The global refinery fuel additives market is witnessing steady expansion, driven by the rising demand for cleaner fuels, tightening environmental regulations, and advancements in refining technologies. As refiners focus on optimizing performance, reducing emissions, and meeting evolving global fuel standards, the use of fuel additives is becoming increasingly vital across key regions including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC), the Middle East & Africa (MEA), and South America.
According to Chemical Research Data’s latest analysis, the global refinery fuel additives market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% between 2025 and 2033, reaching an estimated value of USD 10.6 billion by 2033, up from USD 7.2 billion in 2024.
Market Overview
Refinery fuel additives are chemical compounds blended with base fuels during or after the refining process to improve fuel performance, efficiency, and compliance with environmental regulations. These additives play a crucial role in minimizing engine deposits, reducing emissions, improving combustion, and enhancing fuel stability throughout storage and transportation.
As demand for ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD), cleaner-burning gasoline, and marine fuels continues to rise globally, the role of multifunctional fuel additives—such as detergents, antioxidants, cetane improvers, lubricity improvers, and corrosion inhibitors—has become indispensable in refining operations.
Key Market Drivers
Stringent Environmental Regulations: Global regulations such as Euro 6, IMO 2020, and EPA mandates are pushing refiners to adopt fuel additives to meet emission standards and reduce pollutants like sulfur, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter.
Demand for High-Performance Fuels: Increasing consumer awareness regarding fuel economy and vehicle longevity is leading to a surge in premium-grade fuels enhanced with performance additives.
Refinery Upgrades and Modernization: Aging infrastructure and growing complexity of crude feedstock have made refinery upgrades essential, driving demand for customized additive formulations.
Growth in Emerging Markets: Rapid industrialization and increasing vehicle fleets in regions like APAC and MEA are fueling demand for fuel additives as countries adopt cleaner fuel policies.
Market Segmentation
By Product Type:
Deposit Control Additives
Cetane Number Improvers
Lubricity Additives
Antioxidants
Cold Flow Improvers
Anti-icing Additives
Corrosion Inhibitors
Others
By Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Diesel
Jet Fuel
Marine Fuel
Others
By Application:
Refinery Blending
Bulk Storage Terminals
End-User Dispensing
Regional Insights
North America: The U.S. remains a dominant player due to advanced refining capacity and early adoption of clean fuel mandates.
Europe: Home to stringent emission norms, especially in Western Europe, where refiners are heavily investing in advanced additive solutions.
Asia-Pacific: Fastest-growing market driven by China and India’s large refining base and government focus on low-emission fuel policies.
Middle East & Africa: Emerging refining hubs in countries like Saudi Arabia and UAE, along with ongoing downstream investments, are key growth contributors.
South America: Refinery modernization efforts in Brazil and Argentina are generating demand for value-added additive solutions.
Competitive Landscape
The global refinery fuel additives market is highly consolidated with a few multinational companies dominating the landscape. Key players are focusing on R&D innovation, strategic collaborations, and regional expansions to cater to growing customer demands.
Key Market Participants:
Chevron Oronite Company LLC
BASF SE
Lubrizol Corporation
Innospec Inc.
Infineum International Limited
Afton Chemical Corporation
Clariant AG
Evonik Industries AG
TotalEnergies Additives and Special Fuels
These companies are investing in developing sustainable and bio-based additive solutions to address environmental concerns and support global net-zero targets.
Outlook and Opportunities (2025–2033)
The refinery fuel additives market is expected to experience healthy growth throughout the forecast period. With increasing environmental pressures and the need for operational efficiency, refineries worldwide will continue to invest in fuel additive technologies. Opportunities lie in:
Biofuel and renewable diesel compatibility additives
Marine fuel additive innovations post IMO 2020
AI-based additive formulation and performance analytics
Localized production hubs in Asia and
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