Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By Application (Cosmetics, Pharmaceuticals, Food Industry, Lubricants, Plastics), By Type (Castor Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Castor Oil Derivatives, Castor Wax, Cold Pressed Castor Oil), By Form (Liquid, Solid, Powder), By End Use (Industrial, Household, Commercial, Agriculture), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market is projected to grow from USD 1.68 Billion in 2025 to USD 2.75 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.2% from 2026 through 2035. This robust growth underscores the increasing versatility and adoption of castor oil and its derivatives across a multitude of industries. Castor oil, extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, is a non-edible vegetable oil known for its unique chemical composition, particularly its high ricinoleic acid content. Its derivatives encompass a broad spectrum of products, including sebacic acid, undecylenic acid, and hydrogenated castor oil, which find applications in diverse sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, lubricants, biofuels, and paints and coatings. The market is primarily driven by the escalating demand for bio-based and sustainable products as industries pivot away from petrochemical reliance. The exceptional properties of castor oil, such as its biodegradability, high viscosity, and lubricating capabilities, make it a preferred ingredient in eco-friendly formulations. Furthermore, the expansion of the personal care and cosmetic industry, coupled with rising consumer awareness regarding natural ingredients, is significantly bolstering market growth.
Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035
2025 - 2035
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The market is currently experiencing several important trends, including a surge in research and development activities focused on exploring new applications and enhancing the efficacy of castor oil derivatives. Innovations in processing technologies are also contributing to the production of high-purity derivatives, expanding their utility in specialized applications. However, market growth is tempered by certain restraints, notably price volatility of castor beans, which is often influenced by weather conditions and agricultural output in key producing regions. The availability of synthetic alternatives in some applications also poses a competitive challenge. Despite these hurdles, significant opportunities exist for market expansion. The increasing adoption of advanced bio-lubricants in the automotive and industrial sectors, driven by stringent environmental regulations, presents a fertile ground for growth. Additionally, the burgeoning demand for sustainable ingredients in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries, particularly for drug delivery systems and dietary supplements, offers substantial avenues for market penetration. The market is segmented by Application, Type, End Use, and Form, allowing for a granular understanding of demand patterns and strategic areas for investment.
Asia Pacific stands out as the dominant region in the global castor oil and derivatives market, driven by its robust agricultural output of castor beans and the presence of numerous processing facilities. The region's rapidly expanding industrial base, coupled with a large and growing consumer market, fuels the demand for castor oil in various applications, particularly in the chemical and personal care sectors. Simultaneously, Asia Pacific is also projected to be the fastest growing region, propelled by significant investments in manufacturing capabilities, increasing domestic consumption, and a burgeoning export market for castor oil and its derivatives. Key players such as Xiemei, RPK Agrotech, Georgian Oil, Praj Industries, Gokul Refoils and Solvent, N.K. Proteins, Castor Oil Industries, Jakela, Shreeji Industries, and HempFlax are strategically expanding their production capacities, focusing on product innovation, and forging partnerships to solidify their market positions. Their strategies often involve backward integration to secure raw material supply, developing niche derivative products, and enhancing global distribution networks to capitalize on emerging opportunities and mitigate market risks. The leading segment by application is lubricants, reflecting the critical role of castor oil in producing high-performance, eco-friendly lubricants for diverse industrial and automotive uses.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 1.68 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 2.75 BillionLeading Segment:
Lubricants (38.5% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
Asia Pacific (45.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
6.2%
Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Emerging Trends and Insights
Sustainable Castor Cultivation Innovations Drive Market Growth
The global castor oil and derivatives market is experiencing significant growth driven by innovations in sustainable cultivation practices. Historically, castor farming has faced challenges related to environmental impact and farmer livelihoods. However, recent advancements focus on mitigating these issues. Innovations include developing drought resistant and higher yielding castor varieties that reduce water consumption and land usage. Precision agriculture techniques are being implemented to optimize fertilizer and pesticide application, minimizing chemical run-off and promoting soil health. Furthermore, there's a growing emphasis on fair trade practices and farmer training programs, empowering growers with knowledge of sustainable methods and ensuring better economic returns. These efforts not only enhance the environmental footprint of castor production but also create a more resilient and ethically sourced supply chain. This commitment to sustainability is attracting a wider range of industries seeking responsible sourcing, thereby fueling market expansion for castor oil and its derivatives across various applications.
