Top Suppliers and Manufacturers of Oleochemicals in the World 🌎

Emery Oleochemicals is a leading global provider specializing in natural-based chemicals and pioneering in the oleochemicals industry. Founded in 1840, the company has a legacy of producing sustainable and high-quality chemicals derived from renewable sources.

Emery Oleochemicals offers a diverse range of products including bio-lubricants, eco-friendly polyols, green polymer additives, and various agricultural solutions. Additionally, their product portfolio features fatty acids, glycerin, and fatty alcohols which are utilized across numerous industries such as personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food.

Operating globally, the company serves key export markets in North America, Europe, and Asia. This extensive international reach allows Emery Oleochemicals to efficiently cater to a diverse clientele seeking sustainable chemical solutions. The company's manufacturing facilities are strategically located in the United States and Germany, with its headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Emery Oleochemicals divides its product offerings into six key business units: Agro Green, Bio-Lubricants, Eco-Friendly Polyols, Green Polymer Additives, Home and Personal Wellness, and OleoBasics. This specialization enables them to deliver tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of various industries, from automotive and industrial lubricants to packaging and agricultural crop protection.

With a longstanding commitment to innovation and sustainability, Emery Oleochemicals continues to lead in the green chemistry space, ensuring that their products are both effective and environmentally responsible. Their dedication to performance, ecological safety, and quality has solidified their reputation as a preferred partner for businesses aiming for sustainability.

Cargill, a prominent American multinational food corporation, was founded in 1865 by William Wallace Cargill. Headquartered in Wayzata, Minnesota, and incorporated in Wilmington, Delaware, Cargill has evolved into the largest privately held company in the United States by revenue.

Specializing in a myriad of sectors, Cargill operates within the agribusiness industry, focusing on the trading and distribution of grain and agricultural commodities, livestock raising, and the production of various food ingredients like starch, glucose syrup, and vegetable oils. It holds a substantial share of the U.S. market, supplying approximately 25% of the country's grain exports and 22% of its meat supply. These operations extend globally, making Cargill the largest importer of agricultural products within the U.S. and a key player in the poultry production sector in Thailand.

In addition to its primary agricultural activities, Cargill plays a significant role in the oleochemicals market, particularly through the production of plant-based oils and other derivatives critical for this industry. The company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation drives its operations, ensuring environmentally friendly and responsible practices throughout its supply chain.

Cargill's diverse product portfolio includes key agricultural commodities such as cotton, corn, soybeans, and canola, catering to various export markets across multiple continents. The company’s extensive global presence spans 66 countries, employing over 155,000 individuals as of 2022.

Despite its immense success and influence, Cargill has faced criticism regarding environmental sustainability and human rights. These controversies reflect the broader challenges within the industry, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices in large-scale agribusiness operations.

In 2022, Cargill achieved a gross revenue of US$165 billion, underscoring its standing as a global giant in the food, agricultural, and industrial sectors. The company continues to focus on sustainable growth and technological advancements to support farmers, producers, and communities worldwide.

Vantage Specialty Chemicals is a leading global supplier known for its innovative and high-performance chemical solutions. Headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois, the company has established itself as a key player in both consumer and industrial markets since its inception in 2008. A major specialization of Vantage is in oleochemicals, making them one of the largest producers in the United States.

The company operates through four main business units: Personal Care, Performance Materials, Oleochemicals, and Foods. This diverse portfolio allows Vantage to cater to a range of industries, including personal care, beauty, food, life sciences, and industrial specialties. Their Personal Care unit, for instance, provides chemical ingredients used in hair, skin, and sun care products, while their Performance Materials unit focuses on chemicals essential for the oil and gas, food production, and precision cleaning industries.

Among their top products are oleochemicals, nonionic surfactants, specialty emulsifiers, and performance additives. These products are designed to enhance efficacy and performance across various applications, demonstrating Vantage’s commitment to meeting client requirements competitively. Their emphasis on environmentally friendly solutions and advanced methodologies highlights their focus on sustainability.

