Peracetic Acid Market in Australia

Peracetic Acid in Australia Trends and Forecast

The future of the peracetic acid market in Australia looks promising with opportunities in the healthcare, food & beverage, water treatment, and pulp & paper markets. The global peracetic acid market is expected to reach an estimated $1.5 billion by 2031 with a CAGR of 7.0% from 2025 to 2031. The peracetic acid market in Australia is also forecasted to witness strong growth over the forecast period. The major drivers for this market are the increase in peracetic acid usage in the pharmaceutical sector, the growing use of peracetic acid for effective water treatment solutions, and the increasing need to sanitize surgical instruments.

• Lucintel forecasts that, within the application category, disinfectant will remain the largest segment over the forecast period due to its efficiency, minimal toxicity, and environmental friendliness, along with the broad use in a variety of industries, such as agriculture, water purification, food & beverage, and healthcare.

Emerging Trends in the Peracetic Acid Market in Australia

The peracetic acid market in Australia is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by increasing demand for environmentally friendly and effective disinfectants across various sectors. From water treatment to healthcare and food processing, peracetic acid is gaining traction due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and eco-friendly decomposition. As the country tightens environmental and hygiene regulations, businesses are turning to safer, non-chlorinated chemical alternatives. This shift is not only reshaping supply chains and product formulations but also encouraging innovation and sustainable practices. The following five trends outline the key developments propelling the growth and evolution of the peracetic acid market in Australia.

• Rising Adoption in Water Treatment and Sanitation: Peracetic acid is experiencing increased adoption in both municipal and industrial water treatment facilities across Australia. With heightened awareness of environmental impacts and the need to reduce chlorinated by-products, operators are seeking safer disinfection alternatives. Peracetic acid, which decomposes into non-toxic substances like water and acetic acid, meets these criteria. Its effectiveness in treating a wide range of pathogens, coupled with minimal residual impact, has made it an appealing choice. As regulations around effluent discharge become stricter, its use is expected to become more mainstream in water sanitation strategies.
• Expansion in the Food and Beverage Industry: In Australia’s food and beverage sector, peracetic acid is becoming increasingly essential for sanitizing equipment and surfaces. Regulatory requirements focused on food safety and hygiene have prompted manufacturers to adopt disinfectants that leave no harmful residues. Peracetic acid is particularly favored in meat processing, dairy production, and beverage bottling for its ability to ensure microbial control without compromising product quality. Its compatibility with organic production standards and minimal environmental impact further strengthens its appeal. This trend underscores the importance of food-grade disinfectants that align with both domestic policies and international export standards.
• Shift Toward Sustainable and Green Chemistry: Sustainability has become a driving force in the Australian chemical market, and peracetic acid is benefiting from this shift. Unlike many traditional disinfectants, it breaks down into harmless by-products, making it suitable for use in eco-conscious industries. Companies across sectors are increasingly incorporating it into their sanitation protocols to align with environmental goals and meet corporate social responsibility benchmarks. As demand grows for green alternatives, peracetic acid stands out as a versatile, biodegradable option that supports broader sustainability initiatives while maintaining high disinfection performance.
• Growth in Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Sanitization: The healthcare and pharmaceutical industries in Australia have seen heightened focus on sterilization and infection control, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Peracetic acid’s broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy and non-corrosive nature make it suitable for sterilizing medical instruments and disinfecting sensitive environments. Its rapid action and residue-free decomposition are crucial in high-risk settings where hygiene is paramount. Hospitals and laboratories are increasingly integrating it into their cleaning protocols, encouraged by health authorities that recognize its safety and effectiveness. This trend points to its growing role in protecting public health.
• Technological Advancements in Product Formulation: Innovation is reshaping the peracetic acid market through improved formulations and delivery systems. Australian producers are developing more stable and concentrated products that offer longer shelf life and better performance under diverse conditions. These advancements not only enhance safety in handling and application but also support cost efficiency through reduced dosage needs. Automated dosing systems and on-site generation technologies are also gaining ground, allowing users to precisely control concentrations and minimize waste. Such technological progress is expanding peracetic acid’s use across various industries, reinforcing its adaptability and market appeal.

