Global Starch Polymers Market Size, Trend & Opportunity Analysis Report, by Source (Corn Starch, Potato Starch), Application (Packaging, Agriculture), and Forecast, 2024–2035
Description
Market Definition and Introduction
The global starch polymers market was valued at USD 3.10 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 7.23 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 8.00% during the forecast period (2024–2035). The starch polymers market is well emerging as a critical pillar in the broadening horizon of the bioplastics industry, positioned at the intersection of sustainability, innovation, and material science. Starch polymers thus largely came to the forefront owing to their potential biodegradability, renewability, and compatibility with different types of industrial processes, as industries in packaging and agriculture increasingly switch to alternatives to petroleum-based plastics. This market is in rapid flux, driven by the adoption of greener material choices among governments, manufacturers, and consumers.
This market has been at the greatest centre of such a phenomenon-to-date packaging industry-that starch-based polymers are penetrating disposable items: single-use packaging and food-contact materials. A rethink of material usage has thus been a necessity for multinational corporations in a bid to align with such strict global bans on single-use plastics, mostly in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. In fact, the agricultural sector today seems more inclined toward adopting starch polymers in applications such as mulch films, seed coatings, and controlled-release fertilisers as a way of reducing plastic pollution within soils while enhancing sustainable farming practices.
Starch polymer producers are clearly competing on the supply side with bold investments into state-of-the-art processing technologies such as thermoplastic starch (TPS) blended formulations with polylactic acid (PLA) to enhance durability, water resistance, and mechanical properties. In tandem, research institutions and start-ups are investigating the design of new composite structures, thus making starch polymers not only eco-friendly substitutes but also advanced materials that meet high-performance requirements. These advances bring about the planned transformation and define sourcing models, production capacities, and end-use adoption across all global industries.
Recent Developments in the Industry
Novamont accentuated its global mission when the company expanded the bio-based Mater-Bi® polymer facility in Italy, erected in January 2014, to double its capacity.
Through these realpolitik strategic moves, Novamont underscored its ability to lead in plastic packaging when it comes to pursuing sustainability. This is the real beginning of Novamont trying to grab every ratio of the biodegradable market with respect to packaging and agricultural applicability; this innovative thinking can be the platform of a decisive future and will always be Novamont's signature because only a responsible company that is fair to the environment can pave the way for progress.
Roquette marches to the next level of thermoplastic starch technology for high-performance applications
Assigning September 2023, Roquette Frères revealed an R&D program developed to maximise water resistance and tensile strength in thermoplastic starch formulations. The invigorated venture stands as a true testament to the difference performance gaps can generate between model and starch polymers. It allows starch-based materials to internally serve stringent end-uses, such as rigid packaging applications and agricultural industrialisation. By thinking ahead, Cargill would be the premier under their own banner to sync agriculture productivity with environmentally sustainable principles.
Market Dynamics
Legislation is tightening, growing demands on starch polymers in the packaging and agricultural sectors.
The bans on single-use plastics in Europe, North America, and some parts of Asia are the most important regulations that push starch polymers to the forefront. Such materials can be compostable and biodegradable alternatives to meet the performance needs of regulations that increasingly attract packaging manufacturers or agricultural suppliers. Switching preferences in consumer purchase also points to environmental accountability, thus binding relevance to these manufacturers.
Thermoplastic starch advances in technology will narrow the performance gaps of starch-based polymers.
Major limitations regarding water resistance and mechanical strength have characterised starch polymers historically. Innovation in processing thermoplastic starch and composite formulations with PLA or PHA has increased their structural performance. Such advancements are allowing starch polymers to head against conventional plastics in the rigid packaging and durable agricultural applications arena, expanding their commercial viability.
Packaging industries drive starch polymer growth globally.
Starch polymers account for a significant portion of usage in packaging, owing to increasing demand for better, environmentally friendly alternatives to plastics. From single-use cutlery of various kinds to containers of food, starch-based polymers are fast becoming favourite products for retailers and manufacturers. Most multinational companies in food, beverage, and e-commerce are quickly adopting starch polymers to meet sustainability targets and further propel market growth.
Agriculture applications make fertile ground for a good starch polymer demand.
Starch polymers are increasingly being used in mulch films, which are biodegradable, seed coatings, and controlled-release fertilisers. This trend not only solves the crucial soil contamination issue but also promotes circular economy practices within farming. Starch polymers' non-toxic degradation means they introduce sustainable, residue-free tools for improving productivity under green farming regulations.
Challenges in cost competitiveness and scalability hold back rapid incorporation.
