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The global chemical industry which is over $3tn in size suffered a setback in 2009, caused by the global credit crisis. This was largely reflected among the major chemical manufacturers most of which had a significant decline in sales over 2008.

The pharmaceutical industry faces ongoing challenges as blockbuster products continue to lose patent protection and generic companies gain market share. One way to maintain profitability is by improving API manufacturing processes.

The recent trends in the excipient industry include a growing excipients market in China, a demand for multifunctional excipients especially for non-injectables, and the emerging importance of the direct compression method of formulation.

Sourcing low cost APIs is increasing as pharma companies face the patent cliff, breaking up vertical integration and driving manufacturing outsourcing. Meanwhile, API producers are investing in new technologies to cut costs and improve efficacy.

The constant decline in the area of cultivable lands, increasing global population, global warming and soil & wind erosion are some major factors driving the use of agrochemicals.

PFC industry revenues have increased substantially during the last decade due to increased pharma outsourcing and advanced PFC manufacturing processes. These trends will drive growth in the PFC industry during 2009-15 period.

There is a growing need for sustainable alternatives to traditional biochemicals. Opportunities exist for companies investing in R&D into renewable chemicals, capitalizing on both increasing market demand and international governmental support.

Biocatalysis in pharmaceutical manufacturing is being driven by advances in enzyme and genomics technologies that are increasing the breadth of reaction applicability. The environmental benefits of enzymatic catalysis are also a strong influence.

2005 -2009 saw consolidation rise among European companies, driven by fluctuations in raw material prices and rising competition levels. Some players focused on backward integration of operations whilst others sought to offload non-core franchises.

Profitability levels have fallen for many fine chemical companies in recent years. However, the recent focus on biopharmaceutical products holds promise for this industry which is self-funding R&D programs or by creating alliances and partnerships.

2005 -2009 saw consolidation rise among US companies, driven by fluctuations in raw material prices and rising competition levels. Some players focused on backward integration of operations whilst others sought to offload non-core franchises.