Policy-driven and Market Transformation: Accelerating Structural Change in the Solvent Industry

1. China Introduces New VOCs Emission Reduction Regulations, Leading to Significant Decline in Solvent-based Coatings and Ink Usage

In February 2025, China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment issued the Comprehensive Management Plan for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in Key Industries. The policy mandates that, by the end of 2025, the usage proportion of solvent-based industrial coatings [https://www.incheechem.com/industrial-chemical/]must be reduced by 20 percentage points compared to 2020 levels, solvent-based inks by 10 percentage points, and solvent-based adhesives by 20%. Under this policy-driven push, demand for low-VOCs solvents and water-based alternatives has surged. In the first half of 2025, the market share of environmentally friendly solvents has already reached 35%, reflecting a clear acceleration in the industry's transition toward greener, more sustainable products and practices.

2. Global Solvent Market Surpasses $85 Billion, Asia-Pacific Contributes 65% of Incremental Growth

In 2025, the global chemical solvent market reached a value of $85 billion, growing at an annual rate of 3.3%. The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as the primary engine for this growth, contributing 65% of the increased consumption. Notably, the Chinese market delivered a particularly strong performance, achieving a scale of approximately 285 billion RMB.

This expansion is significantly shaped by the dual forces of industrial upgrading and stringent environmental regulations. These drivers are accelerating a fundamental shift in solvent composition. The combined market share of water-based and bio-based solvents, which stood at 28% in 2024, is projected to rise substantially to 41% by 2030. Concurrently, the usage of traditional halogenated solvents is in continuous decline, reflecting the industry's move toward more sustainable alternatives. This trend underscores a global pivot to greener chemistries in response to evolving regulatory landscapes and consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.

3. U.S. EPA Releases New Solvent Regulations, Phasing Out Traditional Solvents Such as Tetrachloroethylene

In October 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) introduced a rigorous set of regulations targeting specific industrial solvents. A central element of these rules is the planned phase-out of tetrachloroethylene (PCE or PERC). The use of PCE in commercial and consumer applications will be completely prohibited starting June 2027. Furthermore, its use in the dry cleaning sector is scheduled for a complete ban by the end of 2034.

The regulations also impose strict limitations on the usage scenarios for a range of other chlorinated solvents. This comprehensive regulatory action is designed to protect public health and the environment by reducing exposure to these hazardous chemicals. It is expected to catalyze a rapid market transition, pushing industries that rely on these solvents to accelerate their adoption of safer, more environmentally friendly alternatives. The move signals a decisive step by U.S. regulators in steering the chemical and manufacturing sectors toward sustainable practices.

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