China Citronella Oil Market Size, Share Global Analysis Report, 2026-2034

Industry Insights

[220+ Pages Report] According to Facts & Factors, the china citronella oil market size was estimated at USD 25 million in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 42 million by the end of 2034. The china citronella oil industry is anticipated to grow by a CAGR of 5.7% between 2026 and 2034. The china citronella oil Market is driven by increasing demand for natural insect repellents.

Market Overview

Citronella oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves and stems of various species of Cymbopogon grass, commonly known as lemongrass, characterized by its fresh, citrus-like scent and natural properties that make it effective for repelling insects and providing aromatic benefits. The China citronella oil market refers to the ecosystem involving the cultivation, extraction, processing, distribution, and utilization of this oil within China, serving diverse sectors such as personal care, household cleaning, and traditional medicine. As a key producer of the Ceylon variety, China leverages its favorable climatic conditions in southern regions to support both local consumption and international trade, fostering innovation in product formulations and sustainable practices to meet evolving consumer preferences for eco-friendly and organic alternatives.

Key Insights

• As per the analysis shared by our research analyst, the china citronella oil market is estimated to grow annually at a CAGR of around 5.7% over the forecast period (2026-2034).
• In terms of revenue, the china citronella oil market size was valued at around USD 25 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 42 million, by 2034.
• The market is driven by increasing consumer preference for natural and organic products in insect repellents and personal care.
• Based on the type, the Ceylon segment dominated the market in 2025 with a market share of 60% & why it is dominated due to China's extensive cultivation of the Ceylon variety, which offers a milder scent preferred in local applications.
• Based on the application, the insect repellent segment dominated the market in 2025 with a market share of 50% & why it is dominated owing to high seasonal demand for mosquito control in humid regions.
• Based on the end-user, the household segment dominated the market in 2025 with a market share of 45% & why it is dominated as consumers increasingly adopt natural home care solutions.
• Based on the region, the South China region dominated the market in 2025 with a market share of 35% & why it is dominated due to optimal growing conditions and established production hubs in provinces like Guangdong and Guangxi.

Growth Drivers

• Rising Preference for Natural Insect Repellents

The surge in awareness regarding the harmful effects of chemical-based repellents has led consumers in China to shift towards natural alternatives like citronella oil, which is perceived as safer for family use, especially in households with children and pets. This trend is amplified by urban expansion and increased outdoor activities, where effective yet eco-friendly protection against mosquitoes and other pests is essential, driving consistent demand across retail channels.

Furthermore, government initiatives promoting green consumerism and sustainable agriculture have encouraged local farmers to expand citronella cultivation, ensuring a stable supply chain and reducing import dependency. Innovations in blending citronella oil with other essential oils for enhanced efficacy have also broadened its appeal, contributing to market expansion in both urban and rural areas.

Restraints

• Supply Chain Vulnerabilities Due to Climate Variability

Fluctuations in weather patterns, such as excessive rainfall or droughts in key growing regions, pose significant risks to citronella grass yields, leading to inconsistent supply and price volatility that can deter manufacturers from relying heavily on domestic sources. This challenge is compounded by limited diversification in cultivation areas, making the market susceptible to regional disruptions.

Additionally, quality control issues arising from adulteration or improper extraction methods can undermine consumer trust, restricting market penetration in premium segments. Regulatory hurdles related to export standards further complicate the landscape, potentially limiting growth opportunities for smaller producers.

Opportunities

• Expansion in Cosmetics and Personal Care Applications

The booming beauty industry in China presents ample opportunities for citronella oil integration into skincare and haircare products, leveraging its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties to appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking multifunctional natural ingredients. Collaborations between local brands and international firms can facilitate product innovation, such as citronella-infused lotions and serums.

Moreover, the rise of e-commerce platforms enables wider distribution, allowing niche producers to reach tech-savvy millennials and Gen Z demographics who prioritize clean beauty. Investments in research for sustainable extraction technologies could enhance product purity, opening doors to high-end markets and export growth.

Challenges

• Competition from Synthetic Alternatives

Synthetic repellents often offer longer-lasting protection at lower costs, posing a threat to citronella oil's market share among price-sensitive consumers in lower-tier cities. This competition is intensified by aggressive marketing from chemical companies, which can overshadow the benefits of natural options.

In addition, limited consumer education on the advantages of citronella oil over synthetics hinders adoption, requiring targeted awareness campaigns. Supply shortages during peak seasons can also drive users towards readily available alternatives, challenging the market's resilience.

Report Scope

Market Segmentation

The china citronella oil market is segmented by type, application, end-user, and region.

Based on Type Segment, the china citronella oil market is divided into Java, Ceylon, and others. The most dominant segment is Ceylon, accounting for the largest share due to its widespread cultivation in southern China, where climatic conditions favor high-quality yields, driving market growth through reliable supply for domestic and export needs. The second most dominant is Java, which gains traction for its stronger citronellal content, enhancing effectiveness in repellent formulations and supporting industry expansion by catering to specialized applications.

