Chitosan Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Global Industry Analysis: By Source (Crab, Krill, Shrimp and Squid), By Application (Cosmetics, Food & beverage, Pharmaceutical & biomedical, Water Treatment and Others) and Region Forecast 2020-2031  

Chitosan Market size was valued at US$ 3,339 million in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 10,512 million by 2031, growing at a significant CAGR of 17.8% from 2025-2031. Chitosan is a natural polymer derived from chitin, a substance found in the shells of crustaceans such as shrimp, crab, and lobster. It is a non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible material that has gained attention for its various applications in industries like medicine, agriculture, food processing, and more. The increasing demand for chitosan in pharmaceuticals and healthcare is propelled by its unique properties that align with the evolving needs of the medical and pharmaceutical industries. Chitosan's biocompatibility, mucoadhesive nature, and capacity for controlled drug delivery make it a valuable material for developing innovative medical solutions. As pharmaceutical companies explore advanced drug delivery systems and regenerative therapies, chitosan's ability to encapsulate and release drugs at a controlled rate becomes highly desirable. Its biodegradability and low toxicity further enhance its appeal for medical applications. 

Additionally, chitosan's potential in wound healing, tissue engineering, and bioactive scaffolds contributes to its increasing incorporation into medical devices and implants. Moreover, the rising demand for chitosan is closely linked to the growing need for effective and natural food preservation solutions. With consumer preferences shifting towards healthier and cleaner-label products, the food industry is seeking alternatives to synthetic preservatives. Chitosan's inherent antimicrobial properties make it a compelling option for extending the shelf life of perishable foods. As regulatory bodies emphasize food safety standards, the industry's interest in chitosan as a natural preservative has surged. However, Chitin, the precursor to chitosan, is sourced from crustacean waste such as shrimp and crab shells. Fluctuations in crustacean populations and the seafood industry's byproducts can lead to variability in chitin availability, affecting chitosan production. This factor ultimately hampers the growth of the market. Meanwhile, chitosan's role in promoting plant growth, enhancing soil quality, and acting as a natural pesticide offers opportunities for sustainable agriculture. It can contribute to improved crop yields, reduced chemical inputs, and overall ecological farming practices.

Key Developments:  

• For Instance, KitoZyme S.A. attained marketing authorization for two new products namely Gastrap and FiberSlim in December 2016, in the European market. These products are used in treating intestinal disorders and this move was intended to develop partnership with France, Germany, Italy and Poland.
• In February 2019, Axio Biosolutions launched MaxioCel, a next-generation wound care dressing made of chitosan.
• In August 2023, Tidal Vision acquired strategic customer Clear Water Services to solve the greatest water pollution challenges by deploying the Tidal Clear chitosan-based technologies.