
Study Period | 2019 - 2030 |
Market Volume (2025) | 2.43 Million tons |
Market Volume (2030) | 2.61 Million tons |
CAGR | 1.50 % |
Fastest Growing Market | Asia Pacific |
Largest Market | North America |
Market Concentration | High |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Hydrogen Cyanide Market Analysis
The Hydrogen Cyanide Market size is estimated at 2.43 million tons in 2025, and is expected to reach 2.61 million tons by 2030, at a CAGR of greater than 1.5% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The global mining industry has witnessed significant developments, particularly in gold extraction operations where hydrogen cyanide plays a crucial role in metal processing. According to the World Gold Council, global gold production reached 3,100 metric tons in 2022, with major discoveries continuing to emerge across various regions. In June 2023, Barrick's Ivory Coast operations extended their timeline to 2030 following significant new gold deposit discoveries, while China announced the discovery of its largest gold mine in Shandong with 580 tons of reserves in May 2023. These developments signal a robust trajectory for mining operations and associated chemical processing requirements.
The agricultural sector's evolution has sparked increased demand for specialized chemical compounds and fertilizers, driving innovation in production processes and application methods. Recent research has focused on developing biological control methods using soil bacteria capable of synthesizing hydrocyanic acid, presenting an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional agrochemical applications. The American Chemistry Council reported that the total plastics production volume in the United States reached 125.5 billion pounds in 2022, demonstrating the strong industrial base supporting chemical manufacturing and processing activities.
The pharmaceutical industry's expansion has created new opportunities for chemical intermediates and specialized compounds. According to AstraZeneca's projections, pharmaceutical sales are expected to reach USD 633 billion for North America by 2024, with the European Union (excluding the United Kingdom) projected to achieve USD 287 billion, highlighting the growing demand for chemical precursors in pharmaceutical manufacturing. The industry's focus on research and development has led to increased requirements for high-purity chemical compounds and intermediates used in drug synthesis, including the use of HCN in the development of new pharmaceuticals.
The chemical manufacturing sector has demonstrated resilience and adaptation to changing market dynamics, with companies implementing advanced production technologies and sustainable practices. According to BASF's 2022 report, global chemical production (excluding pharmaceuticals) is projected to increase by 2.0% in 2023, reflecting the industry's steady growth trajectory. The sector has witnessed significant investments in research and development of alternative production methods, with particular emphasis on reducing environmental impact while maintaining production efficiency. This transformation has been accompanied by the implementation of stricter safety protocols and improved handling procedures for hazardous materials, highlighting the diverse uses of cyanide in industrial applications.
Hydrogen Cyanide Market Trends
Favorable Demand for Manufacturing of Sodium Cyanide and Potassium Cyanide
The growing demand for sodium cyanide and potassium cyanide production continues to drive the hydrogen cyanide market, primarily due to their extensive applications in gold and silver mining operations. The wet process manufacturing of sodium cyanide involves neutralizing hydrogen cyanide with sodium hydroxide, where HCN can be added in both gas and liquid forms to create an aqueous NaCN solution. Similarly, potassium cyanide is produced by treating hydrogen cyanide with an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution followed by vacuum evaporation. According to the US Geological Survey, global gold production reached 3,100 metric tons in 2022, with China leading the production at 330 metric tons, followed by Australia at 320 metric tons, demonstrating the robust demand for cyanide compounds in mining operations.
The discovery of new mining operations further strengthens the demand outlook for hydrogen cyanide-based compounds. In June 2023, Barrick's Ivory Coast mine operations extended their operation until 2030 following significant new gold deposit discoveries. Additionally, in May 2023, China discovered its largest gold mine in Shandong with 580 tons of reserves, while in October 2023, India's first large private gold mine, the Jonnagiri gold project, is set to begin full-scale production with an expected output of 750 kilograms of gold per year. Beyond mining applications, these cyanide compounds find significant use in electroplating processes and the production of nitriles and carboxylic acids, creating a diversified demand portfolio for hydrogen cyanide.
