Global Tapioca Starch Market By Types (Fresh, Dried), By Product (Tapioca Animal Feed, Tapioca Flour, Tapioca Chips, Pellets, Pearls, Others), By Uses (Thickening Agent, Stabilizer Agent, Bodying Agent, Binding Agent), By Applications (Food, Beverage, Textile Industry, Glue Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Cosmetics Industry, Mining Industry, Constructions Industry, Others) , By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Global Tapioca Starch Market size is expected to be worth around USD 8.1 Bn by 2033, from USD 4.7 Bn in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033.

Tapioca starch, derived from the cassava root, is a versatile carbohydrate extensively utilized across various industries, including food and beverage, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Its unique properties, such as being gluten-free, hypoallergenic, and having a neutral taste, make it a preferred alternative to traditional starches like corn and potato starch.

The global tapioca starch market has been experiencing steady growth, driven by several key factors. One significant driver is the increasing consumer demand for gluten-free products, as tapioca starch serves as an excellent substitute for gluten-containing ingredients in various food applications.

Additionally, the rising popularity of plant-based and clean-label products has further boosted the demand for tapioca starch, given its natural origin and minimal processing requirements. The expanding food and beverage industry, particularly in emerging economies, has also contributed to market growth, with tapioca starch being widely used as a thickening, stabilizing, and gelling agent in numerous culinary applications.

Recent trends in the tapioca starch market include its increasing application in infant nutrition and baby foods. Tapioca starch has been widely used as a bodying agent in a variety of commercially available baby food and nutritional supplements for infants. Celiac disease sufferers have been known to consume a lot of gluten-free, organic tapioca starch.

In the future years, growth of the tapioca starch market is expected to be aided by an increase in the female working population, which has fueled demand for infant formulae. It is widely consumed as a “super food” in nations such as India due to the health benefits associated with cassava extract.

Apart from being high in carbs, tapioca starch is also high in minerals such as calcium and iron, which are important for bone and blood health. Tapioca pearls are also popular due to their blood pressure-lowering properties as well as their ability to reduce constipation and indigestion

Key Takeaways

• Tapioca Starch Market size is expected to be worth around USD 8.1 Bn by 2033, from USD 4.7 Bn in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 5.6%.
• Dried segment of the tapioca starch market held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 72.3% share.
• Tapioca Flour held a dominant market position in the tapioca starch market, capturing more than a 27.4% share.
• Tapioca Starch as a Thickening Agent held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 39.1% share.
• Food and Beverage industry held a dominant market position in the tapioca starch market, capturing more than a 51.2% share.
• Asia Pacific (APAC) emerged as the dominant region in 2023, holding a significant 38.1% share and generating approximately USD 1.8 billion in revenue.

By Types

In 2023, the Dried segment of the tapioca starch market held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 72.3% share. This significant preference for dried tapioca starch is primarily due to its extended shelf life, ease of transport, and versatility in a wide range of applications. Dried tapioca starch is extensively used in the food industry as a thickening agent in sauces, soups, and desserts, and as a binding agent in processed foods. Its fine texture and neutral flavor make it highly valuable in gluten-free baking, where it provides a desirable chewiness and moisture to breads and pastries without altering their taste.

Fresh tapioca starch, which comprises a smaller portion of the market, is typically utilized in local culinary practices where the product is sourced and used directly from the cassava root. While this form of tapioca starch offers the benefits of freshness and natural taste, its applications are limited by its perishability and the logistical challenges associated with preserving its quality during transport and storage.

By Product

In 2023, Tapioca Flour held a dominant market position in the tapioca starch market, capturing more than a 27.4% share. This prominence is largely due to the versatility and utility of tapioca flour in various culinary applications, particularly in gluten-free cooking. Tapioca flour is prized for its neutral flavor and smooth texture, making it an ideal thickening agent in soups, sauces, and desserts, as well as a preferred ingredient in gluten-free baking for breads, pastries, and other confections. Its ability to improve texture and moisture retention in gluten-free recipes has solidified its place in both home kitchens and commercial food production.

The market for Tapioca Animal Feed also showed robust growth, reflecting the increasing use of tapioca as a cost-effective and energy-rich feed ingredient in the livestock industry. Tapioca chips, pellets, and pearls form other significant segments, with tapioca pearls being especially popular in the beverage industry for products like bubble tea, a trend that has gained global traction.