The peracetic acid market in Australia is being reshaped by a convergence of regulatory, technological, and sustainability-driven factors. Increasing adoption in water treatment, healthcare, and food industries highlights its broad applicability and environmental compatibility. The shift toward green chemistry and advances in product innovation further amplify its relevance in modern industrial processes. As these trends continue to unfold, peracetic acid is emerging not just as an alternative disinfectant but as a strategic solution aligned with AustraliaÄX%$%Xs evolving priorities in public health, environmental stewardship, and industrial efficiency. This positions the market for sustained growth and innovation in the years ahead.

Recent Developments in the Peracetic Acid Market in Australia

The Australian peracetic acid market is witnessing significant growth, propelled by increasing demand for effective, eco-friendly disinfectants across various industries. Key sectors such as water treatment, food processing, and healthcare are adopting peracetic acid due to its strong antimicrobial properties and environmental benefits. Recent advancements in production technologies, regulatory support, and a shift towards sustainable practices are further influencing the market dynamics. This overview highlights five pivotal developments shaping the peracetic acid landscape in Australia.

• Enhanced Demand in Water Treatment Applications: AustraliaÄX%$%Xs focus on sustainable water management has led to increased adoption of peracetic acid in water treatment processes. Its effectiveness in eliminating a broad spectrum of pathogens without harmful byproducts makes it a preferred choice over traditional chlorine-based disinfectants. Municipalities and industries are integrating peracetic acid to meet stringent environmental regulations and ensure safe water reuse. This shift not only improves public health outcomes but also aligns with the countryÄX%$%Xs commitment to environmental sustainability.
• Growth in Food and Beverage Industry Usage: The Australian food and beverage sector is increasingly utilizing peracetic acid for sanitization purposes. Its rapid action against microorganisms and minimal residue make it ideal for ensuring food safety and extending shelf life. With rising consumer awareness and stricter food safety regulations, manufacturers are adopting peracetic acid to maintain high hygiene standards. This trend supports the industryÄX%$%Xs efforts to deliver safe, high-quality products while adhering to environmental and health guidelines.
• Technological Advancements in Production Methods: Innovations in peracetic acid production are enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Developments such as bio-based synthesis and advanced catalysts are reducing reliance on hazardous chemicals and lowering energy consumption. These advancements not only decrease production costs but also improve product purity and stability. Australian manufacturers are investing in these technologies to meet growing demand and environmental standards, positioning themselves competitively in the global market.
• Regulatory Support and Compliance: Australian regulatory bodies are endorsing the use of peracetic acid due to its efficacy and environmental friendliness. Policies promoting the reduction of harmful chemical usage in industries are encouraging the adoption of safer alternatives like peracetic acid. Compliance with these regulations ensures public safety and environmental protection. This regulatory backing is instrumental in driving market growth and fostering innovation in application methods across various sectors.
• Expansion into Agricultural Applications: Peracetic acid is gaining traction in Australian agriculture for its role in crop protection and post-harvest disinfection. Its ability to control bacterial and fungal pathogens without leaving harmful residues aligns with the industryÄX%$%Xs move towards sustainable farming practices. Farmers are adopting peracetic acid to enhance crop yield and quality while meeting organic certification standards. This development opens new avenues for market expansion and supports the agricultural sectorÄX%$%Xs sustainability goals.

The peracetic acid market in Australia is experiencing dynamic growth, driven by its versatile applications and alignment with environmental and regulatory standards. Enhanced demand in water treatment, food safety, and agriculture, coupled with technological innovations and regulatory support, are key factors propelling the market forward. As industries continue to prioritize sustainability and safety, peracetic acid is poised to play a crucial role in meeting these objectives, ensuring its continued relevance and expansion in the Australian market.