Increasing Usage of Hydrogen Cyanide for the Production of Adiponitrile
The growing demand for adiponitrile, a crucial intermediate in the production of nylon-6,6 fibers and resins, continues to drive the consumption of hydrogen cyanide in the chemical manufacturing sector. The hydrocyanation process, where HCN is added to butadiene, serves as the primary method for adiponitrile production, making hydrogen cyanide an indispensable raw material in the value chain. The versatility of adiponitrile-derived products spans multiple industries, including automotive, textiles, industrial applications, and high-performance coatings, creating a sustained demand for hydrogen cyanide in chemical manufacturing processes.
The market is further supported by positive growth indicators in the chemical industry, with global chemical production expected to increase by 2.0% in 2023, showing a year-over-year increase of 2.2% from 2022. China, being the world's largest chemicals market, demonstrated strong performance with chemical production growing by 5.9% in 2022. The opening of the Chinese economy is expected to boost domestic demand growth, particularly in consumer goods and health sectors, thereby increasing the requirement for adiponitrile and, consequently, hydrogen cyanide. The expansion of manufacturing capabilities by key industry players, such as BASF SE's announcement of polyamide 6,6 expansion in Freiburg, Germany, starting in 2022, further indicates the growing industrial demand for adiponitrile-based products. Furthermore, the hydrogen cyanide price trend and hydrogen cyanide production cost are critical factors influencing the market dynamics, as manufacturers aim to optimize production efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Segment Analysis: Structure Type
Hydrogen Cyanide Liquid Segment in Global Hydrogen Cyanide Market
The hydrogen cyanide liquid segment continues to dominate the global hydrogen cyanide market, holding approximately 60% of the total market share in 2024. This segment's prominence is primarily attributed to its extensive applications in the production of adiponitrile, which is crucial for nylon-6,6 manufacturing in fiber and plastic industries. The liquid form offers several advantages, including easier storage, transportation, and handling capabilities compared to its gaseous counterpart. Additionally, its widespread use in the production of sodium cyanide and potassium cyanide for mining applications, particularly in gold extraction processes, further strengthens its market position. The segment's stability and reliability in various industrial processes, coupled with its efficient integration into existing manufacturing systems, have made it the preferred choice for major end-user industries.

Hydrogen Cyanide Gas Segment in Global Hydrogen Cyanide Market
The hydrogen cyanide gas segment is emerging as the fastest-growing structure type in the global hydrogen cyanide market, projected to grow at approximately 2% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This growth is primarily driven by its increasing adoption in fumigation applications and chemical synthesis processes. The gas form offers unique advantages in certain applications, particularly in pest control and industrial processes where gaseous penetration is crucial. The segment is witnessing increased demand from the agricultural sector for fumigation purposes, while its applications in the production of various chemicals and synthetic fibers continue to expand. Technological advancements in handling and safety measures have also contributed to its growing adoption, making it more accessible for various industrial applications while maintaining strict safety protocols.
Segment Analysis: Application
Adiponitrile Segment in Hydrogen Cyanide Market
The adiponitrile segment continues to dominate the global hydrogen cyanide market, commanding approximately 40% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position is primarily driven by the segment's crucial role in the production of nylon-6,6 fibers and resins, where approximately 92% of adiponitrile is utilized for hexamethylene diamine (HMDA) production. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by the growing demand from the textile industry, particularly in major manufacturing hubs like China, India, and the United States. The increasing adoption of nylon-6,6 in high-performance automotive components, electronic applications, and industrial materials has also contributed to the segment's market leadership. Major manufacturers like Invista and Ascend Performance Materials have maintained robust production capabilities to meet this sustained demand, with Invista operating significant adiponitrile facilities with capacities exceeding 400,000 tons per year.
Sodium Cyanide and Potassium Cyanide Segment in Hydrogen Cyanide Market
The sodium cyanide and potassium cyanide segment is projected to exhibit the highest growth rate in the hydrogen cyanide market from 2024 to 2029, with an expected growth rate of approximately 2%. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by the expanding gold and silver mining activities globally, particularly in regions like China, Russia, and Australia. The segment's growth is further supported by recent developments such as the discovery of massive gold resources in Saudi Arabia's Medina region and China's Shandong province, where the Xiling Gold Mine revealed reserves of 580 tons. The increasing adoption of these cyanides in electroplating applications, particularly in the growing electronics and automotive industries, also contributes to the segment's rapid expansion. Additionally, the segment benefits from the rising demand in printing, dyeing, and metal cleaning applications across various industrial sectors.
