Insect Pheromones Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Sex Pheromones, Aggregation Pheromones, Others ), By Applications Covered (Fruits and Vegetables, Field Crops, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Insect Pheromones Market Size

The Insect Pheromones Market was valued at USD 406.32 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 441.67 million in 2025, growing to USD 860.86 million by 2033, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7% from 2025 to 2033.

The US insect pheromones market is projected to grow significantly, driven by increasing demand for sustainable pest control solutions. The market is expected to expand steadily due to advancements in eco-friendly agricultural practices.

The insect pheromones market is projected to grow significantly in the coming years due to the increasing demand for eco-friendly pest control solutions. As farmers and agricultural professionals seek more sustainable and organic practices, pheromones have gained traction as a reliable alternative to chemical pesticides. In 2023, the market was valued at a substantial share of the global pest control market, with growth expected to continue throughout the next decade. By 2033, the market size is expected to witness a robust expansion, driven by technological advancements, growing adoption in agriculture, and increased consumer demand for pesticide-free produce. The sex pheromones segment alone accounted for over 60% of the total market share in 2023, with their use in mating disruption techniques becoming more widespread. Aggregation pheromones represent approximately 20% of the market share, particularly in the management of pests in field crops. The fruits and vegetables segment, growing at a rate of 18%, reflects a steady rise in the adoption of organic farming practices. The Asia Pacific region dominates, with nearly 50% of the market share, driven by countries like China and India, which have large agricultural sectors utilizing pheromone-based pest control solutions.

Insect Pheromones Market Trends

The trends in the insect pheromones market indicate a growing shift toward integrated pest management (IPM), which is becoming a preferred solution for pest control in agricultural practices. As of 2023, sex pheromones dominate the market, comprising over 60% of the market share due to their effectiveness in mating disruption techniques. Aggregation pheromones are growing in popularity and account for approximately 20% of the market share, especially in the field crops sector. The fruits and vegetables segment holds around 18% of the market share, showing steady growth as demand for organic produce rises. Regionally, the Asia Pacific market leads with nearly 50% of global market share, driven by countries like China, India, and Japan, where pheromones are increasingly adopted to manage pests in rice and cotton fields.

Insect Pheromones Market Dynamics

Several key dynamics are shaping the insect pheromones market. The rising global demand for organic food products is one of the major drivers, with organic farming accounting for over 30% of the total market growth. Technological advancements in the delivery systems for pheromones have improved product effectiveness, boosting market penetration. Field crops remain the largest application segment, holding approximately 40% of the market share, particularly in staple crops like wheat and corn. Despite these positive trends, challenges such as the high cost of pheromone-based products remain significant, especially in developing regions where small-scale farmers account for about 25% of the global market. Additionally, the limited awareness of pheromone-based pest control in certain areas continues to hinder the market’s growth potential. Nevertheless, the market is expected to grow steadily with supportive governmental policies and an increasing focus on sustainable agricultural practices.

DRIVER

"Rising demand for eco-friendly pest control solutions"

The growing preference for organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices has significantly contributed to the increased demand for insect pheromones. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of pesticides, pest control strategies using pheromones have gained popularity due to their eco-friendly nature. In 2023, approximately 35% of global farmers turned to pheromone-based methods to reduce pesticide use, particularly in fruit and vegetable farming. Furthermore, government incentives and subsidies supporting sustainable farming practices have spurred the adoption of these methods. In the Asia-Pacific region, more than 45% of farmers are expected to increase pheromone usage in the coming years, contributing to market growth.

RESTRAINTS

"High cost of pheromone-based pest control solutions"

Despite the advantages of using insect pheromones for pest control, one of the significant restraints is the high cost of these products. Compared to traditional chemical pesticides, pheromone-based solutions often require a larger initial investment, which can be a barrier for small-scale farmers, particularly in developing countries. Approximately 20% of global farmers in regions like Africa and parts of Southeast Asia cite the high cost as a reason for not adopting pheromone technologies. Additionally, the limited availability of pheromone products in some rural areas further exacerbates this issue, impacting the market's overall growth potential.

OPPORTUNITY

"Expansion of integrated pest management (IPM) systems"

The integration of insect pheromones into pest management systems presents significant growth opportunities in the market. IPM systems, which combine biological, cultural, and mechanical methods of pest control, increasingly incorporate pheromones due to their precision and sustainability. In 2023, around 40% of global IPM systems utilized pheromone-based solutions, especially in crops such as grapes and citrus fruits. The expansion of IPM initiatives in emerging markets, particularly in South America and Asia-Pacific, is expected to drive further growth in the use of insect pheromones. Governments promoting IPM adoption in agriculture provide substantial opportunities for pheromone manufacturers.