The starch polymers have superior environmental properties, but when compared to petroleum-based plastics, they lack cost competitiveness. Various challenges-blocked due to production costs, dependency of agricultural feedstock prices, and constraints in scalability-stand in the way of wider adoption. Heavy investments have been made in process optimisation, vertical integration, and bio-feedstock innovations to mitigate these cost pressures.
Attractive Opportunities in the Market
Green Packaging Revolution – Surge in demand for compostable and biodegradable packaging drives large-scale starch polymer adoption.
Agriculture Sustainability Push – Biodegradable mulch films and coatings reduce soil contamination and promote eco-farming.
Regulatory Compliance Advantage – Stricter bans on plastics provide starch polymers with a strong regulatory tailwind.
PLA Blending Innovations – Hybrid formulations enhance starch polymer durability and open new industrial applications.
E-commerce Packaging Demand – Rapid growth in online retail boosts biodegradable packaging solutions using starch polymers.
Corporate Sustainability Targets – Multinationals integrating starch-based materials to meet carbon neutrality and green commitments.
Emerging Asian Markets – Industrialisation and plastic waste concerns fuel starch polymer demand in Asia-Pacific.
Material Science R&D Boom – Ongoing research into thermoplastic starch unlocks high-performance material innovations.
Closed-Loop Farming Systems – Use of starch polymers in controlled-release fertilisers boosts agricultural circular economy.
Strategic Partnerships Rising – Collaborations between chemical firms and agritech companies drive new product development.
Report Segmentation
By Source: Corn Starch, Potato Starch
By Application: Packaging, Agriculture
By Region: North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico), Europe (UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific), LAMEA (Brazil, Argentina, UAE, Saudi Arabia (KSA), Africa Rest of Latin America)
Key Market Players
Novamont S.p.A., BASF SE, Roquette Frères, Plantic Technologies, Biome Bioplastics Ltd., Cargill Incorporated, NatureWorks LLC, Cardia Bioplastics, Danimer Scientific, and Corbion N.V.
Report Aspects
Base Year: 2024
Historic Years: 2022, 2023, 2024
Forecast Period: 2024-2035
Report Pages: 293
Dominating Segments
Among several other applications, packaging - demanded by sustainability requirements and consumer choices - controls the starch polymers market.
Among the applications, packaging constitutes the dominant merit for starch polymers, holding a significant share of the market. Globally, governments are starting to ban and restrict single-use plastics, especially in food packaging, retail bags, and disposable items, thereby boosting the main market for starch polymers. Packaging companies are switching to starch-based alternatives,' since they are compostable, safe for food, and compliant with regulations.' The sudden boom in online retail and increase in demand for biodegradable packaging has been an avenue where logistics companies and brands are trying to find materials that would appeal to consumers concerned about the environment. At the same time, the growing use of starch polymers in rigid and semi-rigid packaging, such as trays, pouches, and wrapping films, is shifting how they are perceived in the packaging ecosystem. The convergence of these factors-policy, corporate responsibility, and consumer awareness-ensures that packaging applications remain a priority for starch polymer commercialisation.
Potato starches possess an advantage with their film-forming properties and some agricultural applications.
With corn starch being the major one, potato starch polymer systems are finding greater acceptance because of the peculiarities of film formation with higher amylopectin content serving to enhance clarity and tensile properties of such polarisation application. Potato starch is particularly well accepted for agricultural films and coatings, where water solubility and biodegradability are of great importance for performance. Furthermore, potato starch shows very low allergenicity as compared to corn starch, allowing it to be used in sensitive packaging applications. With production costs comparatively higher for potato starch polymers, going through less established supply chains, ongoing advancements in processing and regional agricultural production, especially in Europe, fortify its standing. Its increasing applications in eco-farming solutions, such as seed coatings and emerging biodegradable mulch films, pave an optimistic growth trajectory for potato starch, making it a promising contender within starch polymer domains.
Key Takeaways
Corn Starch Dominance – Abundant supply and versatility keep corn starch-based polymers at the forefront of market share.
Packaging Leadership – Starch polymers see the strongest adoption in sustainable packaging due to global plastic bans.
Agriculture Potential – Biodegradable films and coatings support sustainable farming and eco-friendly soil applications.
Technological Advancements – Thermoplastic starch innovations enhance performance, expanding starch polymer industrial use.
Potato Starch Growth – Unique film-forming properties expand adoption in agricultural and niche packaging markets.
