Cassava and Tapioca Starch Market Share & Trends [2033]

Cassava and Tapioca Starch Market Overview

The Cassava and Tapioca Starch Market size was valued at USD 4022.43 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 6871.61 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2025 to 2033.

The global cassava and tapioca starch market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand across various industries. In 2023, the market was valued at USD 16.5 billion, with projections indicating a rise to USD 26.3 billion by 2033. Asia-Pacific dominates the market, accounting for approximately 78% of global consumption, followed by Europe at 7% and North America at 4%.

The food and beverage sector remains the largest consumer, utilizing cassava and tapioca starch in products like noodles, snacks, and gluten-free items. Industrial applications, including paper, textiles, and adhesives, also contribute significantly to market demand. Notably, the dried segment of the tapioca starch market held a dominant position, capturing more than a 72.3% share.

Key Findings

Driver: The rising demand for gluten-free and clean-label food products is propelling the cassava and tapioca starch market.

Top Country/Region: Asia-Pacific leads the market, with countries like Thailand and Vietnam being major producers and consumers.

Top Segment: The food and beverage industry is the primary application segment, accounting for a significant portion of starch consumption.

Cassava and Tapioca Starch Market Trends

The cassava and tapioca starch market has witnessed several evolving trends driven by changing consumer preferences, industrial innovation, and environmental concerns. A significant trend is the growing demand for gluten-free and clean-label food products. Tapioca starch, being naturally gluten-free, has become a preferred alternative to wheat-based starches. In 2023, over 65% of gluten-free bakery and snack manufacturers in Europe incorporated tapioca starch into their formulations, a 12% increase compared to 2022. Additionally, the U.S. market saw a 14% year-on-year growth in tapioca starch usage across plant-based dairy and meat alternatives. Another major trend is the shift toward biodegradable and sustainable packaging materials. Tapioca starch-based bioplastics have gained traction, especially in Europe and Asia-Pacific, where regulatory pressures to ban single-use plastics are intensifying. In 2024, over 150 companies in Southeast Asia began pilot production of biodegradable containers and films using tapioca starch. The global production of starch-based biodegradable materials reached over 500,000 tons in 2023, with cassava contributing to nearly 18% of this volume. In the industrial sector, the use of modified tapioca starch is expanding rapidly due to its superior binding, film-forming, and thickening properties. In the paper and textile industries, demand for modified starch grew by 21% between 2022 and 2024. Indonesia alone reported an annual consumption of 180,000 metric tons of cassava starch for industrial adhesives in 2023.

Moreover, the construction industry is increasingly using tapioca starch-based thickeners in paints and coatings, a trend that grew by 9% globally in 2023. Pharmaceutical and personal care applications are also influencing market dynamics. Tapioca starch is used as a disintegrant in tablets and a binder in topical formulations. In 2023, the demand from pharmaceutical manufacturers in India and China rose by 16%, with over 40,000 tons utilized for pharmaceutical-grade starch production. Similarly, the cosmetic industry in South Korea and Japan has integrated tapioca starch in over 1,200 skin care products due to its absorbent and non-irritant nature. The market is also trending toward regional processing hubs. With cassava production concentrated in countries like Nigeria, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia—responsible for over 70% of global supply—governments are promoting local starch processing to reduce raw material exports. As a result, in 2024, Vietnam increased domestic starch processing capacity by 22%, targeting a total annual production volume of 2.4 million metric tons. This regional processing trend is expected to continue influencing market growth and global trade dynamics.

Cassava and Tapioca Starch Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Rising Demand for Gluten-Free and Clean-Label Products

The increasing prevalence of gluten intolerance and celiac disease has led to a surge in demand for gluten-free products. Cassava and tapioca starches are naturally gluten-free, making them ideal substitutes in various food applications. Additionally, the clean-label movement, where consumers seek products with simple and recognizable ingredients, has further boosted the use of these starches. Their natural origin and minimal processing align with clean-label requirements, enhancing their appeal in the food industry.

RESTRAINT

Fluctuating Raw Material Prices

The cassava and tapioca starch market faces challenges due to the volatility of raw material prices. Factors such as adverse weather conditions, pest infestations, and diseases like cassava mosaic disease can significantly impact cassava yields, leading to supply shortages and price fluctuations. For instance, Thailand's native starch shipments faced challenges in 2024 due to a substantial reduction in cassava availability caused by the impacts of El Niño and disease outbreaks. These fluctuations can affect the profitability and stability of starch manufacturers.

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion into Emerging Markets

Emerging markets present significant growth opportunities for the cassava and tapioca starch industry. Rising urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and changing dietary preferences in regions like Africa and South America are driving the demand for processed and convenience foods, which utilize these starches. Additionally, the development of new applications in pharmaceuticals and biodegradable materials offers avenues for market expansion.

