Polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP) Market

Polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP) Market Outlook (2025 to 2035)

The polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP) market is valued at USD 3.12 billion in 2025. As per Fact.MR analysis, it will grow at a CAGR of 6.6% and reach USD 5.93 billion by 2035.

In 2024, the industry saw steady growth. PVP’s role as a binder and stabilizer in controlled-release and targeted drug delivery systems drove this demand, especially in high-performance formulations. The beauty and personal care business also contributed significantly, with PVP's film-forming and stabilizing properties finding growing applications in hair sprays, lotions, and nail enamels.

Additionally, PVP's use in industrial adhesives across packaging, construction, and domestic products was increased by continuous innovations and specialized grades with enhanced functionalities. Manufacturers invested in advanced production technologies and the development of application-specific PVP grades to cater to diverse industrial requirements.

2025 onwards, the landscape will expand, driven by progress in pharmaceutical drug delivery, particularly in nanotechnology and targeted therapies, where PVP enhances the stability and bioavailability of active ingredients. The increasing shift toward bio-based PVP and green chemistry processes is responding to the demand for sustainable, eco-friendly products, aligning with tightening global environmental regulations.

Producers are investing in renewable raw materials, improving the efficiency of PVP production, and reducing waste. These sustainability initiatives, coupled with ongoing innovations in drug delivery technologies, position PVP as a critical material in eco-conscious markets, developing broader applications across pharmaceuticals, personal care, and industrial sectors.

Key Metrics

Metrics	Values
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 3.12 billion
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 5.93 billion
Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035)	6.6%

Fact.MR Survey on Polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP) Industry

A recent Q4 2024 survey by Fact.MR, involving 500 stakeholders across the U.S., Western Europe, Japan, and South Korea, offers insights into emerging trends in the Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) industry. The survey, equally split among manufacturers, distributors, and end-users, highlights quality, sustainability, and regulatory compliance as top market drivers. Improved solubility (75%) and biocompatibility (70%) are the main formulation priorities, particularly in pharmaceuticals and personal care.

The U.S. stakeholders emphasize the demand for high-purity PVP in intravenous drug delivery systems (68%), along with rising interest in biodegradable PVP for drug packaging. Western European respondents prioritize bio-based PVP derivatives (72%) to reduce dependence on synthetic polymers and stress the need for compliance with EU transparency and sustainability regulations, especially for topical and vaccine-related pharmaceutical applications.

In Asia, South Korea and Japan are seeing increased use of PVP in electronics coatings and cosmetic stabilizers, with growing demand in wound care and medical adhesives. While cost volatility and raw material supply disruptions are common challenges (reported by 80% of respondents), price sensitivity differs: U.S. and European buyers prefer traceable and certified sustainable PVP at a premium, while Asian buyers aim to maintain bulk product prices below $300/kg. Regional preferences diverge, with the U.S. and Europe opting for high molecular weight PVP for superior solubility, and Asian markets favoring lower molecular weight versions for affordability.

Operational hurdles include a skilled workforce gap in the U.S., regulatory delays in Europe, and extended adaptation timelines in Asia. Investment trends reflect regional priorities: the U.S. focuses on smart PVP systems, Europe on bio-based and recycling technologies, and Asia on automation for cost efficiency. Europe leads regulatory development, with increasing enforcement of environmental product declarations (EPDs), while the U.S. and South Korea emphasize performance verification and green compliance, respectively.

Government Regulations on Polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP) Industry

