Insect Growth Regulators Market to Reach USD 1,934.4 Million by 2033, Projected 7.1% CAGR

Introduction

The global insect growth regulators (IGR) market is experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors. Insect growth regulators, which are chemicals that disrupt the life cycle of insects, are increasingly used in agriculture, forestry, and public health to control insect populations. The market size is expected to reach USD 1,934.4 million by 2033, up from USD 974.2 million in 2023, with a CAGR of 7.1% from 2024 to 2033. This growth is fueled by rising awareness about the benefits of IGRs, such as their targeted action and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional insecticides.

Moreover, the growing need for effective pest management in agriculture to protect crops and improve yields is contributing to market expansion. However, challenges such as the high cost of IGR products and limited awareness in some regions may hinder market growth. Recent developments include advancements in IGR formulations and delivery methods, making them more efficient and easier to use. Additionally, increasing investment in research and development by key players in the market is expected to further drive innovation and adoption of IGRs. Overall, the insect growth regulators market is poised for robust growth, supported by technological advancements and a growing focus on sustainable pest control solutions.

DOW Chemical Company has focused on expanding its market presence through strategic mergers and acquisitions. In recent years, DOW has acquired several smaller companies specializing in biopesticides and IGRs, enhancing its technological capabilities and product offerings. Additionally, DOW has launched new IGR products that integrate advanced chemical formulations to improve pest control efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. These efforts are part of DOW’s broader strategy to lead in sustainable agricultural solutions.

Bayer CropScience AG continues to be a dominant player in the IGR market, leveraging its strong R&D capabilities and extensive product portfolio. The company’s focus on innovation and sustainability positions it well to capitalize on the growing demand for eco-friendly pest control solutions. Bayer’s recent product launches and strategic investments highlight its commitment to maintaining a leadership position in the IGR market.

Syngenta AG’s proactive acquisition strategy and new product developments have bolstered its market presence in the IGR sector. The company’s focus on long-lasting and effective pest control solutions positions it as a key player in the industry. Syngenta’s ongoing research and development efforts are expected to yield next-generation IGR products that meet the evolving needs of the market.

Sumitomo Chemical’s collaborative approach and investment in production capacity expansion have strengthened its position in the IGR market. The company’s recent product innovations and partnerships reflect its strategic focus on addressing diverse pest control needs. Sumitomo’s emphasis on safety and efficacy in its IGR products aligns with the industry’s move towards sustainable pest management practices.

Overall, the insect growth regulators market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increased demand for sustainable pest control solutions and continuous innovations by key players. The strategic moves by Bayer, DOW, Sumitomo, and Syngenta highlight the dynamic nature of this market and the ongoing efforts to develop more effective and environmentally friendly IGR products​.

Key Takeaways

• Market Value: The Insect Growth Regulators Market was valued at USD 974.2 million in 2023, and is expected to reach USD 1,934.4 million by 2033, with a CAGR of 7.1%.
• Product Analysis: Chitin synthesis inhibitors dominated with 41.3%; important for their effectiveness in pest control.
• Form Analysis: Liquid formulations led with 46.2%; significant for their ease of application and effectiveness.
• Application Analysis: Agriculture dominated with 45.6%; crucial for its role in crop protection and pest management.
• Dominant Region: North America held 39.6%; significant due to advanced agricultural practices and pest control measures.
• Analyst Viewpoint: The insect growth regulators market is highly competitive with significant growth opportunities in agriculture. Future trends indicate increased adoption driven by sustainable pest control practices.