Strategic Growth Opportunities for Peracetic Acid Market in Australia

The Australian peracetic acid market is poised for robust growth, supported by increasing demand across industries prioritizing hygiene, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. As a biodegradable, broad-spectrum disinfectant, peracetic acid aligns with national goals to reduce chemical hazards and improve public and environmental health. Strategic growth opportunities exist across several high-impact applications where its unique properties address current market needs. This report explores five key application areas where peracetic acid is driving innovation and creating new pathways for market expansion in Australia.

• Municipal and Industrial Water Treatment: Peracetic acid’s potential in water treatment is a major growth avenue, driven by increasing pressure to meet strict wastewater discharge regulations and minimize environmental impact. It serves as a potent, chlorine-free disinfectant, ideal for both municipal sewage treatment and industrial effluent control. Its rapid decomposition into non-toxic byproducts makes it a preferred alternative to chlorine and ozone. Strategic partnerships between suppliers and local councils, along with regulatory incentives, are accelerating adoption. This application supports Australia’s sustainability agenda while offering long-term cost savings and improved water safety.
• Food and Beverage Sanitation: The food and beverage industry presents a significant opportunity for peracetic acid growth, especially as producers seek effective, residue-free sanitizers. Its approval for use in food processing environments such as meat, dairy, and beverage plants aligns with consumer demand for safer, preservative-free products. Peracetic acid’s high efficacy against foodborne pathogens, combined with its organic certification compatibility, supports its broader adoption in premium and export-focused segments. As global trade demands more stringent hygiene standards, Australian food exporters are embracing peracetic acid to enhance compliance, reduce spoilage, and extend product shelf life.
• Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Sterilization: Peracetic acid offers a scalable solution for high-level sterilization in hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical facilities. With heightened infection control measures post-COVID-19, demand for non-corrosive, fast-acting disinfectants is growing. Peracetic acid is ideal for sterilizing surgical instruments, endoscopes, and cleanroom environments due to its broad-spectrum efficacy and non-toxic residue. Strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure and pharmaceutical manufacturing—especially in regional Australia—are creating new markets for peracetic acid suppliers. Its role in improving patient safety while reducing chemical exposure risks makes it indispensable in modern healthcare protocols.
• Agriculture and Post-Harvest Treatment: The push for sustainable agriculture and food security is unlocking new uses for peracetic acid in crop protection and post-harvest sanitation. Its effectiveness against fungal and bacterial pathogens, and its minimal residue, make it suitable for treating fruits, vegetables, and seeds. Organic farmers particularly value its eco-friendly profile. As Australia strengthens its export focus on fresh produce, adopting peracetic acid ensures phytosanitary compliance and reduces post-harvest losses. Strategic collaboration with agri-tech firms and growers is essential to scale usage and educate on application best practices.
• Industrial and Institutional Cleaning: Australia’s commercial cleaning and facility management sector is increasingly shifting toward green and safe cleaning agents. Peracetic acid is being adopted in hotels, offices, schools, and transit systems for surface disinfection and air decontamination. Its fast action and breakdown into harmless byproducts make it safe for high-traffic areas. The growing importance of ESG compliance and occupant health in buildings fuels demand for sustainable cleaning solutions. Strategic alliances between chemical suppliers and facility management firms offer pathways to standardize peracetic acid-based products in commercial cleaning protocols.

Strategic growth opportunities in Australia’s peracetic acid market span across water treatment, food processing, healthcare, agriculture, and institutional cleaning. Each application taps into broader national priorities public health, sustainability, and regulatory compliance making peracetic acid a versatile and future-proof solution. By aligning with these sector-specific needs, stakeholders can unlock new revenue streams, improve operational safety, and contribute to environmental goals. These opportunities are not only expanding market size but also elevating peracetic acid’s role as a cornerstone of Australia’s next-generation chemical strategy.

