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

The global corn starch market reached a volume of nearly 89.50 Million Tons in 2024. The market is assessed to grow at a CAGR of 2.70% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to attain a volume of around 116.82 Million Tons by 2034.

The global rise in processed and convenience foods is fuelling the corn starch demand due to its versatile applications as a thickener, stabilizer, and texturizer. Ready-to-eat meals, sauces, snacks, and baked goods use corn starch extensively. Urbanization, busier lifestyles, and increasing disposable incomes contribute to this expansion. As per the United Nations, 68% of the global population is estimated to live in urban areas by 2050. The processed food sector offers consistent demand and innovation opportunities, such as starches tailored for gluten-free or low-calorie foods.

Rising corn production is fostering the corn starch market development by ensuring a steady, cost-effective supply of raw material. Increased corn availability lowers input costs for starch manufacturers, enabling higher production volumes and meeting growing demand in food, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. In March 2025, Cargill partnered with Saatvik Agro Processors to inaugurate a new corn milling plant in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, to meet the rising demand for starch derivatives in India's confectionery, dairy, and infant formula sectors. This abundance also supports innovation in corn starch derivatives and expands market reach.

Key Trends and Recent Developments

April 2025

French plant-based ingredient manufacturer Roquette Beauté launched a new functional powder made from corn starch. This innovative powder offers unique compaction properties and enhances sensory benefits, positioning it as an excellent natural alternative to traditional mineral and synthetic powders in various applications.

April 2025

Trans Oil Group and Myande China launched the construction of a cutting edge corn starch facility in Sremska Mitrovica, Serbia. With EUR 35 million investment, the unit processes 250,000 tons annually for producing native and modified starch plus corn syrup. With operations scheduled for May 2025, this marked the Balkans’ most advanced starch plant.

August 2024

Al Ghurair Foods began the construction of a state-of-the-art corn starch plant at KEZAD’s Al Ma’mourah zone in Abu Dhabi. The unit will process 650 tonnes of corn daily, scalable to 1,000 tonnes for producing native and modified starches, glucose syrups, and maltodextrin. The facility, supporting United Arab Emirates food security, will create over 200 local jobs.

August 2023

The Odisha government of India approved nine new industrial projects totaling ₹873 crore, including a corn-processing and starch unit. This new plant will capitalize on local maize production, enhancing regional agro-processing capacity, generating employment, and boosting Odisha’s food processing sector.

Technological Advancements in Starch Production

Innovations, such as enzyme technology, fermentation, and bioprocessing, to improve extraction and modification efficiency are driving corn starch market expansion. In October 2024, IFF launched OPTIMASH® enzymes for enhancing corn starch processing by boosting corn oil recovery by 15%. These technologies reduce chemical usage and waste, delivering cleaner, more functional starches. Advances also enable production of specialty starches with tailored properties for diverse applications.

Increasing Use in Bio-based and Biodegradable Products

The biodegradability of corn starch makes it vital in developing sustainable packaging, disposable tableware, and bioplastics. Corn starch-based materials reduce reliance on petroleum-based plastics, helping companies meet sustainability goals. In January 2025, Corn Next’s patented fermentation that converts cornstarch into a biodegradable biopolymer with unique properties was launched in the United States. This aligns with global efforts to reduce plastic waste and carbon footprints, positioning corn starch as a key bio-based raw material.

Increasing Focus on Sustainability and Carbon Footprint

The corn starch market outlook is influenced by companies developing production processes with reduced water use, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable sourcing of corn and eco-friendly manufacturing practices is gaining importance as customers and regulators emphasize environmental responsibility. In November 2022, CP Foods deployed a corn traceability system to ensure that all maize used in its animal feed production is sourced from plantations free from forest encroachment and stubble burning. This focus enhances brand reputation and supports long-term market growth by aligning with global sustainability goals and consumer values.

Consumer Preference for Gluten-Free Products

Corn starch is naturally gluten-free, making it an essential ingredient in gluten-free foods, such as baked goods, snacks, and sauces. The rising prevalence of celiac disease and gluten intolerance increases demand for gluten-free alternatives. As per the Institute for Functional Medicine, celiac disease affects approximately 1.4% of the global population. Food manufacturers incorporate corn starch to improve texture, stability, and mouthfeel in these products. This trend supports growth in native and modified corn starches designed for allergen-friendly applications, broadening the market scope and enhancing consumer trust.

