MEA Animal Sourced Squalene Market Research Report – Segmented By Application and Country (KSA, UAE, Israel, rest of GCC countries, South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Egypt, Sudan, rest of MEA) – Industry Analysis (2024 to 2033)
The MEA Animal Sourced Squalene Market size was valued at USD 3.81 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 6.68 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.43% from 2024 to 2033. The market is gaining momentum due to the rising demand for remote cardiac care, the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases, and technological advancements in AI-powered diagnostics and wearable cardiac monitoring devices.
The MEA Animal Sourced Squalene Market Size was valued at USD 3.81 billion in 2024. The MEA Animal Sourced Squalene Market Size is expected to have 6.43 % CAGR from 2025 to 2033 and be worth USD 6.68 billion by 2033.
Animal sourced squalene is naturally occurring hydrocarbon primarily extracted from shark liver oil, known for its moisturizing, antioxidant, and skin-protective properties. It plays a crucial role in cosmetic formulations, pharmaceuticals, and dietary supplements due to its biocompatibility and emollient nature. The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region represents an emerging market for animal sourced squalene, driven by increasing awareness of personal care ingredients and growing demand for premium skincare products. Countries such as South Africa, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates have witnessed a surge in luxury beauty imports and wellness-focused consumer trends. Additionally, the healthcare sector in MEA is gradually adopting squalene-based adjuvants in vaccine development, supported by regional collaborations in public health initiatives.
The rising demand for premium skincare products in major urban centers such as Dubai, Cairo, Cape Town, and Riyadh is ensuring the growth of the MEA animal sourced squalene market. Consumers in these cities are gravitating toward high-end formulations that promise hydration, anti-aging benefits, and dermatological efficacy as disposable incomes increase and exposure to international beauty trends expands through digital media. According to Euromonitor International, the premium skincare segment in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries grew by 14% in value terms in 2023, with imported brands dominating shelf space in upscale retail outlets. Retailers like Harvey Nichols in Dubai and VIVA Glam in South Africa have reported increased interest in squalene-based facial oils and serums, especially among millennials and Gen Z buyers. Moreover, social media influencers and dermatologists in the region are promoting squalene-infused products as essential components of daily skincare routines, further reinforcing consumer trust.
The expansion of medical and vaccine manufacturing capabilities across selected African nations is leveraging the growth of the MEA animal sourced squalene market. As per the African Union’s Health Division, several African countries have initiated local vaccine production projects in collaboration with global pharmaceutical firms. In 2023, Rwanda and Senegal announced plans to establish advanced vaccine manufacturing hubs, with support from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). Additionally, organizations such as the African Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) have emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency in vaccine supply chains. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 8 million doses of squalene-containing vaccines were distributed across sub-Saharan Africa in 2023.
The increasing ethical and environmental scrutiny surrounding the extraction of squalene from sharks is degrading the growth of the MEA animal sourced squalene market. The practice of harvesting shark livers has raised concerns among conservationists and environmentally conscious consumers regarding biodiversity loss and unsustainable fishing methods. Several shark species targeted for their high squalene content, such as the gulper shark and basking shark, are classified as vulnerable or endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
According to Oceana, an international marine conservation organization, approximately 3 million sharks are killed annually for squalene extraction globally, with a portion of this supply historically entering the European and Asian markets. In response, advocacy groups and NGOs have intensified efforts to promote sustainable sourcing practices and encourage the shift toward plant-based alternatives derived from olive oil, amaranth seeds, or microbial fermentation.
The increasing availability and technological advancement of plant-based and synthetic squalene alternatives is also to hinder the growth of the MEA animal sourced squalene market. Innovations in green chemistry and biotechnology have enabled the production of sustainable, cruelty-free substitutes derived from sources such as sugarcane, algae, and olive oil. These alternatives offer similar functional properties while addressing ethical and environmental concerns associated with shark harvesting. According to a report by the European Commission on bio-based chemicals, the production capacity of plant-derived squalene expanded significantly in recent years, with leading suppliers such as Amyris and GFBiochemicals offering scalable solutions for global markets. Companies producing vegan-certified skincare and pharmaceutical products have increasingly adopted these alternatives to align with evolving consumer preferences for sustainability and ethical sourcing. Additionally, international certification bodies such as Ecocert and Vegan Society have promoted the adoption of non-animal-derived ingredients, influencing brand positioning and marketing strategies.
