1 Global Tear Gas Market Insight Analysis
The global tear gas market revenue is USD 241.61 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 5.20% from 2024 to 2033.
Tear gas, also known as a lachrymator agent or lachrymator, is a chemical weapon that stimulates the nerves of the lacrimal gland in the eye to produce tears. In addition, it can cause severe eye and respiratory pain, skin irritation, bleeding, and blindness. Tear gas are commonly deployed for riot control by law enforcement and military personnel.
Figure Global Tear Gas Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2024-2033)
2 Tear Gas Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
The significant increase in various demonstrations and protests around the world is a key driver of the tear gas market growth. Frequent protests related to race, public policy, economy, etc. have prompted law enforcement agencies to frequently use tear gas to disperse crowds. For example, the “Black Lives Matter” movement, protests caused by epidemic prevention and control measures, farmers’ demonstrations in India, and economic policy protests in Latin America and South America have led to a significant increase in the demand for tear gas. Tear gas has been regarded as a “non-lethal weapon” since World War I.
In conflict areas, especially in areas with relatively loose international and national regulations, such as East Africa and the Indian subcontinent, its market demand continues to grow. With the increase in global population and the advancement of urbanization, the number of potential conflict scenarios has increased, which also provides continuous demand support for the tear gas market. There is a growing opposition to the use of tear gas in the international community. Although the 1993 Chemical Weapons Convention prohibits the use of tear gas in war, its use in law enforcement is still not completely banned.
However, there are many problems with the use of tear gas. It is indiscriminate and is often abused in peaceful gatherings and closed spaces, and has a greater impact on vulnerable groups. Tear gas can cause a variety of health hazards to the human body, including skin allergies, respiratory damage and even death. There have been deaths caused by tear gas in Egypt, Gaza, Bahrain and other places. These hazards have triggered strong opposition from the public and relevant institutions. The University of Toronto International Human Rights Project has called for a ban on the use of chemical weapons, which has to some extent affected the use of tear gas by law enforcement agencies, thereby restricting market development.
Emerging technologies and more peaceful dispute resolution methods pose challenges to the tear gas market. New technologies such as active denial systems can be used as non-lethal alternatives by emitting electromagnetic rays to heat the skin but without lasting effects. At the same time, peaceful dispute resolution methods such as the use of signs and announcements by the Berlin police and the introduction of third-party negotiations by the Spanish police can avoid escalation of conflicts and reduce the use of tear gas, thereby suppressing market demand. Relevant laws and regulations in some countries and regions also restrict the tear gas market.
There are disputes in some states of the United States over the regulations on the use of tear gas by police. Some states have attempted to ban or restrict its use, such as the relevant laws in Oregon and Berkeley, which have directly affected the sales and development of tear gas in the local area.
3 Technological Innovations in the Tear Gas Market
In terms of materials, tear gas irritants are gradually innovating towards a safer and more environmentally friendly direction. Traditional tear gas mainly uses substances such as CS and CN, but its side effects are long-lasting and the residual substances are difficult to remove. With the development of technology, materials such as capsaicin that are less toxic, more irritating and more environmentally friendly are gradually gaining attention.
Capsaicin works by causing a burning sensation on the skin, has few side effects, and the residual substances after use can be naturally decomposed, without pollution to the environment. It is expected to gradually replace traditional irritants. In terms of launch technology, the tear gas manufacturing industry has also made progress. Advanced launch technology can achieve longer distances and larger ranges of tear gas delivery, improving its effectiveness in law enforcement and military applications. This not only enhances the efficiency of tear gas in actual use, but also expands its application scenarios.
Corporate mergers and acquisitions occur frequently in the tear gas market, which has an important impact on the market structure. For example, Wescom Group acquired PW Defence Ltd., a British military fireworks manufacturer. This move enabled Wescom Group to expand its defense product portfolio, expand its international sales network, and obtain new manufacturing and testing facilities. By integrating PW Defence’s resources and technology, Wescom Group has enhanced its influence in the global survival market, especially in the defense field, and strengthened its competitiveness in the tear gas and related product markets.
Rheinmetall Denel Munition has won a large artillery ammunition contract from a NATO customer, which reflects the company’s advantages in product quality and technical strength and helps it further consolidate its position in the market. The funds and market recognition brought by large orders have made it more advantageous in R&D investment and production scale expansion, which indirectly affects the competitive landscape of the tear gas market.
