The global corn starch market reached a volume of nearly 91.92 Million Tons in 2025. The market is assessed to grow at a CAGR of 2.70% during the forecast period of 2026-2035 to attain a volume of around 119.98 Million Tons by 2035.
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.
Base Year
Historical Period
Forecast Period
With increasing corn yield, especially in countries like Brazil and the United States, the production of corn starch is surging. The United States accounts for 32% of global corn production, reaching a total production capacity of 389.67 MMT in FY 2023-24. Leading corn producers such as the United States, China, and Brazil are actively investing in advanced technologies to improve the efficiency of corn starch extraction, enhance yield rates, and lower production costs.
One tablespoon of cornstarch boasts 30 calories, 7 grams of carbohydrates, and less than a gram of fat. This excellent nutritional profile of corn starch makes it an attractive ingredient for use in the formulation of healthy food products. Moreover, the low-fat and low-calorie content of corn starch is anticipated to surge its usage as a filler, thickening agent, or stabiliser in weight management and diet-oriented products.
Beyond traditional food and beverages, corn starch is widely used in end-use sectors such as agricultural films, packaging, textiles, and medical products, among others amid the growing focus on sustainability. This creates new revenue streams for starch producers, enabling them to diversify their consumer base and reduce their reliance on the food sector. In the forecast period, stringent regulations such as bans on single-use plastics are expected to bolster the corn starch market value in the forecast period.
Compound Annual Growth Rate
2.7%
Value in Million Tons
2026-2035
*this image is indicative*
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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The EMR’s report titled “Corn Starch Market Report and Forecast 2026-2035” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Type
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
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
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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, 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.
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.
*Please note that this is only a partial list; the complete list of key players is available in the full report. Additionally, the list of key players can be customized to better suit your needs.*
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.
Unlock valuable insights into emerging corn starch market trends 2026 with our expert report. Download a free sample today to explore key data, forecasts, and strategies shaping the global market. Stay ahead of your competitors with accurate, actionable intelligence—perfect for manufacturers, investors, and strategists in the starch industry.
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*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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In 2025, the market reached an approximate volume of 91.92 Million Tons.
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 2.70% between 2026 and 2035.
The market is estimated to witness healthy growth in the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach a volume of around 119.98 Million Tons by 2035.
The key strategies driving the market include product innovation, diversification into modified starches, and expansion into emerging regions. Companies focus on sustainable practices, strategic partnerships, and technological advancements to meet growing demand across food, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. Regulatory compliance and clean-label trends also influence market growth significantly.
The increasing demand for corn starch to prepare biofuels is the key trend guiding the growth of the corn starch market.
United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, China, Japan, India, Argentina, Mexico, and Brazil, among other countries are analyzed in the market report.
Native starch, modified starch, and sweeteners are the major type of corn starch in the market.
The significant applications of corn starch are food and beverages, animal feed, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, textile, and paper and corrugates, among others.
The key players in the market report include Archer Daniels Midland Company, Tate and Lyle Plc, Roquette Frères S.A., Tereos SA, 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.
The sweetener type segment is projected to hold the largest portion of the market owing to the increasing use of corn starch-derived sweeteners in various industries.
North America is expected to hold the highest market share due to the United States being the world's leading producer of corn and its derivatives.
The adoption of corn starch is driven by several key factors such as growing processed food industry, rising demand for natural thickeners, and increased use in bio-based products.
Native starch is the most dominant segment in the market, as it is widely used in food, textile, and paper industries.
Explore our key highlights of the report and gain a concise overview of key findings, trends, and actionable insights that will empower your strategic decisions.
| REPORT FEATURES | DETAILS |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Scope of the Report |
Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Drivers and Constraints, Historical and Forecast Market Analysis by Segment:
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| Breakup by Type |
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| Breakup by Application |
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| Breakup by Region |
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| Market Dynamics |
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| Trade Data Analysis |
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| Competitive Landscape |
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| Companies Covered |
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