The chemical industry is one of the largest sectors globally, driven by the widespread use of chemicals in everyday products and the vast range of chemical products available. While the industry has traditionally grown alongside global industrialization, it is now entering a phase of significant transformation.
As Asia remains the top region for revenue in the chemical industry, China is poised to become the global hub in the coming years. However, the growth in chemical sales may face challenges due to new environmental regulations. Additionally, emerging digital technologies have the potential to enhance productivity and reshape current business models within the industry.
Total revenue of the chemical industry worldwide from 2005 to 2022 (in billion U.S. dollars)
Further details: Visit original statistic Total revenue of the chemical industry worldwide from 2005 to 2022 (in billion U.S. dollars)
The total revenue of the chemical industry worldwide has been increasing steadily over the years, and whilst the COVID-19 pandemic had a considerable impact on the industry; causing the revenue to decrease 35 percent in 2020, the industry has showed considerable recovery since, reaching a revenue of 5.7 trillion U.S. dollars in 2022. The chemical industry remains a significant contributor to the global economy and is expected to continue evolving as innovations emerge.
Chemical industry worldwideSales value of chemicals worldwide in 2022, by segment (in billion euros)
Further details: Visit original statistic Sales value of chemicals worldwide in 2022, by segment (in billion euros)
The chemicals industry encompasses multiple market segments with diverse products, customers, and market demands. Pharmaceuticals constituted one of the largest industry sectors in terms of global sales value, followed by fine and specialty chemicals. Bulk inorganic chemicals, petrochemicals, polymers, and detergents are also significant sectors in the industry. These different market segments serve a variety of diverse purposes in catering to various downstream industries.
Global agrochemical industryValue of global chemical exports in 2022, by region (in billion U.S. dollars)
Further details: Visit original statistic Value of global chemical exports in 2022, by region (in billion U.S. dollars)
The chemical industry is a global market that plays a significant role in the world's economy. Europe currently dominates the global trade of chemicals with 758.9 billion euros of chemical exports in 2022. Following close behind is Asia-Pacific with 673.3 billion euros of chemical exports. Asia, particularly China, is expected to be a significant driver of chemical consumption growth in the coming years, with China's rapid industrialization leading to an increased demand for chemical products.
Coronavirus' impact on the global chemical industry2024 ranking of the global leading chemical companies based on revenue (in billion U.S. dollars)
Further details: Visit original statistic 2024 ranking of the global leading chemical companies based on revenue (in billion U.S. dollars)
BASF, a multinational chemical company headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany, has retained its position as the world's largest chemical company by annual revenue for several consecutive years. The company's diverse portfolio has led to impressive financial results, with a revenue surpassing 94.83 billion U.S. dollars in 2023. Dow Chemical and LyondellBasell, both headquartered in the United States, have also emerged as leading global chemical companies, consistently ranking among the top five.
Leading chemical companies
The chemical industry category offers data on the various chemical segments, including inorganic and organic chemistry, petrochemicals, agricultural chemicals, paint and coatings, materials science and composites, and others. Statista's chemical industry analysis includes production, consumption, and trade figures for a wide variety of chemical products, in addition to the key financial indicators and data about the leading companies in this industry.
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