By Uses

In 2023, Tapioca Starch as a Thickening Agent held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 39.1% share. This substantial market share is attributed to the widespread use of tapioca starch in various culinary applications where a smooth, translucent, and flavorless thickener is required. Tapioca starch is especially favored in the preparation of sauces, soups, and desserts where it helps achieve the desired viscosity without altering the original flavors of the dish. Its quick-cooking properties and ability to withstand long cooking times without breaking down make it an indispensable ingredient in both home cooking and industrial food production.

As a Stabilizer Agent, tapioca starch is also extensively used in food products like yogurt, ice cream, and salad dressings where it helps maintain consistency and extend shelf life by stabilizing emulsions and suspensions. This use reflects the evolving needs of the food industry for ingredients that support clean labeling practices by providing natural and effective stabilization solutions.

The roles of tapioca starch as a Bodying Agent and Binding Agent are similarly crucial but account for smaller shares of the market. As a bodying agent, tapioca starch is employed in products like baked goods and meat alternatives to enhance texture and mouthfeel. Meanwhile, as a binding agent, it is used in pharmaceuticals, sausages, and ready meals to ensure cohesion and prevent separation of ingredients during processing and storage.

By Applications

In 2023, the Food and Beverage industry held a dominant market position in the tapioca starch market, capturing more than a 51.2% share. This substantial market share is driven by the increasing use of tapioca starch as a versatile ingredient in various culinary applications. In the food sector, tapioca starch is prized for its ability to improve texture, add crispness to baked goods, and act as a thickening agent in sauces and soups. Its neutral flavor makes it particularly valuable in beverages, where it is used to enhance mouthfeel without altering taste, notably in smoothies and milk alternatives.

Beyond food and beverages, tapioca starch finds significant applications in the Textile Industry, where it is used as a sizing agent to strengthen yarn during weaving. In the Glue Industry, tapioca starch serves as an important binder, providing adhesion without the use of synthetic materials. Similarly, the Pharmaceutical Industry utilizes tapioca starch as a disintegrant in tablets, helping them to break down appropriately when ingested.

Key Market Segments

By Types

• Fresh
• Dried

By Product

• Tapioca Animal Feed
• Tapioca Flour
• Tapioca Chips
• Pellets
• Pearls
• Others

By Uses

• Thickening Agent
• Stabilizer Agent
• Bodying Agent
• Binding Agent

By Applications

• Food, Beverage
• Textile Industry
• Glue Industry
• Pharmaceutical Industry
• Cosmetics Industry, Mining Industry, Constructions Industry
• Others

Drivers

Growing Demand for Gluten-Free Products Propels Tapioca Starch Market

One of the major driving factors for the growth of the tapioca starch market is the increasing consumer demand for gluten-free products. As awareness of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity continues to rise, more consumers are opting for gluten-free diets, not only for health reasons but also for general wellness. Tapioca starch, derived from the cassava root, is naturally gluten-free and offers an excellent alternative to wheat-based starches, making it a popular choice in gluten-free baking and cooking.

In 2023, the global gluten-free products market was valued at over $5 billion, with projections for continued growth driven by consumer health trends and increasing diagnoses of gluten-related disorders. Tapioca starch is particularly valued in this market for its versatile application in a variety of food products, from breads and pastries to noodles and snacks, where it is appreciated for its neutral flavor and ability to improve texture and moisture without the grittiness sometimes associated with other gluten-free flours.

Moreover, the expansion of the tapioca starch market is supported by the clean label trend, where consumers are seeking simpler and more natural ingredients. Tapioca starch fits well into this category due to its minimal processing and absence of additives, which enhances its appeal among health-conscious consumers.

Government initiatives in major tapioca-producing countries like Thailand and Brazil have also played a significant role in promoting the cultivation and sustainable production of cassava, which is the primary source of tapioca starch. These initiatives aim to improve yield and processing efficiencies, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality tapioca starch to meet global demands.

The demand for tapioca starch in the gluten-free and clean label markets is expected to remain strong. Innovations in food technology that improve the functional properties of tapioca starch will further enhance its applications, potentially expanding its use beyond the food industry into areas like biodegradable plastics and pharmaceuticals, where its binding and thickening properties can be effectively utilized. This broadening of applications signifies a robust growth trajectory for the tapioca starch market, anchored by ongoing consumer and industry trends toward healthier and more sustainable product choices.

