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Based on type, the market is divided into acrylic resins, polyurethane resins, epoxy resins, polyamide resins, unsaturated polyester resins, and others. Acrylic resins held the dominant market share of USD 0.96 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach over USD 1.3 billion by 2032. Acrylic resins hold a significant portion of the market due to their excellent adhesion, gloss, and durability, making them ideal for various printing applications, especially in the packaging and publishing sectors. Polyurethane resins also command a substantial share, valued for their superior flexibility, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance, which are crucial for high-performance printing needs.
Epoxy resins, known for their strong adhesion and resistance to environmental factors, are prominently used in industrial applications where durability is paramount. Polyamide resins, with their excellent adhesion and chemical resistance, are favored in applications requiring high resistance to solvents and wear, contributing to a considerable market share.
Based on technology, the market is categorized into oil-based, water-based, solvent-based and UV-curable. Oil based accounted for 65.1% market share in 2023 and is projected to grow through 2032. Solvent-based resins dominate a significant portion of the market due to their versatility and robust performance in various printing applications, particularly in packaging and industrial sectors where high durability and fast drying times are crucial. However, environmental concerns and regulatory pressures are gradually curbing their growth, as they emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Water-based resins are rapidly gaining market share, driven by the growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable printing solutions. Their low VOC emissions and safety advantages make them increasingly popular in applications like packaging, publishing, and commercial printing, aligning with global environmental trends.
The ink resin market is segmented by printing process into lithographic, flexographic, gravure, letterpress, and other printing methods, each with distinct market shares. Lithographic printing, also known as offset printing, holds a substantial share of the market due to its widespread use in high-volume commercial printing, such as newspapers, magazines, and packaging. Its efficiency and cost-effectiveness for large print runs make it a dominant segment. Flexographic printing, which uses flexible relief plates, is another significant segment, particularly thriving in the packaging industry. Its versatility in printing on various substrates, including plastics, metals, and paper, along with its high-speed operation, positions it as a key technology in the market.
Asia Pacific dominated the global ink resin market in 2023. It generated a revenue of USD 1.39 billion in 2023. China leads the region, accounting for the largest market share due to its massive manufacturing sector, extensive printing industry, and high demand for packaging materials. The country’s focus on rapid industrial growth and infrastructure development further fuels the market. India follows closely, with significant growth attributed to its expanding e-commerce sector, increasing literacy rates, and growing demand for flexible packaging solutions.
The government's initiatives to promote industrial growth and the rising disposable incomes of the middle class also contribute to the increasing demand for high-quality printing inks and resins. Japan and South Korea are also key contributors, known for their advanced technology and innovation in printing processes. These countries emphasize high-quality, durable, and sustainable printing solutions, driving the demand for specialized ink resins such as UV-curable and water-based resins.