Remaining Segments in Application Segmentation
The remaining segments in the hydrogen cyanide market include the acetone cyanohydrin market and other applications, which together play vital roles in various industrial applications. The acetone cyanohydrin market segment is particularly significant in the production of methyl methacrylate (MMA), which is essential for manufacturing transparent plastic polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) used in automotive, construction, and electronics industries. The other applications segment encompasses diverse uses including cyanuric chloride production for pesticides, chelating agents like EDTA, ferrocyanides, acrylates, and various specialty chemicals serving the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors. These segments continue to maintain steady growth driven by technological advancements and expanding applications across different industrial sectors.
Hydrogen Cyanide Market Geography Segment Analysis
Hydrogen Cyanide Market in Asia-Pacific
The Asia-Pacific hydrogen cyanide market demonstrates significant diversity across its key markets, including China, India, Japan, South Korea, and other emerging economies in the region. The market is primarily driven by growing demand from various end-use industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and mining. China leads the regional market with its robust manufacturing base and increasing industrial applications, while India shows promising growth potential due to its expanding chemical sector. Japan and South Korea maintain stable market positions through their advanced technological capabilities and established industrial infrastructure in chemical manufacturing.

Hydrogen Cyanide Market in China
China dominates the Asia-Pacific hydrogen cyanide market, accounting for approximately 53% of the regional market share. The country's market leadership is supported by its extensive chemical manufacturing infrastructure and growing demand from various end-use industries. The pharmaceutical sector in China has shown remarkable growth, with the country producing around 20% of the world's API production. The mining sector, particularly gold mining, continues to drive demand for hydrogen cyanide derivatives, with China maintaining its position as one of the world's largest gold producers. The country's commitment to modernizing its agricultural sector and focus on domestic chemical production further strengthen its market position.
Hydrogen Cyanide Market in China - Growth Analysis
China is also the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region, with a projected growth rate of approximately 2% during 2024-2029. This growth is primarily driven by increasing investments in domestic pharmaceutical production and the government's focus on securing chemical supplies. The country's expanding mining operations, including recent gold mine discoveries, contribute significantly to market growth. Additionally, China's strategic initiatives in chemical manufacturing and its position as a global leader in API production continue to create new opportunities for hydrogen cyanide applications.
Hydrogen Cyanide Industry Overview
Top Companies in Hydrogen Cyanide Market
The global hydrogen cyanide market features prominent players like INVISTA, Evonik Industries, INEOS, and Butachimie leading the industry through various strategic initiatives. Companies are increasingly focusing on technological advancements in production processes, particularly in the Andrussow process and acrylonitrile manufacturing methods, to enhance operational efficiency and product quality. Strategic partnerships and licensing agreements have become crucial for market expansion, with several companies adopting Evonik's HCN production technology. Operational agility is demonstrated through the integration of production facilities and on-site manufacturing capabilities, reducing transportation and storage risks associated with hydrogen cyanide. Market leaders are also emphasizing sustainability initiatives and environmental stewardship while expanding their geographical presence through strategic acquisitions and facility expansions in key regions.
Consolidated Market with Strong Regional Players
The hydrogen cyanide market exhibits a partially consolidated structure among top players while remaining fragmented across middle to low-range manufacturers, with approximately seventy companies operating worldwide. Global conglomerates dominate the market through their vertically integrated operations, controlling both raw material supply and end-product manufacturing, particularly in the production of derivatives like sodium cyanide and adiponitrile. The market has witnessed significant merger and acquisition activities, exemplified by Draslovka's acquisition of Chemours' Mining Solutions business and BASF's strategic investment in the Butachimie ADN plant, indicating a trend toward market consolidation.
The competitive landscape is characterized by the presence of both specialized chemical manufacturers and diversified industrial conglomerates, with most players operating through captive consumption models. Regional players maintain strong positions in their respective markets through established distribution networks and long-term customer relationships. The industry structure is further shaped by the highly regulated nature of hydrogen cyanide production and transportation, creating natural barriers to entry and favoring companies with existing infrastructure and regulatory compliance capabilities.