Country	Regulatory Impact & Mandatory Certifications
U.S.	Regulated by the FDA under CFR Title 21 for pharmaceutical and food applications. PVP used in drugs must meet USP-NF monograph standards. cGMP compliance required for manufacturing excipient-grade PVP. PVP in cosmetics must comply with FDA Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program (VCRP). Strict environmental regulations under TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act).
Canada	Health Canada regulates PVP under the Food and Drugs Act and Natural Health Products Regulations. Must be listed in the Drug Product Database (DPD) if used in pharmaceuticals. Environmentally assessed under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA).
Germany	Governed by European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte (BfArM) for pharmaceuticals. PVP must comply with Ph. Eur. monograph (European Pharmacopoeia). For cosmetics, compliance with EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 is mandatory. REACH registration is required for importers and manufacturers handling >1 tonne/year.
France	Oversight by ANSM (French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety). Products containing PVP must comply with EU pharmaceutical excipient and cosmetic directives. PVP manufacturers and importers must also register under REACH and provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
UK	Post-Brexit, follows UK MHRA for pharmaceutical regulations (aligned with EU Ph. Eur). PVP must be registered under the UK REACH regime for chemical substances. Cosmetic and personal care products must comply with UK Cosmetics Regulation 2020 (based on EU la
Italy	Regulated by AIFA (Italian Medicines Agency) in line with EMA guidelines. PVP used in pharmaceuticals must meet Ph. Eur. purity standards. Environmental safety aligned with EU REACH regulations. Biodegradability of PVP in detergents is monitored under EU Detergents Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004.
Japan	Pharmaceutical use of PVP regulated by PMDA (Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency). Requires compliance with Japanese Pharmacopoeia (JP) standards. Food-grade PVP must meet Food Sanitation Act regulations. Importers must submit chemical registration under CSCL (Chemical Substances Control Law).
South Korea	Overseen by MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety) for pharmaceutical and cosmetic uses. PVP must comply with Korean Pharmacopoeia (KP) and K-REACH for chemical safety. Cosmetic-grade PVP must be listed in the Integrated Cosmetic Ingredients List.
China	Regulated by NMPA (National Medical Products Administration) for drug excipients. Must comply with Chinese Pharmacopoeia (ChP) standards. Industrial and food applications require registration under MEP (Ministry of Ecology and Environment). China REACH (MEE Order No. 12) requires new substance notification for high volumes.
India	PVP in pharmaceuticals regulated by CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization) and must comply with Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP). Excipient producers may need GMP certification and WHO-GMP for exports. Cosmetic regulations fall under BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) guidelines. Industrial-grade PVP subject to Environmental Protection Act, 1986 and Chemical Rules.

Market Analysis

The polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP) market is on an upward growth trajectory with increasing demand from the pharmaceuticals and personal care products segments, fueled by its multiple binding, film-forming, and stabilizing capabilities.

New drug delivery system innovation and worldwide efforts towards greener, more sustainable formulating are transforming supply patterns and product innovation. Additionally, companies with highly advanced formulating capabilities and regulatory compliance infrastructure will benefit, while low-grade manufacturers could be squeezed by tighter quality and safety standards.

Top Strategic Imperatives, Risk Assessment and Watchlist for Stakeholders

To remain competitive, PVP manufacturers must prioritize investments in upgrading production lines to meet pharmaceutical and cosmetic-grade standards, including GMP-certified processes and stringent purity controls aligned with USP, Ph. Eur., and JP requirements. Regulatory compliance with bodies like the FDA, EMA, and NMPA is crucial for securing long-term contracts with pharma and personal care firms.

Simultaneously, innovation efforts should pivot toward clean-label and sustainable PVP variants that meet rising demand for biocompatible, low-residue, and biodegradable excipients. Early engagement with formulators and consumer brands is key to co-developing eco-friendly solutions that align with evolving regulations such as the EU Green Deal and U.S. EPA Safer Chemicals program.

Global distribution networks must also be strengthened, especially in Asia-Pacific and North America, to support growing demand from regional manufacturing hubs. Strategic alliances, including long-term supply agreements and mergers with specialty excipient producers, can broaden capabilities and market reach. Partnerships with biotech and drug delivery innovators may unlock new applications like controlled-release formulations and bio-adhesive films.

However, executives must monitor top risks: high volatility in vinylpyrrolidone monomer sourcing, increasing regulatory scrutiny, and an overreliance on the pharmaceutical sector, which accounts for 49% of global PVP use. Immediate action areas include regulatory compliance, diversification into non-pharma applications, and supply chain resilience through strengthened sourcing strategies.

For the Boardroom

To capitalize on the growing demand for polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP), particularly in pharmaceuticals and emerging non-pharmaceutical applications, the client should prioritize innovation in product development, focusing on sustainable and specialized PVP formulations. Immediate investments should be made into expanding regulatory compliance measures, particularly in key markets like the EU and US, while also exploring new application avenues such as personal care, adhesives, and coatings.

