Report Overview

An increasing focus on the management and purification of water and air and complying with stringent environmental regulations, industrial growth, air purification demand, growing health awareness, and adoption of technological innovations are expected to drive South Africa Activated Carbon Market during the forecast period between 2025 and 2031.

South Africa Activated Carbon Market – Industry Trends & Forecast Report, 2031

South Africa Activated Carbon Market size was estimated at USD 24.77 million in 2024. During the forecast period from 2025 to 2031, South Africa Activated Carbon Market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.90%, reaching a value of USD 34.62 million by 2031. The expansion of South Africa Activated Carbon Market is driven by an increasing demand for water purification, due to water scarcity, rising environmental awareness, and stricter regulations on air and water quality. Industrial expansion, especially in food processing and pharmaceuticals, boosts usage across sectors. Technological advancements in carbon processing enhance efficiency and broaden applications. Additionally, growing health consciousness and the need for clean air in urban areas contribute to the growth of South Africa Activated Carbon Market, alongside government initiatives promoting sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.  

Activated Carbon – Overview

Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal, is a highly porous form of carbon with an immense surface area ideal for adsorption. It is produced from carbon-rich materials like coconut shells, coal, or wood through physical or chemical activation. Widely used in water and air purification, food processing, and pharmaceuticals, it effectively removes contaminants and odors. Its versatility, efficiency, and eco-friendly sourcing from agricultural waste make it a valuable material across industrial, environmental, and medical applications.

South Africa Activated Carbon Market 

Growth Drivers

Rising Demand for Water and Air Purification amid Water Scarcity

South Africa’s growing water scarcity, driven by climate change, pollution, and aging infrastructure, is intensifying the need for effective purification solutions. Activated carbon plays a vital role in removing contaminants and improving water quality. With increasing public awareness about waterborne diseases and a surge in demand for safe drinking water, South Africa Activated Carbon Market is expanding rapidly. Technological innovations and government initiatives further accelerate adoption across residential, industrial, and municipal sectors.

Challenges

High Cost of Raw Materials and Production

The growth of South Africa Activated Carbon Market faces a significant restraint, due to the high cost of raw materials and production processes. Imported raw materials, especially from countries like India and Sri Lanka, contribute to elevated input costs. Additionally, energy-intensive manufacturing and limited local sourcing options further inflate expenses. These factors hinder price competitiveness and pose challenges for small-scale producers, potentially slowing market expansion despite rising demand across water treatment and air purification sectors.

Impact of Escalating Geopolitical Tensions on South Africa Activated Carbon Market 

Escalating geopolitical tensions, including conflicts and trade disruptions, are anticipated to impact the growth of South Africa Activated Carbon Market by increasing raw material costs and supply chain volatility. Import dependence for key inputs like coconut shells and coal-based carbon intensifies vulnerability to global price shocks. Additionally, energy market instability raises production expenses, while export challenges emerge due to shifting trade alliances and carbon border taxes. These factors collectively strain profitability and hinder growth, especially for small and medium enterprises in the purification and filtration sectors.

South Africa Activated Carbon Market 

Segmental Coverage

South Africa Activated Carbon Market – By Product Type

Based on product type, South Africa Activated Carbon Market is divided into Powdered Activated Carbon, Granular Activated Carbon, and other product types segments. The powdered activated carbon segment stands out as the largest and fastest growing segment in South Africa Activated Carbon Market. The segment’s market dominance is driven by high efficiency in liquid-phase applications, especially in water treatment and industrial processes. The fine particle size allows for rapid adsorption of impurities, making it ideal for municipal and commercial filtration systems. With increasing demand for clean water and stringent environmental regulations, powdered activated carbon continues to lead in both revenue generation and adoption across key sectors.

South Africa Activated Carbon Market – By Application Phase

South Africa Activated Carbon Market by application phase is divided into Liquid Phase and Gas Phase segments. The liquid phase segment emerges as a large and most dominant application phase in South Africa Activated Carbon Market. This is primarily due to the country’s pressing need for water purification solutions amid widespread water scarcity and contamination issues. Activated carbon’s effectiveness in removing organic compounds, chlorine, and other pollutants from water makes it indispensable across municipal, industrial, and residential sectors. As demand for clean water intensifies, the liquid phase continues to lead in both usage volume and revenue generation.

South Africa Activated Carbon Market – By End User

On the basis of end user, South Africa Activated Carbon Market is divided into Water Treatment, Food & Beverage Processing, Pharmaceutical & Medical, Automotive, Air Purification, and other segments. Water Treatment stands out as the largest end user segment in South Africa Activated Carbon Market. The dominance is driven by increasing demand for clean and safe drinking water across urban and rural areas. The segment benefits from stringent environmental regulations and rising awareness of waterborne contaminants. Activated carbon’s effectiveness in removing impurities, chlorine, and organic compounds makes it indispensable in municipal and industrial water treatment facilities. This dominance is expected to continue as infrastructure investments and sustainability goals gain momentum nationwide.

Competitive Landscape

Major companies operating in South Africa Activated Carbon Market include Cabot Corporation, Kuraray Co., Ltd, Kureha Corporation, Osaka Gas Co., Ltd, Evoqua Water Technologies, Carbios SA, Donau Carbon GmbH, Haycarb PLC, Calgon Carbon Corporation, Carbon Activated Corporation, and Silcarbon Aktivkohle GmbH. To further enhance their market share, these companies employ various strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, joint ventures, license agreements, and new product launches.

Scope of the Report

By Product Type

• • Powdered Activated Carbon

  • Granular Activated Carbon

  • Other Forms

By Application Phase

• • Liquid Phase

  • Gas Phase

By End User

• • Water Treatment

  • Food & Beverage Processing

  • Pharmaceutical & Medical

  • Automotive

  • Air Purification

  • Others