Biobased Derivate Expansion Fuels Industrial Applications
The global castor oil and derivatives market is witnessing a significant expansion driven by biobased derivative innovation. This trend highlights the growing demand for sustainable and natural raw materials across various industrial sectors. Castor oil, a versatile renewable resource, is increasingly processed into a diverse range of derivatives like polyols, sebacic acid, and undecylenic acid. These biobased derivatives offer superior performance characteristics and a reduced environmental footprint compared to their petrochemical counterparts. Consequently, industries such as plastics, lubricants, paints and coatings, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals are rapidly adopting these castor derived solutions. This shift towards renewable, high performance biobased inputs is fueling the market's growth and diversification, broadening the application spectrum for castor oil and its derivatives significantly.
Nutraceutical and Pharmaceutical Demand Shapes Future Castor Trends
Increasing consumer awareness of health and wellness drives the demand for nutraceuticals, which frequently utilize castor oil derivatives for their emulsifying and excipient properties. This trend expands castor's application beyond traditional industrial uses. Simultaneously, the pharmaceutical sector remains a consistent consumer of castor derivatives for drug formulations, coatings, and specialized ingredients due to their unique chemical properties and safety profiles. As both these critical sectors experience sustained growth and innovation, their evolving needs directly influence the research, development, and production priorities within the global castor oil and derivatives market. This dual demand from high value industries, with their stringent quality requirements and specialized applications, effectively dictates future investment, processing advancements, and product diversification strategies within the castor industry.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market
Rising Demand from Personal Care & Cosmetics Industry
The personal care and cosmetics industry significantly fuels the growth of the global castor oil and derivatives market. Castor oil is a versatile natural ingredient highly valued for its emollient, moisturizing, and skin conditioning properties. It is extensively used in a wide array of products including lipsticks, lotions, creams, hair care formulations, and soaps. Derivatives like hydrogenated castor oil and its various esters further expand its application in this sector providing thickening agents, film formers, and emulsifiers. Consumers increasing preference for natural and sustainable ingredients in their beauty regimens directly translates to a higher demand for castor oil and its derivatives. This rising consumer inclination towards natural personal care products positions the industry as a primary driver for market expansion.
Expanding Applications in Bio-based Polymers & Lubricants
The growing adoption of bio-based polymers and lubricants is a significant driver for the global castor oil and derivatives market. Castor oil’s unique chemical structure, including its high ricinoleic acid content, makes it an ideal sustainable feedstock. It provides properties crucial for these new applications, such as biodegradability, low toxicity, and excellent lubrication performance. As industries shift towards greener alternatives, demand for materials like bio-polyols for foams, bioplastics for packaging, and renewable base oils for industrial lubricants increases. Castor derivatives offer a natural, high-performance, and environmentally friendly solution, making them indispensable in the expanding development and commercialization of these advanced bio-based products. This trend directly fuels market growth.
Growing Awareness and Adoption of Sustainable Chemical Alternatives
Increasing consumer and industrial understanding of environmental impacts is driving demand for sustainable solutions. Castor oil and its derivatives, derived from a renewable resource, offer a compelling alternative to traditional petrochemical based chemicals. Industries are actively seeking bio based ingredients to enhance their green credentials and meet evolving regulatory requirements. This shift is particularly evident in cosmetics, lubricants, and polymers where manufacturers are reformulating products with plant derived components. Growing awareness of castor oil's biodegradability and reduced carbon footprint makes it an attractive choice. Consequently, greater adoption of these sustainable chemical alternatives is fueling the expansion of the global castor oil and derivatives market.
Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Restraints
Dependency on Fluctuating Agricultural Yields and Weather Patterns
The global castor oil and derivatives market is significantly constrained by its reliance on unpredictable agricultural outcomes and climatic conditions. Castor bean cultivation is highly sensitive to weather patterns including rainfall distribution temperature extremes and drought. Adverse weather events in key producing regions such as India can lead to substantial reductions in crop yields. This direct dependency creates supply volatility making it challenging for manufacturers to maintain consistent production levels and for buyers to secure stable supplies. Fluctuations in agricultural output directly impact raw material availability and pricing introducing market instability. Businesses face difficulties in long term planning and risk management due to the inherent unpredictability of these natural factors making them vulnerable to unexpected supply shocks and price surges.
Intensified Competition from Synthetic Alternatives and Bio-based Replacements
The global castor oil and derivatives market faces a significant challenge from intensified competition. Synthetic alternatives, often petroleum derived, offer comparable performance characteristics and sometimes lower costs, attracting buyers away from natural castor-based products. Furthermore, the rise of bio based replacements, derived from other renewable resources, presents a formidable threat. These newer bio products often boast similar sustainability profiles to castor derivatives but may offer advantages in specific applications, processing, or price stability. Companies in the castor market must innovate and differentiate their offerings to maintain market share against these increasingly attractive and diverse substitutes. This competitive pressure limits market expansion and can erode profit margins for traditional castor oil and derivative producers.
Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Opportunities
Rising Demand for Castor Oil in Sustainable Cosmetics and Bio-lubricant Formulations
The global castor oil market presents a powerful opportunity, primarily fueled by the surging demand within sustainable cosmetics and bio lubricant formulations. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing natural, plant based ingredients, positioning castor oil as a premier choice for eco friendly cosmetic products spanning skincare, haircare, and makeup. Its inherent emollient and moisturizing properties align perfectly with the burgeoning clean beauty movement. Simultaneously, stringent environmental regulations and a global push towards reducing carbon footprints are significantly boosting the adoption of castor oil in bio lubricants. These bio based lubricants offer superior biodegradability and performance characteristics compared to traditional petroleum derived options, finding diverse applications across industrial and automotive sectors. This dual surge in demand from both personal care and industrial sectors creates substantial growth avenues for castor oil and its derivatives, firmly establishing them as key components in a more sustainable future. This trend underscores the oil's immense versatility and environmental benefits, driving significant market expansion.
Castor Oil Derivatives as Key Renewable Feedstock for Bio-based Polymers and Specialty Chemicals
Castor oil derivatives offer a profound opportunity as a key renewable feedstock, driving innovation in bio based polymers and specialty chemicals. Their unique inherent properties make them invaluable for diverse high performance applications, displacing traditional petroleum based materials. The global push for sustainability and circular economy principles fuels an escalating demand for natural, environmentally friendly raw materials across industries. Castor oil derived polyols, sebacic acid, and ricinoleic acid are crucial building blocks for producing advanced biodegradable plastics, high quality nylons, durable polyurethanes, eco friendly lubricants, and sophisticated personal care ingredients. This enables manufacturers worldwide, especially within the rapidly developing Asia Pacific region, to develop greener products. By leveraging castor oil derivatives, companies can meet evolving environmental regulations and consumer preferences for sustainable content, securing a competitive edge and unlocking substantial, long term growth in the global castor oil and derivatives market.
Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Application
- •Cosmetics
- •Pharmaceuticals
- •Food Industry
- •Lubricants
- •Plastics
By Type
- •Castor Oil
- •Hydrogenated Castor Oil
- •Castor Oil Derivatives
- •Castor Wax
- •Cold Pressed Castor Oil
By End Use
- •Industrial
- •Household
- •Commercial
- •Agriculture
By Form
- •Liquid
- •Solid
- •Powder
Segment Share By Application
Share, By Application, 2025 (%)
- Lubricants
- Plastics
- Cosmetics
- Pharmaceuticals
- Food Industry
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Why is Lubricants dominating the Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market by Application?
