Global Melamine Market Demand & Forecast Analysis, 2016-2032

Executive Summary : - 

Melamine is almost exclusively used in the manufacture of melamine-based thermosetting resins. Melamine resins are produced by the condensation polymerization reaction of melamine with formaldehyde to yield melamine-formaldehyde resins. The major application of the melamine are laminates, wood adhesives, surface coatings, moulding compounds, paper coatings, textile treatment, flame retardants and others. Wood products sector which include laminates and wood adhesives account for a share of more than 70% of the total global melamine consumption as of 2017.

Melamine is used in the form of a resin which is manufacture by condensation polymerization reaction between melamine and formaldehyde to produce melamine formaldehyde in a relatively small batch process. The exception to this is for flame retardants and some other smaller applications, where melamine is used in its crystalline form. The major types of laminates are high pressure laminates and low pressure laminates. High pressure laminates cost more than low pressure laminates and is used where more impact strength and resistance to chemicals are required.

Melamine demand in melamine formaldehyde form for laminate flooring in residential and commercial has increased in the last two decades. This growth can be attributed to the increase in construction of residential and commercial buildings and also melamine formaldehyde replacement of other flooring materials. The demand in general to an extent is dependent on the construction sector and other macroeconomic factors. Melamine based adhesives enhance the visual appearance and it also provides durability and fire resistance of the finished wood. Melamine formaldehyde is used as cross-linking agent in polyester and acrylic among others. Coating applications in the automotive sector accounts for the largest share.

Historically the capacity utilization had witnessed a decline in 2008 - 2009 following onset of global economic recessionary trend which caused a slowdown in the construction and automotive sector. It was estimated that the global demand during the period declined by around 12% with all major regions witnessing a decline. The market bounced back in 2010 on the back of recovery in the major economies and developments in Asia-Pacific.

Historically, Western Europe was largest melamine market but has lost its market share to China, which is now the biggest market globally accounting for almost 45% of the global demand. China is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period while other countries in Asia-Pacific will are estimated to grow between 2% to 3% annually. Overall global melamine demand is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 2.5% to 3% depending on the overall economic performance of major countries.