PLA Hybrid Solutions – Blending with PLA enhances starch polymers’ durability, bridging performance gaps with plastics.
Asia-Pacific Surge – Expanding industrialisation and strict regulations fuel starch polymer growth in the region.
Corporate Sustainability Goals – Major companies integrate starch polymers to meet eco-commitments and consumer expectations.
Regulatory Push – Global bans on single-use plastics accelerate starch polymer adoption across packaging industries.
Agritech Collaborations – Partnerships between chemical firms and agritech pioneers drive innovation in starch polymers.
Regional Insights
The use of starch polymers in North America is largely characterised by hard plastic bans and sustainable packaging innovations.
The United States of America holds the largest market share in North America for starch polymer applications, and this is mainly due to regulations enforced by the federal and state governments against single-use plastics. This region is rapidly gaining acceptance for starch polymers for packaging and agricultural purposes as consumers embrace green choices. Retailers and food-service chains have already adopted starch-based alternatives, thereby supporting their ever-growing sustainability requests. They have also paved the way for the agricultural sector, which has an early entrance into biodegradable films and coatings to help with soil pollution. Together with vast groundwork and investments in research, the presence of advanced industrial processing facilities, and a flourishing ecosystem for bio-based innovations, it is these reasons that consolidate North America's global leadership in starch polymers.
Europe emerges as a global leader of innovations in green chemistry and starch polymers.
With its ample and far-reaching regulation systems, including the EU Green Deal and directives on single-use plastics, Europe continues to set precedents for starch polymer adoption. Germany, France, and the Netherlands are pouring a lot of resources into research efforts to improve the performance of starch polymers without compromising their compostability. European firms like Novamont and BASF lead the way in innovating starch-based bioplastics that provide solutions tailored for packaging and agriculture. The high environmental consciousness of the European consumer also fuels the demand for compostable packaging in the food and retail sectors; likewise, the agricultural sector is actively adopting starch polymer mulch films and seed coatings in line with the EU’s circular economy initiatives. Europe’s authority in eco-certifications, in conjunction with its well-established circular bioeconomy, further enforces its position as an innovation hub for starch polymers globally.
Asia-Pacific emerges as the fastest-growing starch polymer market, fuelling industrialisation and sustainability mandates.
Asia-Pacific would purchase the largest share of starch polymer grants for the fastest-growing region, mainly due to rapid industrialisation, a growing middle-class in consumption, and government pro-plastic waste policies. Countries like China, India, and Japan have stepped up, actively implementing biodegradable plastics, particularly for food and e-commerce packaging. Local governments are encouraging greater use of subsidies and investments for bio-based polymer manufacture, trying to pave the way for starch polymers. Simultaneously, the agricultural sector across Asia is adopting biodegradable films to lessen pollution problems, notably in rapidly growing agricultural countries like India and China. It is observed that consumption at a greater scale, combined with favourable regulatory pressure, makes the Asia-Pacific a critical growth driver in the global starch polymers sector.
LAMEA market expands gradually, driven by rising environmental awareness and packaging industry transformation.
The growing adoption of starch polymers in LAMEA is slow compared to other regions. Brazil and Argentina are becoming the major markets in Latin America, capitalising on agricultural wealth to reinforce the starch feedstock supply. However, recently launched packaging industries in the Middle East are taking their first steps into the area of biodegradable starch polymers, especially for retail and food service applications, in response to consumers increasingly shifting towards sustainability. African countries are also at least starting to explore biodegradable packaging opportunities in agriculture. Growth within LAMEA will continue, supported by regulatory interventions on cases for biobased industry investments and the slow modernisation of packaging and agricultural practices that would ensure starch polymer opportunities in future.
Core Strategic Questions Answered in This Report
What is the expected growth trajectory of the starch polymers market from 2024 to 2035?
The global starch polymers market is projected to grow from USD 3.10 billion in 2024 to USD 7.23 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 8.0%. This growth is driven by increasing adoption across packaging and agriculture, regulatory bans on plastics, and advancements in thermoplastic starch technologies.