Vantage’s export markets span across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, showcasing their global reach and capability. Additionally, their history is marked by strategic expansions, including acquisitions of Lambent Technologies, Lipo Chemicals, and Mallet & Co., which have broadened their scope and expertise in various sectors.

Despite facing challenges related to environmental safety and community health, Vantage remains committed to innovation and regulatory compliance. Their ongoing efforts in monitoring and managing emissions epitomize their dedication to balancing industrial needs with community wellbeing.

Under the ownership of H.I.G. Capital, Vantage continues to thrive, leveraging its technical expertise and flexible processes to remain at the forefront of the specialty chemicals industry.

BASF SE is a global chemical company headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany, and has been a cornerstone of the chemical industry since its founding in 1865. Widely regarded as the largest chemical producer in the world, BASF offers a diverse range of products and services that cater to various industries, including agriculture, automotive, construction, and consumer goods.

The company's portfolio is rich and varied, including Chemicals, Plastics, Performance Products, Agricultural Solutions, Biotechnology, and Oil & Gas. Among these, BASF is known for its innovative solutions in the field of oleochemicals, providing essential components for detergents, lubricants, and personal care products.

BASF operates in over 190 countries, showcasing a strong global presence in regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia. The company's extensive network includes more than 390 production sites worldwide, ensuring the widespread availability of its products.

Committed to sustainability and innovation, BASF invests heavily in research and development to drive advancements in climate protection technologies, such as offshore wind farms and the ChemCycling project, which transforms plastic waste into new chemical products. The company's efforts are a testament to its dedication to environmental protection and social responsibility.

BASF's significant contributions to the chemical industry are supported by a workforce of approximately 112,000 employees as of 2023. The company reported impressive sales of €68.9 billion in the same year, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.

DuPont de Nemours, commonly referred to as DuPont, is a prominent American multinational corporation specializing in innovative materials and chemicals, with a strong focus on sustainability and technological advancement. Established in 1802, the company has a longstanding history of pioneering advancements in various sectors, including chemicals, materials science, and biotechnology.

DuPont is well-known for its top products such as Vespel, Neoprene, Nylon, Corian, Teflon, Mylar, Kapton, Kevlar, Nomex, Tyvek, Sorona, and Lycra. These products have applications in numerous industries, ranging from automotive and construction to electronics and healthcare. Additionally, DuPont's portfolio includes specialty polymers, electronics materials, and agricultural solutions.

Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, DuPont has established a global presence, exporting its products to over 90 countries, with key markets in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America. Their commitment to research and development drives continued innovation, addressing both current and future challenges in various industries.

DuPont has undergone significant transformations, including the merger with Dow Chemical in 2015 and subsequent reorganization into three entities in 2019: DuPont, Dow, and Corteva. Recently, DuPont announced plans to spin off its electronics and water businesses to enhance operational agility and focus on growth.

While DuPont is not traditionally known for oleochemicals, its extensive expertise in chemicals and materials science makes it a valuable resource in the broader chemical industry. The company's dedication to sustainability and innovation ensures that it remains a trusted partner for businesses worldwide, continually pushing the boundaries of scientific understanding to improve quality of life and operational efficiency.

Oleon NV, established in 2000 in Belgium, is an industry leader specializing in the conversion of natural fats and oils into a wide array of oleochemical products. The company is recognized for its commitment to sustainable chemistry, leveraging renewable raw materials to produce high-performance and biodegradable oleochemicals.

Oleon's product portfolio includes fatty acids, glycerin, esters, dimers, technical oils, specialty oleochemicals, and biodiesel. These products are widely used across various markets such as crop protection, cosmetics, industrial ingredients, lubricants, nutrition, oilfield, food, coatings, and detergents. The company's Radia® brand offers oleochemical building blocks that are valued for their functional properties, including chemical reactivity and lubricity, while being non-toxic and safe for skin contact.

Headquartered in Ertvelde, Belgium, Oleon operates production sites in Belgium, Germany, France, Malaysia, and the USA, with sales affiliates worldwide. This global footprint enables Oleon to meet the diverse needs of its international clients, exporting to regions such as Europe, Asia, and North America.

