GLOBAL TEXTILE ENZYMES MARKET SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2024-2031)

The textile enzymes market size is valued at US$ 456.5 Mn in 2024 expected to reach US$ 694.9 Mn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% during the forecast period(2024-2031). Textile enzymes are commonly used in the textile industry for processing of fabrics from natural and synthetic fibers. There are various types of enzymes that serve different functions when added during textile processing. Proteases and amylases are the most widely used enzymes for processing of protein and starch-based fabrics respectively. Proteases help in removing lint and slubs from fabrics like wool during wool scouring. Amylases are used for size removal from starch-containing fabrics like cotton during desizing. Other important textile enzymes include cellulases, lipases, and oxidases.

Within these categories, there are various enzyme products available in the market. For example, for protease activity, there are alkaline proteases and neutral/acidic proteases. The type of protease that is used depends on the substrate and processing conditions. Alkaline proteases work better under alkaline pH conditions as compared to neutral/acidic proteases. Similarly, for amylase activity, there are alpha-amylases and glucoamylases which differ in their mode of action. Using appropriate textile enzymes has advantages like improving fabric handle, increasing strength and brightness, reducing energy consumption, and allowing for processing at lower temperatures. However, effective application requires knowledge of enzyme properties and reaction conditions. Improper use can also lead to adverse effects on fabric quality.

Textile Enzymes Market Regional Insights:

• Asia Pacific: This region dominated the textile enzymes market, accounting for a revenue share of over 35%.The growth in the region is due to the growth in overall textile production and the presence of multiple enzyme manufacturing companies in countries like China, Singapore, and India.
• Europe: The European textile enzymes market is fragmented, with key market players like Novozymes and AB Enzymes having their global headquarters in the region. Countries like Germany, France, and Italy are prominent producers and exporters of textile products, driving the market growth in the region.
• North America: The textile enzymes market in North America is driven by the region's emphasis on sustainable practices and strict regulations regarding the use of chemicals in textile manufacturing.

Figure 1. Textile Enzymes Market Share (%), By Region, 2024

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Textile Enzymes Market Analyst Viewpoint:

The textile enzymes market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period driven by the increasing demand for advanced textile products. Enzymes offer cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions for various textile processing steps like desizing, bleaching, and dyeing. Their use minimizes the need for harsh chemicals and allows production of softer and brighter textiles. Garment manufacturers are adopting textile enzymes across various stages to gain efficiencies and comply with stringent environmental norms.

One of the major opportunities for market expansion lies in the rapidly growing technical textiles sector. As technical textiles require specific fabric properties, use of tailor-made textile enzymes formulations is anticipated to rise. Emergence of novel enzymes are engineered through advanced biotechnology will further aid innovative fabric treatments. Developing regions like South Asia and Latin America are projected to become major markets due to their flourishing textiles industries and cost advantages offered by enzymes.

However, availability of cheaper substitutes may impede faster adoption of textile enzymes. Establishing their benefits as compared to conventional chemicals is crucial. Environmental regulations on hazardous chemicals vary globally, thus posing restraints in certain markets. Also, high research and development (R&D) costs and product development timelines that are associated with novel textile enzyme technologies could delay their commercialization. The dominant player needs to focus on expanding production capabilities and distribution networks to fully capital.

Textile Enzymes Market Drivers:

• Expanding applications of textile enzymes: Textile enzymes have been able to penetrate further in the textile industry beyond their conventional uses such as desizing and bio-polishing. Traditional textiles made from natural fibers like cotton and silk have been augmented by the rise of synthetic, blended, and technical textiles over the recent decades. This has widened the scope for textile enzymes to facilitate improved processing of these new-age fabrics. One major expansion area has been in fabric dying and printing. Enzymes are  enabling more vivid and longer-lasting coloration effects on cellulosic as well as synthetic blended fabrics which previously posed challenges. Specific peroxidase and oxidase enzymes are instrumental in optimizing various stages of color application and fixation on such fibers. This is helping manufacturers and commercial printers achieve brighter and clearer prints while minimizing the use of harsh chemicals. Textile enzymes are also improving wash-fastness of printed designs vital for ensuring color longevity of the end products. Technical textiles made from specialty fibers are another emerging frontier that enzymes are helping to unlock. With the rising relevance of high-performance fiber variants for applications like automotive, sportswear, and healthcare, compatibility issues during processing have emerged. Textile enzymes are resolving such problems, for example certain amylase enzymes are making starches more receptive for dyeing artificial cellulose-based fibers. Protease types are similarly playing a role in degreasing and upgrading the handle of technical textiles made from fibers like nylon, polyester and aramid. This is creating new design opportunities in technical textiles while is also enhancing feel and appearance compliance of finished goods.
• Sustainability focus driving greater enzyme adoption: Growing attention on sustainability aspects across industries, including textiles, have shone the spotlight on more eco-friendly production methods. This changing landscape presents a strong tailwind for the increased uptake of textile enzymes which are naturally-derived biocatalysts. Rising environmental regulations and pressures are incentivizing textile manufacturers to lower their dependency on chemical inputs and turn to biological options during processing. Enzymes offer textile processors the ability to perform pre-treating, dyeing, and finishing steps with enhanced efficiency while reducing pollution load. For example, they lessen the need for high temperatures and harsh alkalis in desizing, thereby cutting energy costs and lowering Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) levels in effluents. Consumers too are more cognizant about preferring apparel and fabrics made through sustainable means. The ability of enzymes to produce the required technical performance with cleaner solutions will help textile brands respond to this change in demand. It allows highlighting relevant sustainability credentials on product marketing and branding. Enzymes also enhance process capabilities to produce specialty green textiles like organic cotton which are gaining popularity. Standards like the European Union (EU) Ecolabel for textile products are additionally nudging greater compliance with eco-friendly production norms. Companies aspiring to comply with such criteria can leverage textile enzymes to demonstrate best-practices across all applicable criteria from raw material sourcing and processing efficiencies to waste minimization. This can gain them preferential market access and pricing benefits.

