability. Additionally, changes in government regulations or export restrictions in key iodine-producing nations can lead to market imbalances, further exacerbating the challenge for potassium iodide manufacturers.

Key Market Trends

Growth in Nutritional Supplements

The global potassium iodide market is witnessing a significant trend driven by the expanding demand for nutritional supplements. The global vitamins and minerals market is valued at approximately USD 19.5 billion. In contrast, the market for functional food and beverages, which includes products with added health benefits, is significantly larger, with a market size nearing USD 530 billion. As consumer awareness surrounding the importance of iodine for overall health grows, potassium iodide has emerged as a key ingredient in dietary supplements aimed at addressing iodine deficiencies. This trend is particularly prominent in regions where iodine deficiency is prevalent, such as certain parts of Africa, Asia, and South America, but it is also gaining traction in developed markets as well.

Iodine plays an essential role in thyroid function, and its deficiency can lead to a range of health problems, including goiter, developmental delays, and cognitive impairments. As a result, there is increasing recognition of the need for iodine supplementation, particularly among pregnant women, children, and individuals in regions with limited access to iodine-rich food sources. Potassium iodide, due to its high solubility and bioavailability, is increasingly being incorporated into multivitamin and mineral supplements, providing a convenient and effective solution to iodine deficiency.

Segmental Insights

Sales Channel Insights

Based on Sales Channel, Direct have emerged as the fastest growing segment in the Global Potassium Iodide Market in 2024. One of the primary catalysts for the expansion of the direct segment is the widespread implementation of mandatory iodization programs. Countries, especially in regions like Asia-Pacific, Africa, and parts of Latin America, have implemented regulations that require salt to be iodized in order to prevent iodine deficiency disorders. Potassium iodide, due to its solubility and stability, is a preferred choice for these programs, leading to a direct increase in demand from the food processing industry.

End Use Insights

Based on End Use, Water Treatment & Disinfection have emerged as the fastest growing segment in the Global Potassium Iodide Market during the forecast period. As populations in both developed and developing regions continue to expand, the demand for clean, safe drinking water has surged. This trend is particularly evident in regions facing water scarcity or contamination, such as parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Potassium iodide, as part of iodine-based water purification systems, has gained traction for its ability to effectively disinfect water and eliminate pathogens, ensuring safe consumption. Its broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity makes it a critical component in emergency water treatment solutions, such as portable water purification systems used in disaster-stricken areas.

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Regional Insights

Based on Region, Asia Pacific have emerged as the dominating region in the Global Potassium Iodide Market in 2024. Asia-Pacific is home to a large and growing population, which is driving an increased demand for pharmaceuticals, particularly in the treatment of thyroid disorders and iodine deficiency. This demand is further fueled by the region's expanding healthcare infrastructure and government initiatives aimed at improving public health. Potassium iodide, as a crucial component in medical treatments, benefits significantly from this trend.

Recent Development

• In March 2025, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) and the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) distributed free potassium iodide (KI) tablets to residents within a 10-mile radius (the Emergency Planning Zone, or EPZ) of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations. KI tablets were made available to both individuals who had previously received them but whose tablets had expired, as well as to those who had never received them. Eligibility extends to individuals residing or operating businesses within the EPZ. KI is a key protective measure outlined in Delaware’s emergency preparedness plans for nuclear incidents. The state procures these tablets through a program established by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
• In 2025, China enhanced rainfall in Xinjiang by utilizing 1 kg of silver iodide and a fleet of cloud-seeding drones. Chinese researchers successfully increased precipitation by over 4% in the region through this innovative method. The process begins with identifying optimal cloud formations using advanced weather data and tools, such as aircraft and ground-based systems. Once suitable clouds are located, seeding agents are introduced. These agents, including substances like silver iodide, potassium iodide, sodium chloride, and dry ice, act as "seeds" around which cloud moisture condenses, facilitating the formation of raindrops.
• In 2024, researchers developed a novel passivation technique for formamidinium lead iodide perovskite films, achieving solar cells with 23.69% power conversion efficiency and modules with 21.44% certified efficiency. After 1,000 hours, the passivated devices retained 92% of their initial efficiency, surpassing untreated devices. The team used an excess of lead iodide and methylammonium chloride to address defect sites. Potassium iodide (KI) could also be incorporated to further enhance stability and performance by passivating defects and improving carrier dynamics. Integrating KI into the polycrystalline FAPbI3 structure may boost structural integrity and extend carrier lifetimes, contributing to longer-lasting, higher-efficiency perovskite solar technologies.
• In November 2024, the Montgomery County Commissioners, following advice from the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Public Health (OPH), declared a Code Blue cold weather emergency. This declaration was made in anticipation of temperatures or wind chills reaching or remaining at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit for two or more hours. During such emergencies, it is essential for public health authorities to ensure the availability of critical emergency supplies, including potassium iodide. Potassium iodide can play a key role in mitigating the effects of radiation exposure during nuclear emergencies, which could potentially coincide with severe weather-related events. Preparedness measures, including potassium iodide distribution, are a proactive step in protecting the community's health in these circumstances.

Key Market Players

• Adani Pharmachem P. Ltd.
• Nantong Lingang Chemical Co., Ltd.
• ZH Chemicals Pvt Ltd
• Infinium Pharmachem Pvt.
• Ascent Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
• HTKP INDUSTRIES PVT LTD
• Eskay iodine private limited
• Shandong Boyuan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
• SAMRAT REMEDIES LTD
• Toyota Tsusho America Inc

Report Scope

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

• Potassium Iodide Market, By Sales Channel:

o   Direct

o   Indirect

• Potassium Iodide Market, By End Use:

o   Pharmaceutical

o   Food Additives

o   Industrial

o   Laboratory & Analytical Uses

o   Water Treatment & Disinfection

o   Others

• Potassium Iodide Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

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

Available Customizations:

Global Potassium Iodide Market report with the given market data, Tech Sci 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).

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