As part of the Avril group, Oleon benefits from substantial investments and a robust market presence, which strengthens its ability to provide innovative and sustainable solutions. The company's commitment to research and development is reflected in its recent initiatives, including the launch of Europe's most advanced oleochemistry plant.

Oleon's dedication to sustainability is evident through its collaborative projects, such as partnerships with Epic Homes and strategic acquisitions like a blending plant in Conroe, Texas. With an emphasis on maintaining transparent relationships with stakeholders, Oleon NV continues to be a trusted and innovative leader in the oleochemical sector.

Solvay SA is a global leader in advanced materials and specialty chemicals, headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. With a long-standing history since its founding in 1863, Solvay has consistently evolved to meet the changing demands of various industries, including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, electronics, and consumer goods.

Among its top products are high-performance polymers, specialty copolymers, fluorine chemicals, peroxygens, barium, strontium, and oxygenated solvents. Solvay is also known for its involvement in advanced materials like fluorinated specialties and performance chemicals. Additionally, the company has a range of eco-friendly products that contribute to sustainability and resource efficiency, reinforcing its commitment to reducing environmental impact.

Solvay operates on a global scale, exporting to over 130 countries with major markets in Europe, North America, and Asia. This extensive reach is supported by its strategic acquisitions and expansions, such as the notable acquisition of Rhodia in 2011, which bolstered its operational capabilities.

Although not traditionally recognized for oleochemicals, Solvay's broad expertise in chemical solutions and performance chemicals places it as a significant player capable of meeting diverse industrial needs, potentially including oleochemicals depending on market demands and innovations.

The company employs around 24,500 people worldwide, ensuring a robust and innovative workforce. In 2022, Solvay reported a revenue of approximately 11.1 billion Euros, underlining its strong market presence and operational success.

Founded in 1925, Croda International is a leading global supplier of specialty chemicals, including oleochemicals, which are essential in various industrial and consumer applications. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, Croda is renowned for developing high-performance ingredients that enhance the quality of life across multiple sectors.

Key products from Croda include emollients and surfactants for personal care, specialty polymers and lubricant additives for industrial applications, and active ingredients for pharmaceuticals. Their oleochemicals are particularly notable in personal care and health care products, ensuring effectiveness and sustainability.

Headquartered in East Yorkshire, United Kingdom, Croda operates multiple manufacturing and distribution facilities worldwide, including in the UK, USA, Brazil, Singapore, and China. This extensive global presence allows Croda to efficiently serve markets in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East.

In 2023, Croda reported a revenue of £1,694.5 million, showcasing their steady growth and expanding market reach. Croda employs approximately 6,100 people who are dedicated to their mission of using smart science to improve lives. The company's initiative to be Climate, Land, and People Positive by 2030 underscores their commitment to sustainability.

Croda’s rich history is marked by significant milestones, including strategic acquisitions such as ICI's Uniqema in 2006 and Iberchem in 2020, enhancing their position in the fragrance and specialty chemicals markets. The company's pioneering approach and adaptability to market trends have solidified its reputation as a trusted partner for innovative chemical solutions.

Evonik Industries is a leading global supplier of specialty chemicals and materials, headquartered in Essen, Germany. Founded in 2007 through the restructuring of the mining and technology group RAG AG, Evonik specializes in multiple sectors, including additive manufacturing, adhesives and sealants, automotive & transportation, and health care.

Evonik operates in more than 100 countries, boasting an extensive export market that includes sectors like aerospace, consumer goods, food & beverage, and pharmaceuticals. Their commitment to innovation is reflected in the establishment of specialized facilities and centers, such as the $220 million Lipid Innovation Center in Lafayette, Indiana. The company places a strong emphasis on sustainability and efficiency, producing eco-friendly materials and solutions.

Among their top products are ultra-high purity colloidal silica for the semiconductor industry. Evonik’s product range also includes surfactants, specialty esters, and performance materials, with about 80% of its sales originating from high market position products. Notably, their COATINO® platform offers innovative tools like Cost Savings Calculator and defect detection capabilities for the coatings and inks markets.