Restraints

Fluctuating Raw Material Supply Restraining Tapioca Starch Market Growth

A significant restraining factor for the tapioca starch market is the fluctuating supply of cassava, the primary raw material for tapioca starch production. Cassava cultivation is highly dependent on favorable climatic conditions, and adverse weather events, such as droughts or floods, can severely impact crop yields. This variability in supply not only affects the availability of cassava for processing but also leads to price volatility, which poses challenges for both manufacturers and end-users of tapioca starch.

In 2023, cassava-producing countries such as Thailand, Brazil, and Nigeria faced varying levels of yield fluctuations due to climate-related factors. For instance, Thailand, which is one of the largest exporters of tapioca starch, reported a 12% drop in cassava production due to prolonged dry spells. This decline in supply affected the global market, leading to price increases that hindered the affordability and competitiveness of tapioca starch compared to other starches like corn or potato.

Furthermore, pest infestations and plant diseases, such as cassava mosaic disease, have added to the challenges in maintaining a consistent supply. Efforts by governments and agricultural organizations to combat these issues include developing disease-resistant cassava varieties and promoting sustainable farming practices. For example, initiatives by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have supported cassava farmers in adopting resilient agricultural techniques to mitigate the effects of climate variability and pests.

Despite these measures, the supply chain for tapioca starch remains vulnerable, especially in regions where cassava farming is the livelihood for smallholder farmers with limited resources. This fragility impacts manufacturers who rely on steady input supplies to meet market demand, creating a bottleneck in production and potentially stalling market growth.

Addressing this challenge will require continued investments in agricultural research and development, as well as supportive policies from governments to stabilize cassava production. Collaborative efforts between stakeholders, including farmers, processors, and policymakers, will be critical to ensuring a reliable supply of raw materials for the tapioca starch market. While these solutions are promising, the ongoing risks associated with raw material supply fluctuations remain a significant restraint for the industry.

Opportunity

Expanding Applications in Biodegradable Packaging Offer Growth Opportunities for Tapioca Starch

The growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions presents a significant growth opportunity for the tapioca starch market. As environmental concerns over plastic pollution continue to escalate, businesses and governments are actively seeking biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastic packaging. Tapioca starch, being a natural and renewable resource, has emerged as a promising ingredient in the development of biodegradable packaging materials.

In 2023, the global biodegradable packaging market was valued at over $12 billion, with increasing adoption across various industries, including food, beverages, and personal care. Tapioca starch plays a crucial role in this market due to its excellent film-forming and binding properties. These characteristics enable the production of sturdy, flexible, and compostable packaging materials that can serve as a direct substitute for single-use plastics. Tapioca starch-based films are not only biodegradable but also water-resistant and capable of preserving the freshness of food products, making them ideal for food packaging applications.

Government initiatives are further accelerating the adoption of starch-based biodegradable packaging. For instance, countries such as the European Union member states have implemented strict regulations banning single-use plastics, prompting industries to transition to biodegradable alternatives. Similarly, nations like India.

The food industry is a significant driver of this growth opportunity, as it seeks biodegradable packaging options to address consumer demand for environmentally conscious products. Major food companies are increasingly adopting tapioca starch-based packaging for products such as fresh produce, snacks, and baked goods. This shift not only supports the sustainability goals of these companies but also creates a robust demand for tapioca starch.

Trends

Rising Use of Tapioca Starch in Plant-Based and Clean Label Foods

One of the latest trends in the tapioca starch market is its increasing adoption in plant-based and clean label food products. As consumers continue to prioritize health, sustainability, and transparency in their dietary choices, tapioca starch has gained traction as a versatile, natural ingredient that meets the demands of modern food trends. Derived from cassava root, tapioca starch is naturally gluten-free, non-GMO, and minimally processed, making it an ideal ingredient for brands focusing on clean label formulations.

In 2023, the global plant-based food market exceeded $40 billion, with tapioca starch playing a critical role in this growth. Its unique properties, such as neutral taste, smooth texture, and excellent thickening capabilities, make it a preferred ingredient in plant-based alternatives like dairy-free yogurts, vegan cheeses, and meat substitutes. For example, tapioca starch is commonly used in plant-based meats to improve texture and binding, giving these products the chewiness and cohesiveness that mimic real meat.