Based on Application Segment, the china citronella oil market is divided into insect repellent, aromatherapy, food & beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and others. The most dominant segment is insect repellent, holding the biggest portion as it addresses prevalent mosquito issues in humid areas, boosting market dynamics through seasonal demand spikes and product diversification. The second most dominant is cosmetics, which contributes significantly by incorporating the oil's soothing properties into skincare lines, propelling growth via the rising beauty sector's emphasis on natural ingredients.

Based on End-User Segment, the china citronella oil market is divided into household, commercial, industrial. The most dominant segment is household, leading with extensive use in home repellents and cleaners, fueling market advancement through everyday consumer adoption and eco-friendly trends. The second most dominant is commercial, aiding growth by supplying hotels and retail for ambient scenting and pest control, expanding reach in service industries.

Recent Developments

• In 2025, Anhui Great Nation Essential Oils Co, Ltd announced an expansion of its production facilities in Anhui province to increase output by 20%, focusing on sustainable farming practices to meet rising domestic demand for organic citronella oil.
• Jiangxi Hengcheng Natural Flavor Oil Co, Ltd partnered with a major cosmetics brand in 2024 to develop a new line of citronella-based skincare products, emphasizing anti-inflammatory benefits and targeting urban consumers in eastern cities.
• A key industry event in 2025 saw several Chinese producers collaborate on research for improved extraction techniques, aiming to enhance oil purity and reduce environmental impact, fostering innovation across the supply chain.

Regional Analysis

• South China to dominate the market

South China stands out as a pivotal region in the china citronella oil market, benefiting from its tropical climate that supports extensive cultivation of citronella grass, particularly in provinces like Guangdong and Guangxi where large-scale plantations thrive. This area serves as the primary production hub, enabling efficient harvesting and processing that cater to both local markets and exports, with Guangdong emerging as the dominating province due to its advanced infrastructure and access to ports for international trade. The region's integration of traditional herbal practices with modern manufacturing further strengthens its position, promoting product diversity and attracting investments in sustainable agriculture.

East China contributes significantly to the market through its bustling urban centers such as Shanghai and Jiangsu, where high population density drives demand for citronella oil in personal care and household products. Zhejiang province dominates here with its robust distribution networks and e-commerce platforms that facilitate rapid consumer access, enhancing market penetration. The area's focus on innovation in formulations, like blending citronella with other essentials for premium repellents, supports steady growth, while proximity to major ports aids in importing complementary ingredients.

North China, encompassing Beijing and Hebei, experiences growing adoption of citronella oil amid increasing awareness of natural wellness solutions in colder climates. Hebei province leads as the dominating area, leveraging its industrial base for processing and packaging, which helps bridge supply from southern regions to northern consumers. The market in this region is bolstered by seasonal demand for repellents during warmer months, with urban lifestyles prompting incorporation into air fresheners and cleaners for everyday use.

Central China, including Hunan and Hubei, plays a supportive role with its transitional climate aiding limited local cultivation while relying on southern supplies. Hubei province dominates through its central logistics advantages, enabling efficient distribution to surrounding areas and fostering market stability. The region's emphasis on pharmaceuticals integrates citronella oil into traditional medicines, driving niche demand and encouraging research into health applications.

Southwest China, with Yunnan and Sichuan, benefits from diverse terrains suitable for citronella growth, particularly in Yunnan which dominates as a key cultivation zone with ethnic traditions incorporating the oil in remedies. This region's market is enhanced by tourism, where citronella products are popular for outdoor activities, supporting local economies and export potential.

Northwest China, covering Shaanxi and Gansu, sees emerging interest despite arid conditions, with Shaanxi dominating via its historical herbal expertise and processing facilities. The market here focuses on industrial uses, such as in detergents, aided by government incentives for green products.

Northeast China, including Liaoning and Heilongjiang, has nascent market presence, with Liaoning leading through industrial hubs that import and formulate citronella oil for repellents. The region's harsh winters limit cultivation, but rising health trends boost consumption in urban areas.

Competitive Analysis

The china citronella oil market is dominated by players:

• Anhui Great Nation Essential Oils Co, Ltd
• Jiangxi Hengcheng Natural Flavor Oil Co, Ltd
• Nanchang Yang Pu Natural Essence & Spice Co., Ltd
• Other domestic producers

The china citronella oil market is segmented as follows:

By Type

• Java
• Ceylon
• Others

By Application

• Insect Repellent
• Aromatherapy
• Food & Beverages
• Cosmetics
• Pharmaceuticals
• Others

By End-User

• Household
• Commercial
• Industrial

By Region

• East China
• South China
• North China
• Central China
• Southwest China
• Northwest China
• Northeast China