Global Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) Market Size, Share, And Business Benefits By Form (Powder, Liquid), By Grade (Food, Pharmaceutical), By Application (Water Treatment, Food and Beverages (Canned Foods and Vegetables, Grain-based Products, Soft Drinks and Alcohol, Condiments, Dressings, Others), Detergent Production, Agrochemical Production, Cosmetic Formulations, Pharmaceutical Formulations, Others), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

Global Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) Market is expected to be worth around USD 3.3 billion by 2034, up from USD 2.1 billion in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2025 to 2034. The EDTA market in North America was valued at USD 0.9 billion.

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is a synthetic amino acid compound widely used as a chelating agent. It binds to metal ions like calcium, magnesium, and iron, forming stable, water-soluble complexes. This function makes it highly effective in various industrial, pharmaceutical, food, and water treatment applications. EDTA is commonly used to remove metal contaminants, soften water, preserve food, and stabilize pharmaceutical formulations.

The EDTA market is shaped by its versatility and growing use across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, food processing, and chemical manufacturing. Increasing awareness of water quality and environmental pollution has boosted the demand for EDTA in wastewater treatment plants. In agriculture, its ability to enhance micronutrient absorption in crops is encouraging its usage in fertilizers.

One of the major growth factors for the EDTA market is the global emphasis on clean water access. EDTA’s role in water purification and industrial effluent treatment is gaining traction, especially in regions with stringent water safety regulations. Its chelating ability ensures better heavy metal removal, making it essential in maintaining environmental standards.

Demand is also increasing in the food and personal care sectors, where EDTA is used as a stabilizer and preservative to extend shelf life and improve product safety. The ongoing trend of clean-label products has led manufacturers to search for safer alternatives, but EDTA remains in demand due to its reliability and cost-effectiveness in formulations.

Key Takeaways

• Global Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) Market is expected to be worth around USD 3.3 billion by 2034, up from USD 2.1 billion in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2025 to 2034.
• Powder form dominated the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid market with 65.9% share.
• Food-grade EDTA accounted for 62.3% due to rising demand in preservation applications.
• Water treatment led all applications in the EDTA market, capturing 38.4% share.
• Rising water treatment activities in North America drive the USD 0.9 billion market.

By Form Analysis

In 2024, powder form dominated the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) market with a 65.9% share.

In 2024, Powder held a dominant market position in the By Form segment of the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) Market, with a 65.9% share. The high share is primarily attributed to the powder form’s stability, ease of storage, and longer shelf life compared to liquid alternatives.

Powder EDTA is widely used in industrial and laboratory settings due to its higher concentration and ease of transport without spillage concerns. Manufacturers in water treatment, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture prefer powdered EDTA for its convenience in bulk handling and better control over formulation precision during usage.

Additionally, the powder form allows for flexible usage across multiple applications, including chelation in pharmaceuticals, preservation in food items, and micronutrient delivery in agriculture. Its consistent performance and lower transportation cost further make it the preferred choice in regions with developing infrastructure and limited cold chain logistics.

The cost-efficiency and versatility of powder EDTA are key factors that contributed to its strong market presence in 2024. As demand from water treatment plants and industrial applications continues to rise, powder is expected to maintain its leadership in the EDTA form segment, driven by its functional benefits and compatibility across end-use sectors.

By Grade Analysis

Food-grade EDTA accounted for 62.3% of total market demand due to widespread usage in preservation.

In 2024, Food held a dominant market position in the By Grade segment of the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) Market, with a 62.3% share. This significant share is largely driven by the increasing demand for food-grade preservatives and stabilizers across processed food categories. EDTA in food grade is commonly used to prevent discoloration, rancidity, and the degradation of texture and flavor caused by metal ions.

The food industry’s focus on longer shelf life and improved safety has strengthened the reliance on EDTA, particularly in regions with growing urban populations and rising consumption of ready-to-eat and convenience foods. Food manufacturers are adopting EDTA to meet regulatory quality standards while ensuring product consistency across different environments and storage conditions. Its role in stabilizing color and maintaining nutritional value further boosts its acceptance in various formulations.

The dominant share of the food grade also reflects the trust and regulatory approvals it holds in multiple countries, enabling its widespread use. With growing food processing activities and increased global trade in packaged food items, the demand for food-grade EDTA is expected to remain steady in the near term.

By Application Analysis

Water treatment remained the largest application segment, contributing 38.4% to the global EDTA market share in 2024.

In 2024, Water Treatment held a dominant market position in the By Application segment of the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) Market, with a 38.4% share. This leading share is primarily attributed to EDTA’s strong metal-chelating properties, which make it highly effective in binding and removing heavy metals from water.

Its ability to prevent scale formation, corrosion, and fouling in water systems is critical for industrial, municipal, and commercial water treatment processes. With rising concerns over water pollution and stricter environmental regulations, industries are increasingly turning to EDTA as a reliable solution for maintaining water quality.

In both developing and developed regions, the demand for EDTA in water treatment is supported by infrastructure expansion in wastewater treatment facilities and efforts to ensure safe drinking water. EDTA is commonly used in boiler water systems, cooling towers, and reverse osmosis plants, where its role in maintaining operational efficiency is vital.

Key Market Segments

By Form

• Powder
• Liquid

By Grade

• Food
• Pharmaceutical

By Application

• Water Treatment
• Food and Beverages
  • Canned Foods and Vegetables
  • Grain-based Products
  • Soft Drinks and Alcohol
  • Condiments
  • Dressings
  • Others
• Detergent Production
• Agrochemical Production
• Cosmetic Formulations
• Pharmaceutical Formulations
• Others

Driving Factors

Rising Water Pollution Boosts EDTA Market Growth

One of the main driving factors for the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) market is the growing concern over water pollution across the world. Industrial waste, heavy metals, and chemical runoff are polluting rivers, lakes, and groundwater sources, especially in developing regions. EDTA is widely used in water treatment plants because it helps remove harmful metal ions like lead, copper, and mercury from water.