Evonik’s global workforce of approximately 32,000 employees drives its operations across six business units, contributing essential components that enhance various industries. Although Oleochemicals are not explicitly mentioned in their primary offerings, their involvement in producing eco-friendly and resource-efficient solutions may include related chemical products that align with Oleochemical applications.

With a revenue of €15.3 billion in 2023, Evonik continues to push the boundaries of innovation and market leadership in the specialty chemicals sector, true to its rich historical background and strategic focus on modern industrial applications.

Godrej Industries, established in 1897, is a prominent conglomerate based in Mumbai, India, with a diverse portfolio spanning multiple sectors. The company has a strong presence in various industries including oleochemicals, consumer products, real estate, agriculture, and financial services. Among its top products, Godrej Industries stands out for its advanced manufacturing of oleochemicals, surfactants, and a wide range of specialty chemicals. These chemicals serve various applications including home and personal care, pharmaceuticals, lubricants, and textiles.

Godrej Industries operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities located in Valia, Gujarat, and Ambernath, Maharashtra. The company's chemical division is one of its oldest and most established sectors, producing over 100 chemicals used in more than 24 different applications. It is committed to sustainability, adhering to green supply chain practices and innovative manufacturing processes to minimize environmental impact.

With its headquarters at Godrej One, Pirojshanagar in Mumbai, the company has expanded its operations globally, exporting products to over 90 countries across regions including North and South America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. This significant international footprint underscores Godrej's ability to meet diverse consumer needs across the globe.

The company's history mirrors India's journey towards independence and self-reliance, reflecting a tradition of adaptation and resilience in the face of changing market demands. Today, Godrej Industries caters to over 1.1 billion consumers worldwide, continually driving innovation and quality in its product offerings.

Godrej Industries is dedicated to building a greener planet and emphasizing community development, encapsulating its philosophy that passionate people make for passionate Godrejites. This commitment to sustainability, quality, and innovation cements Godrej Industries' reputation as a trusted and leading supplier in the oleochemical sector.

Wilmar International is a prominent agribusiness group headquartered in Singapore, founded in 1991 by Kuok Khoon Hong and Martua Sitorus. The company has established itself as a global leader in various sectors, including oil palm cultivation, edible oils refining, oilseeds crushing, and sugar milling and refining.

The company's product portfolio is diverse, featuring top products such as palm oil, protein meal, consumer pack edible oils, sugar, specialty fats, oleochemicals, and biodiesel. Wilmar operates over 500 manufacturing plants and an extensive distribution network that spans major markets like China, Indonesia, India, and approximately 50 other countries.

Wilmar's specialization covers multiple segments: Tropical Oils, Oilseeds and Grains, Sugar, and Others. In the Tropical Oils segment, Wilmar processes and distributes palm oil and lauric-based products, including oleochemicals and biodiesel. The Oilseeds and Grains segment features non-palm and lauric edible oils, as well as oilseeds, complemented by milling operations for flour and rice. The Sugar segment handles the milling, refining, and distribution of sugar products.

A commitment to sustainability has been a cornerstone of Wilmar's operations. The company adheres to rigorous sustainability policies and ethical sourcing practices. This emphasis on sustainability extends to its oleochemicals segment, where responsible production methods are employed to minimize environmental impact.

With a workforce of about 100,000 employees, Wilmar continues to innovate and expand its global footprint. The company's integrated business model enables cost efficiencies and operational synergies, ensuring robust performance across its various segments.

Corbion N.V. is a Dutch company, headquartered in Amsterdam, specializing in sustainable biochemical ingredients. Recognized as a leader in lactic acid and its derivatives, Corbion's expertise extends to food preservation, functional blends, and algae ingredients rich in omega-3s. The company operates through four primary business lines: Sustainable Food Solutions, Lactic Acid & Specialties, Algae Ingredients, and the Incubator segment that fosters new biotechnology platforms.