Q. Which key factors are fuelling the growth of the starch polymers market?
Several key factors are propelling market growth:
Rising demand from the packaging and agricultural industries for biodegradable alternatives
Transition toward sustainable materials amid stricter environmental regulations
Increased R&D investments in thermoplastic starch and hybrid formulations
Rapid expansion of e-commerce requires sustainable packaging solutions
Growing consumer awareness is driving corporate sustainability commitments
Q. What are the primary challenges hindering the growth of the starch polymers market?
Major challenges include:
Higher production costs compared with conventional plastics
Dependence on agricultural feedstock and raw material fluctuations
Scalability issues in industrial-scale applications
Limitations in the mechanical strength and water resistance of starch polymers
Need for continuous innovation to compete with petroleum-based plastics
Q. Which regions currently lead the starch polymers market in terms of market share?
Europe and North America currently lead the starch polymers market due to strong regulatory frameworks, industrial R&D investments, and consumer adoption. Asia-Pacific, however, is the fastest-growing market, driven by rising consumption, plastic waste regulations, and government subsidies.
Q. What emerging opportunities are anticipated in the starch polymers market?
The market is ripe with new opportunities, including:
Expansion of biodegradable packaging in food-service and e-commerce sectors
Increasing demand for starch polymers in agriculture applications, such as mulch films and coatings
Advancements in thermoplastic starch are improving industrial performance
Rise in eco-labelling and compostable product certifications
Strategic collaborations between chemical firms and agritech innovators
Key Benefits for Stakeholders
The report offers a quantitative assessment of market segments, emerging trends, projections, and market dynamics for the period 2024 to 2035.
The report presents comprehensive market research, including insights into key growth drivers, challenges, and potential opportunities.
Porter's Five Forces analysis evaluates the influence of buyers and suppliers, helping stakeholders make strategic, profit-driven decisions and strengthen their supplier-buyer relationships.
A detailed examination of market segmentation helps identify existing and emerging opportunities.
Key countries within each region are analysed based on their revenue contributions to the overall market.
The positioning of market players enables effective benchmarking and provides clarity on their current standing within the industry.
The report covers regional and global market trends, major players, key segments, application areas, and strategies for market expansion.
The global starch polymers market was valued at USD 3.10 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 7.23 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 8.00% during the forecast period (2024–2035). The starch polymers market is well emerging as a critical pillar in the broadening horizon of the bioplastics industry, positioned at the intersection of sustainability, innovation, and material science. Starch polymers thus largely came to the forefront owing to their potential biodegradability, renewability, and compatibility with different types of industrial processes, as industries in packaging and agriculture increasingly switch to alternatives to petroleum-based plastics. This market is in rapid flux, driven by the adoption of greener material choices among governments, manufacturers, and consumers.
This market has been at the greatest centre of such a phenomenon-to-date packaging industry-that starch-based polymers are penetrating disposable items: single-use packaging and food-contact materials. A rethink of material usage has thus been a necessity for multinational corporations in a bid to align with such strict global bans on single-use plastics, mostly in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. In fact, the agricultural sector today seems more inclined toward adopting starch polymers in applications such as mulch films, seed coatings, and controlled-release fertilisers as a way of reducing plastic pollution within soils while enhancing sustainable farming practices.
Starch polymer producers are clearly competing on the supply side with bold investments into state-of-the-art processing technologies such as thermoplastic starch (TPS) blended formulations with polylactic acid (PLA) to enhance durability, water resistance, and mechanical properties. In tandem, research institutions and start-ups are investigating the design of new composite structures, thus making starch polymers not only eco-friendly substitutes but also advanced materials that meet high-performance requirements. These advances bring about the planned transformation and define sourcing models, production capacities, and end-use adoption across all global industries.
Recent Developments in the Industry
Novamont accentuated its global mission when the company expanded the bio-based Mater-Bi® polymer facility in Italy, erected in January 2014, to double its capacity.
Through these realpolitik strategic moves, Novamont underscored its ability to lead in plastic packaging when it comes to pursuing sustainability. This is the real beginning of Novamont trying to grab every ratio of the biodegradable market with respect to packaging and agricultural applicability; this innovative thinking can be the platform of a decisive future and will always be Novamont's signature because only a responsible company that is fair to the environment can pave the way for progress.
Roquette marches to the next level of thermoplastic starch technology for high-performance applications
Assigning September 2023, Roquette Frères revealed an R&D program developed to maximise water resistance and tensile strength in thermoplastic starch formulations. The invigorated venture stands as a true testament to the difference performance gaps can generate between model and starch polymers. It allows starch-based materials to internally serve stringent end-uses, such as rigid packaging applications and agricultural industrialisation. By thinking ahead, Cargill would be the premier under their own banner to sync agriculture productivity with environmentally sustainable principles.
Market Dynamics
Legislation is tightening, growing demands on starch polymers in the packaging and agricultural sectors.