Strengthening supply chain resilience, including securing alternative raw material sources and long-term supplier contracts, is crucial to mitigate risks associated with rising raw material costs. This intelligence highlights the need for the company to adapt proactively to regulatory shifts, consumer trends for sustainable products, and technological advancements in PVP production, ensuring long-term growth and market differentiation.

Segment-wise Analysis

By Form

The liquid segment is expected to register a dominant share of 52.5% in 2025. Liquid PVP is extensively applied across different industries because of its flexibility and the convenience with which it can be applied.

In the pharmaceutical industry, liquid PVP is used as a binder in tablet and capsule production to help keep the ingredients intact and maintain the stability of the end product. Its water-loving character makes it well suited for application in liquid oral drugs such as syrups and suspensions, where it stabilizes the active ingredients and increases their solubility.

In personal care and cosmetics, liquid PVP is used as a humectant and film former, aiding in retaining moisture in skin care products, hair sprays, and gels. Its capacity to create smooth, flexible films also renders it useful in medical device production, wound dressings, and eye care products. Additionally, liquid PVP finds wide application in adhesives and coatings owing to its strong bonding properties and simplicity of formulation.

By Grade

The copovidone segment is expected to register a 36.0% share, the largest in 2025. Copovidone is commonly employed because of its synergistic balance of solubilization and superb binding capacity, and it is particularly useful in pharmaceutical preparations. Copovidone, being a copolymer of vinylpyrrolidone and vinyl acetate, has superior film-forming capacities, adhesive properties, and flexibility over other grades of PVP.

It is especially useful in solid dispersion systems where the improvement of the bioavailability of weakly water-soluble drugs is of particular significance. Copovidone's flexibility makes it suitable for application in both wet granulation and direct compression tablet manufacturing processes, providing formulation stability and enhanced drug release profiles. Its low hygroscopicity and chemical stability also ensure enhanced shelf life and performance of final products.

By Application

The adhesives segment is expected to register a maximum 12.8% share in 2025. Adhesives represent one of the most notable uses for polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP) because of its high bonding potential, polarity, and hydrophilicity.

PVP functions as an effective adhesive agent by creating strong, elastic bonds on many substrates and is used in industrial, medical, and consumer applications. Its broad compatibility with a variety of materials such as plastics, paper, metals, and textiles has made it particularly useful in the packaging, electronic, and building industries.

Furthermore, PVP-based adhesives possess strong film-forming characteristics and high thermal stability that contribute to superior product performance over a variety of environmental conditions. Major producers such as Ashland have created a series of adhesive-grade PVP products, including PVP K-15, K-30, K-60, and K-90, which are designed to meet various viscosity and adhesion needs.

By End-use Industry

The textile segment is expected to provide most opportunities for stakeholders under this category, registering a 4.4% share in 2025. Textiles are one of the key end-use sectors for polyvinylpyrrolidones (PVP) because the polymer excels as a dyeing aid, anti-static treatment, and hydrophilicity enhancer.

The high affinity of PVP to different textile fibers allows improved color fastness, more consistent dye penetration, and improved dispersion of pigments, which are needed to produce high-quality finishes on fabrics.

Furthermore, PVP enhances the anti-static performance of synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, which is essential in industrial and apparel uses to avoid static discharge and enhance handling. Its hydrophilic character also renders it useful in enhancing moisture uptake, softness, and comfort in finished fabrics, properties increasingly emphasized in consumer and technical textile markets.

Country-wise Analysis

The U.S.

In the United States, the industry is likely to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period of 2025-2035, fueled by a mature but ever-growing pharmaceutical sector. With the nation representing a significant portion of the world's pharmaceutical output and a strong regulatory system favoring cutting-edge excipients such as PVP, both crospovidone and copovidone grades continue to demonstrate steady demand. PVP's applications in tablet binders, disintegrants, and drug delivery systems are widespread, with US-headquartered top pharma majors aggressively building up their formulation lists.