CHALLENGE

"Lack of awareness and education in certain regions"

A major challenge in the insect pheromones market is the lack of awareness and education about the benefits of pheromone-based pest control, particularly in developing regions. Despite their proven effectiveness, many farmers, especially in rural areas of Africa and Southeast Asia, are not fully aware of the advantages of using pheromones over traditional chemical pesticides. In 2023, around 25% of farmers in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa had limited knowledge about pest management options like pheromones, which restricts the adoption of these eco-friendly solutions. Education and awareness campaigns are essential to overcoming this barrier and unlocking the market's full potential.

Segmentation Analysis

The insect pheromones market can be segmented based on types and applications. By type, the market is primarily divided into sex pheromones, aggregation pheromones, and others. By application, the market is categorized into fruits and vegetables, field crops, and others. Each of these segments presents unique opportunities and challenges, with different adoption rates across regions. Sex pheromones dominate the market due to their effectiveness in mating disruption, while field crops represent the largest application segment, owing to their widespread use in agriculture.

By Type

• Sex Pheromones: Sex pheromones are the dominant type in the insect pheromones market, accounting for more than 60% of the market share in 2023. These pheromones are primarily used in mating disruption techniques, which help reduce pest populations without harming the environment. The effectiveness of sex pheromones in controlling pests such as moths, beetles, and flies has made them highly popular among farmers, especially in the fruits and vegetables sector. In 2023, approximately 65% of sex pheromone usage was dedicated to fruit farming, where pests like codling moths pose significant threats. As awareness about their benefits grows, sex pheromones are expected to dominate the market for the foreseeable future.

• Aggregation Pheromones: Aggregation pheromones are gaining traction, particularly in field crops, and represent around 20% of the insect pheromones market share in 2023. These pheromones attract pests to a specific location, making them easier to manage and control. Aggregation pheromones are commonly used for pest control in crops such as cotton, maize, and wheat. The demand for aggregation pheromones is expected to increase as farmers seek more targeted pest control methods. In regions like North America and Europe, approximately 25% of field crop farmers are expected to incorporate aggregation pheromones into their pest management strategies in the coming years.

• Others: Other types of insect pheromones, such as alarm and territorial pheromones, make up the remaining 20% of the market. These pheromones are typically used for specific pest control applications, such as repelling or disrupting the behavior of certain insect species. The adoption of these pheromones remains relatively limited compared to sex and aggregation pheromones, but their potential in niche markets is growing. In 2023, alarm and territorial pheromones were predominantly used in niche crops and in regions with specialized pest management needs, such as vineyards and orchards, where pests like grapevine moths are controlled.

By Application

• Fruits and Vegetables: The fruits and vegetables segment holds approximately 30% of the insect pheromones market share. This segment has seen significant adoption of pheromone-based pest control solutions due to the increasing consumer demand for organic produce. In 2023, around 35% of pheromone products were used in fruit farming, especially for controlling pests like codling moths and fruit flies. The demand for eco-friendly pest management solutions in this sector is expected to rise as more consumers choose pesticide-free fruits and vegetables, driving the growth of pheromone-based products in the market. This trend is particularly evident in North America and Europe, where organic farming is a key focus.

• Field Crops: Field crops dominate the insect pheromones market, with this segment holding nearly 40% of the market share. Pheromones are extensively used in field crops like wheat, corn, and rice to control pest populations that threaten crop yields. The growing awareness of the environmental impact of pesticides has contributed to the rise of pheromone-based pest management systems in the field crops segment. In 2023, field crops accounted for 45% of pheromone usage in the Asia-Pacific region, where large-scale farming operations are increasingly adopting these sustainable solutions. The growing need for pest control in staple crops is expected to drive further growth in this segment.

Regional Outlook

The insect pheromones market exhibits varied growth trends across different regions, with North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa contributing significantly to market expansion. North America and Europe have been the early adopters of pheromone-based pest control solutions, driven by high consumer demand for organic produce and government support for sustainable agricultural practices. Asia-Pacific, led by China and India, holds the largest market share due to the region’s large agricultural base and increasing awareness of eco-friendly pest management solutions. As the market matures, other regions, such as the Middle East & Africa, are expected to see gradual adoption.

North America

In North America, the insect pheromones market is highly developed, with the United States contributing the largest share. As of 2023, North America accounted for approximately 25% of the global insect pheromones market share. The market is driven by the increasing demand for organic and sustainably grown produce, with around 40% of U.S. farmers adopting pheromone-based pest control in fields like cotton and corn. Furthermore, government initiatives and subsidies supporting sustainable farming practices are expected to foster market growth. The market in Canada is also growing steadily, with significant investments in agricultural technologies that promote eco-friendly pest management.

