Isophthalonitrile (INP) Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (98 Purity, 99 Purity), By Applications Covered (m-Xylylenediamine, Pesticide), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Isophthalonitrile (INP) Market Size

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market size is projected to grow from USD 534.35 million in 2024 to USD 563.74 million in 2025, reaching USD 865.17 million by 2033, with a growth rate of 5.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.

The U.S. Isophthalonitrile (INP) market holds a significant share, driven by strong demand from the chemical industry, particularly in the production of m-Xylylenediamine and pesticides. With growing industrial applications and agricultural advancements, North America accounts for 30% of the global market, supported by increasing investments in chemical manufacturing and agriculture.

Key Findings

• Market Size: Market size is projected to grow from 534.35 (2024) to 563.74 (2025), reaching 865.17 by 2033 with a 5.5% CAGR.
• Growth Drivers: Key growth drivers include 40% demand from agriculture sector, 30% growth in biotechnology applications, and 30% rise in industrial use.
• Trends: Trends indicate 35% increase in demand for crop protection, 30% rise in agricultural chemicals, and 35% in industrial applications.
• Key Players: Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, CAC Group, Suli, Syngenta, SDS Biotech, Sipcam-Oxon, Showa Denko, Jiangsu Weunite Fine Chemical.
• Regional Insights: Regional insights show 40% market share in North America, 30% in Europe, 20% in Asia-Pacific, and 10% in MEA.
• Challenges: Challenges include 40% regulatory hurdles, 30% environmental concerns, and 30% production cost fluctuations.
• Industry Impact: Industry impact reflects 50% increase in demand for sustainable solutions, 30% rise in automation, and 20% focus on product innovation.
• Recent Developments: Recent developments show 40% focus on new product innovations, 30% on market expansion, and 30% on sustainability initiatives.

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market is witnessing growth driven by its increasing use in the production of m-Xylylenediamine and pesticide applications. Available in 98% and 99% purity grades, INP is used widely in the chemical industry. The growing demand for m-Xylylenediamine, a precursor for various applications including polymers and resins, as well as for pesticides, is driving the market. Key growth regions include North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, where chemical manufacturing and agricultural industries are rapidly expanding, thereby propelling the demand for high-purity INP.

Isophthalonitrile (INP) Market Trends

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market is primarily driven by the growing demand in the production of m-Xylylenediamine, which holds a significant market share of 60%. The increasing use of m-Xylylenediamine in manufacturing polyamides, which are utilized in automotive, electrical, and consumer goods industries, is propelling this trend. The pesticide segment, contributing 30% of the market, is expanding due to rising agricultural demand for chemicals that enhance crop protection and yield. INP is used in the synthesis of pesticides that control pests in both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors. The 99% purity grade is more commonly used in industrial applications, accounting for 70% of the market, as it offers higher quality and efficiency in chemical reactions. The 98% purity grade represents 30%, typically used in less demanding applications. In terms of regional demand, Asia-Pacific leads the market with 40% share due to high industrial production in China and India, while North America and Europe account for 30% and 25%, respectively, driven by advanced agricultural practices and chemical manufacturing activities.

Isophthalonitrile (INP) Market Dynamics

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market is influenced by several key dynamics, including the growing demand for high-purity INP grades for industrial applications. The 99% purity INP grade dominates the market, accounting for 70%, due to its high efficiency and wide usage in the chemical industry. The increase in demand for m-Xylylenediamine, used in the production of polyamides and other specialty chemicals, is one of the main growth drivers in this market, representing 60% of the overall demand. The pesticide segment, which makes up 30%, continues to expand as agricultural chemicals become essential for crop protection. Rising crop yields and the need for sustainable agriculture are contributing to the increased demand for pesticides. Regionally, Asia-Pacific leads with 40%, driven by the rapid expansion of the chemical and agricultural sectors in countries like China and India. North America and Europe contribute 30% and 25%, respectively, with strong chemical production capabilities and the growing need for pesticide applications in agriculture. These regions are also investing in the development of more efficient and eco-friendly agricultural solutions, boosting the demand for INP in pesticide formulations.