The growing demand for high-performance cosmetics in countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar is greatly influencing the growth of the MEA animal sourced squalene market. The region's affluent population, coupled with a strong cultural emphasis on personal grooming and appearance, has led to a surge in luxury skincare consumption, where squalene is increasingly being incorporated into premium formulations. Consumers in these markets are drawn to ingredients perceived as luxurious, rare, and scientifically validated categories in which animal sourced squalene fits well. High-profile retailers such as Level Shoe District in Dubai and Paris Gallery in Kuwait have reported increased footfall for squalene-infused serums and facial oils among younger, fashion-conscious shoppers. Furthermore, beauty influencers and dermatologists in the region have been actively promoting squalene-based products for their hydrating and protective qualities, enhancing consumer trust and awareness.
The strengthening of healthcare infrastructure and vaccine production capabilities across several African countries is attributed to gear up the growth of the MEA animal sourced squalene market. Governments and international organizations are investing heavily in improving immunization programs and developing local vaccine manufacturing capacities, which is creating a favorable environment for squalene-based adjuvant applications. These initiatives aim to reduce reliance on imports and ensure timely access to life-saving vaccines, many of which incorporate squalene-based adjuvants to enhance immune response and antigen efficiency. Additionally, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has prioritized the development of adjuvanted vaccines for diseases prevalent in the region, such as malaria and tuberculosis.
The lack of standardized regulations and clear oversight mechanisms regarding ingredient sourcing and labelling is hampering the growth of the MEA animal sourced squalene market. Unlike Europe and North America, where traceability and sustainability certifications are more established, the MEA region lacks uniform policies governing the ethical procurement of animal-derived ingredients like squalene. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), many MEA countries do not enforce mandatory documentation requirements for imported cosmetic or pharmaceutical ingredients, leaving room for unregulated supply chains. Moreover, customs authorities in different MEA nations apply varying levels of scrutiny to imported squalene-based raw materials, causing delays and inconsistencies in trade flows.
The ongoing shift in consumer perception toward vegan, cruelty-free, and ethically sourced personal care and pharmaceutical products is also a key challenging factor for the growth of the MEA animal sourced squalene market. According to Mintel, over 55% of surveyed consumers in the UAE in 2023 stated that they would avoid products containing animal-derived ingredients if plant-based alternatives were available. Social media activism and influencer-led campaigns promoting clean beauty and sustainable lifestyles have further amplified this sentiment, which is pressuring brands to reassess their ingredient sourcing strategies. Additionally, organizations like PETA and Cruelty Free International have expanded their outreach in the MEA region, advocating for greater transparency in cosmetic and pharmaceutical ingredient sourcing.
| REPORT METRIC | DETAILS |
| Market Size Available | 2024 to 2033 |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025 to 2033 |
| CAGR | 6.43 % |
| Segments Covered | By Application and Country. |
| Various Analyses Covered | Global, Regional & Country Level Analysis, Segment-Level Analysis; DROC, PESTLE Analysis, Porter's Five Forces Analysis, Competitive Landscape, Analyst Overview of Investment Opportunities |
| Country Covered | KSA ,UAE ,Israel ,rest of GCC countries, South Africa ,Ethiopia ,Kenya ,Egypt, Sudan, Rest of MEA. |
| Market Leader Profiled | Empressa Figueirrense de Pesca, Arista Industries Inc., Gracefruit Limited |
The cosmetics segment was accounted in holding a dominant share of the MEA animal sourced squalene market in 2024. The rising demand for high-end beauty products among affluent consumers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is amplifying the growth of the segment. According to NielsenIQ, luxury skincare sales in the UAE increased by 14% year-on-year in 2023, with squalene-infused facial oils and moisturizers being among the top-performing categories. Retailers such as Harvey Nichols Dubai and Level Shoe District have reported growing consumer interest in products that emphasize hydration, anti-aging benefits, and natural ingredient transparency. Another major driver is the influence of social media and celebrity endorsements in shaping beauty trends. As per Mintel, nearly 68% of surveyed consumers in Saudi Arabia considered ingredient authenticity a key purchasing factor in 2023. Influencers and dermatologists in the region frequently promote squalene-based products for their skin barrier repair properties, reinforcing brand trust and product adoption.
