The Global Shikimic Acid Market is valued approximately at USD 8.04 billion in 2024 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.73% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. Shikimic acid, a cyclohexene, is a pivotal biochemical intermediate in the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids and other phenolic compounds. Its importance in pharmaceutical formulations, particularly in the production of antiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu), is driving its surging commercial demand. Furthermore, its role as a precursor in manufacturing various cosmetic and food-grade compounds continues to catalyze cross-industry adoption. Increasing focus on plant-derived and sustainable chemical synthesis, combined with advancements in fermentation and extraction technologies, is further uplifting the market trajectory.
Driven by an escalating requirement for safe and effective pharmaceutical intermediates, the demand for shikimic acid has witnessed substantial growth, particularly from the healthcare and cosmetic sectors. The pharmaceutical-grade variant dominates the global consumption landscape, especially with the intensifying preparedness for influenza pandemics and emerging infectious diseases. Concurrently, rising awareness about organic food additives and clean-label beauty products is fueling its application in food-grade and cosmetic-grade formulations. However, the high cost associated with plant-based extraction and the limited availability of raw materials such as star anise can create bottlenecks in mass production, spurring the need for cost-efficient synthetic biology and fermentation-based alternatives.
Regionally, Asia Pacific is projected to command the largest and fastest-growing share of the shikimic acid market, driven by the abundance of natural sources in China and India, as well as rapidly expanding pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturing bases. China’s dominance in star anise cultivation grants it a unique upstream advantage, enabling efficient large-scale extraction. North America, particularly the U.S., continues to be a leading consumer, propelled by innovation in drug development and robust investment in biotechnological research. Meanwhile, Europe remains a stable yet moderately growing market, constrained by regulatory pressures and supply-chain sensitivity. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually emerging due to improving access to bio-based pharmaceutical ingredients and an increasing footprint of global cosmetics brands.
Major market player included in this report are:
• BASF SE
• Layn Natural Ingredients
• Cayman Chemical
• Alfa Aesar (Thermo Fisher Scientific)
• Toronto Research Chemicals
• Xi'an Henrikang Biotech Co., Ltd.
• TCI Chemicals
• Hubei Yuancheng Saichuang Technology Co., Ltd.
• Shaanxi NHK Technology Co., Ltd.
• Glentham Life Sciences Ltd.
• Merck KGaA
• J&K Scientific Ltd.
• Anhui Primechem Co., Ltd.
• Baoji Guokang Bio-Technology Co., Ltd.
• Sichuan Jisheng Biochemical Co., Ltd.
Global Shikimic Acid Market Report Scope:
• Historical Data – 2023, 2024
• Base Year for Estimation – 2024
• Forecast period – 2025-2035
• Report Coverage – Revenue forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth factors, and Trends
• Regional Scope – North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa
The objective of the study is to define market sizes of different segments & countries in recent years and to forecast the values for the coming years. The report is designed to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the industry within the countries involved in the study. The report also provides detailed information about crucial aspects, such as driving factors and challenges, which will define the future growth of the market. Additionally, it incorporates potential opportunities in micro-markets for stakeholders to invest, along with a detailed analysis of the competitive landscape and product offerings of key players.
The detailed segments and sub-segments of the market are explained below:
By Application:
• Pharmaceutical Intermediates
• Food Additives
• Cosmetics
• Others
By Grade:
• Food Grade
• Pharmaceutical Grade
• Cosmetic Grade
By Extraction Method:
• Plant Extraction
• Chemical Synthesis
By End-Use Industry:
• Pharmaceuticals
• Food & Beverage
• Cosmetics & Personal Care
By Region:
North America
• U.S.
• Canada
Europe
• UK
• Germany
• France
• Spain
• Italy
• Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• Rest of Asia Pacific
Latin America
• Brazil
• Mexico
Middle East & Africa
• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Rest of Middle East & Africa
Key Takeaways:
• Market Estimates & Forecast for 10 years from 2025 to 2035.
• Annualized revenues and regional level analysis for each market segment.
• Detailed analysis of geographical landscape with Country level analysis of major regions.
• Competitive landscape with information on major players in the market.
• Analysis of key business strategies and recommendations on future market approach.
• Analysis of competitive structure of the market.
• Demand side and supply side analysis of the market.
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