Textile Enzymes Market Opportunities:

• Investment in research on newer enzyme formulations: Investment in research and development (R&D) of newer enzyme formulations could open up new vistas of opportunities in the textile enzymes market. Enzymes have widely replaced chemicals for processing of textiles due to their eco-friendly nature and ability to function under varied conditions like different temperatures and pH levels. With growing demand for sustainable production methods, enzymes are increasingly becoming the bio-catalysts of choice for operations like desizing, bio-polishing, stone-washing, and denim finishing. However, newer formulations could help overcome certain existing pain points and further augment their benefits. For example, current desizing enzyme formulations may not be optimal across different fabric compositions and require high amounts. Development of broader-spectrum enzymes adaptable to diverse textiles could boost desizing efficiency. For instances, according to the UNEP State of the Environment Report 2022, the science of biotechnology holds promising routes to develop biodegradable and eco-friendly alternatives to replace certain hazardous textile chemicals. Increased research collaborations between enzyme developers and textile companies may identify new applications of enzyme technology, helping transition processes to net-zero.
• Potential in developing regions: Potential in developing regions could be a major growth opportunity for textile enzymes market in the near future. Several developing nations across Asia, Africa and Latin America are witnessing strong economic growth backed by rising disposable incomes and growing expenditure power of consumers. Rising affluence is driving increased demand for apparel and garments in these regions. At the same time, there is a growing focus on using eco-friendly and sustainable manufacturing practices to minimize environmental footprint of textile production. For instances, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) data, domestic material consumption in apparel production increased by around 15-20% in Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Cambodia during the same period. With rising output, the need for efficient and sustainable processing techniques will continue to increase in the near future.

Textile Enzymes Market Trends

• Innovation of enzyme formulations for specialized fabric types: The textile industry has witnessed growing demand for specialized fabrics made from materials like cotton blends, synthetic fibers, and delicate fabrics. Meeting the unique cleaning needs of these fabric types requires innovative enzyme formulations. Textile enzyme manufacturers have responded by developing tailored blends of protease, amylase, and lipase enzymes. For example, several major brands have released protease enzymes specifically that is designed to gently treat cotton-polyester blend garments. These enzymes can efficiently remove stains and bacteria without damaging the polyester fibers. The growth in specialized fabric demand means textile enzymes must accommodate an even wider range of materials. The introduction of custom-formulated enzymes allows apparel brands to work with novel fabrics while still achieving high cleaning results. As fabric innovation increases, so does reliance on textile enzymes that is capable of handling diverse compositions. Garment producers expect enzyme suppliers to test formulations on new materials and prove compatibility. Some global clothing retailers have partnered directly with enzyme companies to tailor products for their private label textiles. For instance, in 2021, one large European retailer collaborated with an enzyme manufacturer on a protease-amylase blend optimized for a rayon-spandex workout clothing line. Successful compatibility trials led to large-scale adoption of the customized enzymes across the retailer's global supply chain.
• Surging demand for specialty textile enzymes: The demand for specialty textile enzymes is experiencing considerable growth which is positively influencing the overall textile enzymes market. With changing fashion trends and consumer preference for innovative fabrics, textile manufacturers are increasingly opting for specialty textile effects such as wrinkle-free, anti-static, water, and soil resistant finishes. This is fueling the need for tailored textile enzymes that can facilitate the creation of such specialized fabric properties. Specialty textile enzymes offer targeted solutions to product developers for achieving unique finished effects during pre-treatment, dyeing, printing, and post-treatment stages. They help manufacturers imitate luxury textiles and differentiate their offerings. For example, protease and amylase enzymes are capable of imparting a silk-like touch and appearance to cellulosic fabrics. Several brands have successfully emulated the luxe drape and softness of expensive silks by using such specialty formulations. The growth in demand for novelty fabrics from affordable yet high-quality textile brands is giving a major push to the adoption of customized textile enzymes. For instances, according to the data published by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in 2022, over 28% of textile mills have reduced their energy usage and carbon footprint in the last two years by switching to specialty textile enzymes tailored for green processing needs.

