As per MRFR analysis, the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Size was estimated at 326.29 (USD Million) in 2023.The South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Industry is expected to grow from 346.85 (USD Million) in 2024 to 817.73 (USD Million) by 2035. The South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 8.109% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Key South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Trends Highlighted
The South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market is witnessing several noteworthy market trends driven by an increasing awareness of environmental sustainability and the potential for waste-to-energy initiatives. As the country aims to reduce its carbon footprint and promote renewable energy sources, the use of biodiesel from used cooking oil plays a crucial role. The South African government has been supporting policies and initiatives that encourage the recycling of waste cooking oil into biodiesel, aligning with its broader goals for energy security and environmental protection. In recent times, there has been a rising demand for biofuels, especially as the transport sector seeks to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
The change is providing opportunities for companies involved in the recovering, processing, and recycling of used cooking oil. In addition, local food industries and restaurants are beginning to understand the importance of their byproducts which aid in developing better collection systems for supporting the circular economy. However, alongside market growth, there is also a demand for improved regulations and commercial standards to protect public welfare in terms of the quality and safety of reprocessed oil.
The government of South Africa, in cooperation with different industrial institutions, is working on the development of the infrastructure and systems for collection. The drivers of change point to a positive shift in the relationship between environmental and economic goals in the spent cooking oil industry, allowing market participants to flourish while enhancing sustainable practice.The potential for innovation in biofuel technology and further market expansion remains significant as stakeholders work toward integrating sustainability into their business models effectively.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Drivers
Government Initiatives for Waste Management
The South African government is actively promoting sustainable waste management practices, which significantly impacts the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Industry. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has implemented policies encouraging recycling and repurposing of waste products, including cooking oil. A study by the South African Waste Information Centre reported that around 60% of the country's waste is not recycled, highlighting a critical area of growth opportunity.
As regulations tighten and initiatives encourage businesses to dispose of waste responsibly, the used cooking oil market is expected to see a substantial increase. Moreover, the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme supports the conversion of waste into energy, which aligns with the growing trend for sustainable energy solutions.
Rise in Biodiesel Production
A significant driver of the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market is the increasing demand for biodiesel. The South African biofuels industry is aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels, with a target set by the National Biofuels Strategy aiming for 2% of the country's diesel supply to be sourced from biodiesel by 2025. The Biofuels Association of South Africa estimates that using used cooking oil can provide up to 60% of the biodiesel needed to meet this target.
This initiative not only promotes environmental sustainability but also drives the collection of used cooking oil from various establishments, creating a solid market for traders and processors within this segment.
Growing Awareness of Health Impacts
There is an increasing awareness in South Africa regarding the health impacts of used cooking oil on public health. Reports from the South African Department of Health indicate that improper disposal of oils contributes to various health-related issues, such as heart disease. According to local health assessments, improper waste cooking oil disposal has been linked to a surge in cardiovascular-related health complaints. Public health campaigns are pushing for the recycling of used cooking oils to mitigate these health risks, thus pulling consumers and businesses toward responsible disposal practices, positively impacting the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Industry.
Technological Advancements in Oil Collection and Processing
The South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Industry is benefiting from technological advancements that enhance the oil collection and recycling process. Innovations in collection technologies and better refining methods have made it easier and more efficient to process used cooking oil into high-quality biodiesel. For instance, the implementation of IoT and smart sensors in collection systems allows for optimized routing and frequency of pickups, thereby increasing the responsiveness of collection services.
The South African Association of Recycling Industries notes that these technological improvements could potentially triple the efficiency of collection and processing over the next decade, thus fostering growth in the used cooking oil market.
South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Segment Insights
Used Cooking Oil Market Source Insights
The South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market showcases a diverse Source segment that plays a vital role in overall market dynamics, divided primarily into Food Manufacturers, HoReCa, Household, and Others. The Food Manufacturers segment has been critical, as they generate considerable volumes of used cooking oil that can be repurposed for biodiesel production or other industrial uses, enhancing sustainability in the food industry. As the food processing sector continues to expand in South Africa, characterized by robust growth in local consumption and export demands, this segment is likely to experience increased attention from industries seeking to optimize waste management and resource recovery.