Insect Growth Regulators Statistics

• IGRs generally show low toxicity to mammals and non-target organisms, with some labeled as “reduced risk” by the Environmental Protection Agency.
• Resistance to IGRs, initially thought to be unlikely, has been observed.
• IGRs are slower to kill insects, have limited control of adult insects, and are generally more expensive than many other insecticides.
• BPUs made up 3% of the $18.4 billion world insecticide market in 2018.
• BAHs accounted for approximately 1% of the $18.4 billion global pesticide market in 2018.
• The WHO strain was used as the susceptible standard reference strain for bioassays in the study.
• The concentration of IGRs used in bioassays ranged from 0.001 to 50 ppm.
• The RF values for all larvicides in the Kumluca area were higher in 2007 than in 2006.
• Diflubenzuron and cyromazine have been used since 1979 and 1988, respectively, for fly control on livestock farms in Denmark without significant resistance development.
• There are reports of moderate to high resistance development to diflubenzuron and cyromazine in the USA and Japan when mixed into feed.
• Some studies found low levels (RF<10-fold) of resistance to IGRs in house fly populations from southwestern Turkey, except for moderate resistance in Guzoren and Toptas populations from the Kumluca area to diflubenzuron (11.8-fold in 2006 and 13.2-fold in 2007).
• A swarm of about 10 billion locusts took close to a week to pass through Plattsmouth, Nebraska in the summer of 1875.
• There are several million species of insects in the world.
• One-third of all insect species are endangered.
• America’s soil is 48 times more toxic to insects than it was 25 years ago.
• There are up to 30 million species of insects.
• 76% of flying insects in Germany have disappeared over 27 years.
• Arthropod biomass in the Luquillo rainforest in Puerto Rico has declined between 10 and 60 times.
• America’s agriculture is 48 times more toxic to insects than it was 25 years ago due to neonicotinoid pesticides.
• Light pollution has caused a 62% reduction in nocturnal pollination in Sweden.
• In 2018, less than 200,000 monarch butterflies wintered on the California coast, compared to over 1.2 million 20 years ago.
• The population of ladybugs in the US and Canada declined by 14% from 1987 to 2006.
• There are more than 110 trillion mosquitoes in the world.
• Less than 30 Asian hornets can wipe out a 30,000-honeybee colony in hours.
• The current human-to-bug ratio is estimated to be 200 million insects for every human on the planet.
• All IGRs were highly effective, achieving at least 88.5% suppression of progeny at doses of ≥5 ppm against the tested species.

• Suppression of progeny production of R. dominica in treated wheat was consistently higher than 88.6% at 1 ppm for most tested IGRs.
• The combination of lufenuron plus fenoxycarb caused significantly lower suppression of R. dominica progeny (59.2%) at 1 ppm compared to other IGRs.
• Parental mortality of P. truncatus in maize treated with IGRs did not vary significantly within each temperature level at 1 ppm.
• Suppression of progeny production of R. dominica in treated wheat did not exceed one adult per vial when the tested IGRs were applied at 5 or 10 ppm.
• Fenoxycarb, methoxyfenozide, and triflumuron were the least effective IGRs at 5 ppm and 10 ppm in suppressing progeny production of R. dominica.
• The maximum reduction of nymphs by fenoxycarb was 70.0% after 8 weeks of exposure.
• The use of ecdysteroid agonists such as methoxyfenozide resulted in feeding inhibition regardless of the insect’s age or instar.
• JH mimics sold for $87 million globally in 2018, representing a small proportion of the $18.4 billion insecticide market in 2018.
• BPUs accounted for 3% of the $18.4 billion world insecticide market in 2018.
• BAHs were estimated to account for approximately 1% of the $18.4 billion global pesticide market in 2018.
• Azadirachtin shows multiple modes of action, including disruption of growth and moulting.

Emerging Trends

1. Growing Agricultural Demand: Farmers are increasingly using insect growth regulators (IGRs) to protect crops. These regulators help manage insect populations without harming plants or beneficial insects. As sustainable farming practices become more important, the demand for IGRs is expected to rise, ensuring healthy crop production and minimizing the need for harmful chemical pesticides.

2. Rise in Organic Farming: With the global shift towards organic farming, IGRs are gaining popularity. They are considered safer and more environmentally friendly compared to traditional pesticides. Organic farmers prefer IGRs because they target specific insect growth stages without leaving harmful residues, aligning with the principles of organic agriculture and ensuring compliance with organic certification standards.

3. Increased Urban Pest Control: Urban areas are experiencing a surge in the use of IGRs for pest control. These regulators are effective in managing pests like mosquitoes, cockroaches, and fleas in cities. As urban populations grow, the need for safe and efficient pest control solutions increases, making IGRs a preferred choice for maintaining public health and hygiene.