The substantial share held by Lubricants is due to castor oil's unique properties, including high viscosity, excellent lubricity, and biodegradability. These attributes make it an ideal choice for various industrial lubricants, greases, and hydraulic fluids. Its thermal stability and performance under high pressure are particularly valued in demanding automotive, aviation, and industrial machinery applications, establishing it as the primary consumption segment and a cornerstone of market demand.
What factors contribute to the significant role of Castor Oil Derivatives within the Type segment?
Castor Oil Derivatives are crucial for market growth as they extend the utility of castor oil into diverse specialized applications. These derivatives, such as hydrogenated castor oil, 12 hydroxystearic acid, and ricinoleic acid, offer tailored properties like improved stability, specific melting points, and enhanced chemical reactivity. Their versatility makes them indispensable building blocks in sectors including polymers, coatings, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals, driving innovation and expanding the market's overall scope.
How does the Industrial End Use segment influence the Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market?
The Industrial End Use segment is a key driver due to its broad and consistent demand across multiple manufacturing sectors. Castor oil and its derivatives are critical components in plastics production, particularly for polyurethanes and nylon, and are extensively used in adhesives, sealants, and coatings. The scale of operations within industries like automotive, construction, and manufacturing necessitates large volumes of castor based products, solidifying the industrial segment as a major contributor to the market's overall strength and consumption.
Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Regulatory and Policy Environment Analysis
The global castor oil and derivatives market navigates a complex regulatory landscape primarily driven by food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications. Food grade castor oil and its derivatives face stringent purity standards and safety assessments by bodies like the FDA in the US and EFSA in Europe, often requiring GRAS status or equivalent approvals for direct food additives or processing aids. Pharmaceutical applications demand adherence to pharmacopoeia standards, GMP Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines, and comprehensive toxicology data for excipients.
Cosmetic products incorporating castor derivatives must comply with INCI International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients labeling and ingredient safety evaluations under regulations such as the EU Cosmetics Regulation. Industrial chemicals, including various castor derivatives used in polymers, lubricants, and coatings, are subject to chemical control laws like REACH in the EU and TSCA in the US. These frameworks necessitate registration, evaluation, and authorization based on hazard and risk assessments, alongside mandatory safety data sheets SDS.
Sustainability and ethical sourcing increasingly influence policy, with pressure for transparent supply chains and responsible agricultural practices. International trade agreements and tariffs also impact market dynamics, requiring compliance with import/export documentation and quality certifications. These varied regulations create significant compliance burdens but also ensure product safety and quality across diverse end user sectors.
Which Emerging Technologies Are Driving New Trends in the Market?
The global castor oil and derivatives market is experiencing significant transformation through innovation. Emerging technologies are reshaping both production and application landscapes. Sustainable agricultural practices, including precision farming and advanced seed development, are improving yield and crop resilience, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality castor beans. Biotechnological advancements aim to enhance oil content and specific fatty acid profiles, broadening the raw material's potential.
In derivatives, novel chemical processes are creating specialized oleochemicals with superior performance for diverse industries. These include advanced bio-lubricants, high-performance polyols for polyurethanes, and new emollient esters for cosmetics and personal care. The shift towards biobased polymers, biofuels, and pharmaceutical excipients is propelling research into unique castor derivatives. Innovations in waste valorization from castor processing are also creating value added byproducts. This continuous technological evolution is unlocking new functionalities and expanding market applications across multiple sectors.
Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Regional Analysis
Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market
Trends, by Region
Asia-Pacific Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
Asia Pacific · 45.2% share
Asia Pacific stands as the dominant region in the global castor oil and derivatives market, commanding a substantial 45.2% market share. This leadership is primarily driven by India and China, key producers and consumers of castor oil. India is the largest producer globally, boasting favorable climatic conditions and extensive cultivation. The region also benefits from robust demand across various end use industries including personal care, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. Rapid industrialization and increasing disposable incomes in emerging economies further fuel consumption of castor oil derivatives in these sectors. The strong agricultural base and burgeoning industrial applications solidify Asia Pacific's prominent position and continued growth trajectory in the market.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 7.9% CAGR
Asia Pacific is poised to be the fastest growing region in the global castor oil and derivatives sales market, exhibiting a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate CAGR of 7.9% during the forecast period of 2026-2035. This accelerated growth is primarily fueled by the region's burgeoning industrial sectors particularly pharmaceuticals cosmetics and lubricants. Rapid urbanization and a rising middle class are significantly boosting demand for personal care products driving the uptake of castor oil derivatives. Furthermore increasing awareness about bio-based and sustainable products is favoring natural alternatives like castor oil over synthetic chemicals. The expanding manufacturing base in countries like China and India further solidifies Asia Pacific's position as a dominant growth engine for the castor oil and derivatives market.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical stability in India, the primary castor bean cultivator, is paramount. Monsoon performance directly impacts harvests and international supply. Trade policies between India and key importing regions like Europe, the US, and China influence market dynamics, particularly tariffs and import regulations for both raw castor oil and its derivatives. Geopolitical events affecting shipping routes or global trade relations could disrupt supply chains and increase costs, impacting manufacturer profitability.
Macroeconomic factors include global economic growth and industrial output, as castor derivatives find applications across various sectors like cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and lubricants. Inflationary pressures on energy and labor costs impact production expenses. Fluctuations in crude oil prices can indirectly affect demand for certain bio-based derivatives. Exchange rate volatility, especially for the Indian Rupee against major currencies, influences export competitiveness and import costs for processors.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
RPK Agrotech announced a strategic partnership with Praj Industries to develop sustainable bio-based castor oil derivatives. This collaboration aims to innovate processes for cleaner production and expand the application of castor derivatives in emerging bio-fuel and specialty chemical markets.
- June 2024
Xiemei launched a new line of high-purity, pharmaceutical-grade castor oil derivatives specifically designed for drug delivery systems and medical device coatings. This product expansion targets the growing demand from the healthcare sector for natural, biocompatible excipients.
- September 2024
Gokul Refoils and Solvent acquired a significant stake in Shreeji Industries to expand its production capacity for hydrogenated castor oil (HCO) and 12-hydroxystearic acid (12-HSA). This acquisition strengthens Gokul's position in industrial applications like lubricants and greases, ensuring a more integrated supply chain.
- February 2025
HempFlax announced a strategic initiative to research and develop a novel blend of castor oil and hemp seed oil for cosmetic and personal care applications. This initiative explores synergistic properties for enhanced moisturizing and anti-inflammatory effects, appealing to the natural beauty market.
Key Players Analysis
Xiemei and RPK Agrotech, as leading producers, drive market growth through advanced extraction technologies and sustainable farming practices. Praj Industries focuses on biotechnological innovations for high value derivatives, expanding application diversity. Gokul Refoils and Solvent and N.K. Proteins emphasize vertical integration, ensuring supply chain efficiency and competitive pricing. Georgian Oil and Castor Oil Industries prioritize market expansion through strategic partnerships and product diversification, catering to rising demand in cosmetics and biofuels.
List of Key Companies:
- Xiemei
- RPK Agrotech
- Georgian Oil
- Praj Industries
- Gokul Refoils and Solvent
- N.K. Proteins
- Castor Oil Industries
- Jakela
- Shreeji Industries
- HempFlax
- Misr Petroleum
- Adani Wilmar
- Tantec
- Hawkins Stone
- Kanchi Karpooram
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 1.68 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 2.75 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 6.2% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Castor Oil and Derivatives Sales Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035