CHALLENGE

Competition from Alternative Starches

Cassava and tapioca starches face stiff competition from other starch sources such as corn, potato, and wheat. These alternatives often have established supply chains and may be more cost-effective, depending on regional agricultural practices. For example, in North America, corn starch dominates due to the region's abundant maize cultivation. This competition necessitates continuous innovation and differentiation to maintain market share.

Cassava and Tapioca Starch Market Segmentation

The cassava and tapioca starch market is segmented based on type and application.

By Type

Native Starch: This unmodified form of starch is widely used in traditional food applications. Its natural properties make it suitable for products requiring thickening and binding. In 2024, native starch accounted for a significant portion of the market, driven by its use in conventional recipes and preference for natural ingredients.
Modified Starch: Through physical, enzymatic, or chemical processes, native starch is altered to enhance its properties, such as stability and resistance to processing conditions. Modified starches are extensively used in industrial applications, including paper manufacturing and textiles, due to their improved performance characteristics.

By Application

Industrial Use: Cassava and tapioca starches serve as essential components in industries like paper, textiles, and adhesives. Their binding and film-forming properties are leveraged to improve product quality and manufacturing efficiency. The industrial segment continues to grow, with increasing demand for sustainable and biodegradable materials.
Food and Beverage: The largest application segment, where starches are used as thickeners, stabilizers, and texture enhancers in products like sauces, soups, and baked goods. The shift towards gluten-free and clean-label products has further amplified their usage in this sector.
Others: This includes applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biodegradable products. In pharmaceuticals, starches are used as disintegrants and fillers, while in cosmetics, they serve as absorbents and texture enhancers. The growing emphasis on natural and sustainable ingredients is expanding their use in these areas.

Cassava and Tapioca Starch Market Regional Outlook

The cassava and tapioca starch market exhibits varied performance across different regions:

North America

The region is witnessing steady growth, driven by the increasing demand for gluten-free and clean-label food products. The U.S. market, in particular, is expanding due to the rising awareness of health and wellness trends. However, the dominance of corn starch presents competition, necessitating differentiation strategies for cassava and tapioca starch producers.

Europe

markets are experiencing growth, supported by the demand for natural and sustainable ingredients. However, challenges such as poor wheat crop yields have impacted starch production, leading to increased costs for starch makers. For instance, France's wheat harvest in 2024 was the lowest in 40 years due to excessive rain, affecting starch quality and supply.

Asia-Pacific

This region dominates the global market, with countries like Thailand and Vietnam being major producers and consumers of cassava and tapioca starch. The abundant availability of raw materials and established processing industries contribute to the region's leadership. The market is further bolstered by the high consumption of starch-based foods in the region.

Middle East & Africa

The market in this region is growing, driven by increasing demand for processed foods and industrial applications. The cassava market in the Middle East & Africa is expected to reach a projected revenue of US$ 5.5 million by 2030. However, challenges such as limited infrastructure and fluctuating raw material availability can impact market growth.

List of Top Cassava and Tapioca Starch Companies

Nong Ken
Chol Charoen Group
Thai Wah
ROI ET Group
CP Intertrade
Thanawat Group
Banpong Tapioca
Bangkok Starch
Fococev
Vedan International

Thai Wah: operates over 15 manufacturing facilities across Asia and produces over 300,000 metric tons of tapioca starch annually.

Vedan International: headquartered in Taiwan, produces more than 200,000 metric tons of modified and native starch products yearly and has a strong export network in over 20 countries, particularly in Southeast Asia and Europe.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The cassava and tapioca starch market is drawing increasing investment interest due to its wide industrial applicability and sustainable raw material base. In 2024, Thailand received more than $120 million in investment commitments towards upgrading cassava starch processing infrastructure. These funds were largely directed at enhancing processing yields, reducing waste, and expanding production capacity in provinces like Nakhon Ratchasima and Chaiyaphum. Vietnam also reported significant investment flows into its starch sector. Over $95 million was invested in 2023–2024 to modernize cassava starch extraction facilities in the Tây Ninh and Phú Yên regions, increasing output efficiency by 18%. This modernization was crucial in reducing reliance on outdated processing techniques that were less environmentally sustainable. In India, the state of Tamil Nadu allocated ₹150 crore ($18 million) in 2024 for developing tapioca processing zones, aiming to improve local agricultural incomes and boost export capabilities. The region produces over 6 million tonnes of cassava annually, and the new investments are expected to increase value-added output by 25%.

Africa, particularly Nigeria and Ghana, is emerging as a hotspot for investment. Nigeria's federal government announced in 2023 an industrial expansion plan involving ₦30 billion (approx. $38 million) to support cassava-based product manufacturing. Ghana also signed public-private partnership agreements worth $40 million to enhance its cassava-to-industrial-starch conversion operations. Start-ups and small-scale enterprises have begun innovating within the biodegradable plastics sector, using tapioca starch as a base. In 2024, over $10 million was invested globally in start-ups developing tapioca starch-based biodegradable films and packaging. This opportunity aligns with the push toward sustainability and green packaging, especially in Europe and North America. Additionally, increased R&D investment is being channeled into the pharmaceutical and personal care industries to develop tapioca starch derivatives that meet high-purity specifications. In 2023, China and Japan jointly funded a $7.5 million research project focusing on pharmaceutical-grade tapioca starch. Overall, global investment momentum supports innovation, sustainability, and industrial scaling of tapioca and cassava starch production, especially in high-growth areas like Southeast Asia, West Africa, and South Asia.

