Wheat Flour Market Growth Analysis - Market Size, Share, Forecast Trends and Outlook Report (2025-2034)

The global wheat flour market reached a volume of 409.93 MMT in 2024 and is further expected to 448.35 MMT by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 0.90% between 2025 and 2034.

Global Wheat Flour Market Growth

Wheat flour, derived from wheat grinding, is a versatile essential in diverse diets, varying by grain parts, milling methods, and gluten content. It is enriched with nutrients such as fibre, B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, providing significant energy owing to its high carbohydrate content. The soluble fibre present in wheat flour aids heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and supports digestive health by preventing constipation, thereby aiding in weight management through increased satiety.

The wheat flour market dynamics and trends are being boosted as it has a lower glycemic index than refined flour, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. It also promotes bone health with its phosphorus and magnesium content, supports the immune system, improves skin health, and offers antioxidants to protect against oxidative stress.

Key Trends and Developments

The wheat flour market is experiencing growth due to several factors, including a rising demand for healthier flour alternatives, advancements in milling technology, the increasing popularity of convenience foods, and a boost in wheat flour exports.

December 2024

Ifad Multi Products Limited and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) launched Fortified Wheat Flour in Bangladesh. Enriched with Folic Acid, Vitamin B-12, Iron, and Zinc, it aims to improve health by boosting immunity, preventing anemia, and supporting bone and brain development, especially for children.

November 2024

The Indian government launched Phase-II of its subsidised wheat flour and rice sale under the Bharat brand, aiming to provide relief from high food prices. Wheat flour is priced at Rs 30/kg, and rice at Rs 34/kg in 5kg and 10kg packets. The initiative continues until stocks are exhausted, with additional allocation available if necessary.

August 2024

India has introduced a new Durum wheat variety, Pusa Gaurav, developed for making soft chapatis and high-quality pasta. It is climate-resilient, bio-fortified, and thrives under low irrigation and high temperatures. With 12% protein, and high iron and zinc content, it meets both domestic and international culinary needs.

April 2024

Allied Pinnacle partnered with Molasses to launch 'Wise Wheat', a high-fibre wheat flour containing six times more fibre than standard varieties. Set for release in Q2, the product is farmed in Australia and aims to offer healthier food options. Molasses developed the brand strategy and creative for the launch, exclusively available through Allied Pinnacle in Australia.

Increasing Demand for Healthier Flour Options is Impacting Wheat Flour Market Dynamics and Trends

The market is increasingly shaped by the demand for healthier alternatives, such as whole wheat, organic, and gluten-free flours. As consumers become more health-conscious, manufacturers are expanding their product ranges to meet these evolving dietary preferences. Arti Roller Flour Industries' launch of zinc-enriched wheat flour, City King, in India in 2022. Initially introduced in Punjab, it was aimed at addressing zinc deficiency, with plans for nationwide distribution to improve nutrition among low- to middle-income groups.

Technological Advancements in Wheat Flour Production is Driving Wheat Flour Market Growth

Technological advancements in milling are significantly enhancing the efficiency and quality of wheat flour production. Automation, improved grinding techniques, and better packaging are all contributing to the growth of the wheat flour market. In March 2024, it was highlighted that innovations in milling processes and energy-efficient technologies are boosting flour’s nutritional content. Additionally, the use of automation and smart systems helps reduce waste and minimise environmental impact, supporting both health and sustainability objectives in the industry.

Rising Popularity of Convenience Foods is Boosting Demand for the Wheat Flour Market

The increasing demand for convenience foods has a direct positive impact on the market, as it remains a vital ingredient in many processed food products. Flour is essential in ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and baked goods, which are becoming more popular among time-conscious consumers. In July 2024, Haldiram’s launched a new wheat-based menu in key cities through its "Ab Sab Khayenge" campaign. This menu, which included wheat-based dishes like Chole Bhature and Pav Bhaji, was designed to offer nutritious and convenient food options.

Growing Wheat Flour Exports is Creating New Wheat Flour Market Opportunities

The wheat flour trade is experiencing growth, fuelled by increasing export opportunities, particularly in regions with high demand for wheat-based products. Key wheat-producing countries, such as India, Russia, and those in the European Union, are expanding their wheat flour exports to meet emerging market needs. Wheat flours are classified as products of the milling industry, encompassing both wheat and meslin flour. In 2022, the leading exporters of wheat flour were Turkey (USD 1.49B), Kazakhstan (USD 752M), Germany (USD 515M), India (USD 305M), and Uzbekistan (USD 269M).

Global Wheat Flour Market Analysis

Wheat flour continues to be essential in plant-based diets, prominently used in a variety of vegan and vegetarian foods like bread and plant-based meat alternatives. This underscores its versatility and importance in catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. The global vegan community, which constitutes roughly 1% of the world's population, is contributing to the increased demand of the wheat flour market.

The wheat flour industry growth is driven by rising consumption in developing economies and an expanding range of products designed to suit diverse cultural and culinary tastes globally. Moreover, the increasing adoption of gluten-free diets has prompted the creation of alternative wheat flour choices to accommodate those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.

Global Wheat Flour Industry Outlook

According to the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, in India, the area coverage for wheat, with the normal Rabi area recorded at 307.32 lakh hectares. In the 2023-24 season, the area sown is 341.57 lakh hectares, showing an increase from the 339.20 lakh hectares sown in the 2022-23 season. This marks a difference of 2.37 lakh hectares.