E-commerce and Packaging Growth

The boom in e-commerce has increased demand for sustainable, protective packaging, further driving the corn starch industry to cater to uses in biodegradable packaging materials. In February 2023, Team Recycler Malaysia launched cornstarch food containers with clear covers, offering eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging for hot and cold foods. Rising online food delivery and retail sectors amplify packaging needs, emphasizing eco-friendly solutions. Corn starch plays a crucial role in developing compostable and recyclable materials, aligning with environmental policies and consumer preferences for sustainability.

Corn Starch Industry Segmentation

The report titled “Corn Starch Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Type

• Native Starch
• Modified Starch
• Sweeteners

Key Insight: Native starch is the most dominant segment in the corn starch market, as it is widely used in food, textile, and paper industries due to its natural thickening and binding properties. Companies supply native starches tailored to food manufacturers seeking natural ingredients. In February 2025, Ingredion launched NOVATION® Indulge 2940, a non-GMO functional native corn starch that provides a unique gelled texture for popular dairy and alternative dairy products. Rising preference for its clean-label status and minimal processing is further adding to the segment growth.

Market Breakup by Application

• Food and Beverages
• Animal Feed
• Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals
• Textiles
• Paper and Corrugates
• Others

Key Insight: The food and beverages segment is the largest consumer in the corn starch market, with rising utilization as a thickener, stabilizer, and texturizer. Corn starch improves mouthfeel in sauces, soups, baked goods, and dairy products. Companies are launching clean-label native and modified starches to meet consumer demand for natural ingredients. In March 2025, Cargill opened a new corn milling plant in Gwalior, India, for catering to confectionery, infant formula, and dairy sector requirements. The growing popularity of convenience and processed foods globally drives consistent starch demand. Additionally, corn-derived sweeteners are widely used in beverages, making this sector the most dominant in the corn starch market.

Market Breakup by Region

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

Key Insight: North America is a leading region in the corn starch market, driven primarily by the United States, which is the world’s largest corn producer. As per the National Corn Growers Association, the country produced 14.9 billion bushels of corn during the 2024/25 period.

The region benefits from advanced agricultural infrastructure, strong food and beverage industries, and high demand for modified starches in pharmaceuticals and industrial applications. Leading companies operate extensive corn starch production facilities here. Additionally, rising demand for clean-label and non-GMO starch products supports innovation, further strengthening the market growth in North America.

Corn Starch Market Share

Modified Starch & Sweeteners to Gain Popularity

Modified starch are recording popularity in the corn starch market to enhance functionality, such as improved stability, freeze-thaw resistance, and emulsification. This starch is crucial in processed foods, pharmaceuticals, and industrial uses. For instance, Ingredion’s clean-label modified starches cater to dairy and snack industries needing texture and shelf-life improvements. The segment also dominates in paper coating and textile sizing due to its superior performance. Growing demand for tailored starch solutions in convenience foods and personal care products fuels this segment’s steady growth worldwide.

Sweeteners are derived from corn starch through enzymatic hydrolysis, producing products and are widely used in beverages, confectionery, and processed foods as cost-effective sugar alternatives. Sweeteners remain vital due to their versatility and price advantages. Companies lead this segment with advanced enzymatic technologies. In July 2024, Roquette and Bonumose partnered to advance tagatose, a natural, low-glycemic sweetener made from cornstarch maltodextrin with prebiotic benefits. Increasing focus on healthier, low-calorie sweeteners presents opportunities for innovation, adding to the segment’s market dominance.

Surging Corn Starch Applications in Animal Feed & Paper and Corrugates

The animal feed sector is a significant user in the corn starch industry, primarily for its energy-rich carbohydrate content and digestibility. Corn starch serves as a binder and pelletizer in feed formulations for poultry, swine, and cattle as it enhances pellet quality and nutrient availability. Major agricultural processors supply starch-based feed ingredients tailored to regional livestock industries. Growing meat consumption and intensified livestock farming, especially in Asia and Latin America, fuel demand in this segment, making it a crucial segment.