New Product Development

The cassava and tapioca starch industry has seen a wave of product innovations from 2023 to 2024, focused on high-performance applications, consumer health trends, and environmental concerns. In 2023, Thai Wah launched a line of pre-gelatinized tapioca starches under the “Solprene” brand. These starches are designed for ready-to-eat meal kits and instant soups. With water binding capacity improved by 32% compared to conventional starch, this product caters to the demand for faster meal preparation without compromising texture or consistency. Vedan International introduced a cold water soluble modified tapioca starch in Q3 2024 targeting the beverage sector. This product, called “VedanSol CWS,” enables instant dispersion and clear viscosity in chilled drinks, which was previously challenging for starch-based additives. Early commercial trials in Vietnam and Taiwan showed increased product stability by 27% in shelf life studies.

In 2023, Bangkok Starch developed tapioca-based biodegradable food containers in partnership with a packaging startup. These containers can decompose within 90 days under industrial composting conditions, meeting European EN 13432 and U.S. ASTM D6400 standards. This product addresses the growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives to plastic packaging. Fococev, a Vietnamese manufacturer, created a pharmaceutical-grade tapioca starch in early 2024, meeting USP and EP standards. This starch is designed for tablet disintegration and granule binding. Pilot batches in India and South Korea showed disintegration times under 60 seconds, which is 40% faster than previous formulations. Chol Charoen Group introduced a resistant tapioca starch in late 2023 aimed at the health food and dietary fiber markets. Branded “FiberTop RS4,” it delivers over 60% dietary fiber content per 100g. Clinical studies conducted in Bangkok showed reduced postprandial glycemic response by 22% in test groups, making it ideal for diabetic-friendly formulations. This wave of new product development showcases the versatility and adaptability of tapioca and cassava starches across food, pharma, and industrial uses. Innovation is increasingly driven by cross-industry collaborations, with companies investing in specialty starches that address evolving consumer needs.

Five Recent Developments

Thai Wah's Expansion in Vietnam (2024): Thai Wah announced a $40 million investment to build a new tapioca starch processing facility in Tây Ninh province, with an annual processing capacity of 200,000 metric tons. This project is expected to be fully operational by mid-2025.
Vedan International's R&D Facility Upgrade (2023): Vedan upgraded its Taiwan-based R&D center, allocating $12 million to develop pharmaceutical-grade and food-functional starch derivatives. The facility includes pilot-scale extrusion and drying units.
CP Intertrade Launches Organic Tapioca Line (2023): CP Intertrade introduced an organic-certified tapioca starch range, targeting European and North American markets. The product meets USDA Organic and EU Organic certification standards.
Banpong Tapioca's Solar-Drying Integration (2024): Banpong Tapioca implemented solar-powered drying systems across 60% of its Thai processing plants, reducing energy consumption by 25% annually and aligning with sustainable production goals.
Bangkok Starch and Bioplastics Collaboration (2023): Bangkok Starch entered a strategic partnership with a Japanese bioplastics firm to develop cassava starch-based polymers for packaging. Initial prototypes displayed tensile strength above 30 MPa, positioning the material as a viable plastic substitute.

Report Coverage of Cassava and Tapioca Starch Market

The cassava and tapioca starch market report offers an in-depth, segmented, and quantitative analysis across global markets. It covers key aspects of the market including production volumes, regional distribution, demand drivers, application trends, and competitive dynamics. The scope includes both native and modified starches derived from cassava roots, capturing applications in food and beverage, industrial uses, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biodegradable packaging. In 2023, global tapioca starch production exceeded 9 million metric tons, with Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Nigeria being the major producers. Thailand alone exported more than 3.7 million tons of tapioca starch, with China as its top importer. The report evaluates data from 2020 to 2024, offering projections up to 2030. It incorporates statistical models, market share analyses, and regional forecasts, highlighting consumption patterns across Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Geographical analysis offers production and trade data, highlighting that Asia-Pacific holds over 75% of the market by volume. Europe is a major importer of modified tapioca starch, especially in the pharmaceutical and specialty food sectors. Meanwhile, Africa, led by Nigeria and Ghana, is emerging as both a consumer and raw material supplier due to supportive agricultural policies. Competitive analysis within the report identifies major players by production capacity, export volume, product differentiation, and technological investments. Thai Wah and Vedan International together control over 35% of global processing capacity, supported by vertically integrated operations. In summary, the report provides comprehensive quantitative data, strategic insights, and forecast models that reflect current dynamics and emerging opportunities in the cassava and tapioca starch market. It is an essential resource for manufacturers, investors, regulatory bodies, and supply chain participants operating in or entering this market.