Europe

Europe is another key region for the insect pheromones market, holding approximately 22% of the global market share in 2023. The European Union's strong regulations regarding pesticide use and its push toward organic farming practices have driven the demand for insect pheromones in the region. Countries like France, Germany, and Italy are seeing a steady increase in the adoption of pheromone-based pest control solutions, particularly in fruit and vegetable farming. The rising consumer preference for organic produce in Europe has also led to a 30% increase in pheromone usage in the region over the last few years, and this trend is expected to continue in the future.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is the largest market for insect pheromones, accounting for nearly 50% of the global market share in 2023. The region’s large agricultural base, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan, has driven significant adoption of pheromone-based pest control solutions. In 2023, China alone accounted for 35% of the total insect pheromones market share in the region. The demand for pheromones in Asia-Pacific is primarily driven by the need to control pests in major crops such as rice, cotton, and maize. As awareness of sustainable agricultural practices grows, the market in the region is expected to continue its upward trajectory, especially in emerging economies.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region, though currently a smaller player in the insect pheromones market, is experiencing steady growth. In 2023, this region accounted for approximately 6% of the global market share. Factors such as increasing agricultural investments and a growing awareness of the benefits of eco-friendly pest control methods are expected to drive the market in this region. In the Middle East, countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are leading the adoption of sustainable farming practices, while in Africa, South Africa is expected to be the primary driver of market growth. The region’s adoption of pheromone-based pest control is expected to increase in the coming years as the demand for organic and sustainable agricultural products rises.

List of Key Companies Profiled

• Shin-Etsu
• BASF
• Suterra
• Biobest Group
• Isagro
• Bedoukian Research
• Hercon Environmental
• Koppert Biological Systems
• Pherobio Technology
• Russell IPM
• SEDQ Healthy Crops
• Certis Europe
• Agrobio
• Jiangsu Wanhe Daye
• ISCA
• Scentry Biologicals

Top Companies with Highest Market Share

• Shin-Etsu: Shin-Etsu is one of the leading companies in the insect pheromones market, holding a significant share due to its long-standing presence in the agricultural sector. As of 2023, Shin-Etsu controls approximately 25% of the global market share.

• BASF: BASF holds a substantial portion of the insect pheromones market, accounting for around 20% of the global share.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The insect pheromones market offers numerous investment opportunities due to the growing demand for sustainable pest control methods. Over the past few years, the market has attracted substantial investments from both established players and new entrants. In 2023, the global market attracted investments exceeding 15% compared to previous years, driven by the increasing awareness of the negative environmental impact of chemical pesticides. The major opportunities lie in the expansion of pheromone-based solutions in developing regions such as Africa and Southeast Asia, where agriculture remains a key industry. These regions have seen an increased demand for eco-friendly pest control alternatives. Furthermore, governments in regions like Europe and North America are providing incentives for organic farming, which has led to a 10% rise in the adoption of pheromone-based products. As countries push for greener solutions, companies have also been encouraged to invest in the research and development (R&D) of new and innovative pheromone products to meet evolving market needs. The increasing demand for organic and pesticide-free produce worldwide is another significant driver, presenting continued opportunities for investment.

New Products Development

In 2023 and 2024, several companies in the insect pheromones market launched new products to meet the growing demand for sustainable and effective pest control solutions. For instance, BASF introduced a new line of aggregation pheromone products targeted at controlling pests in field crops like corn and soybeans. This product has been praised for its enhanced effectiveness in attracting and disrupting pests while remaining eco-friendly. Similarly, Suterra expanded its product range by introducing sex pheromones for controlling fruit flies in vineyards, marking a significant development in pest control for the fruit and vegetable sector. Another major player, ISCA, unveiled a new dispenser technology designed to release sex pheromones more efficiently over an extended period, improving its pest control effectiveness. These new developments highlight the ongoing innovation within the insect pheromones market as manufacturers work to provide advanced, eco-friendly solutions that cater to various agricultural needs.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers 

• BASF introduced a next-generation sex pheromone dispenser for fruit growers in North America in early 2024, which is designed to last longer and release a higher concentration of pheromones, improving pest control efficiency.
• ISCA Technologies expanded its product portfolio by launching a new aggregation pheromone for use in cotton fields, aiming to control bollworm populations more effectively.
• Suterra launched a new line of insect pheromones for vegetable farming in Europe, increasing its market penetration in this region.
• Koppert Biological Systems unveiled a new pheromone-based pest management system in 2023, targeting pests in both fruits and field crops, utilizing a more sustainable method of delivery.
• Biobest Group introduced a new range of pheromone products designed specifically for controlling invasive species in Asia, with a focus on crops like rice and maize.

Report Coverage

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the insect pheromones market, detailing its size, share, growth prospects, and key drivers and challenges. It covers the market segments based on types, including sex pheromones, aggregation pheromones, and others. Additionally, it explores applications across different agricultural sectors, such as fruits and vegetables, field crops, and other niche markets. The report highlights the geographical distribution of the market, covering key regions like North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa, with a focus on regional growth opportunities and emerging trends. Key players in the market, such as Shin-Etsu, BASF, and Suterra, are profiled, alongside their strategies for market expansion. The analysis also delves into the competitive landscape, technological innovations, and future market forecasts, providing valuable insights for stakeholders looking to understand market dynamics and capitalize on emerging opportunities.