4. Technological Advancements: New technologies are enhancing the effectiveness of IGRs. Innovations in formulation and delivery methods are making these products more efficient and easier to use. Improved IGRs can now provide longer-lasting protection and better targeting of pest populations, leading to more effective pest management and reduced environmental impact.

5. Regulatory Support: Governments and regulatory bodies are increasingly supporting the use of IGRs due to their safety and environmental benefits. Policies promoting sustainable pest management practices are encouraging the adoption of IGRs in agriculture and urban settings. This regulatory backing is expected to drive market growth and boost research and development in this field.

6. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Adoption: IGRs are a key component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. IPM strategies aim to use a combination of biological, cultural, and chemical methods to control pests. IGRs fit well into this approach as they are less toxic and can be used in conjunction with other pest control methods, leading to more sustainable and effective pest management solutions.

7. Increased Awareness and Education: Awareness and education about the benefits of IGRs are on the rise. Farmers, pest control professionals, and the general public are becoming more informed about the advantages of using IGRs over traditional pesticides. This increased knowledge is driving the adoption of IGRs, as more people recognize their role in promoting safe and sustainable pest control practices.

Use Cases

1. Agricultural Pest Control: IGRs are widely used in agriculture to protect crops from harmful insects. By disrupting the growth and development of pests, IGRs help farmers reduce crop damage and increase yields. They are particularly effective against pests like aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical pesticides.

2. Greenhouse Pest Management: In greenhouses, maintaining a controlled environment is crucial. IGRs offer an effective solution for managing insect populations without harming delicate plants. They are used to control pests such as thrips, mites, and fungus gnats, ensuring healthy plant growth and high-quality produce in greenhouse settings.

3. Public Health Programs: IGRs play a significant role in public health initiatives to control disease-carrying insects like mosquitoes. By preventing larvae from developing into adult mosquitoes, IGRs help reduce the spread of diseases such as malaria, dengue, and Zika. These regulators are a key tool in vector control programs worldwide.

4. Veterinary Applications: IGRs are used in veterinary medicine to control parasites in pets and livestock. They help manage infestations of fleas, ticks, and lice by disrupting the life cycle of these pests. This application improves animal health and comfort, and reduces the risk of disease transmission in both domestic and farm animals.

5. Stored Product Protection: IGRs are utilized in the protection of stored products, such as grains and food supplies, from insect infestations. They prevent pests like beetles and moths from reproducing and damaging stored goods. This use case is essential for maintaining food quality and preventing economic losses in storage facilities and warehouses.

6. Turf and Ornamental Plant Care: IGRs are used in the maintenance of turf and ornamental plants in landscapes, parks, and gardens. They control pests like chinch bugs, grubs, and scale insects, which can damage lawns and decorative plants. This application helps maintain the aesthetic and health of green spaces, contributing to their longevity and beauty.

7. Integrated Pest Management Programs: IGRs are a crucial component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. They are used alongside other biological, mechanical, and chemical control methods to manage pest populations effectively. This approach reduces reliance on traditional pesticides, promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly pest control practices across various settings.

Key Players Analysis

Bayer CropScience AG has demonstrated significant activity in the Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) sector. In the fiscal year 2023-24, Bayer CropScience reported steady revenue of ₹51,032 million. The company has focused on innovative crop protection solutions despite weather challenges and market fluctuations. Bayer continues to invest in sustainable agriculture, emphasizing resilient performance amidst market shifts.

Dow Chemical Company has also been active in the IGR sector, recently acquiring Circulus, a polyethylene recycler, to enhance its mechanical recycling capabilities. This acquisition supports Dow’s goal to produce 3 million metric tons of circular and renewable solutions annually by 2030. The transaction, valued at $150 million, is expected to close by the end of 2024.

Sumitomo Chemical Company Limited has been active in the Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) sector, particularly with its product Sumilarv® 0.5G, which is designed to control mosquito larvae and prevent them from maturing into adults. This product is notable for its effectiveness at low doses and long-lasting impact. In 2023, Sumitomo Chemical reported significant revenue growth driven by increased sales in crop protection products. The company has also been involved in strategic acquisitions, including the recent purchase of Barrix, enhancing its portfolio in sustainable agriculture solutions.

