The global industrial starch market size was estimated at USD 124.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 197.4 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2025 to 2030. A key driver behind this substantial expansion is the increasing consumer demand for convenience foods, which has, in turn, elevated the need for starch. In these food products, starch plays a vital role as a gelling, stabilizing, and thickening agent, contributing to both the texture and shelf-life of processed foods.

Moreover, the rapid growth and modernization of the food industry, particularly in developing nations, are further fueling the demand for industrial starch. These regions are experiencing rising urbanization and changing dietary habits, which are increasing the consumption of packaged and ready-to-eat food items—industries that heavily rely on starch-based ingredients.

In addition to its role in the food sector, industrial starch is gaining importance in sustainable and eco-conscious initiatives. The global shift toward environmentally friendly materials has led to increased use of starch in the production of biodegradable packaging. Starch-based bioplastics are emerging as a viable alternative to conventional plastic packaging, aligning with global sustainability goals and regulatory pressures to reduce plastic waste.

Technological advancements in starch processing have also significantly contributed to the market’s growth. Innovations in extraction and modification techniques have improved the functionality, consistency, and performance of starch, making it suitable for a broader range of industrial applications. For instance, in the paper industry, starch is utilized to enhance paper strength, printability, and surface finish. In the textile sector, starch serves a critical function in fabric finishing and sizing processes, improving texture and handling. In the pharmaceutical industry, starch is widely used as a binder and disintegrant in tablet formulations, ensuring both structural integrity and timely dissolution of medications.

Key Market Trends & Insights:

• In 2024, North America emerged as the leading region in the global industrial starch market, commanding a significant revenue share of 48.6%. This dominance highlights the region’s well-established industrial infrastructure, advanced food processing industries, and strong demand for starch-based products. Within North America, the United States stood out as the key market contributor, capturing the largest revenue share of the industrial starch market in 2024. This can be attributed to the country’s vast agricultural base, particularly its extensive corn production, as well as its high consumption of processed foods and growing emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions.

• When analyzing the market by application, the food and beverage sector represented the largest portion of the industrial starch market, accounting for 57.7% of the total revenue in 2024. This significant share reflects the widespread use of starch in a variety of food products, where it functions primarily as a thickening, stabilizing, and gelling agent. The food and beverage industry’s continuous innovation and increasing consumer preference for convenience foods are key factors driving the demand in this segment.

• Regarding the source of starch, the corn segment held the dominant market share globally in 2024. Corn remains the most widely cultivated and utilized starch source due to its abundant availability, cost-effectiveness, and versatile functionality across different industries. Corn starch is preferred not only for food applications but also for industrial uses such as paper manufacturing and bioplastics production.

• Lastly, when segmented by product type, native starch along with starch derivatives and sweeteners collectively led the global industrial starch market in 2024. Native starch is valued for its natural, unmodified properties and wide applicability, while starch derivatives and sweeteners—such as maltodextrins, glucose syrups, and high-fructose corn syrup—are extensively used in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors for their enhanced functional attributes.

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Market Size & Forecast:

• 2024 Market Size: USD 124.6 Billion

• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 197.4 Billion

• CAGR (2025-2030): 8.1%

• North America: Largest market in 2024

• Asia Pacific: Fastest growing market

Key Companies & Market Share Insights:

Some of the leading players in the global industrial starch market include major companies such as Cargill, Incorporated, Archer Daniels Midland Company, Ingredion Incorporated, Tate & Lyle PLC, AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG, among others. These companies play a pivotal role in shaping the market through their extensive product portfolios, innovative solutions, and widespread global presence.

Cargill, Incorporated is known for offering a broad spectrum of starch products sourced from raw materials like corn, wheat, and tapioca. Their diverse range of starches is tailored to meet the needs of multiple industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and paper manufacturing. Cargill’s ability to supply high-quality starches for applications ranging from food texture enhancement to pharmaceutical excipients and paper strength additives underlines its strong market position.

Similarly, Tate & Lyle PLC is another prominent company providing an extensive portfolio of starches and sweeteners. Their product range caters to a variety of sectors, including the food and beverage industry, where starches improve product texture and shelf life; the pharmaceutical industry, where starches serve critical functional roles; and the personal care sector, which utilizes these ingredients in products such as cosmetics and toiletries. Tate & Lyle’s focus on innovation and sustainability in their starch and sweetener offerings further strengthens their market leadership.

Key Players

• Cargill, Incorporated

• Archer Daniels Midland Company

• Ingredion Incorporated

• Tate & Lyle PLC

• AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG

• Grain Processing Corporation

• Roquette Frères

• Tereos Group

• Royal Cosun

• Altia Industrial

• Global Bio-chem Technology Group Company Limited

• General Starch Limited

• Eiamheng

• Coöperatie Koninklijke Avebe U.A.

• Galam Group

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Conclusion:

The global industrial starch market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for convenience foods and the expansion of its applications across various industries. Technological advancements in starch processing are enhancing its functionality, enabling its use in a broader range of applications. Additionally, the shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions is contributing to the market's expansion. The market's growth is further supported by favorable government initiatives and investments in research and development. However, challenges such as supply chain disruptions and environmental concerns related to processing need to be addressed to sustain this growth trajectory.