Market size and projected growth

According to Market.us, the global cassava starch market is expected to reach US$ 8.3 billion by 2034, up from about US$ 5.1 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of around 5.0% between 2025 and 2034.
A study by Coherent Market Insights estimates the market at US$ 6.48 billion in 2025, growing to nearly US$ 9.87 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of ~6.2%.
Reports also show that the modified starch segment is growing faster than native starch, thanks to its improved functional versatility such as heat stability, pH resistance, and freeze–thaw performance (Fonte: Coherent Market Insights).

Production and scale

In Brazil, the cassava processing market reached about 5.51 million tons in 2024, with projections of 6.15 million tons by 2033, growing at ~1.09% CAGR between 2025 and 2033. While this growth rate is modest, gains in technology and processing efficiency are expected to sustain Brazil’s competitiveness (Fonte: IMARC Group).

Growth drivers: why cassava starch is on the rise

1. Demand for gluten-free foods

Cassava starch is naturally gluten-free, making it a prime substitute for wheat, barley, or rye starches in food formulations. Awareness of celiac disease and gluten intolerance continues to grow in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, creating new opportunities. Large manufacturers are expanding gluten-free product lines that depend on cassava starch.

2. Natural and clean-label ingredients

Consumers increasingly demand products with simple, recognizable ingredients. Cassava starch, essentially pure, fits this expectation. Transparent labeling of minimally processed starch adds trust in demanding markets such as Western Europe and North America.

3. Sustainability

Cassava grows well in less fertile soils and under conditions that require fewer chemical inputs than many other crops. Breeding programs are also improving varieties resistant to drought and extreme heat. Beyond food, cassava starch is gaining importance in bioplastics, biodegradable packaging, and eco-friendly adhesives, aligning with sustainable development goals.

4. Processing and modification technology

Technological advances in extraction, drying, and purification improve yield and quality consistency. Modified starches are increasingly tailored to industrial needs: better viscosity, transparency, freeze–thaw stability, and pH tolerance.

Industrial applications: where demand is strongest

Food industry

Bakery and confectionery: gluten-free bread, cakes, and desserts. Cassava starch improves softness and moisture retention.
Sauces, creams, soups: valued for viscosity, clarity, and stability across temperature changes.
Frozen and pre-cooked foods: essential for freeze–thaw stability and minimizing syneresis (water separation).
Processed meats: used as a binder and texture enhancer.

Other industries

Cosmetics and personal care: natural thickening and stabilizing agent.
Animal feed: adds digestibility and binding.
Paper, textiles, adhesives: native and modified cassava starch is widely used in coating, sizing, and film formation.

Opportunities for importers sourcing from Brazil

Price competitiveness

Brazil has favorable climate, soils, and labor conditions for cassava cultivation. Combined with technological improvements and cooperative production models, suppliers can offer cassava starch at competitive costs.

Certifications and compliance

Exporters who meet international standards such as ISO 22000, HACCP, Halal, and Kosher gain credibility and easier market access. Compliance with EU and US regulations on pesticide residues, heavy metals, and traceability also adds significant value.

Logistics and infrastructure

Well-managed transport, storage, and packaging are critical. Brazilian exporters experienced in containerized shipments, palletized loads, and humidity-controlled storage have an advantage in guaranteeing product integrity.

Emerging markets and premium niches

Growing imports in Africa, Latin America, and Asia are expanding opportunities. In premium markets, gluten-free, natural, and clean-label products command higher margins — niches where cassava starch is especially attractive.

Challenges and risks

Climate and agricultural variability: drought, excess rain, and pests affect cassava yield.
Competition with other starches: corn, potato, and tapioca starches may compete on price or functionality.
Production and energy costs: extraction and drying are energy-intensive. Rising energy prices can affect margins.
Trade barriers and regulation: tariffs, sanitary rules, and different food safety standards across countries.
Batch consistency: industrial buyers demand reproducibility. Variations between lots can create challenges in processing and product quality.

Regional forecasts

Asia-Pacific remains the leader in cassava starch production and consumption, supported by favorable climate, government policies, and strong food demand.

North America and Europe are mature but demanding markets where gluten-free and clean-label products are driving demand. Importers may look to Brazil if costs and logistics remain competitive.

Latin America and Africa show emerging demand, both for domestic food industries and as growing import destinations. Infrastructure improvements will determine growth pace.

Conclusion

In 2025, cassava starch consolidates its position as a high-value ingredient in the global food industry. With strong growth projections, demand from gluten-free and clean-label sectors, and expanding opportunities for sustainable applications, importers who source from reliable suppliers — particularly in Brazil — stand to benefit.

If your company is looking for high-quality cassava starch for industrial food applications, Insight Global connects you with reliable Brazilian suppliers who comply with strict international standards. Contact us today for samples, packaging details, and tailored quotes.

Contact Us

🌐 Website: insightglobal.com.br
✉️ Email: comercial@insightglobal.com.br
📞 WhatsApp / Phone: +55 67 9 8207-0995
📦 Request a sample or customized quote!
👉 https://www.insightglobal.com.br/en/products/cassava-starch

References

Market.us – Global Cassava Starch Market expected to reach US$ 8.3 billion by 2034.
Coherent Market Insights – Cassava Starch Market Forecast 2025–2032.
IMARC Group – Brazil Cassava Processing Market (5.51 million tons in 2024, projected 6.15 million tons in 2033).

Cassava starch market trends 2025: growth, applications and opportunities