The global dispersing agents market size was valued at USD 5.99 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 8.49 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2025 to 2030. The growth of this market is primarily driven by the increasing use of dispersing agents in the paints, coatings, and inks industry, along with the expansion of construction activities worldwide. Dispersing agents play a critical role in the paint and coatings sector, as they enhance the performance, stability, and consistency of the final product. These agents prevent pigments and solid particles from clumping or settling, ensuring uniform color distribution, smooth texture, and long-lasting quality, which is particularly important for high-performance coatings and decorative finishes.

The construction industry has also contributed significantly to the growth of dispersing agents. Rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and renovation projects across the globe have increased demand for construction materials such as paints, coatings, adhesives, and sealants. Dispersing agents improve the dispersion of pigments and fillers in these materials, enhancing their durability, aesthetic appeal, and overall performance. Additionally, technological advancements in construction materials have led to the development of high-performance, environmentally friendly products that rely on effective dispersion of additives and fillers, further driving the adoption of dispersing agents in the market.

Key Market Trends & Insights:

• Regional Insights: Europe dominated the global dispersing agents market, accounting for the largest revenue share of 50.9% in 2024, due to its well-established coatings and chemical industries, high construction activity, and advanced manufacturing infrastructure.
• By Type: The water-borne segment led the market in 2024, contributing a revenue share of 79.5%, reflecting the increasing shift toward eco-friendly, low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) formulations. Other types of dispersing agents are expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% over the forecast period.
• By Structure: The anionic dispersing agents segment held the largest revenue share at 38.2% in 2024, due to their wide applicability and effectiveness in dispersing inorganic pigments. The non-ionic segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2%, driven by increasing demand in specialty applications requiring enhanced compatibility with different materials.
• By End-Use: The paints, coatings, and inks segment dominated in 2024, with a revenue share of 38.9%, reflecting the critical role of dispersing agents in improving color uniformity and coating quality. The construction segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2025 to 2030, supported by ongoing infrastructure projects and renovation activities in both developed and emerging regions.

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Market Size & Forecast:

• 2024 Market Size: USD 5.99 Billion
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 8.49 Billion
• CAGR (2025-2030): 6.0%
• Europe: Largest market in 2024

Key Companies & Market Share Insights:

The global dispersing agents market is highly competitive, with leading players focusing on capacity expansion, technological innovation, and strategic collaborations to maintain and grow their market presence.

• BASF SE manufactures polymeric, oligomeric, and surfactant-based dispersing agents suitable for water-based, solvent-based, high solids, and 100% solids systems. Operating mainly in the industrial solutions segment, BASF emphasizes innovation in polymer chemistry and controlled free radical polymerization to enhance viscosity, color intensity, stability, and overall performance of coatings, inks, and construction materials. In August 2023, BASF expanded its production facility in Dilovasi, Turkey, aiming to double its capacity for water-soluble dispersants based on acrylic acid, reflecting its strategy to meet growing global demand.
• Arkema develops and manufactures advanced materials and chemical solutions, including dispersing agents for coatings, adhesives, and construction materials. Operating in specialty chemicals and industrial materials segments, Arkema focuses on improving pigment dispersion, rheology, and stability in various formulations to optimize product performance and ensure consistent quality.

Other prominent players are actively pursuing mergers, collaborations, new product launches, and regional expansions to strengthen their market positions and capture opportunities arising from the increasing demand for high-performance dispersing agents worldwide.

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Conclusion:

The global dispersing agents market is expected to grow steadily, driven by the increasing demand in the paints, coatings, and inks industry as well as expanding construction activities worldwide. Dispersing agents are crucial for ensuring uniform pigment distribution, enhanced stability, and improved performance of coatings and construction materials, which is fueling their adoption across various applications. Europe currently leads the market, supported by its well-established chemical and construction sectors, while the construction segment is projected to witness significant growth in emerging regions. Technological advancements and the development of high-performance, eco-friendly products are further enhancing the demand for dispersing agents. Leading players such as BASF SE and Arkema are focusing on capacity expansions, product innovations, and strategic collaborations to strengthen their global presence. Overall, the market outlook remains positive, with continuous innovation and increasing infrastructure development driving sustained growth through 2030.