HoReCa, encompassing hotels, restaurants, and catering services, represents another significant part of the Source segment, where the demand for cooking oil is substantial. This segment's operations often lead to significant oil disposal, making it a crucial contributor to the used cooking oil supply. As consumer preferences shift towards sustainable practices, establishments in the HoReCa industry are increasingly looking for effective ways to manage their cooking oil waste, which presents opportunities for recycling initiatives and partnerships with biodiesel producers.
The Household segment also contributes to the overall dynamics of the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market, as domestic cooking practices generate notable amounts of used oil. With rising awareness about environmental impacts, households are becoming more inclined towards responsible disposal methods, such as recycling used cooking oil, which has the potential to transform waste into valuable resources.
Lastly, the Others category encompasses various commercial producers and sectors that contribute to the used cooking oil market, highlighting the broader landscape wherein used oil can be sourced. These diverse sources underline the interconnectedness of various industries and the importance of promoting a circular economy, reflecting broader market trends emphasizing sustainability and resource efficiency. Overall, the Source segment of the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market encapsulates the complexities of oil disposal and recovery, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts across multiple industries to optimize used oil handling, tapping into economic and environmental opportunities.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Used Cooking Oil Market Application Insights
The Application segment of the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market plays a vital role in driving sustainability and economic growth in the region. The rising demand for biodiesel has gained traction due to government initiatives promoting renewable energy sources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Oleochemical products, derived from used cooking oil, are increasingly used in various industries, including cosmetics and detergents, highlighting their versatility and importance in sustainable manufacturing. The use of used cooking oil in animal feed represents a significant opportunity as it helps reduce waste and provides a cost-effective protein source for livestock, thus enhancing food security.
Additionally, the 'Others' category encompasses various niche applications that contribute to the holistic growth of the market. The interplay between these applications is crucial, as they collectively support the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market's objectives to minimize waste and promote a circular economy while addressing challenges like collection efficiency and consumer awareness. Overall, each application serves not only as an economic driver but also as a step towards more sustainable practices in the food industry and beyond in South Africa.
South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market has become increasingly competitive as awareness about sustainability and waste management practices rises among businesses and consumers alike. The sector primarily revolves around the recycling and repurposing of used cooking oil, which can be transformed into biodiesel and other valuable products. Various players are competing for market share, notably engaging in strategic partnerships, technological investments, and expanding their operational footprints to address the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions. The market dynamics are also influenced by regulatory frameworks promoting cleaner energy sources, which further propels the growth of companies focused on repurposing waste materials.
African Oil and Gas stands out in the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market due to its strong operational presence and commitment to promoting sustainable energy practices. The company has established itself as a key player by leveraging its logistics capabilities and network to efficiently collect and process used cooking oil. With a focus on biofuel production, African Oil and Gas has cultivated strong relationships with key suppliers, enabling it to maintain a consistent supply chain.
Furthermore, the company's investment in advanced processing technologies has allowed it to produce high-quality biodiesel that meets stringent regulatory standards. This commitment to quality ensures that African Oil and Gas can cater to a broad range of clients, from small restaurants to larger industrial clients in the renewable fuel sector, thereby solidifying its position in the market.
Waste2Energy has established itself as a significant player in the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market with a comprehensive approach to waste management and energy generation. The company specializes in converting waste cooking oils into high-grade biodiesel and other renewable energy products, boasting a state-of-the-art processing facility that enhances its competitive positioning. Strengthened by robust R&D initiatives, Waste2Energy continues to innovate in biodiesel production methods, ensuring efficiency and sustainability. Moreover, the company's strategic partnerships with local municipalities and food processing industries reinforce its market presence, facilitating effortless waste collection and processing.
Waste2Energy has also engaged in mergers and acquisitions that expand its operational capacity and market reach within South Africa, positioning itself as a leading force in the sustainable energy landscape. Through its commitment to sustainability and efficient resource utilization, Waste2Energy exemplifies the vital role that innovative waste management companies play in transforming the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market.