Moreover, the increasing usage of water-soluble polymers in cosmetic, adhesive, and food segments, especially in health-conscious consumer groups, is also driving market penetration further. Continuous investment in biopharma R&D and an emphasis on controlled-release formulations are also increasing usage in specialty drug segments.

UK

UK’s sales are expected to register a CAGR of 5.1% in the assessment term. As the National Health Service (NHS) and private sector increasingly emphasize self-administered medications, the demand for PVP as a disintegrant and binder in capsules and tablets is strong. Copovidone, particularly is gaining acceptance with its applications in controlled-release and taste-masked products.

In addition, the UK's ongoing investments in life sciences, R&D facilities, and bio-based materials are consistent with the growing interest in biodegradable and water-soluble polymers such as PVP. The cosmetics market also offers opportunity, with PVP being used commonly in hair styling products and skin care products. Growing consumer demand for vegan, non-toxic, and multifunctional ingredients further adds to the appeal of PVP in personal care.

France

The industry is predicted to grow at a rate of 5.3% CAGR in France in the assessment period, driven mainly by its active pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry. Since France is home to a number of top-tier pharmaceutical firms and contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs), the demand for excipients such as crospovidone and copovidone is high.

The PVP market is also supported by the focus on green and sustainable formulation practices in personal care and industrial applications in France. In cosmetics, PVP is universally used in hair gel, cream, and stabilizer formulations because of its strong film-forming and adhesive capabilities.

Germany

In Germany, the landscape of is anticipated to achieve a CAGR of 5.5% from 2025 to 2035. As a hub for pharmaceutical production and home to numerous chemical giants such as BASF and Merck, Germany's industrial base is perfectly positioned to high-value excipients like PVP. The nation's pharmaceutical industry takes advantage of PVP in controlled-release pharmaceuticals, disintegrants, and solubilizers, while increasing usage both in branded and generic drugs.

Germany's culture of precision engineering also carries over to high demand for PVP in technical fabrics, coatings, and electronics applications, where PVP serves as a binder, dispersant, or stabilizer. In adhesives, German producers utilize PVP because of its exceptional adhesion strength and ability to work with polar substrates.

Italy

In Italy, the industry is projected to grow at a 5.2% CAGR during the forecast period. Italian drugmakers, particularly those that manufacture generics and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, utilize significant amounts of crospovidone as a disintegrant and copovidone in solid dispersions. With EU-conformant manufacturing facilities and increasing demand for controlled-release drug delivery systems, excipient demand is expected to increase.

The personal care and cosmetics industries are another profitable field, where PVP is applied by Italian companies in hair care, skincare, and decorative cosmetics because of its film-forming and conditioning ability. Italy's textile industry, particularly technical textiles and fashion textiles, is adopting more specialty additives, and PVP is also suitable because it is hydrophilic and offers anti-static effects.

South Korea

In South Korea, the sector is estimated to expand by a CAGR of 5.7% between 2025 and 2035. With its internationally renowned cosmetics industry, Korean beauty companies are increasingly using PVP in films, emulsions, and conditioning applications.

The pharmaceutical environment in Korea is also growing with increasing investments in generics, biosimilars, and novel drug delivery systems. This opens the door for crospovidone and copovidone in a broad range of formulations. PVP is also being investigated in Korea's textile and semiconductor industries, particularly in specialty applications such as conductive polymers, coatings, and adhesives.

Japan

Japan’s sales are expected to develop at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period. The country's polyvinylpyrrolidone market remains strong on account of Japan's high expectations in pharmaceutical production, consumer care products, and advanced materials.

Japanese drug companies usually prefer copovidone and crospovidone due to their solubilizing properties and disintegration rate. Cosmetics and skincare markets are also major consumers, employing PVP in stabilizing emulsions and texture improvement in products. Additionally, Japan's electronics and industrial markets apply PVP in specialty coatings, nanomaterial production, and optical films.

China

The industry in China is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period, driven by growing pharmaceutical manufacturing, rising demand for personal care products, and growing emphasis on industrial innovation. Since it is one of the globe's major pharmaceutical producers and users, China extensively employs PVP in tablet binders, film coatings, and solubilizes.