Other companies may need to increase investment to enhance their competitiveness, thereby promoting the development and transformation of the entire market. Through mergers and acquisitions, companies can optimize resource allocation, achieve complementary advantages, and enhance their competitiveness in the market, thereby affecting the competitive landscape and development direction of the tear gas market.
4 Global Tear Gas Market Size by Type
CN, also known as chloroacetophenone, is a white crystalline solid that is denser than water and insoluble in water. It is primarily used in tear gas and chemical Mace. In 2024, the CN segment is projected to generate a revenue of 54.39 million USD, accounting for approximately 22.51% of the total global tear gas market revenue. This type of tear gas has been one of the earliest agents used, though its usage has declined in some regions due to its relatively higher toxicity and shorter duration of effect compared to CS. Despite these limitations, CN remains a significant player in the market, particularly in specific applications and regions where its properties are still valued.
CS, also known as o-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, is a white crystalline powder that produces a colorless gas when burned. It is the most widely used tear gas agent globally due to its effectiveness and relatively lower toxicity compared to CN. In 2024, the CS segment is expected to achieve a revenue of 187.23 million USD, representing 77.49% of the total market revenue. CS is preferred for riot control and crowd management applications, making it the dominant type in the market. Its broad acceptance and usage in law enforcement and military applications contribute to its significant market share and revenue.
Table Global Tear Gas Market Size and Share by Type in 2024
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
2-Chloroacetophenone(CN) | 54.39 | 22.51% |
O-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile(CS) | 187.23 | 77.49% |
5 Global Tear Gas Market Size by Application
For the army, the consumption of tear gas in 2024 is estimated to be 2,106.2 K Units. The army uses tear gas mainly for riot control during military operations, training scenarios, and maintaining order in conflict – affected areas. Tear gas provides a non – lethal option for the army to disperse crowds or gain control in situations where lethal force is not appropriate.
Although its consumption volume is not as high as that of law enforcement agencies, it still plays an important role in military operations. In terms of market share, the army’s consumption accounts for approximately 15.25% of the total global tear gas consumption in 2024. This relatively stable demand from the army contributes to the overall stability of the tear gas market.
Law enforcement agencies are the major consumers of tear gas. In 2024, their consumption is projected to reach 11,705.8 K Units, taking up a significant market share of about 84.75%. Law enforcement agencies around the world rely on tear gas as a crucial tool for crowd control during protests, demonstrations, and civil unrest. With the increasing frequency of various public gatherings and potential conflicts, the demand for tear gas from law enforcement has been on the rise.
For example, during large – scale protests related to social justice issues or economic policies, law enforcement often uses tear gas to maintain public order and ensure the safety of citizens and property. This high consumption volume and large market share indicate that law enforcement agencies are the driving force behind the growth of the tear gas market in terms of application.
Table Global Tear Gas Consumption (K Units) and Share by Application in 2024
Application | Consumption (K Units) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
Army | 2106.2 | 15.25% |
Law Enforcement Agencies | 11705.8 | 84.75% |
6 Global Tear Gas Market Size by Region
North America is a significant market for tear gas consumption. In 2024, the consumption in North America is expected to be 2,729.5 K Units. The United States, as a major part of North America, has a consumption of 2,431.4 K Units. The high consumption in the US is due to its complex social environment, where protests and demonstrations occur frequently on various issues such as race, politics, and social policies.
Law enforcement agencies in the US often use tear gas to manage large – scale crowds during these events. Canada, on the other hand, has a consumption of 298.1 K Units. Although its consumption is lower than that of the US, it still reflects the need for tear gas in maintaining public order during protests or emergencies in the country.
Europe is also an important market for tear gas. The total consumption in Europe in 2024 is estimated to be 2,401.4 K Units. Germany, with a consumption of 498.7 K Units, is one of the major consumers in Europe. Germany has a well – developed law enforcement system, and tear gas is used as a means of crowd control during large – scale public events, such as political rallies and festivals. France follows with a consumption of 418.4 K Units.
In France, tear gas is used to deal with various public order situations, including protests against government policies. The UK, Italy, Russia, and other countries in Europe also contribute to the overall consumption. Each country has its own unique social and political context, which leads to different demands for tear gas in maintaining public safety.
