Disinfectants are chemical substances or mixtures that are applied on inanimate surfaces to destroy or irreversibly inactivate infectious or potentially infectious microorganisms, but not necessarily their spores. They help kill germs and prevent the spread of infections. Disinfectants are widely used across households, healthcare facilities, food and beverage industry, and other commercial spaces. Demand for disinfectants has grown significantly amid rising hygiene awareness and their potential to curb the spread of diseases. Disinfectants contain antimicrobial chemicals that kill microorganisms and are effective against bacteria, viruses, tuberculosis, and other pathogens. Growing hygiene concerns coupled with increasing spread of infectious diseases have propelled the consumption of surface disinfectants globally. The Global Disinfectants Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 49.0 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.0% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030.

Key Takeaways

Key players operating in the disinfectants market are Solvay S.A., Unilever Group, Evonik Industries AG, 3M Company, Procter & Gamble Corporation, dowdupont Inc., Lanxess AG, BASF S.E., The Clorox Company, and Reckitt Benckiser Plc. These companies are focused on expanding their disinfectant product portfolios and strengthening global supply chains to cater to the growing demand from various end-use industries.

The demand for disinfectants is growing significantly across healthcare facilities, households, food processing plants, and other commercial spaces owing to rising hygiene awareness and growing prevalence of infectious diseases. Stringent regulations regarding hygiene and increasing spending on cleaning supplies post pandemic has further accelerated disinfectant consumption globally.

Major disinfectant producers are expanding their global footprint by enhancing manufacturing capacities and distribution networks across emerging economies of Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. These regions offer lucrative expansion opportunities owing to improving cleaning standards, growing middle-class population, and increasing spending on hygiene products.

Market Key Trends

One of the key trends gaining traction in the disinfectants market is the increasing demand for eco-friendly disinfectants. With growing environmental consciousness, manufacturers are focusing on developing sustainable disinfectant formulations containing plant-based ingredients and benzalkonium chloride that are benign to humans as well as the environment. Moreover, demand for multi-surface disinfectants with broad-spectrum activity against various pathogens is surging owing to their effectiveness and convenience of use across different applications. Advancements in delivery mechanisms and introduction of odorless, colorless, and residue-free disinfectants with longer lasting effects are further expanding the product appeal. Growing preference for liquid spray and wipe disinfectants over aerosol variants is another notable trend due to COVID-19 triggered safety concerns.

Porter’s Analysis

Threat of new entrants: Low economies of scale and capital requirements inhibit new competitors. However, recognition and customer loyalty for established brands will act as barriers.
Bargaining power of buyers: Buyers have moderate bargaining power since disinfectants industry has many producers. Buyers can negotiate lower prices but brand reputation and innovation influence their choice.
Bargaining power of suppliers: Suppliers of active ingredients and packaging materials have moderate bargaining power due to availability of substitutes and presence of many buyers in fragmented industry.
Threat of new substitutes: Threat of substitute products is low as there are limited alternatives for disinfection needs. Innovation and expansion into adjacent categories can increase threat.
Competitive rivalry: Intense competition exists among top players to gain market share and expand product portfolios. Pricing wars and new product launches characterize the competitive landscape.

Geographical Regions

North America accounts for the largest share of the global disinfectants market currently, valued at over US$ 10 Bn in 2023. Factors contributing to market concentration include growing hygiene awareness, active lifestyle, and healthcare expenditure.
The Asia Pacific region is projected to witness the fastest growth over the forecast period. Increasing urbanization, awareness about disease prevention, healthcare infrastructure investment are key factors driving market growth in countries such as China and India. Changing consumer habits are opening new opportunities in emerging economies.