The bans on single-use plastics in Europe, North America, and some parts of Asia are the most important regulations that push starch polymers to the forefront. Such materials can be compostable and biodegradable alternatives to meet the performance needs of regulations that increasingly attract packaging manufacturers or agricultural suppliers. Switching preferences in consumer purchase also points to environmental accountability, thus binding relevance to these manufacturers.
Thermoplastic starch advances in technology will narrow the performance gaps of starch-based polymers.
Major limitations regarding water resistance and mechanical strength have characterised starch polymers historically. Innovation in processing thermoplastic starch and composite formulations with PLA or PHA has increased their structural performance. Such advancements are allowing starch polymers to head against conventional plastics in the rigid packaging and durable agricultural applications arena, expanding their commercial viability.
Packaging industries drive starch polymer growth globally.
Starch polymers account for a significant portion of usage in packaging, owing to increasing demand for better, environmentally friendly alternatives to plastics. From single-use cutlery of various kinds to containers of food, starch-based polymers are fast becoming favourite products for retailers and manufacturers. Most multinational companies in food, beverage, and e-commerce are quickly adopting starch polymers to meet sustainability targets and further propel market growth.
Agriculture applications make fertile ground for a good starch polymer demand.
Starch polymers are increasingly being used in mulch films, which are biodegradable, seed coatings, and controlled-release fertilisers. This trend not only solves the crucial soil contamination issue but also promotes circular economy practices within farming. Starch polymers' non-toxic degradation means they introduce sustainable, residue-free tools for improving productivity under green farming regulations.
Challenges in cost competitiveness and scalability hold back rapid incorporation.
The starch polymers have superior environmental properties, but when compared to petroleum-based plastics, they lack cost competitiveness. Various challenges-blocked due to production costs, dependency of agricultural feedstock prices, and constraints in scalability-stand in the way of wider adoption. Heavy investments have been made in process optimisation, vertical integration, and bio-feedstock innovations to mitigate these cost pressures.
Attractive Opportunities in the Market
Green Packaging Revolution – Surge in demand for compostable and biodegradable packaging drives large-scale starch polymer adoption.
Agriculture Sustainability Push – Biodegradable mulch films and coatings reduce soil contamination and promote eco-farming.
Regulatory Compliance Advantage – Stricter bans on plastics provide starch polymers with a strong regulatory tailwind.
PLA Blending Innovations – Hybrid formulations enhance starch polymer durability and open new industrial applications.
E-commerce Packaging Demand – Rapid growth in online retail boosts biodegradable packaging solutions using starch polymers.
Corporate Sustainability Targets – Multinationals integrating starch-based materials to meet carbon neutrality and green commitments.
Emerging Asian Markets – Industrialisation and plastic waste concerns fuel starch polymer demand in Asia-Pacific.
Material Science R&D Boom – Ongoing research into thermoplastic starch unlocks high-performance material innovations.
Closed-Loop Farming Systems – Use of starch polymers in controlled-release fertilisers boosts agricultural circular economy.
Strategic Partnerships Rising – Collaborations between chemical firms and agritech companies drive new product development.
Report Segmentation
By Source: Corn Starch, Potato Starch
By Application: Packaging, Agriculture
By Region: North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico), Europe (UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific), LAMEA (Brazil, Argentina, UAE, Saudi Arabia (KSA), Africa Rest of Latin America)
Key Market Players
Novamont S.p.A., BASF SE, Roquette Frères, Plantic Technologies, Biome Bioplastics Ltd., Cargill Incorporated, NatureWorks LLC, Cardia Bioplastics, Danimer Scientific, and Corbion N.V.
Report Aspects
Base Year: 2024
Historic Years: 2022, 2023, 2024
Forecast Period: 2024-2035
Report Pages: 293
Dominating Segments
Among several other applications, packaging - demanded by sustainability requirements and consumer choices - controls the starch polymers market.
Among the applications, packaging constitutes the dominant merit for starch polymers, holding a significant share of the market. Globally, governments are starting to ban and restrict single-use plastics, especially in food packaging, retail bags, and disposable items, thereby boosting the main market for starch polymers. Packaging companies are switching to starch-based alternatives,' since they are compostable, safe for food, and compliant with regulations.' The sudden boom in online retail and increase in demand for biodegradable packaging has been an avenue where logistics companies and brands are trying to find materials that would appeal to consumers concerned about the environment. At the same time, the growing use of starch polymers in rigid and semi-rigid packaging, such as trays, pouches, and wrapping films, is shifting how they are perceived in the packaging ecosystem. The convergence of these factors-policy, corporate responsibility, and consumer awareness-ensures that packaging applications remain a priority for starch polymer commercialisation.