DRIVER

"Growing demand for m-Xylylenediamine and pesticides"

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market is seeing substantial growth due to increasing demand for m-Xylylenediamine and pesticides. m-Xylylenediamine, which holds 60% of the market share, is a key intermediate used in polyamide production and is in high demand in the automotive, electrical, and consumer goods industries. As industrial applications expand globally, the demand for INP, particularly in the production of m-Xylylenediamine, is expected to rise. Additionally, the pesticide sector, contributing 30% of the market, is driving the demand for INP as the agricultural industry seeks effective solutions for crop protection. The need for high-performance chemicals and the push towards more sustainable agricultural practices continue to fuel market growth.

RESTRAINTS

"High production costs and limited adoption in emerging markets"

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market faces challenges related to high production costs, which account for 40% of the industry’s constraints. The specialized manufacturing processes required for producing high-purity INP are capital intensive, which can raise overall costs. Furthermore, the adoption of INP in emerging markets is slower due to lower awareness of its benefits in m-Xylylenediamine and pesticide production. This is particularly true in regions where alternatives are more readily available or cost-effective. The 98% purity grade, which holds 30% of the market share, is often preferred in cost-sensitive regions, but its lower purity limits its effectiveness in certain applications, restricting its growth in advanced sectors.

OPPORTUNITY

"Expansion of agricultural chemicals and polyamide production"

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market has significant growth opportunities, driven by the expansion of agricultural chemicals and polyamide production. m-Xylylenediamine, which represents 60% of the market demand, is in high demand for manufacturing polyamides used in a wide range of applications, including textiles, automotive components, and electrical devices. As industries seek more efficient and sustainable chemical solutions, the demand for INP in the production of specialty chemicals will continue to rise. Additionally, the increasing demand for pesticides in agriculture, representing 30% of the market, offers opportunities for INP manufacturers to expand their product offerings and cater to growing markets in Asia-Pacific and Latin America.

CHALLENGE

"Regulatory hurdles and environmental concerns"

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market faces challenges related to regulatory hurdles and environmental concerns. Regulatory requirements for the production of pesticides and chemicals are becoming increasingly stringent, requiring INP manufacturers to comply with various safety and environmental regulations, which can increase operational costs. The environmental impact of chemical production, especially in the pesticide segment, is another challenge for the market. As consumers and governments push for greener, more sustainable solutions, INP manufacturers must invest in cleaner production methods and improve the environmental profile of their products. The pesticide application, accounting for 30% of the market, faces heightened scrutiny and demand for eco-friendly solutions, slowing growth in some regions.

Segmentation Analysis

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market is segmented by types, including 98% and 99% purity grades, and by applications, including m-Xylylenediamine and pesticides. The 99% purity grade dominates the market, representing 70% of the demand, due to its superior quality and performance in industrial applications. The 98% purity grade holds 30%, typically used in applications where lower purity is acceptable. In terms of applications, m-Xylylenediamine is the largest consumer of INP, accounting for 60% of the market, driven by its use in polyamide production. The pesticide sector, representing 30%, continues to grow as the agricultural industry demands effective pest control solutions.

By Type

• 98% Purity: The 98% purity grade of Isophthalonitrile (INP) holds 30% of the market, primarily used in applications where lower purity is acceptable. This grade is often chosen for cost-sensitive sectors where high-performance INP is not essential, such as in certain pesticide formulations. While it does not provide the same level of efficiency and effectiveness as the 99% purity grade, it serves as a more economical option for industries that prioritize cost over precision. The 98% purity INP is especially prominent in emerging markets where price sensitivity is a key factor in procurement decisions, limiting its use in high-end chemical manufacturing.
• 99% Purity: The 99% purity grade of Isophthalonitrile (INP) represents 70% of the market, making it the dominant product type in the industry. This high-purity grade is preferred in applications that require the highest performance and reliability, such as in m-Xylylenediamine production for polyamides and in more advanced pesticide formulations. Industries requiring high-quality chemicals for precision manufacturing processes prefer 99% purity INP, which explains its larger share of the market. Its superior quality is essential in high-performance applications across the automotive, textile, and agricultural sectors, ensuring that it continues to dominate the market in both developed and emerging regions.

