The global starch polymers market was valued at approximately USD 2.88 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6% from 2024 to 2032, reaching an estimated USD 5.57 billion by 2032. The market is witnessing rapid growth due to increasing environmental concerns regarding plastic pollution and the shift towards biodegradable and sustainable alternatives. Starch polymers are becoming a preferred solution for various industries, particularly packaging, agriculture, and consumer goods, as global regulations push for the reduction of single-use plastics.
Increasing investments in biodegradable plastic solutions and advancements in starch polymer formulations are major growth drivers. Key government initiatives and incentives in Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific are supporting the market’s expansion by enforcing plastic reduction policies. Additionally, growing research into hybrid starch-polymer blends, which offer improved durability and mechanical strength, is accelerating innovation.
The rising demand for starch-based packaging in food and beverage, e-commerce, and retail industries is also contributing significantly to market expansion. Multinational brands are adopting biodegradable packaging solutions to meet their sustainability commitments and comply with stringent environmental regulations. Furthermore, the agricultural sector is increasingly using starch-based biodegradable mulch films and seed coatings, creating further demand for starch polymers.
Despite its strong growth trajectory, the market faces challenges such as limited mechanical properties and moisture resistance of starch-based polymers. Many starch polymer formulations require enhancements through cross-linking or blending with other biopolymers, such as PLA (polylactic acid), to improve performance. However, technological advancements in polymer modification and processing are expected to mitigate these challenges over the forecast period.
Regional Insights
The Asia-Pacific starch polymers market held the largest market share in 2023, accounting for 40.40% of total revenue. This dominance is driven by proactive government policies, rapid industrialization, and a rising consumer preference for sustainable materials. China, India, and Japan are key contributors, with China leading in domestic starch polymer production due to strict environmental regulations.
In North America, market growth is fueled by corporate commitments to sustainability, with major retailers and packaging companies integrating biodegradable starch polymers into their supply chains. State-level bans on single-use plastics in the U.S. are further accelerating adoption.
Europe remains a strong market, driven by stringent regulations under the European Green Deal and Single-Use Plastics Directive. Countries like Germany, France, and Italy are actively investing in biodegradable polymer technologies, positioning Europe as a leader in sustainable materials.
Major Market Players Included in this Report:
• Novamont S.p.A
• Rodenburg Biopolymers
• JAPAN CORN STARCH CO., LTD
• United Biopolymers, S.A
• Plantic
• Balson Industries
• BASF SE
• BIOTEC
• Biome Bioplastics
• Eco-Products Inc
• Ingredion Incorporated
• Tereos Starch & Sweeteners
• NatureWorks LLC
• Agrana Beteiligungs-AG
• Toray Industries, Inc.
The Detailed Segments and Sub-Segments of the Market are Explained Below:
By Source:
• Corn Starch
• Potato Starch
• Cassava Starch
• Wheat Starch
By Application:
• Packaging
• Agriculture
• Consumer Goods
• Textiles
• Medical & Healthcare
• Others
By Region:
North America
• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico
Europe
• Germany
• UK
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• South Korea
• Australia
• Rest of Asia Pacific
Central & South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America
Middle East & Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• South Africa
• Rest of MEA
Years Considered for the Study:
• Historical Year – 2022
• Base Year – 2023
• Forecast Period – 2024 to 2032
Key Takeaways:
• Market Estimates & Forecasts for 10 years (2022-2032).
• Annualized revenues & regional level analysis for each market segment.
• Geographical landscape analysis with country-level insights for major regions.
• Competitive landscape with key player profiling and market share analysis.
• Business strategy insights, investment trends, and market opportunities.
• Porter’s Five Forces & PESTEL analysis for industry evaluation.
• Comprehensive supply-side and demand-side analysis.
Please note:The single user license is non-downloadable and non-printable. Global Site license allows these actions.
Learn how to effectively navigate the market research process to help guide your organization on the journey to success.
Download eBook