According to a new market report published by Lucintel, Dallas, Texas, USA, the future of the calcium carbonate industry looks good with opportunities in the paper and plastic application segments. The calcium carbonate market is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% by value from 2015 to 2020. The major growth driver for this market is increasing paper demand from the packaging and printing markets.

Ground calcium carbonate (GCC) and precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) are used as a filler in paper, plastic, coating, rubber, adhesive, and sealant. Lucintel predicts that the demand for ground calcium carbonate will remain the largest segment during the forecast period. On the basis of its comprehensive research, Lucintel forecasts that PCC will witness the highest growth during the forecast period, supported by increasing penetration and its attractive properties of high brightness, purity, and absorption level.

Within the calcium carbonate market, the paper segment is expected to remain as the largest market by value and volume consumption. Growth of the packaging and tissue paper markets is expected to spur growth for this segment over the forecast period due to the rise in hygiene awareness and changing lifestyle.

Asia Pacific is expected to remain the largest market due to higher production of paper and plastics in China and India. North America and Europe are expected to witness a good growth over the forecast period due to growth in the paper, plastic, and coating demand.

For market expansion, the report suggests innovation and new product development, where the unique characteristics of calcium carbonate can be capitalized. The report further suggests the development of partnerships with customers to create win-win situations and the development of low-cost solutions for end users.

The emerging trends, which have a direct impact on the dynamics of the industry, include growing consumption of nano precipitated calcium carbonate, and emergence of green applications. Omya, Imerys, Mineral Technologies, Solvay, and Nordkalk are among the major suppliers of calcium carbonate. There are some companies that are opting for merger and acquisition as a strategic initiative for driving growth.

More information about this report, available through Reportlinker, New York, N.Y, can be accessed online.