Corbion's lactic acid and other innovative solutions cater to food preservation, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and animal nutrition, upholding high standards of sustainability and minimal environmental impact. Its top products include lactic acid, emulsifiers, and specialty biochemicals, such as algae-based solutions that replace fish oil. These products are crucial in enhancing food quality, improving texture, and boosting nutritional profiles.

Founded in 1919 and originally known as Centrale Suiker Maatschappij (CSM), Corbion evolved from sugar production to a prominent player in the bio-based industry. The company's global footprint includes production sites in the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Spain, the Netherlands, and Thailand, underscoring its robust international presence.

In 2023, Corbion reported annual sales of €1,443.8 million and employed 2,727 full-time employees. The company's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its ethical standards, responsible procurement practices, and contributions to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, making Corbion a trusted partner for businesses seeking sustainable ingredient solutions.

Clariant AG, a prominent name in the specialty chemicals sector, has distinguished itself through its unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability. Founded in 1995 following its spin-off from the Swiss pharmaceutical company Sandoz, Clariant has a rich history that underscores its evolution into a high-value specialty chemical provider. Headquartered in Muttenz, Switzerland, the company boasts a significant presence in the global market, with operations spanning Europe, North America, and Asia.

Clariant's extensive portfolio addresses a diverse array of industries, including plastics, coatings, personal care, home care, agriculture, healthcare, and more. The company's focus on Care Chemicals, Catalysis, and Natural Resources highlights its expertise in producing advanced materials like specialty additives, high-performance chemicals, and innovative catalytic solutions. Some of Clariant's top products include performance chemicals and additives tailored for various applications, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.

In 2021, Clariant made strategic moves, including the divestment of its pigments business and the formation of a joint venture, Clariant IGL Specialty Chemicals Private Limited, further consolidating its market position. The company's revenue in 2020 was 4.5 billion USD, reflecting its robust market presence and adaptability to changing conditions. As of 2021, Clariant reported revenues of 4.377 billion CHF with distinct contributions from its primary business units.

Clariant employs approximately 12,000 to 14,500 employees, underscoring its large operational scale and dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. The company's overarching goal is encapsulated in its corporate purpose: "Greater chemistry − between people and planet", focusing on sustainable development and responsible chemical manufacturing.

Although primarily known for specialty chemicals, Clariant's adaptable nature could position it as a significant player in the oleochemicals market in the future. Currently focusing on other high-value chemical sectors, their track record suggests potential for diversification into oleochemicals as part of their sustainable growth strategy.

Dow Chemicals is a global leader in the chemical manufacturing industry, recognized for its innovative approach to developing high-performance materials and solutions across various sectors. Headquartered in Midland, Michigan, Dow has cemented its presence in multiple markets worldwide.

Founded in 1897, Dow Chemicals has a storied history marked by numerous advancements in chemical production and application. The company is particularly renowned for its contribution to the oleochemicals sector, offering essential components such as polyethylene, ethylene oxide, and silicone rubber, which serve various applications from packaging and automotive to construction.

With a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, Dow operates in approximately 160 countries and maintains manufacturing sites across 31 countries. The company's products span several key categories, including performance plastics, performance chemicals, agricultural sciences, and advanced packaging solutions. Dow recently earned recognition for five of its products in the 2024 R&D 100 Awards, reflecting its continuous pursuit of excellence.

In 2023, Dow Chemicals reported an annual revenue of approximately $44.62 billion, indicating its robust market position and financial health. The company employs around 35,900 people, further underscoring its influence as a major employer in the manufacturing and production industry.

Dow also exports its products to various global markets, including North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. The company's specialization in sustainable solutions ensures that while meeting global demand, it actively reduces environmental impact through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge innovations.

Over the years, Dow has diversified and expanded through strategic mergers and acquisitions, most notably the merger with DuPont in 2015. This move was designed to create synergies and improve efficiencies within the chemical sector, thereby enhancing Dow’s ability to cater to modern industry challenges.

Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad (KLK) is a preeminent Malaysian multinational company known for its significant role in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Founded in 1906, KLK boasts a rich history that began with the cultivation of rubber, later expanding into palm oil plantations. Today, the company oversees more than 300,000 hectares of plantation land in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Liberia, making it a key player in the global palm oil and rubber markets.

KLK's portfolio extends beyond agriculture to include a robust manufacturing division. The KLK Oleo segment, established in 1991, specializes in producing a wide range of oleochemical products such as fatty acids, glycerin, and biodiesel. This positions KLK as one of the largest palm oil-based oleochemical producers globally, with facilities strategically located in Malaysia, China, and Germany. These oleochemicals serve various applications including personal care, pharmaceuticals, food, lubricants, and industrial chemicals.

In addition to its core operations, KLK has diversified into property development and retail sectors. The company has developed reputable projects such as the Sierramas development and is currently working on the Bandar Seri Coalfields township project. The company's global presence is further strengthened through its extensive export markets, which contribute to its significant role in the industry.

Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, KLK remains committed to sustainability and community involvement. Its corporate responsibility initiatives focus on environmental performance and sustainable agriculture, ensuring a positive impact on society.

P&G Chemicals, a specialized division of Procter and Gamble, is a leading supplier in the oleochemicals industry. Highly regarded for over 160 years, the company began its journey in 1837 with the production of stearic acid for candle manufacturing. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, P&G Chemicals maintains a global presence, exporting its products across North America, Europe, and Asia.

The company's top products include fatty acids, fatty alcohols, glycerin, and methyl esters. These essential ingredients serve critical roles in diverse applications within the personal care, food, and industrial sectors. Additionally, P&G Chemicals produces sucrose polyesters like Sefose and Olean, highlighting its innovative approach to chemical solutions.

P&G Chemicals has built its reputation on a commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable, and innovative oleochemical products. The company emphasizes efficiency and sustainability, continuously investing in research and development, logistics, and customer service to enhance its market offerings.

Known for their robust supply chain, P&G Chemicals ensures reliable delivery and volume assurance, fostering strong partnerships with clients worldwide. This global reach underpins their capability to cater to a multitude of markets, establishing them as a pivotal player in the oleochemicals sector.

With a history rich in innovation and adaptability, P&G Chemicals continues to evolve and thrive in response to market demands. The company's dedication to sustainability and efficiency reflects its mission to provide eco-friendly solutions and maintain its stance as a trusted industry leader.

IOI Oleo GmbH, based in Hamburg, Germany, stands as one of the biggest suppliers of oleochemical specialties in Europe. This firm is celebrated for its dedication to manufacturing a diverse range of products essential across several industries.

Founded in 2015, IOI Oleo GmbH operates two advanced production facilities located in Witten and Wittenberge. The Witten plant is renowned for producing branded oleochemical specialties used in markets like pharmaceuticals, personal care, cosmetics, food, and performance chemicals. On the other hand, the Wittenberge facility boasts high-performance capacities for processes such as esterification, short-path distillation, and fatty acid fractionation. Together, these facilities have a combined processing capacity of approximately 39,200 metric tonnes per annum, thereby effectively meeting the demands of Western and Eastern European markets.

The company’s top products include oils, emollients, emulsifiers, and active pharmaceutical ingredients, with brands like MIGLYOL®, IMWITOR®, SOFTISAN®, WITEPSOL®, SOFTIGEN®, and DYNASAN® recognized as global benchmarks in various applications. These products are pivotal in fields such as parenteral nutrition, personal care, topical, oral, and rectal formulations, as well as animal health.

With a robust workforce of 300 dedicated employees, IOI Oleo GmbH places significant emphasis on sustainability and quality. They utilize renewable raw materials and adhere to stringent quality standards under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines monitored by the German Health Authority. The company also holds multiple international certifications, including ISO 9001, ISO 45001, and US FDA registrations.

IOI Oleo GmbH exports its products to over 80 countries, with substantial markets in Japan, China, and Europe, underscoring its pivotal role in the global oleochemical industry. The company's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction has firmly placed it at the forefront of the oleochemical sector.