It binds with these metals and makes them easier to filter out. As more countries strengthen environmental laws and push for cleaner water systems, the demand for EDTA in water purification is increasing. This trend is expected to continue as governments invest more in clean water infrastructure and industries adopt safer wastewater practices.

Restraining Factors

Environmental Concerns Over Non-Biodegradable EDTA Usage

A major restraining factor for the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) market is its non-biodegradable nature, which raises environmental concerns. Once released into the environment, EDTA can persist in soil and water for a long time, leading to potential accumulation of heavy metals in natural ecosystems. This raises issues around long-term ecological safety and contamination of water bodies.

As sustainability becomes a global priority, regulatory bodies are placing stricter limits on the discharge of non-biodegradable chemicals, including EDTA. Some countries have already begun encouraging alternatives that break down more easily. These developments may affect EDTA’s demand in the long run, especially in regions where environmental regulations are becoming more rigid and eco-friendly chemical alternatives are gaining attention.

Growth Opportunity

Eco-Friendly EDTA Alternatives Create New Opportunity

A key growth opportunity for the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) market lies in the development of eco-friendly and biodegradable EDTA alternatives. As concerns about the environmental impact of traditional EDTA grow, researchers and manufacturers are focusing on creating greener versions that break down easily and leave no harmful residues. These new formulations can open up new uses, especially in regions with strict environmental laws.

Industries like food, cosmetics, and water treatment are more likely to adopt such sustainable solutions to meet safety standards and customer expectations. If these eco-friendly EDTA types offer the same performance as the regular ones, they could unlock fresh demand and ensure long-term growth for manufacturers focused on sustainable innovation.

Latest Trends

Automation Enhances EDTA Production Efficiency

A notable trend in the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) market is the increasing adoption of automation technologies to enhance production efficiency. Manufacturers are integrating automated systems to streamline processes, reduce manual errors, and improve product consistency. Automation facilitates precise control over reaction conditions, leading to higher yields and better quality EDTA products.

Additionally, automated monitoring systems enable real-time tracking of production parameters, allowing for swift adjustments and minimizing downtime. This shift towards automation not only boosts operational efficiency but also aligns with the industry’s goals of meeting growing demand and maintaining competitive pricing.

Regional Analysis

In 2024, North America held a 45.3% share of the EDTA market.

In 2024, North America dominated the Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) Market, accounting for 45.3% of the global share, valued at USD 0.9 billion. This leading position is attributed to strong demand from the water treatment, pharmaceutical, and food industries, supported by strict regulatory standards for water quality and food safety. The region’s developed infrastructure and industrial base further contribute to consistent consumption of EDTA across various sectors.

Europe followed with steady adoption, driven by environmental compliance and quality assurance in food and beverage applications. The Asia Pacific region is experiencing growing demand due to rising industrial activity and urbanization, although specific values are not provided. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America represent emerging markets, where increasing focus on clean water access and industrial processing may offer gradual growth potential. However, their market shares remain limited compared to North America.

Overall, regional performance in the EDTA market is largely influenced by industrial maturity, environmental regulations, and application-specific demand. With the U.S. leading in water purification and chemical processing sectors, North America continues to set the pace in the global EDTA landscape. The region’s dominance is expected to hold as regulatory measures and awareness around heavy metal removal remain key growth drivers.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

ChengXin, based in China, has established itself as a prominent producer of EDTA, leveraging its strategic location and manufacturing capabilities to meet the growing demand in the Asia-Pacific region. The company’s focus on large-scale production and cost-effective processes has enabled it to supply high-quality EDTA to various industries, including water treatment, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. ChengXin’s commitment to quality and consistency has solidified its position in the market, catering to both domestic and international clients.

Connect Chemicals, headquartered in Germany, operates as a global producer and distributor of specialty chemicals, including EDTA. With offices on four continents and a robust international network, Connect Chemicals offers comprehensive solutions to its clients. The company’s Modular Custom Manufacturing process allows for flexibility and responsiveness to specific customer requirements, enhancing its competitiveness in the market. Connect Chemicals’ investment in state-of-the-art facilities and R&D labs underscores its dedication to innovation and quality assurance.

Dow, a leading chemical manufacturer, continues to play a pivotal role in the EDTA market with its VERSENE™ product line. In April 2025, Dow announced a $0.10/lb price increase on VERSENE™ EDTA Acid, reflecting market dynamics and the company’s strategic pricing approach. Dow’s extensive distribution network and commitment to sustainability position it as a reliable supplier for various industries, including water treatment, personal care, and food processing.

Top Key Players in the Market

• Airedale Chemical
• Ava Chemicals Private Limited
• BASF
• Brandt Chemical
• ChengXin
• Connect Chemicals
• DOW
• EMCO
• Foodchem
• Kaiyue
• Merck KGaA
• New Alliance Dye Chem Pvt. Ltd.
• Rajkmal Enterprises
• Shandong Jingyuan

Recent Developments

• In May 2023, Brandt announced a new 100,000-square-foot specialty products plant in Aurora, Nebraska, set to begin operations in Q3 2024. Named Advanced Ag Formulations, the facility will produce Brandt’s key agricultural products, including Smart System, Manni-Plex, and EnzUp, aiming to better serve the upper Great Plains and expand manufacturing capacity.
• In March 2023, Airedale Group acquired McCann Chemicals, including its subsidiaries Hunter Chemicals and McCann Food & Nutrition. This acquisition expanded Airedale’s portfolio of organic and inorganic chemicals, potentially broadening its offerings in the chelating agents market.

Report Scope