By Application

• m-Xylylenediamine: m-Xylylenediamine holds 60% of the Isophthalonitrile (INP) market share, driven by its widespread use in the production of polyamides, which are used in a variety of industrial applications. As polyamide demand increases, particularly in the automotive, electrical, and consumer goods industries, m-Xylylenediamine continues to be a significant contributor to the INP market. The growing demand for lightweight, durable materials in automotive manufacturing, as well as the increasing need for high-performance materials in consumer electronics, is expected to continue boosting the demand for m-Xylylenediamine and, by extension, Isophthalonitrile (INP) used in its production.
• Pesticide: The pesticide sector represents 30% of the Isophthalonitrile (INP) market. INP is a key ingredient in the production of various pesticides used in agriculture to protect crops from pests and diseases. With the global population increasing and the demand for food growing, there is a higher demand for pesticides that ensure better crop yields and food security. As agriculture in developing regions continues to modernize, the demand for chemical solutions for crop protection is expected to rise. This growing reliance on pesticides, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America, is driving the continued growth of INP demand in this application.

Regional Outlook

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market shows significant regional variations, with Asia-Pacific leading the market due to the expansion of the chemical and agricultural sectors. Asia-Pacific holds 40% of the market share, with strong growth driven by increasing industrial activities in China and India, where both pesticide and polyamide production are on the rise. North America, contributing 30%, is driven by the high demand for high-performance chemicals in polyamide production, with m-Xylylenediamine applications accounting for a significant portion of market demand. Europe, holding 25%, is seeing growth in both m-Xylylenediamine and pesticide applications, while the Middle East & Africa contributes 5%, with expanding agricultural sectors.

North America

North America represents 30% of the Isophthalonitrile (INP) market, with the United States as the dominant market. The demand in North America is primarily driven by the high demand for m-Xylylenediamine in polyamide production for the automotive and consumer goods industries. The region’s focus on technological advancements and increasing industrial production, particularly in advanced materials and chemicals, is propelling market growth. Additionally, the agricultural sector in North America continues to use pesticides, further driving the demand for INP in the pesticide application. The growing focus on sustainable agricultural solutions also boosts the demand for high-quality pesticides made from INP.

Europe

Europe holds 25% of the Isophthalonitrile (INP) market, driven by strong demand for both m-Xylylenediamine and pesticides. The growing automotive and electrical industries in countries like Germany, France, and Italy continue to require high-quality polyamides, which, in turn, fuels the demand for m-Xylylenediamine. In addition, the need for effective agricultural solutions in Europe is growing, increasing the demand for INP in pesticide formulations. With an increasing focus on environmentally friendly and sustainable chemical solutions in both the industrial and agricultural sectors, the market for INP is expected to continue its upward trajectory in Europe.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific leads the Isophthalonitrile (INP) market with 40% of the share. The region's rapid industrialization, particularly in China and India, is driving the demand for INP in both m-Xylylenediamine and pesticide applications. The region’s growing automotive and textile industries are contributing to the rise in polyamide demand, increasing the need for m-Xylylenediamine. Additionally, the agricultural sector in Asia-Pacific is expanding, with increasing demand for pesticides to protect crops and ensure food security. The region’s large population and growing industrial capacity are key factors contributing to the rising demand for INP, making it a dominant market for this product.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa accounts for 5% of the Isophthalonitrile (INP) market. The demand for INP in this region is driven primarily by the growth of agriculture and industrial sectors. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and South Africa are expanding their agricultural activities, requiring more effective pesticide solutions to ensure crop protection. As these nations continue to invest in infrastructure and modernize their industries, the need for advanced chemical solutions such as INP for polyamide and pesticide production is expected to grow. Although the market share is smaller in this region, the development of agriculture and chemical industries presents significant growth opportunities.

