The global native starch market is witnessing significant growth, driven by its widespread use in various sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, paper, and textiles. Native starch, produced primarily from maize, wheat, cassava, potato, and rice, is a key ingredient in multiple industries, serving functions such as a thickening agent, stabilizer, moisture controller, and texture enhancer. As global demand continues to rise, the market is poised for steady expansion, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.30% from 2025 to 2034.

In this blog, we will explore the current landscape of the native starch market, key market segments, major growth drivers, and regional insights, shedding light on the factors that are shaping its future trajectory.

1. Overview of the Native Starch Market

Native starch is a naturally occurring starch that has not undergone any chemical modifications. It is derived from various raw materials, including maize (corn), cassava, wheat, potatoes, and rice. Globally, native starch accounts for over 35% of starch production, with a large portion used in food applications such as thickening agents and texture enhancers. Moreover, more than half of the starch output is used to produce sweeteners, while over 10% goes into the manufacturing of modified starch.

The main feedstocks for native starch production include maize, cassava, wheat, and potatoes. Maize, in particular, is a major contributor to the production of native starch, as it contains nearly 72% starch. In 2017, the global maize production reached approximately 1044.6 million tonnes, with the United States being the largest producer, contributing over 35% of the global output. Other key starch-producing regions include the European Union, Russia, China, and India, which are significant producers of wheat, potatoes, and cassava, respectively.

2. Key Drivers of the Native Starch Market

Several factors are contributing to the growing demand for native starch across industries:

2.1. Food and Beverage Applications

Native starch is extensively used in the food and beverage industry due to its versatile properties. It serves as a thickening agent, stabiliser, moisture controller, and dough binding agent in a wide variety of food products. With a rising global population, particularly in developing countries, the demand for processed and convenience foods is increasing. As a result, the native starch market benefits from its incorporation into products like dry mix soups, salad dressings, processed meats, spreads, and pudding powders. The growing trend of fast-paced lifestyles and increased disposable incomes has led to greater consumer preference for ready-to-eat meals, which further boosts the demand for native starch.

2.2. Growing Demand in Non-Food Applications

Apart from food, native starch is widely used in various non-food applications. In the textile industry, it is employed as a sizing agent, colour thickener, and finishing agent. Similarly, the paper industry relies on native starch for adhesive and coating purposes. As sustainability becomes a critical concern, there has been a marked shift towards bioplastics, and native starch plays a key role in this transition. Corn and potato starch, for example, are being used as substitutes for traditional plastics to produce biodegradable products like disposable plates and cutlery. This growing adoption of organic bioplastics is expected to support the long-term growth of the native starch market.

2.3. Environmental Consciousness and Sustainability

The increasing focus on sustainability is driving innovation in the native starch industry. With growing consumer and manufacturer awareness regarding environmental issues, the demand for bioplastics and biodegradable materials is rising. Native starch, being a renewable and biodegradable resource, has emerged as a preferred raw material for producing environmentally friendly products. This trend towards sustainability is expected to further elevate the demand for native starch in the coming years.

2.4. Technological Advancements

Technological advancements in starch processing have also contributed to the growth of the native starch market. Innovations in production methods and processing technologies have improved the efficiency of starch extraction, resulting in higher yields and more cost-effective production. Additionally, the development of speciality starches tailored to specific applications, such as modified starches for industrial use, has expanded the scope of native starch in various industries.

3. Market Segmentation

The global native starch market is segmented based on source, type, form, and application, each with its own set of characteristics and growth trends.

3.1. By Source

• Corn: Corn is the leading feedstock for native starch production. It accounts for a significant portion of the global starch market, and maize-derived starches are widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications.
• Wheat: Wheat starch is commonly used in the food and beverage industry, particularly in baking and confectionery products.
• Potato: Potato starch is valued for its high quality and versatility, making it a preferred choice for the food, paper, and textile industries.
• Cassava: Cassava starch is mainly produced in Africa and is used in both food and non-food sectors, particularly in regions where cassava is a staple food.
• Rice: Rice starch is used in various food products, especially in Asian countries, where rice is a dietary staple.

3.2. By Type

The major types of native starch include:

• Corn Starch
• Wheat Starch
• Potato Starch
• Cassava Starch
• Rice Starch

Each type has unique properties that make it suitable for specific applications. For example, corn starch is known for its versatility and is commonly used in the food industry, while potato starch is valued for its high viscosity and is used in the textile and paper industries.

3.3. By Form

Native starch is available in different forms:

• Gel: This form of starch is used in applications requiring thickening and gelling properties.
• Powder: Powdered starch is widely used in food products, adhesives, and the textile industry.
• Others: Other forms of native starch include pastes and slurries, which are used in specific industrial applications.

3.4. By Application

Native starch finds applications in several industries, including:

• Food Industry: As a thickener, stabiliser, and moisture controller in various food products.
• Paper Industry: Used for coating and adhesive purposes.
• Textile Industry: Utilised as a sizing agent and colour thickener.
• Pharmaceuticals: Serves as an excipient in the production of tablets and capsules.
• Personal Care: Employed in cosmetics and skincare products due to its skin-friendly properties.
• Others: Includes applications in the production of bioplastics, adhesives, and more.

4. Regional Insights

4.1. North America

The United States is the largest market for native starch, driven by its robust agricultural sector, which produces a significant amount of maize, wheat, and potatoes. The increasing demand for convenience foods, along with the growing popularity of bioplastics, is contributing to the growth of the native starch market in North America.

4.2. Europe

Europe is another key market for native starch, particularly in the food, paper, and textile industries. The region’s starch output saw a significant increase from 8.7 million tonnes in 2004 to 11 million tonnes in 2017. The European market is driven by the demand for sustainable products, with native starch finding increasing application in biodegradable packaging and organic bioplastics.

4.3. Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific region, particularly China and India, is witnessing significant growth in the native starch market. The rising population and urbanisation, coupled with a growing demand for processed foods, are key factors driving market expansion in this region.

4.4. Latin America and the Middle East

In Latin America, cassava is a key feedstock for native starch production. The Middle East and Africa, particularly Africa, is also a significant producer of cassava, and this region’s growing demand for starch-based products is contributing to the market’s expansion.

5. Competitive Landscape

The global native starch market is competitive, with several key players dominating the industry. Leading companies include:

• Cargill, Incorporated
• Tate & Lyle PLC
• Ingredion Incorporated
• Tereos Participations
• Roquette Frères S.A.
• Royal Avebe
• AGRANA Beteiligungs AG

These companies are focusing on expanding their production capacities, acquiring new facilities, and investing in research and development to meet the growing demand for native starch.

The global native starch market is set for significant growth in the coming years, driven by its expanding applications in food, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and non-food sectors. With increasing demand for sustainable products, technological advancements, and rising consumer preference for convenience foods, the market is poised for steady expansion. As key players continue to innovate and expand their production capabilities, the native starch market is expected to witness sustained growth, creating opportunities for manufacturers and stakeholders across the value chain.