The coating additives market is projected to grow from $8.72 billion in 2024 to $11.04 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 4.8%. This growth is driven by increasing demand for waterborne products, the need for bio-based and high-performance additives, and rising requirements for corrosion protection. Technological advancements, such as streamlined formulations and silicone-modified polyesters, are shaping the market. The architectural segment held the largest share in 2023, and waterborne formulations are expected to experience the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by stricter environmental regulations.

The market is expected to grow due to increasing infrastructural projects and urbanization, rising demand for waterborne products, growing needs for bio-based additives, and expanding industrial activities in the Asia-Pacific region. Coating additives are specialized substances incorporated into coatings formulations to improve durability, adhesion, weather resistance, appearance and functionality, making them crucial for a wide range of industries today. Additionally, increasing population, rising demand for corrosion protection, technological advancements and changing consumer needs are expected to drive demand for coating additives across various applications.

Defoamers Segment Sees Strong Growth

The defoamers segment is projected to register the second-highest CAGR, in terms of value, in the global coating additives market during the forecast period. Defoamers help reduce blisters, spots and pinholes during coating processes. Growth in industries such as construction and automotive drives the need for improved coatings, which in turn necessitates better defoaming systems. Advances in defoamer production methods and improved compatibility with relevant systems contribute to the attractiveness of these compounds. Increasing environmental standards and the shift toward more environmentally friendly, waterborne coatings are also enhancing the growth of this segment.

Waterborne Formulations Lead Market Growth Amid Rising Regulations

The waterborne formulation segment is estimated to be the fastest-growing segment in the coating additives market, in terms of value, during the forecast period. Tighter environmental standards aimed at reducing VOC emissions have been a primary catalyst for the move toward green solutions. Additionally, as awareness of the environmental impact of chemicals grows, consumers increasingly prefer water-based products. Improvements in performance have made waterborne formulations widely used in construction, automotive and industrial applications. Their flexibility in application and ease of clean up further contribute to their popularity.

Europe Holds Steady as Second-Largest Coatings Market

Europe is estimated to be the second-largest market for coating additives, in terms of value, during the forecast period. The region is a strong manufacturing hub for products in the automotive and construction industries, both of which require high-quality coatings. Strict environmental regulations in Europe support the sustainable development of advanced additives, even for low-VOC formulations. Europe is also a center for research and development, which helps improve performance through better chemical formulations. The region’s standardized supply chain and broad network of additive manufacturers contribute to market growth and increased product access.

To access the full report, “Coating Additives Market by Type (Defoamer, Wetting & Dispersing Agents, Rheology Modifiers), Formulation (Waterborne, Solventborne), Application (Architectural, Industrial, Automotive & Transportation, Wood & Furniture), and Region - Global Forecast to 2029,” visit MarketsandMarkets.