Key Companies in the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Include
South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market Industry Developments
The South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market has recently witnessed significant activity, reflecting its growing importance in sustainable energy solutions. Notably, companies such as Eco Fuel and Waste2Energy have expanded their operations to bolster the biodiesel production sector, driven by increasing demand for renewable energy. In September 2023, Sustainable Oils announced a partnership with The Oil Recycling Company to enhance their recycling capabilities, thus ensuring a more efficient supply chain for used cooking oil.
Moreover, in August 2023, Bunge South Africa completed the acquisition of Green Oil, aiming to strengthen its footprint in the biofuels market. This consolidation reflects a broader trend of mergers and acquisitions among key players, such as African Oil and Gas and Cargill South Africa, who are seeking to enhance operational efficiencies and market share in the rapidly evolving landscape.
Over the past couple of years, the South African government has emphasized the need for waste-to-energy initiatives, signaling a robust growth trajectory in the market. These developments have positively influenced the market valuation, with companies like Nedgroup Investments and Renewable Energy Solutions actively looking to invest in innovative solutions to elevate the sustainability narrative within the industry.
Used Cooking Oil Market Segmentation Insights
Used Cooking Oil Market Application Outlook
Biodiesel
Oleochemical Products
Animal Feed
Others
| Market Size 2023 | 326.29 (USD Million) |
| Market Size 2024 | 346.85 (USD Million) |
| Market Size 2035 | 817.73 (USD Million) |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) | 8.109% (2025 - 2035) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Market Forecast Period | 2025 - 2035 |
| Historical Data | 2019 - 2024 |
| Market Forecast Units | USD Million |
| Key Companies Profiled | African Oil and Gas, Waste2Energy, Eco Fuel, Biodiesel Group, The Oil Recycling Company, Sustainable Oils, Cargill South Africa, Bunge South Africa, Green Oil, AfriTech Oils, Omni Oils, Nedgroup Investments, Renewable Energy Solutions, Southern Oils, Enviro Waste |
| Segments Covered | Source, Application |
| Key Market Opportunities | Biodiesel production growth potential, Increasing environmental regulations compliance, Rising consumer demand for sustainable products, Waste-to-energy conversion innovations, Expansion in industrial applications usage |
| Key Market Dynamics | Increasing demand for biodiesel, stringent environmental regulations, rising waste management initiatives, growing food processing sector, health concerns over disposal methods |
| Countries Covered | South Africa |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market is expected to be valued at approximately 346.85 million USD in 2024.
By 2035, the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market is anticipated to reach around 817.73 million USD.
The expected CAGR for the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market from 2025 to 2035 is approximately 8.109 percent.
The Food Manufacturers segment is projected to contribute around 120.0 million USD in market value in 2024.
The HoReCa segment is expected to reach approximately 220.0 million USD in market value by 2035.
The Household segment is projected to have a market value of around 80.0 million USD in 2024.
The Others segment is anticipated to reach approximately 117.73 million USD in market value by 2035.
Major players in the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market include companies like African Oil and Gas, Waste2Energy, and Eco Fuel.
Challenges in the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market may include issues relating to regulatory compliance and competition from alternative fuel sources.
Key growth drivers for the South Africa Used Cooking Oil Market include increasing demand for sustainable energy sources and the rising production of biodiesel.
Leading companies partner with us for data-driven Insights.
Kindly complete the form below to receive a free sample of this Report
Senior Research Analyst I have a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and an mba. i have more than two years of expertise in the retail, food, and beverage, chemical, and material industries, and hence have developed a sound cross-domain expertise. a firm believer in lifelong learning and sharing of knowledge. having a proclivity for hatching ideas and trying to absorb as much information as possible in a short amount of time. introducing corporates to the data and insight, which enables them to move from probability to possibility, has been my key areas of interest.
Get in Touch
© 2025 Market Research Future ® (Part of WantStats Reasearch And Media Pvt. Ltd.)