The healthcare segment is swiftly emerging with a CAGR of 9.4% during the forecast period with the rapid expansion is the increasing use of squalene-based adjuvants in immunization programs supported by global health organizations. According to the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), several African nations including Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia have initiated partnerships to establish local vaccine production facilities, many of which utilize squalene-based formulations to enhance immune response. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the importance of adjuvanted vaccines in improving efficacy, particularly for diseases like malaria and tuberculosis prevalent in the region. As per the African Union’s Health Division, over 6 million doses of squalene-containing vaccines were distributed in sub-Saharan Africa in 2023, signaling growing acceptance of this technology. These developments position the healthcare segment as the most dynamic growth avenue for animal sourced squalene in the MEA market.
United Arab Emirates was the top performer in the MEA animal sourced squalene market by capturing 28.3% of share in 2024. The expanding retail footprint of international prestige beauty brands in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi is ascribed to fuel the growth of the market. According to NielsenIQ, luxury skincare sales in the UAE grew by 14% year-on-year in 2023, with squalene-based facial oils and serums becoming increasingly popular among affluent consumers. High-end retailers such as Level Shoe District and Bloomingdale’s Dubai regularly feature squalene-infused products from European and American brands, reinforcing market penetration.
The Saudi Arabia animal sourced squalene market held 20.1% of share in 2024 with the rising influence of digital marketing and influencer culture in shaping beauty preferences. According to Mintel, nearly 65% of surveyed consumers in Riyadh and Jeddah in 2023 considered ingredient transparency and formulation quality when purchasing skincare products. Luxury brands such as Estée Lauder and Clarins have capitalized on this trend by introducing squalene-enriched moisturizers and anti-aging treatments tailored to local skin types. In addition to cosmetics, Saudi Arabia’s expanding healthcare sector is gradually adopting squalene-based formulations in vaccine development and pharmaceutical applications. As per the Saudi Ministry of Health, the country has participated in multiple international vaccine collaborations, some of which include squalene-adjuvanted technologies.
South Africa animal sourced squalene market growth is likely to have highest CAGR in the coming years owing to the rising demand for premium skincare products among urban consumers in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. According to NielsenIQ, South Africa’s prestige skincare market expanded by 11% in value terms in 2023, with squalene-infused products gaining traction among consumers seeking hydration and anti-aging benefits. Retailers such as VIVA Glam and Edgars have introduced exclusive squalene-based skincare lines, enhancing product visibility and accessibility.
A few of the major companies in the MEA animal-sourced squalene market included in this report are Empressa Figueirrense de Pesca, Arista Industries Inc., Gracefruit Limited, Amyris Inc., Croda International PLC, New Zealand Green Health Ltd., Kishimoto Special Liver Oil Co. Ltd., Maruha Nichiro Corporation, Seadragon Marine Oils Limited, and Arista Industries Inc.
The competitive landscape of the MEA animal sourced squalene market is shaped by a blend of global ingredient suppliers, regional distributors, and niche specialty firms vying for a share of a growing yet ethically sensitive market. With increasing scrutiny on marine conservation and sustainability, companies must differentiate themselves not only by product quality but also by sourcing transparency and environmental responsibility. Traditional players leverage their technological expertise and long-standing relationships with cosmetic and pharmaceutical clients to maintain dominance, while newer entrants focus on positioning squalene as a premium, responsibly sourced component in high-end formulations.
