The Asia-Pacific maize (corn) starch market was valued at approximately $6.6 billion in 2024 and is forecast to continue growing over the next decade. Despite a slight dip in recent years, overall market expansion is expected to resume, driven by rising demand across food, industrial and export sectors.
Volume is forecast to reach about 13 million tons by 2035 with an average annual growth rate of ~0.8% (CAGR). Market value is projected to grow to around $7.9 billion by 2035, at a 1.6% CAGR over the period.
China remains the largest consumer and producer, accounting for roughly 44% of regional consumption and output. India is the leading exporter, supplying more than three-quarters of the region’s maize starch exports. Malaysia and Indonesia are the top importers, contributing to a rebound in import volumes in 2024 after several years of decline.
After more than a decade of growth, total consumption dropped slightly in 2024 to around 12 million tons following peak levels in 2023. Production also declined modestly in 2024 after strong expansion in earlier years.
Moderate long-term growth is expected driven by industrial demand and expanded use in food & beverage, textile and biodegradable products. China’s dominance in consumption and production continues, while India leads exports to global markets. Market balance is shifting with rising imports in Southeast Asia, reversing a multi-year decline.