Potato starches possess an advantage with their film-forming properties and some agricultural applications.
With corn starch being the major one, potato starch polymer systems are finding greater acceptance because of the peculiarities of film formation with higher amylopectin content serving to enhance clarity and tensile properties of such polarisation application. Potato starch is particularly well accepted for agricultural films and coatings, where water solubility and biodegradability are of great importance for performance. Furthermore, potato starch shows very low allergenicity as compared to corn starch, allowing it to be used in sensitive packaging applications. With production costs comparatively higher for potato starch polymers, going through less established supply chains, ongoing advancements in processing and regional agricultural production, especially in Europe, fortify its standing. Its increasing applications in eco-farming solutions, such as seed coatings and emerging biodegradable mulch films, pave an optimistic growth trajectory for potato starch, making it a promising contender within starch polymer domains.
Key Takeaways
Corn Starch Dominance – Abundant supply and versatility keep corn starch-based polymers at the forefront of market share.
Packaging Leadership – Starch polymers see the strongest adoption in sustainable packaging due to global plastic bans.
Agriculture Potential – Biodegradable films and coatings support sustainable farming and eco-friendly soil applications.
Technological Advancements – Thermoplastic starch innovations enhance performance, expanding starch polymer industrial use.
Potato Starch Growth – Unique film-forming properties expand adoption in agricultural and niche packaging markets.
PLA Hybrid Solutions – Blending with PLA enhances starch polymers’ durability, bridging performance gaps with plastics.
Asia-Pacific Surge – Expanding industrialisation and strict regulations fuel starch polymer growth in the region.
Corporate Sustainability Goals – Major companies integrate starch polymers to meet eco-commitments and consumer expectations.
Regulatory Push – Global bans on single-use plastics accelerate starch polymer adoption across packaging industries.
Agritech Collaborations – Partnerships between chemical firms and agritech pioneers drive innovation in starch polymers.
Regional Insights
The use of starch polymers in North America is largely characterised by hard plastic bans and sustainable packaging innovations.
The United States of America holds the largest market share in North America for starch polymer applications, and this is mainly due to regulations enforced by the federal and state governments against single-use plastics. This region is rapidly gaining acceptance for starch polymers for packaging and agricultural purposes as consumers embrace green choices. Retailers and food-service chains have already adopted starch-based alternatives, thereby supporting their ever-growing sustainability requests. They have also paved the way for the agricultural sector, which has an early entrance into biodegradable films and coatings to help with soil pollution. Together with vast groundwork and investments in research, the presence of advanced industrial processing facilities, and a flourishing ecosystem for bio-based innovations, it is these reasons that consolidate North America's global leadership in starch polymers.
Europe emerges as a global leader of innovations in green chemistry and starch polymers.
With its ample and far-reaching regulation systems, including the EU Green Deal and directives on single-use plastics, Europe continues to set precedents for starch polymer adoption. Germany, France, and the Netherlands are pouring a lot of resources into research efforts to improve the performance of starch polymers without compromising their compostability. European firms like Novamont and BASF lead the way in innovating starch-based bioplastics that provide solutions tailored for packaging and agriculture. The high environmental consciousness of the European consumer also fuels the demand for compostable packaging in the food and retail sectors; likewise, the agricultural sector is actively adopting starch polymer mulch films and seed coatings in line with the EU’s circular economy initiatives. Europe’s authority in eco-certifications, in conjunction with its well-established circular bioeconomy, further enforces its position as an innovation hub for starch polymers globally.
Asia-Pacific emerges as the fastest-growing starch polymer market, fuelling industrialisation and sustainability mandates.
Asia-Pacific would purchase the largest share of starch polymer grants for the fastest-growing region, mainly due to rapid industrialisation, a growing middle-class in consumption, and government pro-plastic waste policies. Countries like China, India, and Japan have stepped up, actively implementing biodegradable plastics, particularly for food and e-commerce packaging. Local governments are encouraging greater use of subsidies and investments for bio-based polymer manufacture, trying to pave the way for starch polymers. Simultaneously, the agricultural sector across Asia is adopting biodegradable films to lessen pollution problems, notably in rapidly growing agricultural countries like India and China. It is observed that consumption at a greater scale, combined with favourable regulatory pressure, makes the Asia-Pacific a critical growth driver in the global starch polymers sector.
LAMEA market expands gradually, driven by rising environmental awareness and packaging industry transformation.