Peracetic Acid Market in Australia Driver and Challenges

The peracetic acid market in Australia is influenced by a combination of technological advancements, economic dynamics, and regulatory developments. These factors collectively shape the adoption, production, and application of peracetic acid across various industries, including water treatment, healthcare, food processing, and agriculture. While drivers such as environmental sustainability and hygiene awareness are accelerating growth, several challenges, including cost concerns and storage limitations, are also present. Understanding these forces is crucial for stakeholders aiming to navigate the market successfully and optimize their strategic decisions in an increasingly competitive and regulated environment.

The factors responsible for driving the peracetic acid market in Australia include:
• Growing Demand for Eco-Friendly Disinfectants: Environmental concerns and sustainability goals are pushing industries in Australia to adopt non-chlorinated disinfectants. Peracetic acid decomposes into safe byproducts like water and acetic acid, making it ideal for green chemical strategies. This demand is particularly strong in food processing, water treatment, and healthcare sectors, where effective yet biodegradable solutions are preferred. The alignment of peracetic acid with environmental regulations positions it as a sustainable alternative, boosting its adoption across environmentally conscious industries.
• Stringent Regulatory Standards for Hygiene and Sanitation: Australian regulatory agencies have established strict norms for hygiene in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and food production. These standards promote the use of high-performance disinfectants like peracetic acid that provide rapid microbial control without toxic residues. Regulatory pressure has increased after global health events, driving greater emphasis on sterilization. This trend ensures consistent demand from industries that must comply with mandated safety protocols, directly supporting market growth.
• Expansion in Food and Beverage Processing Industry: Australia has a strong export-oriented food industry that must meet international quality and hygiene standards. Peracetic acid is widely used for equipment and surface sanitization due to its effectiveness against a broad range of pathogens and compatibility with organic certification. The chemical ensures food safety without altering taste or leaving harmful residues. As the food and beverage sector grows, driven by both domestic demand and export opportunities, the reliance on peracetic acid is expected to increase significantly.
• Technological Advancements in Formulation and Application: Improved formulations of peracetic acid, such as more stable and concentrated variants, are enhancing its performance and shelf life. Innovations in application methods, including automated dosing systems and on-site generation technologies, are reducing operational complexity and waste. These technological improvements make it easier for industries to adopt peracetic acid while increasing its efficiency and reducing costs over time. As manufacturers continue to invest in R and D, the market benefits from safer and more effective products.
• Rising Public Awareness of Hygiene and Infection Control: Post-pandemic awareness around infection prevention has heightened the focus on effective disinfectants in both public and private sectors. Peracetic acid is gaining popularity for use in hospitals, public transport, schools, and commercial facilities due to its strong antimicrobial properties and low environmental impact. This rising awareness is translating into increased product usage, especially in high-footfall and high-risk environments, reinforcing its position in routine sanitization protocols.

Challenges in the peracetic acid market in Australia are:
• High Production and Handling Costs: The cost of producing and transporting peracetic acid can be relatively high due to its instability and requirement for careful storage and handling. Unlike some alternative disinfectants, it often needs to be generated on-site or transported in controlled environments, increasing logistics expenses. These cost factors can limit its adoption among smaller businesses or in cost-sensitive sectors unless offset by long-term savings or regulatory mandates.
• Limited Shelf Life and Storage Constraints: Peracetic acid has a limited shelf life and requires specific storage conditions to maintain stability and efficacy. Exposure to heat or contamination can reduce its effectiveness, making it unsuitable for long-term storage. This necessitates a just-in-time supply chain and increases dependence on local production or efficient distribution networks, which may not always be feasible in remote regions of Australia.
• Health and Safety Risks with Concentrated Forms: Though peracetic acid is environmentally friendly, its concentrated forms can be hazardous to workers if not handled properly. Risks include skin irritation, respiratory issues, and chemical burns, particularly in industrial settings. Proper training, protective equipment, and ventilation systems are essential, adding to operational costs. These safety concerns can discourage adoption in industries lacking the infrastructure or expertise to manage chemical handling.

