What Country is the Leading Producer of Chemicals: Chemical Exports by Country

Chemicals play a crucial role in various industries around the world, from agriculture to pharmaceuticals to manufacturing. As such, the production of chemicals is a key economic indicator for many countries. Chemicals play a vital role in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, manufacturing, and more. Chemicals are classified as organic chemicals and inorganic chemicals in global trade. China is the biggest chemical producer in the world followed by the USA in the global chemical industry. 

According to the global trade data and chemical export data, the total value of international chemical exports accounted for $695.12 billion in 2023-24. Global chemical production increased by 3.5% in 2024. With the global demand for chemicals on the rise, it's essential to understand which countries are the leading producers and exporters of chemicals. In this article, we will explore the top 10 chemical-producing countries in the world, based on their production volume in the years 2023-24.

Leading Chemical Producing Countries: Global Chemical Producers

As of now, the leading chemical-producing countries in the world showcase a sophisticated blend of innovation and technology that drive the global chemical industry. Countries such as China, the United States, and Germany hold prominent positions in this sector, consistently contributing a significant share of the world's chemical production output. BASF is the biggest chemical-producing company in the world, as per the C&EN. The top 10 chemical producer countries in 2024 include:

1. China: 1.3 billion tons

With more than 40% of the world's chemical sales, China is the largest producer in the world. In terms of chemical innovation, particularly concerning basic chemicals, China is a leader as well. China is the world's largest producer of chemicals, particularly basic chemicals. China's chemical production in the global chemical industry was around 1.3 billion metric tons of chemicals in 2024.

2. United States: 250 million tons

The United States is one of the leading producers of chemicals in the world, with a production volume of 250 million metric tons in 2024, as per the US chemical export data. The country's chemical industry is diverse, producing a wide range of products including plastics, pharmaceuticals, and fertilizers.

3. Germany: 180 million tons

Germany is known for its highly advanced chemical industry, producing 180 million metric tons of chemicals in 2024. The country is a major exporter of chemicals, particularly in the fields of pharmaceuticals and specialty chemicals.

4. Japan: 120 million tons

Japan is a key player in the global chemical industry, with a production volume of around 120 million metric tons in 2024. The country's chemical sector is known for its innovation and high-quality products, particularly in the areas of electronics and automotive chemicals.

5. South Korea: 80 million tons

South Korea is a major producer of chemicals in Asia, with a production volume of 80 million metric tons in 2024. The country's chemical industry is supported by a strong focus on research and development, as well as close collaboration between industry and academia.

6. India: 75 million tons

India has emerged as a significant player in the global chemical industry, producing around 75 million metric tons of chemicals in 2024. The country's chemical sector is experiencing robust growth, driven by factors such as increasing domestic consumption and a favorable business environment.

7. France: 60 million tons

France has a strong presence in the global chemical industry, with a production volume of 60 million metric tons in 2024. The country's chemical sector is known for its focus on sustainability and innovation, particularly in the areas of green chemistry and renewable chemicals.

8. Italy: 45 million tons

Italy is a major producer of chemicals in Europe, with a production volume of around 45 million metric tons in 2024. The country's chemical industry is characterized by a high degree of specialization, particularly in the fields of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.

9. United Kingdom: 40 million tons

The United Kingdom is a significant player in the global chemical industry, producing 40 million metric tons of chemicals in 2024. The country's chemical sector is known for its strong regulatory framework and high-quality standards, particularly in the areas of industrial chemicals and agrochemicals.

10. Russia: 35 million tons

Russia rounds out the top 10 list of chemical-producing countries, with a production volume of around 35 million metric tons in 2024. The country's chemical industry is supported by abundant natural resources, such as crude oil and natural gas, which serve as key feedstocks for chemical production.

Top Chemical Exporters in the World: Chemical Exports by Country

China leads as the top chemical exporter in the world, with a substantial $112.2 billion in chemical exports. Following closely behind are the USA and Ireland, showcasing their significant contributions to the global chemical market. The top 10 chemical exporters in the world, as per the chemical shipment data and chemical exports data for 2024 include:

1. China: $112.2 billion
2. USA: $66.7 billion
3. Ireland: $47.7 billion
4. Switzerland: $41 billion
5. Germany: $41 billion
6. South Korea: $37.6 billion
7. Belgium: $34.5 billion
8. Netherlands: $26.1 billion
9. Japan: $23.7 billion
10. India: $22.7 billion

Chemical Exports & Production in the Last 10 Years: Yearly Global Chemical Trade Data

Top 10 Chemicals Produced for Industry Use

The modern world is shaped by chemicals. These substances serve as the foundation for many production procedures and are essential for getting things done, as per the International Chemical Trade Association. The technologies that surround us include rust-resistant coatings, semiconductor chips with a 3nm architecture, and fertilizers used to cultivate crops to meet the world's expanding food needs. In each of these processes, industrial chemicals are crucial. Industrial chemicals are used in everything from wall paint to medications. Our cars, telephones, and even the clothes we wear daily all use them. The top 10 chemicals produced for industrial usage worldwide, as per the data on chemical production for 2024 are:

1) Sulfuric Acid (H2SO4)

2) Nitrogen (N2)

3) Ethylene (C2H4)

4) Oxygen (O2)

5) Propylene (C3H6)

6) Chlorine (Cl2)

7) Ethylene Dichloride (C2H2Cl2)

8) Phosphoric Acid (H3PO4)

9) Ammonia (NH3)

10) Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)

Conclusion

In conclusion, several countries are leading producers and exporters of chemicals, each bringing their strengths and specialties to the global market. The United States, China, Germany, South Korea, and Japan are among the top players in the chemical industry, catering to diverse needs and requirements. With the increasing demand for chemicals worldwide, these countries are expected to continue playing a significant role in shaping the future of the chemical industry.

To get more information on the global chemical export data by country and top chemical exporting companies worldwide, Visit TradeImeX and contact us at info@tradeimex.in.