Innovation and Compliance Drive Market Success
Success in the hydrogen cyanide market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate in production technologies while maintaining stringent safety and environmental compliance standards. Market incumbents can strengthen their position by investing in research and development for more efficient production processes, expanding their product portfolio through vertical integration, and developing stronger relationships with end-users through customized solutions. The implementation of advanced monitoring systems and safety protocols, combined with strategic geographical expansion in high-growth regions, presents opportunities for established players to increase their market share.
For contenders seeking to gain ground, focusing on niche applications and developing specialized products for specific end-user industries offers a viable path forward. Success factors include building strong regulatory compliance capabilities, establishing strategic partnerships with raw material suppliers, and investing in sustainable production technologies. The industry's future will be shaped by companies' ability to address increasing environmental regulations, manage safety concerns, and adapt to changing end-user requirements across various applications such as mining, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemicals. Hydrogen cyanide suppliers and hydrogen cyanide manufacturers are particularly poised to benefit from these trends by aligning their operations with evolving market demands.
Hydrogen Cyanide Market Leaders
-
INEOS
-
Evonik Industries AG
-
INVISTA
-
Butachimie Chalampé
-
Drasslok
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Hydrogen Cyanide Market News
The recent developments pertaining to the major players in the market are being covered in the complete study.
Hydrogen Cyanide Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET DYNAMICS
-
4.1 Drivers
- 4.1.1 Favorable Demand for Manufacturing of Sodium Cyanide and Potassium Cyanide
- 4.1.2 Increasing Usage of Hydrogen Cyanide for the Production of Adiponitrile
-
4.2 Restraints
- 4.2.1 Highly Toxic Nature of Hydrogen Cyanide
- 4.3 Industry Value-Chain Analysis
-
4.4 Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.4.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.4.2 Bargaining Power of Consumers
- 4.4.3 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.4.4 Threat of Substitute Products and Services
- 4.4.5 Degree of Competition
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (Market Size in Volume)
-
5.1 Structure Type
- 5.1.1 Hydrogen Cyanide Liquid
- 5.1.2 Hydrogen Cyanide Gas
-
5.2 Application
- 5.2.1 Sodium Cyanide and Potassium Cyanide
- 5.2.2 Adiponitrile
- 5.2.3 Acetone Cyanohydrin
- 5.2.4 Other Applications
-
5.3 Geography
- 5.3.1 Asia-Pacific
- 5.3.1.1 China
- 5.3.1.2 India
- 5.3.1.3 Japan
- 5.3.1.4 South Korea
- 5.3.1.5 Indonesia
- 5.3.1.6 Malaysia
- 5.3.1.7 Thailand
- 5.3.1.8 Vietnam
- 5.3.1.9 Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 5.3.2 North America
- 5.3.2.1 United States
- 5.3.2.2 Canada
- 5.3.2.3 Mexico
- 5.3.3 Europe
- 5.3.3.1 Germany
- 5.3.3.2 United Kingdom
- 5.3.3.3 Italy
- 5.3.3.4 France
- 5.3.3.5 Spain
- 5.3.3.6 Russia
- 5.3.3.7 Turkey
- 5.3.3.8 NORDIC Countries
- 5.3.3.9 Rest of Europe
- 5.3.4 South America
- 5.3.4.1 Brazil
- 5.3.4.2 Argentina
- 5.3.4.3 Rest of South America
- 5.3.5 Middle-East and Africa
- 5.3.5.1 Saudi Arabia
- 5.3.5.2 South Africa
- 5.3.5.3 Rest of Middle-East and Africa
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Mergers and Acquisitions, Joint Ventures, Collaborations, and Agreements
- 6.2 Market Share Analysis (%)** /Ranking Analysis
- 6.3 Strategies Adopted by Leading Players
-
6.4 Company Profiles
- 6.4.1 Air Liquide
- 6.4.2 Asahi Kasei Corporation
- 6.4.3 Ascend Performance Materials
- 6.4.4 Butachimie
- 6.4.5 Draslovka
- 6.4.6 Evonik Industries AG
- 6.4.7 Hindusthan Chemicals Company
- 6.4.8 INEOS
- 6.4.9 INVISTA
- 6.4.10 Kuraray Co. Ltd
- 6.4.11 Matheson Tri-Gas Inc.