Syngenta AG continues to be a key player in the Insect Growth Regulators sector with innovative solutions for pest control. Recently, Syngenta launched a new IGR product targeting mosquito larvae, which has shown promising results in reducing mosquito populations in affected areas. In 2023, Syngenta reported robust revenue growth, driven by strong sales in its crop protection and seed businesses. The company remains focused on expanding its market presence through strategic acquisitions and partnerships to enhance its product offerings and technological capabilities.

Adama Agriculture has made notable strides in the Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) sector. In 2023, Adama launched Diamond®, an IGR targeting plant bugs and Lepidoptera, which disrupts insect development and offers resistance management benefits. Adama’s revenue in 2023 was $5.57 billion, reflecting strong market demand for crop protection products, especially in Brazil and China.

Nufarm Limited is actively engaged in the Insect Growth Regulators sector. In 2023, Nufarm reported significant revenue growth, driven by strong sales in its crop protection segment. The company focuses on innovative solutions for pest control, including IGRs that help manage pest populations effectively. Recently, Nufarm acquired additional assets to expand its product portfolio, enhancing its market presence and technological capabilities.

Platform Specialty Products Corporation, now known as Element Solutions Inc., has been active in the Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) sector through its acquisition of Arysta LifeScience in 2015. This acquisition, valued at $3.51 billion, significantly expanded their agrochemical footprint. Arysta’s portfolio includes a variety of crop protection solutions, including IGRs. Platform reported substantial revenue increases post-acquisition, driven by its enhanced product lineup and market reach.

Central Garden & Pet Company has been focusing on the IGR sector as part of its pet and garden care product offerings. Recently, the company introduced new IGR-based products aimed at controlling insect populations in gardens and pet environments. In 2023, Central Garden & Pet reported strong revenue growth, supported by the successful launch of these innovative solutions. The company continues to expand its product range and market presence through strategic acquisitions and product development.

Valent U.S.A. Corporation has made significant strides in the Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) sector. Notably, their product Knack® IGR targets a broad spectrum of pests and is registered in multiple states for use in various crops. In 2023, Valent reported strong revenue growth, driven by its innovative and sustainable agricultural solutions. The company has also emphasized sustainability with the launch of its Sustainable Solutions Criteria to advance environmentally friendly practices in agriculture.

Russell IPM Ltd, a leader in pest management solutions, has been actively engaged in the Insect Growth Regulators sector. The company focuses on developing eco-friendly pest control products that disrupt the growth and reproduction of pests. Recently, Russell IPM launched new IGR products that have shown effectiveness in various agricultural settings. In 2023, the company reported notable revenue growth, underpinned by their innovative approaches and expanding market presence.

Bayer AG is actively engaged in the Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) sector, focusing on sustainable crop protection solutions. Recently, Bayer launched Vayego®, an innovative IGR aimed at controlling a variety of pests in crops. In 2023, Bayer reported significant revenue growth in its crop science division, driven by the success of new product launches and increased market demand for effective pest management solutions.

Central Life Sciences specializes in the development of insect growth regulators like methoprene, hydroprene, and kinoprene. These products are designed to interrupt the life cycle of pests, preventing them from reaching maturity. In 2023, Central Life Sciences introduced Mavrik® Aquaflow, a broad-spectrum insecticide and miticide that offers immediate and long-term control of greenhouse and nursery pests. This addition has bolstered their product portfolio and contributed to their revenue growth.

Conclusion

The market for Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) is poised for significant growth in the coming years. This expansion can be attributed to increased awareness about the benefits of IGRs, such as their ability to target pests without harming beneficial insects or the environment. Furthermore, the rising demand for organic farming and the need for effective pest control solutions in agriculture and public health sectors are driving market growth.

The adoption of integrated pest management practices, which include IGRs as a key component, is also contributing to this trend. As regulatory bodies continue to endorse environmentally friendly pest control methods, the IGR market is expected to see sustained development. Overall, the future of the IGR market looks promising, with ample opportunities for innovation and expansion.

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