In India, during the Rabi 2023-24 season, the area covered for wheat in the top five states has been reported by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Uttar Pradesh recorded 98.42 lakh hectares, Madhya Pradesh covered 81.03 lakh hectares, Punjab reported 35.05 lakh hectares, Rajasthan 30.62 lakh hectares, and Haryana 25.18 lakh hectares dedicated to wheat cultivation. This increase in wheat yields during the Rabi season boosts the wheat flour industry revenue by enhancing India's export capacity and broadening the global availability of wheat flour.

As per the U.S. Department of Agriculture, In the European Union, in 2020/21, the area dedicated to wheat was 22.97 million hectares, producing 126.68 million tons. By 2023/24, the area increased to 24.20 million hectares, with production rising to 134.15 million tons.

In the United States, in 2021/22, the area dedicated to wheat was 15.03 million hectares, yielding a production of 44.80 million tons. By 2023/24, the area increased to 15.08 million hectares, and production rose to 49.37 million tons as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that wheat flour production in the United States for 2023 is 419.53 million cwt. This significant output enhances the wheat flour market revenue by increasing the global supply, meeting international demand, and stabilising prices.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in China, in the market year 2020/21, the area dedicated to wheat production was 23.38 million hectares, yielding 134.25 million tons with a yield of 5.7 tons per hectare. By 2023/24, these figures increased, with the area expanding to 23.62 million hectares, production rising to 136.59 million tons, and yield improving to 5.8 tons per hectare.

Wheat flour is a fundamental ingredient in many foods, ensuring consistent growth in the wheat flour market.

• Established international trade channels to facilitate widespread distribution and market access.
• Used in a variety of products from bread to pastries, broadening market appeal.

Fluctuations in wheat prices can impact flour costs and profitability.

• Agricultural conditions, such as weather and crop yields, directly affect flour production.
• Rising health concerns and preferences for gluten-free products may reduce demand.

Growing populations and increasing food consumption in developing countries present expansion opportunities in the wheat flour market.

• Development of speciality flours (e.g., organic or high-protein) can attract health-conscious consumers.
• Adoption of eco-friendly production practices can appeal to environmentally aware consumers.

Adverse weather conditions and changing climates can impact wheat production and supply.

• Global economic fluctuations can affect trade and pricing stability.
• New food safety and labelling regulations could increase compliance costs and impact market dynamics.

Key Players in the Global Wheat Flour Market and Their Key Initiatives

Conagra Brands, Inc

• Introduced new wheat flour-based products.
• Acquired Pinnacle Foods business to capture the wheat flour market opportunities.

Archer Daniels Midland Company

• Compiled flour mill modernisation in Oklahoma.
• Implemented eco-friendly practices in wheat sourcing and milling processes.

Cargill, Incorporated

• Offering wheat flour blends to meet the growing demand of the wheat flour market.
• Invested in modernizing wheat flour mills for increased efficiency and production.

Ardent Mills LLC

• Ardent Mills will operate Cargill's Port of Albany grain elevator.
• Opened its brand-new state-of-the-art Port Redwing Mill in Florida.

Global Wheat Flour Industry Segmentation

“Global Wheat Flour Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Type

• All-Purpose Flour
• Semolina Flour
• Whole Wheat Flour
• High Gluten Flour
• Others

Market Breakup by Wheat Type

• Hard
• Semi-hard
• Soft

Market Breakup by End Use

• Bakery and Confectionery
• Noodle and Pasta
• Feed Industry
• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Wheat Flour Market Share

All-purpose flour is versatile and suited for a variety of baking and cooking applications including bread, cakes, cookies, and pastries. It is widely available in supermarkets, ensuring consistent baking results with its balanced gluten content, affordability, and yielding a soft texture in baked goods.

Semolina flour, made from durum wheat, enhances pasta and bread with a robust protein profile, improving texture and enriching dishes with proteins, fibres, and B vitamins. Its granular texture makes it particularly popular in Italian cuisine and is used in gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary preferences, further fuelling the wheat flour market growth.

Leading Companies in the Wheat Flour Market

The wheat flour market key players offer a diverse selection of flours, such as all-purpose, whole wheat, and specialty varieties, serving both commercial and retail clients. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, these companies incorporate eco-friendly practices throughout their operations, from wheat sourcing to production and packaging. They provide high-quality, consistent products while maintaining food safety and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Conagra Brands, Inc.

Conagra Brands, Inc., headquartered in Illinois, United States, was established in 1919. The company is a leading food manufacturer, offering a wide range of frozen, refrigerated, and pantry food products. Conagra’s brands include Healthy Choice, Marie Callender's, and Hunt’s, focusing on delivering high-quality, nutritious food to consumers.

Archer Daniels Midland Company

Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), based in Chicago, United States, was founded in 1902. ADM is a global leader in agricultural processing, providing food, beverages, and nutrition solutions. The company processes oilseeds, grains, and other agricultural products, and serves markets worldwide, with a focus on sustainability and innovative food solutions.

Cargill, Incorporated

Cargill, Incorporated, headquartered in Minnesota, United States, was founded in 1865. Cargill is a multinational conglomerate with operations in food, agriculture, and commodities. The company provides products and services across various sectors, including grain trading, animal nutrition, and food ingredients, aiming to create value in the global food supply chain.

Ardent Mills LLC

Ardent Mills LLC, established in 2014 and headquartered in Colorado, United States, is a leading flour milling and ingredient company. A joint venture between Cargill and CHS Inc., Ardent Mills offers a range of products, including flours, whole grains, and baking ingredients, serving customers in both food service and retail industries.

Another key player in the wheat flour market report is The King Milling Company among others.