- 6.4.12 Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd
- 6.4.13 Taekwang Industrial Co. Ltd
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
Hydrogen Cyanide Industry Segmentation
Hydrogen cyanide is a colorless, extremely poisonous, and flammable liquid that boils slightly above room temperature.
The hydrogen cyanide market is segmented by structure type, application, and geography. By structure type, the market is segmented into hydrogen cyanide liquid and hydrogen cyanide gas. By application, the market is segmented into sodium cyanide and potassium cyanide, adiponitrile, acetone cyanohydrin, and other applications. The report offers market size and forecasts for 22 countries across major regions.
For each segment, market sizing and forecasts have been done on the basis of volume (tons). Hydrogen cyanide is a colorless, extremely poisonous, and flammable liquid that boils slightly above room temperature.
The hydrogen cyanide market is segmented by structure type, application, and geography. By structure type, the market is segmented into hydrogen cyanide liquid and hydrogen cyanide gas. By application, the market is segmented into sodium cyanide and potassium cyanide, adiponitrile, acetone cyanohydrin, and other applications. The report offers market size and forecasts for 22 countries across major regions.
For each segment, market sizing and forecasts have been done on the basis of volume (tons).
Structure Type | Hydrogen Cyanide Liquid | ||
Hydrogen Cyanide Gas | |||
Application | Sodium Cyanide and Potassium Cyanide | ||
Adiponitrile | |||
Acetone Cyanohydrin | |||
Other Applications | |||
Geography | Asia-Pacific | China | |
India | |||
Japan | |||
South Korea | |||
Indonesia | |||
Malaysia | |||
Thailand | |||
Vietnam | |||
Rest of Asia-Pacific | |||
North America | United States | ||
Canada | |||
Mexico | |||
Europe | Germany | ||
United Kingdom | |||
Italy | |||
France | |||
Spain | |||
Russia | |||
Turkey | |||
NORDIC Countries | |||
Rest of Europe | |||
South America | Brazil | ||
Argentina | |||
Rest of South America | |||
Middle-East and Africa | Saudi Arabia | ||
South Africa | |||
Rest of Middle-East and Africa |
Hydrogen Cyanide Market Research FAQs
How big is the Hydrogen Cyanide Market?
The Hydrogen Cyanide Market size is expected to reach 2.43 million tons in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of greater than 1.5% to reach 2.61 million tons by 2030.
What is the current Hydrogen Cyanide Market size?
In 2025, the Hydrogen Cyanide Market size is expected to reach 2.43 million tons.
Who are the key players in Hydrogen Cyanide Market?
INEOS, Evonik Industries AG, INVISTA, Butachimie Chalampé and Drasslok are the major companies operating in the Hydrogen Cyanide Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in Hydrogen Cyanide Market?
Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2025-2030).
Which region has the biggest share in Hydrogen Cyanide Market?
In 2025, the North America accounts for the largest market share in Hydrogen Cyanide Market.
What years does this Hydrogen Cyanide Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Hydrogen Cyanide Market size was estimated at 2.39 million tons. The report covers the Hydrogen Cyanide Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Hydrogen Cyanide Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
Our Best Selling Reports
Hydrogen Cyanide Market Research
Mordor Intelligence delivers a comprehensive analysis of the hydrogen cyanide market. This includes a complete overview of the industrial ecosystem of this vital chemical, also known as hydrocyanic acid or prussic acid. Our extensive research covers various derivatives, such as acetone cyanohydrin and formonitrile. We provide detailed insights into manufacturing processes, hydrogen cyanide production cost analysis, and global supply chain dynamics. The report thoroughly examines hydrogen cyanide manufacturers and suppliers, offering crucial data on pricing trends and market dynamics.
Stakeholders gain valuable insights through our detailed examination of uses of HCN across various industries. This includes an analysis of hydrogen cyanide treatment methodologies and applications. The report, available in an easy-to-download PDF format, provides comprehensive coverage of hydrogen cyanide price trends, regional market dynamics, and emerging opportunities. Our analysis includes detailed assessments of production facilities, hydrogen cyanide source materials, and supply chain optimization strategies. This enables businesses to make informed decisions based on current market conditions and future projections.