The trend towards clean label foods has also driven demand for tapioca starch in baked goods, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. Consumers increasingly look for products with simple, recognizable ingredients, and tapioca starch fits well into this category. It replaces artificial thickeners and stabilizers in recipes while delivering the same functionality, aligning with consumer expectations for healthier and more natural food choices.

Government initiatives are further encouraging this trend by promoting transparency in food labeling. In regions like the European Union and the United States, regulatory agencies are pushing for stricter labeling practices, which have prompted manufacturers to replace synthetic additives with natural alternatives like tapioca starch. This not only helps brands comply with regulations but also enhances consumer trust in their products.

The integration of tapioca starch into plant-based and clean label foods is expected to accelerate. Innovations in food processing technology are expanding its applications, such as its use in gluten-free baking and premium processed foods. As this trend grows, tapioca starch is positioned to become a staple ingredient in the evolving global food industry, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability, health, and transparency.

Regional Analysis

Asia Pacific (APAC) emerged as the dominant region in 2023, holding a significant 38.1% share and generating approximately USD 1.8 billion in revenue. This dominance is primarily driven by the extensive use of tapioca starch in traditional foods, beverages, and industrial applications across countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, which are also major cassava producers. APAC’s leadership is further supported by its robust agricultural base, cost-effective production, and increasing demand for tapioca starch in food processing and textile industries.

North America represents another key market, where the rising demand for gluten-free and clean-label products has propelled the use of tapioca starch in various food applications such as baking, snacks, and dairy-free alternatives. In the United States and Canada, the growing health-conscious consumer base is encouraging manufacturers to adopt tapioca starch as a natural and non-GMO ingredient in processed foods.

In Europe, the market is expanding steadily, driven by the increasing use of tapioca starch in food formulations as a clean-label thickening and stabilizing agent. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK are witnessing growing demand for gluten-free and plant-based diets, fueling the market growth.

Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets for tapioca starch. In these regions, its applications in animal feed, industrial adhesives, and pharmaceuticals are gaining momentum, supported by expanding manufacturing sectors and the versatility of tapioca starch in diverse industries. While these regions hold smaller shares, they offer significant growth potential as awareness of tapioca starch’s applications continues to spread globally.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The tapioca starch market is highly competitive, with several key players driving innovation and market expansion across diverse applications. Companies like Cargill Inc. and Ingredion are at the forefront of the global market, leveraging their extensive expertise and resources to meet the increasing demand for tapioca starch in food, beverage, and industrial applications. These companies are investing in research and development to enhance the functional properties of tapioca starch, such as improved stability and texture, catering to clean-label and gluten-free product trends.

Regional players such as Angel Starch and Food, Vaighai Agro Products Ltd., and General Starch Limited are pivotal in the Asia Pacific market, which dominates the global tapioca starch sector. These companies benefit from proximity to abundant cassava resources and strong local demand for tapioca starch in traditional food and beverage applications. Additionally, firms like Emsland-Starke GmbH and Tate & Lyle Plc. contribute significantly to the European and North American markets, focusing on industrial uses such as adhesives and pharmaceuticals while maintaining a robust presence in the food sector.

Emerging players like Pruthvi’s Foods Pvt. Ltd. and SMS Corporation are expanding their footprint through innovation in processing technologies and a focus on cost-effective production. Meanwhile, companies such as Varalakshmi Starch Industries Pvt. Ltd. and Vijaya Lakshmi Adhesives are catering to niche segments, including the textile and paper industries. Together, these key players are shaping the tapioca starch market, ensuring its growth across traditional and emerging applications globally.

Top Key Players

• American Key Food Products
• Angel Starch and Food
• Blue Craft Agro
• Cargill Inc.
• Emsland-Starke GmbH
• Everest Starch
• General Starch Limited
• Ingredion
• Navin Chemicals
• Prakash Starch Products
• Pruthvi’s Foods Pvt. Ltd.
• SMS Corporation
• Sonish Starch Technology Co. Ltd.
• SVM Tapioca
• Tate & Lyle Plc.
• Vaighai Agro Products Ltd.
• Varalakshmi Starch Industries Pvt. Ltd.
• Vijaya Lakshmi Adhesives

Recent Developments

In April 2023, AKFP expanded its tapioca product line by introducing native waxy tapioca starch, a gluten-free, non-GMO ingredient rich in amylopectin.

In April 2023 Angel Starch’s extensive experience and diverse product offerings position the company to effectively meet the increasing demand for tapioca starch across multiple industries.

Report Scope