The peracetic acid market in Australia is growing steadily, driven by environmental priorities, regulatory compliance, and hygiene awareness. These drivers are opening new opportunities across sectors such as water treatment, healthcare, and food processing. However, challenges like high costs, storage issues, and safety risks remain hurdles to broader adoption. Overall, the interplay of these forces is shaping a dynamic market landscape where innovation, regulation, and strategic planning will determine long-term success and sustainable growth.

List of Peracetic Acid Market in Australia Companies

Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. Through these strategies, peracetic acid companies cater to increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the peracetic acid companies profiled in this report include:
• Company 1
• Company 2
• Company 3
• Company 4
• Company 5
• Company 6
• Company 7
• Company 8
• Company 9
• Company 10

Peracetic Acid Market in Australia by Segment

The study includes a forecast for the peracetic acid market in Australia by grade, application, and end use.

Peracetic Acid Market in Australia by Grade [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• <5% Grade
• 5-15% Grade
• >15% Grade

Peracetic Acid Market in Australia by Application [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Disinfectant
• Sterilant
• Sanitizer
• Others

Peracetic Acid Market in Australia by End Use [Analysis by Value from 2019 to 2031]:

• Healthcare
• Food & Beverage
• Water Treatment
• Pulp & Paper
• Others

Features of the Peracetic Acid Market in Australia

Market Size Estimates: Peracetic acid in Australia market size estimation in terms of value ($B).
Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends and forecasts by various segments.
Segmentation Analysis: Peracetic acid in Australia market size by grade, application, and end use in terms of value ($B).
Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different grade, application, and end use for the peracetic acid in Australia.
Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the peracetic acid in Australia.
Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.

If you are looking to expand your business in this or adjacent markets, then contact us. We have done hundreds of strategic consulting projects in market entry, opportunity screening, due diligence, supply chain analysis, M & A, and more.

FAQ

Q1. What are the major drivers influencing the growth of the peracetic acid market in Australia?
Answer: The major drivers for this market are the increase in peracetic acid usage in the pharmaceutical sector, the growing use of peracetic acid for effective water treatment solutions, and the increasing need to sanitize surgical instruments.
Q2. What are the major segments for peracetic acid market in Australia?
Answer: The future of the peracetic acid market in Australia looks promising with opportunities in the healthcare, food & beverage, water treatment, and pulp & paper markets.
Q3. Which peracetic acid market segment in Australia will be the largest in future?
Answer: Lucintel forecasts that disinfectant will remain the largest segment over the forecast period due to its efficiency, minimal toxicity, and environmental friendliness, along with the broad use in a variety of industries, such as agriculture, water purification, food & beverage, and healthcare.
Q4. Do we receive customization in this report?
Answer: Yes, Lucintel provides 10% customization without any additional cost.

This report answers following 10 key questions:

Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the peracetic acid market in Australia by grade (<5% grade, 5-15% grade, and >15% grade), application (disinfectant, sterilant, sanitizer, and others), and end use (healthcare, food & beverage, water treatment, pulp & paper, and others)?
Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.3. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?
Q.4. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?
Q.5. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?
Q.6. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?
Q.7. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?
Q.8. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?
Q.9. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?
Q.10. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?
For any questions related to Peracetic Acid Market in Australia, Peracetic Acid Market in Australia Size, Peracetic Acid Market in Australia Growth, Peracetic Acid Market in Australia Analysis, Peracetic Acid Market in Australia Report, Peracetic Acid Market in Australia Share, Peracetic Acid Market in Australia Trends, Peracetic Acid Market in Australia Forecast, Peracetic Acid Companies, write Lucintel analyst at email: helpdesk@lucintel.com. We will be glad to get back to you soon.