In the Asia – Pacific region, the consumption of tear gas in 2024 is expected to reach 2,934.1 K Units. China’s consumption is 1,274.2 K Units. China uses tear gas mainly for law enforcement purposes in specific situations to maintain social stability and public order. Japan’s consumption is 290.5 K Units, and it is used in scenarios where law enforcement needs to control unruly crowds.
South Korea, Southeast Asia, India, and other countries and regions in the Asia – Pacific also have their respective consumption levels. The development of these regions in terms of tear gas consumption is related to their economic development, population density, and social governance needs.
Latin America has a projected consumption of 1,297.7 K Units in 2024. Mexico and Brazil are the major consumers in this region, with consumption of 477.0 K Units and 507.3 K Units respectively. The social and political situations in these countries, such as economic inequality – related protests, contribute to the demand for tear gas.
The Middle East and Africa region shows a relatively high consumption of 4,449.4 K Units in 2024. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey have significant consumption levels. In the Middle East, the complex geopolitical situation, as well as internal social and political issues, lead to a higher demand for tear gas in maintaining public order and national security. In Africa, countries also use tear gas to deal with various public safety challenges.
Figure Global Tear Gas Consumption (K Units) by Region in 2024
7 Global Tear Gas Market Analysis by Major Players
7.1 Safariland
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Safariland is a leading global provider of safety and survivability products designed for the public safety, military, professional, and outdoor markets. Established in 1964 and headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, Safariland offers a diverse range of products under recognized brand names such as Safariland®, ABA®, Second Chance®, and others.
Safariland specializes in manufacturing and supplying a wide array of safety equipment, including tear gas products, duty aerosols, less-lethal impact munitions, crowd management products, and tactical deployment devices. The company’s products are designed to maximize safety and minimize injury, making them highly valued in law enforcement and military applications.
Products:
Safariland’s tear gas products include the Spede-Heat™ 37 mm CS Short-Range Round, which is designed for outdoor use in crowd control situations. This product delivers a significant volume of active agent over a short range, making it effective for high-volume continuous burn applications.
Market Performance in 2022:
In 2022, Safariland’s tear gas segment generated a revenue of 32.69 million USD with a gross margin of 28.78%. The company sold 2,355.9 K Units of tear gas products, maintaining its position as the market leader with a revenue market share of 15.40%.
7.2 Condor Non-Lethal Technologies
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Condor Non-Lethal Technologies is a global leader in non-lethal technology, specializing in the development and production of high-tech equipment, non-lethal ammunition, and pyrotechnics for signaling and salvage. Established in 1985 and based in Brazil, Condor operates in over 60 countries worldwide.
Condor is committed to protecting life through its extensive range of non-lethal products. The company’s products are used in various applications, including riot control and crowd management, making it a trusted supplier for law enforcement and military agencies globally.
Products:
Condor’s tear gas product portfolio includes the GL-203/L cartridge, designed for riot control and crime-fighting applications. This 37/40 mm cartridge delivers tear gas projectiles over a range of 90 meters, making it highly effective for crowd dispersal.
Market Performance in 2022:
In 2022, Condor Non-Lethal Technologies achieved a revenue of 23.16 million USD with a gross margin of 28.59%. The company sold 1,203.3 K Units of tear gas products, securing a revenue market share of 10.91%.
7.3 Combined Systems
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Combined Systems, Inc. (CSI) is a recognized leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of security products for the global defense and law enforcement markets. Established in 1981 and headquartered in the United States, CSI specializes in less-lethal munitions and launching systems.
Combined Systems provides a wide range of products for riot control, police tactical teams, corrections officers, and military units. The company’s blue-chip customer base includes major U.S. law enforcement agencies, the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, and foreign military and security forces.
Products:
Combined Systems’ tear gas products include the 3210 – 37MM SHORT RANGE SMOKE, PYRO, 4.9″ LONG cartridge. This short-range smoke cartridge is designed for outdoor use as a signaling device, crowd dispersal, or area denial.
Market Performance in 2022:
In 2022, Combined Systems recorded a revenue of 17.24 million USD with a gross margin of 25.00%. The company sold 800.4 K Units of tear gas products, holding a revenue market share of 8.12%.