World's Largest Producer, Market Share Continues to Rise
China has become the world's largest producer of silicone softeners. In 2025, domestic silicone monomer production capacity reached 6.2 million tons/year, of which approximately 420,000 tons/year was dedicated to silicone softener intermediates used in textile finishing, accounting for nearly 48% of global capacity. China not only meets domestic demand but also exports products to Southeast Asia and Europe through a stable supply chain. In 2025, silicone softener exports increased by 15.7% year-on-year, significantly outpacing import growth, further consolidating its global market position.

High-end Market Breakthrough, Technology-Driven Upgrades
Despite China's production capacity advantage, the high-end market still faces challenges. In 2025, China imported approximately 21,000 tons of high-end silicone softeners, mainly relying on technologically advanced products from international giants such as Wacker Chemie (Germany) and Momentive (USA). However, domestic companies are narrowing the gap through technological innovation: fourth-generation silicone softeners have achieved molecular structure innovation, a biodegradability rate exceeding 65%, and VOC emission intensity reduced to 0.68 kg/ton, with some products already reaching international advanced levels. In 2025, China's high-end production capacity reached 87,000 tons, accounting for 31% of the high-end market. The penetration rate of high-end products is projected to exceed 60% by 2029.

Accelerated Green Transformation, Alignment with Global Standards
China's silicone softener industry is accelerating its green transformation. In 2025, the market penetration rate of environmentally friendly products increased to 41%, with strong demand for new environmentally friendly materials such as water-based amino silicone softeners and low-yellowing products, commanding a 20%-30% premium over traditional products. Simultaneously, domestic companies are actively participating in international standard setting, promoting mutual recognition of Chinese standards with international standards, and providing crucial support for the global green transformation of textile chemicals.