The global sorbitan monostearate market is forecast to grow from USD 391.17 million in 2025 to USD 584.41 million by 2031, at a CAGR of 6.92% over the forecast period, according to GII and industry data. Sorbitan monostearate (Span 60) is a non-ionic sorbitan ester emulsifier used in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and industrial applications.

Sorbitan monostearate serves as an emulsifier and stabilizer in food, personal care and pharmaceutical formulations, and as a surfactant and processing aid in industrial and polymer applications. Demand is tied to the expansion of food and beverage emulsifier demand, the growth of cosmetics and personal care, and the rising use of bio-based oleochemical esters. Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, supported by extensive food, cosmetic and manufacturing industries in China, India and Southeast Asia.

Europe and North America sustain steady demand in premium food and pharmaceutical applications. Continued food and personal-care growth positions sorbitan monostearate as a steadily advancing non-ionic sorbitan ester emulsifier and lubricant.