The growing adoption of starch polymers in LAMEA is slow compared to other regions. Brazil and Argentina are becoming the major markets in Latin America, capitalising on agricultural wealth to reinforce the starch feedstock supply. However, recently launched packaging industries in the Middle East are taking their first steps into the area of biodegradable starch polymers, especially for retail and food service applications, in response to consumers increasingly shifting towards sustainability. African countries are also at least starting to explore biodegradable packaging opportunities in agriculture. Growth within LAMEA will continue, supported by regulatory interventions on cases for biobased industry investments and the slow modernisation of packaging and agricultural practices that would ensure starch polymer opportunities in future.
Core Strategic Questions Answered in This Report
What is the expected growth trajectory of the starch polymers market from 2024 to 2035?
The global starch polymers market is projected to grow from USD 3.10 billion in 2024 to USD 7.23 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 8.0%. This growth is driven by increasing adoption across packaging and agriculture, regulatory bans on plastics, and advancements in thermoplastic starch technologies.
Q. Which key factors are fuelling the growth of the starch polymers market?
Several key factors are propelling market growth:
Rising demand from the packaging and agricultural industries for biodegradable alternatives
Transition toward sustainable materials amid stricter environmental regulations
Increased R&D investments in thermoplastic starch and hybrid formulations
Rapid expansion of e-commerce requires sustainable packaging solutions
Growing consumer awareness is driving corporate sustainability commitments
Q. What are the primary challenges hindering the growth of the starch polymers market?
Major challenges include:
Higher production costs compared with conventional plastics
Dependence on agricultural feedstock and raw material fluctuations
Scalability issues in industrial-scale applications
Limitations in the mechanical strength and water resistance of starch polymers
Need for continuous innovation to compete with petroleum-based plastics
Q. Which regions currently lead the starch polymers market in terms of market share?
Europe and North America currently lead the starch polymers market due to strong regulatory frameworks, industrial R&D investments, and consumer adoption. Asia-Pacific, however, is the fastest-growing market, driven by rising consumption, plastic waste regulations, and government subsidies.
Q. What emerging opportunities are anticipated in the starch polymers market?
The market is ripe with new opportunities, including:
Expansion of biodegradable packaging in food-service and e-commerce sectors
Increasing demand for starch polymers in agriculture applications, such as mulch films and coatings
Advancements in thermoplastic starch are improving industrial performance
Rise in eco-labelling and compostable product certifications
Strategic collaborations between chemical firms and agritech innovators
Key Benefits for Stakeholders
The report offers a quantitative assessment of market segments, emerging trends, projections, and market dynamics for the period 2024 to 2035.
The report presents comprehensive market research, including insights into key growth drivers, challenges, and potential opportunities.
Porter's Five Forces analysis evaluates the influence of buyers and suppliers, helping stakeholders make strategic, profit-driven decisions and strengthen their supplier-buyer relationships.
A detailed examination of market segmentation helps identify existing and emerging opportunities.
Key countries within each region are analysed based on their revenue contributions to the overall market.
The positioning of market players enables effective benchmarking and provides clarity on their current standing within the industry.
The report covers regional and global market trends, major players, key segments, application areas, and strategies for market expansion.
Table of Contents
285 Pages
- Chapter 1. Market Snapshot
- 1.1. Market Definition & Report Overview
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Key Takeaways
- 1.3.1. Top Investment Pockets
- 1.3.2. Top Winning Strategies
- 1.3.3. Market Indicators Analysis
- 1.3.4. Top Impacting Factors
- 1.4. Application Ecosystem Analysis
- 1.4.1. 360’ Analysis
- Chapter 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. CEO/CXO Standpoint
- 2.2. Strategic Insights
- 2.3. ESG Analysis
- 2.4. Market Attractiveness Analysis (top leader’s point of view on the market)
- 2.5. Key Findings
- Chapter 3. Research Methodology
- 3.1. Research Objective
- 3.2. Supply Side Analysis
- 3.2.1. Primary Research
- 3.2.2. Secondary Research
- 3.3. Demand Side Analysis
- 3.3.1. Primary Research
- 3.3.2. Secondary Research
- 3.4. Forecasting Models
- 3.4.1. Assumptions
- 3.4.2. Forecasts Parameters
- 3.5. Competitive breakdown
- 3.5.1. Market Positioning
- 3.5.2. Competitive Strength
- 3.6. Scope of the Study
- 3.6.1. Research Assumption
- 3.6.2. Inclusion & Exclusion
- 3.6.3. Limitations
- Chapter 4. Industry Landscape
- 4.1. Market Dynamics
- 4.1.1. Drivers
- 4.1.2. Restraints
- 4.1.3. Opportunities
- 4.2. Porter’s 5 Forces Model
- 4.2.1. Bargaining Power of Buyer
- 4.2.2. Bargaining Power of Supplier
- 4.2.3. Threat of New Entrants
- 4.2.4. Threat of Substitutes
- 4.2.5. Competitive Rivalry
- 4.3. Value Chain Analysis
- 4.4. PESTEL Analysis
