Summary

Methyl ester sulphonate gained attention in the 1970s. At that time, costs were high because tallow was used as the raw material used. Currently, with the availability of palm oil, prices are becoming more competitive. The best performance is obtained from cuts of C16-C18. They are used both in powder and liquid detergents, particularly in Japan and southeast Asian countries and currently finding its market in China. Methyl ester sulphonate, which is derived from palm oil, coconut oil, and other plant sources, is easily biodegradable and is based on a relatively low cost, non-petrochemical resource.

The methyl ester sulphonate market is currently at its early growth stage. Participants are likely to build product awareness and develop a market for methyl ester sulphonate. A strong product branding, quality standards, and ownerships such as patents and trademarks are usually obtained to secure their positions. High skim pricing observed to recover development cost, though some large suppliers may absorb cost through captive usage. At this stage, product distribution and promotions are done based on selective customers (innovators and early adopters), at least until customers show acceptance of methyl ester sulphonate. Marketing at this stage will seek to communicate product awareness and to educate potential.

Table of Contents
Executive Summary 7
Market Overview 12
Industry Life cycle 13
Market Engineering Measurement 14
Industry Challenges 15
Market Drivers 19
Market Restraints 24
Revenue Forecasts 27
Unit Shipment Forecasts 29
Competitive Landscape: Market Share 31
Barriers to Entry 33
Regulatory Issues 40
Critical Success Factors 44
Future Outlook 47
Database of Key Industry Participants 51
About Frost & Sullivan 53