Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is the largest consumer of methanol, accounting for 23.2% of the 111.8 million metric tonnes of methanol produced in 2024. Formaldehyde is a highly versatile chemical intermediate used in the production of many strategically important products. These include: adhesives for wood panels, laminates and furniture frames; polyurethane foams for building and construction, automobiles and furniture; thermoplastics for high-performance engineering applications and household electronics; polyols for surface coatings and textiles; and an additive to fertilisers. Formaldehyde is an essential component of the modern petrochemical industry.

Formaldehyde demand by major region in 2024, %

Formaldehyde demand by major region in 2024, kt 

Formaldehyde demand by major region in 2024, %

Formaldehyde demand by major region in 2024, kt 

Growth in formaldehyde demand typically follows GDP growth on a global basis. Asia accounts for more than half of world demand and China more than half of Asian demand. As such, global growth in formaldehyde demand will predominantly be in Asia, but modest growth will also be seen in North America and Europe, servicing local consumers. 

MMSA maintains a detailed global database of formaldehyde producers and consumers.