The global water treatment chemicals market size was valued at USD 32.2 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to reach USD 43.53 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.8% from 2023 to 2030. Market growth is largely driven by rising demand from key industries such as sugar and ethanol processing, fertilizers, geothermal power generation, petrochemical manufacturing, and refining especially in rapidly developing economies. The increasing need for centralized facilities that can handle complete fluid treatment processes and achieve zero liquid discharge (ZLD) is emerging as a prominent trend, as many medium and small-scale manufacturers seek cost-efficient and environmentally compliant solutions. The Middle East and Africa are expected to witness substantial growth due to the accelerating adoption of saline water treatment technologies to meet rising water demand. Desalination remains the most widely implemented solution across the region, with Saudi Arabia relying heavily on desalination to satisfy its domestic water requirements.

Key Market Trends & Insights:

  • North America dominated the global market, accounting for the largest revenue share of 28.8% in 2022. The region’s growth is significantly influenced by advancements in hydraulic fracturing technologies that have increased the extraction of unconventional energy sources such as shale gas and tight oil, particularly in North Dakota and West Texas. This surge in energy production has increased the need for large-scale water treatment to manage process water and wastewater. The U.S. is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.0% over the forecast period, driven by rising industrial water usage and ongoing investments in water infrastructure.
  • Asia Pacific is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period. Expanding industrial, power generation, and manufacturing sectors across emerging economies are boosting demand for boiler chemicals and water treatment systems, especially in fast-growing markets such as China, India, and Southeast Asia. Increasing urbanization, population growth, and stress on freshwater resources also contribute to stronger adoption of advanced water treatment solutions in the region.
  • By product, the coagulants & flocculants segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 38.2% in 2022, reflecting their essential role in sedimentation and solid–liquid separation processes used in most water treatment plants. Meanwhile, the biocides and disinfectants segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.0%, driven by increased emphasis on microbial control, sanitation, and ensuring safe water quality across industrial and municipal applications.
  • By application, the raw water treatment segment held the largest share of 48.2% in 2022, supported by its extensive usage in industrial operations such as cooling, processing, rinsing, and when adequately purified human consumption. The boiler segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2%, driven by the critical need for high-purity water in industrial boilers to prevent corrosion, scaling, and operational inefficiencies. Boiler applications are especially prominent in the petrochemical sector, where water quality directly influences process reliability and safety.
  • By end-use, the municipal segment led the market with a 43.1% revenue share in 2022, driven by increasing urban populations and growing need for efficient wastewater and drinking water treatment solutions. The oil & gas segment is projected to register a CAGR of 3.7%, as scarcity of clean water pushes petroleum refineries and chemical plants to adopt efficient water treatment processes that ensure sustainable and reliable operations. The sector’s heavy reliance on treated water for cooling, processing, and enhanced oil recovery drives continued demand for specialized treatment chemicals.

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Market Size & Forecast:

  • 2022 Market Size: USD 32.2 Billion
  • 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 43.53 Billion
  • CAGR (2023-2030): 3.8%
  • North America: Largest market in 2022

Key Companies & Market Share Insights:

The water treatment chemicals market is fragmented, characterized by numerous manufacturers with varying degrees of operational integration. Many producers maintain in-house raw material production facilities or long-term supply agreements, enabling greater cost control and operational stability. Their products are distributed domestically and internationally through direct supply contracts and third-party distributors, who leverage extensive networks to ensure global availability of chemical formulations.

Furthermore, leading companies have broadened their business activities to encompass not only manufacturing but also distribution, direct supply management, and application services. This presence across multiple stages of the value chain enhances profitability by reducing distribution costs and allowing companies greater control over pricing strategies. Such integrated models also strengthen customer relationships by ensuring product reliability, consistent supply, and tailored technical support.

Key Players

  • SUEZ
  • BASF SE
  • Ecolab
  • Solenis
  • Nouryon
  • Kemira
  • Baker Hughes Company
  • Dow
  • SNF
  • Cortec Corporation

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Conclusion:

The global water treatment chemicals market is set for steady growth as rising industrial activity and tightening water quality regulations drive the need for advanced treatment solutions. Expanding sectors such as petrochemicals, power generation, and manufacturing particularly in emerging economies are strengthening demand for specialized chemicals that ensure efficient and compliant water management. Regions like the Middle East and Africa are expected to experience strong growth due to increasing reliance on desalination to address escalating water scarcity. Meanwhile, North America and Asia Pacific continue to contribute significantly to market expansion through technological advancements and rapid industrialization. Although the market remains fragmented, companies with integrated operations and robust distribution networks are well-positioned to enhance profitability and maintain competitive advantages. Overall, water treatment chemicals will remain essential for supporting sustainable industrial operations, ensuring water security, and meeting global environmental standards.