Textile Enzymes Market Restraints:

• High research and development (R&D) costs for developing new enzymes: High research and development costs are one of the key factors restraining the growth of the textile enzymes market. Developing new enzymes requires extensive research and testing over several years. Enzyme manufacturers need to invest heavily in setting up R&D facilities with advanced laboratories and hiring biotechnologists and enzyme engineers. They also need to continuously innovate and come up with new enzymes that can tackle emerging textile processing challenges. Meeting strict quality standards and ensuring consistency in enzyme performance adds to the costs. Considering the large capital that is required for R&D, many small and mid-sized enzyme companies find it difficult to sustain such high costs. They prefer focusing on other lower costs markets. This limits the number of new textile enzymes being introduced each year. Established large market players also think multiple times before investing in a completely new area due to high risks. For instances, according to a survey conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organization in 2020, 65% of small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) enzyme manufacturers in Asia Pacific reported scaling down R&D activities due to financial constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Availability of cheaper chemical substitutes: The textile enzymes market is facing significant restraints in its growth trajectory primarily due to the availability of cheaper chemical substitutes that can perform similar functions as enzymes. Several chemical compounds such as chlorine, peroxides and alkalis have been used by the textile industry as alternatives to enzymes for decades. These chemicals are not only inexpensive compared to textile enzymes but also widely available across geographies. For instance, the price of chlorine for bleaching of cotton fabrics is nearly 50-60% cheaper than using specialized cellulase and pectinase enzymes. Similarly, hydrogen peroxide is a widely used oxidizing agent that costs 30-40% lesser than laccase and peroxidase enzymes for jeans stone washing.
• Counterbalance: The key market players need to focus on reducing the price of the enzymes to be in pace with competition with cheaper chemical substances.

Recent Developments:

• In 2021, Novozymes  introduced DeniLite LEC to the market, a cutting-edge enzyme crafted for the denim sector that is aimed at reducing water usage and diminishing the environmental impact of wastewater. In a bid to further innovate within this domain, they joined forces with Jeanologia, a company heralded for its pioneering advancements in eco-friendly finishing techniques for textiles, to forge bespoke solutions for the manufacturing landscape. Novozymes is a global biotechnology company headquartered in Bagsværd, outside of Copenhagen, Denmark. The company's focus is the research, development and production of industrial enzymes, microorganisms, and biopharmaceutical ingredients.
• In 2021, DuPont unveiled their latest environmentally-conscious product, PrimaGreen Eco—an enzyme that is designed for the textile printing industry to aid in saving water and energy throughout the production process. Responding to the escalating call for textile processes that are more sustainable, DuPont took a significant step by enhancing their enzyme production facilities within Europe to better cater to the increasing market demands. DuPont, is an American multinational chemical company first formed in 1802 by French-American chemist and industrialist Éleuthère Irénée du Pont de Nemours. The company played a major role in the development of Delaware and first arose as a major supplier of gunpowder.
• In March 2021, AB Enzymes had announced to launch new product VERON RYEO in its range of enzymes for rye applications. It helps bread improver manufacturers to create superior rye-based products with optimized rheological characteristics. AB Enzymes is an industrial biotech company specialized in enzymes and their applications in various industries, including food, animal feed, and technical applications. AB Enzymes develops, manufactures, and supplies enzyme preparations for industrial applications worldwide.

Figure 2. Textile Enzymes Market Share (%), By Application, 2024

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Key Companies in the Textile Enzymes Market:

• EPYGEN LABS LLC.
• Sunsong Industry Group Co., Ltd.
• Noor Enzymes, Antozyme Biotech Pvt. Ltd.
• Nature BioScience Pvt. L.T.D.
• Tex Biosciences (P) Ltd., Infinita Biotech Private Limited
• Novozymes, BESTZYME BIO-ENGINEERING CO., LTD.
• AB Enzymes
• BASF SE
• DENYKEM
• DSM
• Kemin Industries, Inc.
• Advanced Enzyme Technologies
• Ultreze

Definition: Textile enzymes are biocatalysts that are used in the textile industry for various purposes, including treatment of yarn, fabric, and garments in wet processing operations such as pretreatment, desizing, scouring, and others. They are used in two main phases of textile processing: preparatory finishing and finishing.