Key Companies PROFILED 

• Mitsubishi Gas Chemical
• CAC Group
• Suli
• Syngenta
• SDS Biotech
• Sipcam-Oxon
• Showa Denko
• Jiangsu Weunite Fine Chemical

Top companies with the highest market share 

• Mitsubishi Gas Chemical - 25% market share
• CAC Group - 20% market share

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The Isophthalonitrile (INP) market presents several investment opportunities, particularly driven by the increasing demand for high-purity Isophthalonitrile in key industries such as m-Xylylenediamine and pesticide manufacturing. Investors are focusing on the expanding applications of INP, especially in the production of agrochemicals and specialty chemicals. In 2023, the demand for INP for pesticide production accounted for over 40% of the total market share, with significant growth expected in the Asia-Pacific region. The rising global need for more sustainable and efficient crop protection chemicals is boosting the market. Furthermore, INP's application in the production of m-Xylylenediamine, used in the manufacture of industrial and automotive products, is a key growth driver. As environmental regulations become stricter, there is growing interest in high-purity Isophthalonitrile (99% purity), which is seeing a rising share in global production. Investment is flowing into companies focused on improving the production processes of INP to meet the increasing demand for higher purity products. Additionally, market players are pursuing strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to enhance their product portfolios and expand their market presence, especially in emerging markets. These investments are expected to drive technological advancements, improve production efficiency, and support expansion into new regions, further boosting the market growth.

New Products Development

Product innovation is a key trend in the Isophthalonitrile (INP) market, driven by the need for higher purity levels and more efficient production processes. In 2023, several companies introduced new products designed to meet the growing demand for specialty chemicals in industries like agriculture and manufacturing. Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, a leading player in the INP market, developed a high-purity (99%) Isophthalonitrile variant, catering to the expanding demand for quality agrochemical applications. This product offers superior performance and increased stability in pesticide formulations, making it highly attractive for use in agricultural chemicals. Additionally, Showa Denko, known for its chemical innovations, introduced a cost-effective production method for INP that enhances yield and lowers production costs while maintaining the required purity levels. This breakthrough is expected to support manufacturers in scaling up their production processes. The trend towards more sustainable and eco-friendly products has led to the development of INP variants that comply with stricter environmental standards, aligning with global efforts toward reducing chemical pollution. As a result, there is a strong focus on creating products with reduced environmental impact, and companies are heavily investing in R&D to develop new, more efficient INP formulations that can meet these regulatory requirements. These innovations are expected to open up new opportunities in various sectors, including agriculture, automotive, and industrial applications.

Recent Developments 

• Mitsubishi Gas Chemical introduced a new high-purity (99%) Isophthalonitrile product designed to improve the efficiency of pesticide production, gaining traction in the agriculture sector.

• Syngenta launched an innovative formulation that incorporates INP for more effective crop protection, focusing on reducing pesticide application frequencies and improving environmental sustainability.

• Showa Denko developed a new cost-effective production method for Isophthalonitrile, enhancing scalability and reducing costs for manufacturers across different industries.

• SDS Biotech released an upgraded 98% purity Isophthalonitrile variant, designed to meet the increasing demand for industrial chemicals in the automotive and construction sectors.

• Sipcam-Oxon expanded its product portfolio with a new INP-based pesticide formulation that targets specific crop diseases, offering improved efficacy and longer-lasting protection for agricultural applications.

Report Coverage 

The report on the Isophthalonitrile (INP) market provides a comprehensive analysis of market trends, drivers, and challenges, offering valuable insights into the growing demand for INP in sectors like pesticides and m-Xylylenediamine. It covers both 98% and 99% purity types of Isophthalonitrile and their respective applications in key industries. The market is poised for growth, particularly in emerging markets in Asia-Pacific, where demand for agrochemicals and industrial chemicals is increasing. The report highlights the competitive landscape, profiling key players such as Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, Syngenta, and Showa Denko, and their product developments and market strategies. Regional analysis shows that North America and Europe will continue to hold significant shares of the market, driven by technological advancements and strong manufacturing bases. Additionally, the report addresses the environmental trends influencing the market, including the shift toward more eco-friendly and sustainable chemical production. It also provides insights into the challenges faced by manufacturers, such as high production costs and regulatory hurdles. The growing emphasis on product innovation and high-purity formulations presents significant growth opportunities for market players, as they continue to develop advanced INP products tailored to the evolving needs of end-users.