- 4.5. Pricing Analysis and Trends
- 4.6. Key growth factors and trends analysis
- 4.7. Market Share Analysis (2024)
- 4.8. Top Winning Strategies (2024)
- 4.9. Trade Data Analysis (Import Export)
- 4.10. Regulatory Guidelines
- 4.11. Historical Data Analysis
- 4.12. Analyst Recommendation & Conclusion
- Chapter 5. Global Starch Polymers Market Size & Forecasts by Source 2024-2035
- 5.1. Market Overview
- 5.1.1. Market Size and Forecast By Source 2024-2035
- 5.2. Corn Starch
- 5.2.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 5.2.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 5.2.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- 5.3. Potato Starch
- 5.3.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 5.3.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 5.3.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- Chapter 6. Global Starch Polymers Market Size & Forecasts by Application 2024–2035
- 6.1. Market Overview
- 6.1.1. Market Size and Forecast By Application 2024-2035
- 6.2. Packaging
- 6.2.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 6.2.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 6.2.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- 6.3. Agriculture
- 6.3.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 6.3.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 6.3.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- Chapter 7. Global Starch Polymers Market Size & Forecasts by Region 2024–2035
- 7.1. Regional Overview 2024-2035
- 7.2. Top Leading and Emerging Nations
- 7.3. North America Starch Polymers Market
- 7.3.1. U.S. Starch Polymers Market
- 7.3.1.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.1.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.2. Canada Starch Polymers Market
- 7.3.2.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.2.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.3. Mexico Starch Polymers Market
- 7.3.3.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.3.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4. Europe Starch Polymers Market
- 7.4.1. UK Starch Polymers Market
- 7.4.1.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.1.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.2. Germany Starch Polymers Market
- 7.4.2.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.2.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.3. France Starch Polymers Market
- 7.4.3.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.3.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.4. Spain Starch Polymers Market
- 7.4.4.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.4.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.5. Italy Starch Polymers Market
- 7.4.5.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.5.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.6. Rest of Europe Starch Polymers Market
- 7.4.6.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.6.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5. Asia Pacific Starch Polymers Market
- 7.5.1. China Starch Polymers Market
- 7.5.1.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.1.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.2. India Starch Polymers Market
- 7.5.2.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.2.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.3. Japan Starch Polymers Market
- 7.5.3.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.3.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.4. Australia Starch Polymers Market
- 7.5.4.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.4.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.5. South Korea Starch Polymers Market
- 7.5.5.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.5.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.6. Rest of APAC Starch Polymers Market
- 7.5.6.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.6.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6. LAMEA Starch Polymers Market
- 7.6.1. Brazil Starch Polymers Market
- 7.6.1.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.1.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.2. Argentina Starch Polymers Market
- 7.6.2.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.2.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.3. UAE Starch Polymers Market
- 7.6.3.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.3.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.4. Saudi Arabia (KSA Starch Polymers Market
- 7.6.4.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.4.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.5. Africa Starch Polymers Market
- 7.6.5.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.5.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.6. Rest of LAMEA Starch Polymers Market
- 7.6.6.1. Source breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.6.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- Chapter 8. Company Profiles
- 8.1. Top Market Strategies
- 8.2. Company Profiles
- 8.2.1. Novamont S.p.A.
- 8.2.1.1. Company Overview
- 8.2.1.2. Key Executives
- 8.2.1.3. Company Snapshot
- 8.2.1.4. Financial Performance (Subject to Data Availability)
- 8.2.1.5. Product/Services Port
- 8.2.1.6. Recent Development
- 8.2.1.7. Market Strategies
- 8.2.1.8. SWOT Analysis
- 8.2.2. BASF SE
- 8.2.3. Roquette Frères
- 8.2.4. Plantic Technologies
- 8.2.5. Biome Bioplastics Ltd.
- 8.2.6. Cargill Incorporated
- 8.2.7. NatureWorks LLC
- 8.2.8. Cardia Bioplastics
- 8.2.9. Danimer Scientific
- 8.2.10. Corbion N.V.
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