Despite rising competition from plant-based alternatives, animal sourced squalene continues to hold a niche yet significant place in markets where purity and performance are paramount. Strategic alliances between ingredient suppliers and brand houses further consolidate market positions, ensuring steady demand from luxury skincare and medical applications.
Aker BioMarine is a Norwegian biotech company known for its sustainable marine ingredient sourcing. While primarily recognized for krill oil production, the company has expertise in lipid extraction technologies that influence squalene sourcing and purification methods. Its commitment to marine sustainability positions it as a thought leader in responsible ingredient procurement, influencing ethical sourcing practices even in emerging markets like the Middle East and Africa.
Croda International is headquartered in the UK, is a major player in specialty chemicals for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The company integrates animal sourced squalene into high-performance formulations used by leading beauty brands across the MEA region. Its innovation in emollient technologies enhances product stability and skin absorption, making it a preferred supplier in premium skincare development tailored to diverse climates and consumer preferences.
Nikko Chemicals is a Japanese firm with a strong presence in Europe and Asia, specializes in high-purity squalene for both cosmetic and medical applications. Known for its advanced refining processes, the company supplies squalene to vaccine manufacturers and dermatological product developers. Its technical expertise ensures consistent quality with its strategic position in the MEA supply chain in healthcare-related applications.
Key players in the MEA animal sourced squalene market employ strategic initiatives to reinforce their market standing and ensure long-term relevance. One of the most common strategies is investing in sustainable sourcing practices to address growing environmental concerns. Companies are partnering with fisheries and regulatory bodies to ensure ethical harvesting and traceability by aligning with consumer expectations and global sustainability trends.
Another key approach is product differentiation through formulation innovation. Leading suppliers enhance squalene’s performance by integrating it into novel delivery systems such as nanoemulsions and encapsulated formats. These advancements improve bioavailability and application versatilityin pharmaceutical and luxury skincare sectors across the MEA region.
Brand collaborations and co-development partnerships have become essential growth strategies. By working closely with premium beauty brands and biopharmaceutical firms operating in the MEA market, squalene suppliers can tailor offerings to specific industry needs while strengthening customer loyalty and securing long-term contracts within niche market segments.
In March 2023, Aker BioMarine announced a collaboration with a leading UAE-based skincare brand to develop a new line of marine-derived facial oils featuring sustainably sourced squalene, which is emphasizing ecological impact reduction and ethical branding.
In July 2023, Croda International introduced a customized squalene-based formulation designed specifically for the Middle Eastern climate by targeting hydration and sun protection needs in high-temperature environments through exclusive retail partnerships in Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
In October 2023, Nikko Chemicals expanded its distribution network in North Africa by establishing a logistics partnership in Egypt to ensure faster and more efficient delivery of high-purity squalene to pharmaceutical and cosmetic clients.
In January 2024, a consortium of European squalene producers launched a joint certification initiative aimed at promoting responsible shark fishing practices and enhancing consumer confidence in animal sourced ingredients within the MEA market.
In May 2024, a prominent South African pharmaceutical company partnered with an international squalene supplier to integrate the ingredient into a new line of clinical skincare treatments, expanding its use beyond traditional cosmetic applications into medical dermatology.
This research report on the MEA animal-sourced squalene market has been segmented and sub-segmented into the following categories.
By Application
By Country
Frequently Asked Questions
Key drivers include rising demand for natural ingredients in cosmetics, increasing vaccine production (squalene is used as an adjuvant), and growing awareness of skincare and anti-aging products.
Major consumers include Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa, and Egypt, due to their well-established pharmaceutical and cosmetics sectors.
Yes, there is a growing interest in plant-based (e.g., olive-derived) or synthetic squalene due to ethical and sustainability concerns around shark-derived products, but animal-sourced variants are still widely used due to cost-effectiveness.
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