Furthermore, China's extensive and fast-growing cosmetics market offers enormous opportunities for film-forming and conditioning polymers such as PVP. The construction and adhesive industries are also major consumers, where PVP contributes to improved adhesion and thermal stability.

Competitive Landscape

​The polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) industry remains fragmented, characterized by a diverse array of regional and international players. Major companies such as DKSH Holding Ltd., BASF SE, Spectrum Chemical Manufacturing Corp., Shandong Xinhao Chemical Co., Ltd., and Shandong Xinhao Chemical Co., Ltd.. and others dominate the market, yet numerous smaller firms contribute to the industry's competitive landscape.

This fragmentation is evident in the varied regional preferences and applications of PVP, with North America and Europe focusing on high-purity, pharmaceutical-grade formulations, while Asia emphasizes cost-effective, lower molecular weight grades for cosmetics and industrial uses. The industry's competitiveness is further intensified by the rapid pace of innovation and the increasing demand for sustainable and regulatory-compliant products.​

To maintain their competitive edge, key players in the PVP industry are adopting multifaceted strategies. These include significant investments in research and development to enhance product performance and expand applications, particularly in pharmaceuticals and personal care sectors. Companies are also focusing on upgrading manufacturing capabilities to meet stringent regulatory standards such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and environmental certifications.

Strategic collaborations and partnerships are being pursued to leverage complementary strengths and access new markets. For instance, Ashland's acquisition of ISP Corporation has bolstered its position in the specialty chemicals market. Additionally, firms are exploring mergers and acquisitions to consolidate their market presence and diversify their product portfolios.

The emphasis on sustainability is driving the development of biodegradable and bio-based PVP variants, aligning with global regulatory trends like the EU Green Deal and U.S. EPA Safer Chemicals program. These strategies collectively aim to enhance product offerings, ensure regulatory compliance, and address the evolving demands of end-users in a competitive market environment.

Industry Share Analysis

Hangzhou Motto Science & Technology Co., Ltd. is a specialized and competitive company operating in the worldwide PVP market, focusing particularly on customized forms and specialty-grade polyvinylpyrrolidone for industrial and cosmetics use. Operating with an estimated market share of approximately 1.8% worldwide, Hangzhou Motto utilizes its highly developed R&D strength and instant delivery schemes to serve small-volume customers in Europe and Asia.

DKSH Holding Ltd. operates more as a specialty distributor and value chain integrator than as a pure-play PVP manufacturer. Its presence in the PVP market, especially in Southeast Asia and Oceania regions, is focused on distribution partnerships with prominent manufacturers such as Ashland and Boai NKY. DKSH has a market facilitation share of around 1.5%, mostly attributed to its solid distribution coverage across ASEAN and ANZ regions.

Spectrum Chemical Manufacturing Corp. holds a market share of approximately 1.2%, mainly serving laboratory and small-scale pharmaceutical-grade PVP. Headquartered in the U.S., the company serves customers needing high-purity PVP for R&D, nutraceuticals, and diagnostic kits.

Shandong Xinhao Chemical Co., Ltd. has about 2.1% world market share and is a fast-growing China-based producer with an established export presence in Eastern Europe and South America. Xinhao is expanding its presence in the textile and coating markets with its industrial and adhesive-grade PVP. The company increased capacity by 20% in early 2024 and is pursuing GMP certification to serve regulated pharma markets.

Other Key Players

• Ashland
• BASF SE
• Boai NKY
• Nanhang Industrial Co. Ltd.
• Nippon Shokubai
• Rahavard Tamin Pharmaceutical Co
• Shanghai Yuking Water Soluble Material Tech Co., Ltd.
• Divine Chemicals (India)
• JH Nanhang Life Sciences
• Zhangzhou Huafu Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Jianhua Group
• DKS Co. Ltd.

Segmentation

• By Form :

  • Liquid
  • Powder

• By Grade :

  • Copovidone
  • Crospovidone
  • Others

• By Application :

  • Fibers
  • Adhesives
  • Films
  • Oil / Gas Fields
  • Others

• By End Use Industry :

  • Textile
  • Pulp & Paper
  • Oil & Gas
  • Electrical & Electronics
  • Cosmetics
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Food & Beverages
  • Others

• By Region :

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)