The paper and corrugates sector deploys corn starch as a coating and binding agent to improve paper strength, printability, and surface smoothness. Corn starch replaces synthetic adhesives, supporting biodegradable packaging trends. In January 2025, biotech firm Corn Next launched CornNext-17, a fermented corn starch material for biodegradable straws, tableware, and single-use food containers. With rising e-commerce, the demand for corrugated packaging has increased, driving starch consumption. Companies focus on developing functional starches that enhance recyclability and sustainability, maintaining this segment’s niche role in the market.

Corn Starch Market Regional Analysis

Surging Corn Starch Demand in Europe & Asia-Pacific

Europe holds a significant share of the corn starch market, propelled by the growth of the food processing, paper, and textile industries along with increasing adoption of biodegradable and clean-label starches in Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. European firms are investing heavily in sustainable production technologies and functional starches for health-conscious consumers. Strict regulatory frameworks around food safety and environmental standards shape product innovation and quality. Emerging applications in pharmaceuticals and bioplastics also contribute to the steady expansion of Europe’s market.

Asia-Pacific corn starch industry value is increasing with the growing consumer preference for convenience foods and expanding industrial sectors. China, India, and Southeast Asia are expanding their corn starch production capacity to meet rising food, pharmaceutical, and industrial demand driven by urbanization and increasing disposable incomes. In May 2024, Chinese Zhejiang Sunny Group invested USD 150 million to build a corn starch and tiamulin production plant in Kazakhstan. The region’s market is also characterized by investments from both domestic and international players focusing on native and modified starches.

Competitive Landscape

Key players in the corn starch market are employing several strategies to maintain growth and competitiveness. Firstly, product diversification enables manufacturers to offer modified starches for varied applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial sectors. Secondly, technological innovation is driving advancements in processing techniques to enhance product quality and efficiency, allowing companies to meet specific customer demands such as clean-label or non-GMO products. Strategic partnerships and acquisitions are also common, helping companies expand their market reach and strengthen supply chains.

Geographical expansion, especially into emerging markets, helps tap into rising demand driven by changing diets and urbanization. Moreover, the focus on sustainability has become a core strategy, with producers investing in eco-friendly manufacturing and packaging. Cost optimization, through vertical integration and improved logistics, supports profitability in a price-sensitive market. Lastly, regulatory compliance and certifications ensure product acceptance across international markets, safeguarding brand reputation and fostering consumer trust. Together, these strategies allow the market to remain resilient amid changing consumer preferences and global economic shifts.

Archer Daniels Midland Company

Founded in 1902 and headquartered in Chicago, the United States, Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) is a global leader in agricultural processing, plant-based ingredients and sustainable bioproducts. ADM is recognized for advancing food security, developing high-functionality starches, and investing heavily in research for clean-label and renewable solutions.

Tate & Lyle Plc

Established in 1921 and based in London, Tate & Lyle is renowned for its expertise in food and beverage ingredients. The company excels in formulating specialty starches and sweeteners with achievements including groundbreaking work in dietary fibre and clean-label reformulations, contributing to healthier product options across global markets.

Roquette Frères S.A.

Roquette, founded in 1933 and headquartered in Lestrem, France, is a global leader in plant-based ingredients and is known for its cutting-edge developments in pea protein and pharmaceutical-grade starches. Roquette emphasizes sustainable innovation, with major investments in bio-refining technologies and environmentally friendly manufacturing practices across its international operations.

Tereos SA

Founded in 1932 and located in Lille, France, Tereos specializes is a major European starch producer with a strong cooperative structure in transforming agricultural raw materials into sugar, starch, and alcohol. Tereos is recognized for innovations in bioethanol, sustainable agriculture, and its commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of production.

Other players in the corn starch market are AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG, Grain Processing Corporation, HL Agro Products Pvt. Ltd., Associated British Foods plc, Ingredion Incorporated, Tate and Lyle Plc, Cargill Incorporated, Global Bio-chem Technology Group Company Limited, Kent Corporation (Grain Processing Corporation), and others.

Key Features of the Corn Starch Market Report

• In-depth quantitative analysis of market size, share, and growth projections.
• Detailed segmentation by application, region, and product type.
• Competitive landscape profiling major global and regional players.
• Market dynamics including drivers, challenges, and future opportunities.
• Trends analysis highlighting innovation, sustainability, and clean-label demand.
• Forecast data and strategic recommendations through 2025 and beyond.

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