Squalene Strategic Insights: Analysis 2025 and Forecasts 2033

Key Insights

The global squalene market size was valued at USD 47.4 million in 2025 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 25.4% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a market value of USD 255.7 million by 2033. The growing demand for squalene in various industries, including health products/nutritional products, vaccines/pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, is driving the market growth. Squalene is a natural compound that is found in high concentrations in the liver of deep-sea sharks and some plant sources. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable ingredient in various products.

The market for squalene is segmented by type, source, and application. In terms of type, the shark source segment is expected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period. However, the plant source segment is expected to grow at a higher CAGR due to increasing concerns about shark conservation. In terms of application, the health products/nutritional products segment is expected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period. The growing demand for dietary supplements and functional foods is contributing to the growth of this segment

Squalene Market Trends

The global squalene market is projected to reach $1.2 billion by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.2% from 2021 to 2028. Rising demand for squalene in cosmetics, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals is a key driving factor behind the market growth. Additionally, increasing awareness of the health benefits of squalene, such as its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, is further fueling market expansion.

The growing popularity of plant-based squalene, driven by concerns over sustainability and ethical considerations, is another significant trend in the market. Plant-based squalene, extracted from sources such as sugarcane and olives, offers a sustainable alternative to shark-derived squalene and is gaining traction among cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies.

Driving Forces Propelling the Squalene

The growing demand for squalene in pharmaceuticals is a major driving force behind the market growth. Squalene is a key ingredient in vaccines, particularly influenza vaccines, as it acts as an adjuvant to enhance immune response. The increasing prevalence of infectious diseases and the need for effective vaccines are driving the demand for squalene in the pharmaceutical sector.

Furthermore, the rising popularity of cosmetics and personal care products containing squalene is another significant driving force. Squalene possesses emollient and moisturizing properties, making it an attractive ingredient for skincare products. Its ability to improve skin hydration, reduce wrinkles, and protect against environmental stressors is driving demand in the cosmetics industry.

Challenges and Restraints in the Squalene Market

The high cost of sourcing squalene is a major challenge for the market. Shark-derived squalene, the traditional source of squalene, is becoming increasingly scarce and expensive due to overfishing and conservation concerns. As a result, manufacturers are shifting towards plant-based sources of squalene, which are more sustainable and cost-effective.

Another challenge is the limited availability of plant-based squalene. The extraction process of plant-based squalene is complex and requires specialized equipment, which can limit production capacity and drive up prices. As demand for plant-based squalene grows, manufacturers will need to scale up production to meet market demand.

Key Region or Country & Segment Dominating the Market

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to dominate the global squalene market throughout the forecast period. The growing demand for cosmetics and personal care products, coupled with the increasing prevalence of infectious diseases, is driving market growth in this region. China, Japan, and India are key markets within the Asia-Pacific region.

In terms of segment, the health products/nutritional products segment is expected to account for the largest share of the market by 2028. Squalene's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it an attractive ingredient for dietary supplements and health food products. The growing awareness of squalene's health benefits is fueling demand in this segment.

Growth Catalysts in Squalene Industry

The increasing demand for sustainable and ethical products is a growth catalyst for the squalene industry. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of synthetic ingredients and are seeking more natural and sustainable alternatives. Plant-based squalene, derived from renewable sources, meets this demand and is expected to drive market growth in the coming years.

Technological advancements in the extraction and production of plant-based squalene are also expected to catalyze market growth. Improved extraction techniques and the development of more efficient production processes can reduce costs and increase availability, making plant-based squalene more competitive with shark-derived squalene.

Leading Players in the Squalene

• [YiChun Dahaigui Life Science]( rel="nofollow")
• [Amyris]( rel="nofollow")
• [Kishimoto]( rel="nofollow")
• [EFP]( rel="nofollow")
• [Clariant]( rel="nofollow")
• [VESTAN]( rel="nofollow")
• [Evonik]( rel="nofollow")

Significant Developments in Squalene Sector

• In 2021, Amyris announced the launch of its plant-based squalene ingredient, Neossance™ Squalane, for the cosmetics industry. This ingredient offers a sustainable and ethical alternative to shark-derived squalene.
• In 2022, Clariant acquired the plant-based squalene business of Australian company Q-Biotics. This acquisition strengthens Clariant's position in the sustainable squalene market.
• Research is underway to explore the potential therapeutic applications of squalene in the treatment of cancer and other diseases.

Comprehensive Coverage Squalene Report

This report provides comprehensive coverage of the squalene market, including market size and segmentation, growth drivers, challenges, key players, and future trends. It is a valuable resource for companies and investors seeking insights into the squalene market and its growth potential.

Squalene Segmentation

• 1. Type
  • 1.1. Overview: Global Squalene Consumption Value
  • 1.2. Shark Source Squalene
  • 1.3. Plant Source Squalene
• 2. Application
  • 2.1. Overview: Global Squalene Consumption Value
  • 2.2. Health Products/Nutritional products
  • 2.3. Vaccines/Pharmaceuticals
  • 2.4. Other

Squalene Segmentation By Geography

• 1. North America
  • 1.1. United States
  • 1.2. Canada
  • 1.3. Mexico
• 2. South America
  • 2.1. Brazil
  • 2.2. Argentina
  • 2.3. Rest of South America
• 3. Europe
  • 3.1. United Kingdom
  • 3.2. Germany
  • 3.3. France
  • 3.4. Italy
  • 3.5. Spain
  • 3.6. Russia
  • 3.7. Benelux
  • 3.8. Nordics
  • 3.9. Rest of Europe
• 4. Middle East & Africa
  • 4.1. Turkey
  • 4.2. Israel
  • 4.3. GCC
  • 4.4. North Africa
  • 4.5. South Africa
  • 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
• 5. Asia Pacific
  • 5.1. China
  • 5.2. India
  • 5.3. Japan
  • 5.4. South Korea
  • 5.5. ASEAN
  • 5.6. Oceania
  • 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific