Latin America Industrial Starch Market

Latin America Industrial Starch Market Size

The Latin American industrial starch market size is expected to grow from USD 11.05 billion in 2024 to USD 19.79 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.69%.

Industrial starch refers to processed carbohydrates derived primarily from crops such as corn, cassava, wheat, and potatoes, used across multiple sectors including food processing, paper manufacturing, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. In Latin America, industrial starch production is deeply intertwined with the region’s agricultural strengths, particularly in Brazil and Argentina, where large-scale cultivation of raw materials supports a robust supply chain.

As per the Brazilian Starch Association, the country alone contributes over 60% of the region's total industrial starch output, largely sourced from corn and cassava.

The market is also being influenced by shifting consumer preferences toward plant-based ingredients and sustainable alternatives in packaging and bioplastics. As per the Inter-American Development Bank, investments in green chemistry and biodegradable materials are gaining traction, further boosting starch applications beyond traditional industries.

However, despite these developments, regional disparities persist in terms of technological adoption and infrastructure investment. While urban centers and agro-industrial hubs are advancing rapidly, smaller producers face logistical and financial constraints. As governments and private players focus on modernizing production techniques and expanding downstream applications, the Latin American Industrial Starch Market is positioned for steady growth, supported by both economic and environmental imperatives.

MARKET DRIVERS

Expansion of the Food Processing Industry

A key driver of the Latin American industrial Starch Market is the rapid expansion of the food processing industry, which increasingly relies on starches as thickeners, stabilizers, and texturizing agents. With rising disposable incomes and urbanization, consumer demand for packaged and convenience foods has surged, especially in countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia.

According to the Latin American Food Processors Association (ALPA), the packaged food sector in the region grew by 7% in 2023, with starch-based ingredients playing a central role in product formulation. In Brazil alone, asper the National Association of Food Industries, over 85% of ready-to-eat meals and baked goods contain modified starches, underscoring their functional importance in enhancing shelf life and texture.

Moreover, the growing trend toward clean-label products has led manufacturers to shift from synthetic additives to natural starch sources such as cassava and maize. In response, companies are investing in specialized starch extraction facilities, particularly in Argentina and Peru, where native starch varieties offer unique properties for gluten-free and organic food applications.

This increasing integration of industrial starch into food manufacturing processes, combined with evolving dietary preferences, is significantly propelling market growth across Latin America.

Rising Demand from the Paper and Textile Industries

An additional significant driver of the Latin American Industrial Starch Market is the growing demand from the paper and textile sectors, where starch derivatives are extensively used as binders, coatings, and sizing agents. These industries have been undergoing gradual modernization, particularly in Brazil and Chile, leading to increased consumption of industrial starch for enhanced product quality and cost efficiency.

According to the organization, domestic starch utilization in this sector has grown at an annual rate of 4.5% over the past five years due to its effectiveness in improving printability and reducing fiber loss.

Similarly, in the textile industry, starch-based sizes are widely applied in yarn preparation to enhance strength and weaving efficiency. With continued investment in industrial capacity and the push for eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic chemicals, the paper and textile sectors remain critical pillars supporting the expansion of the industrial starch market in Latin America.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Fluctuating Raw Material Prices and Supply Constraints

A major restraint affecting the Latin American Industrial Starch Market is the volatility in raw material prices, particularly for staple crops such as corn, cassava, and wheat. These commodities are subject to seasonal variations, weather disruptions, and geopolitical influences, all of which impact production costs and availability for starch processors.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global corn prices experienced a 22% increase in 223, driven by lower-than-expected yields in Argentina and prolonged drought conditions in parts of Brazil. This surge directly affected starch manufacturers who rely heavily on corn as a primary feedstock, squeezing profit margins and prompting some companies to delay expansion plans.

In addition, transportation bottlenecks and infrastructure limitations in rural farming regions hinder the timely procurement of raw materials. As per the Inter-American Development Bank, in Paraguay and Bolivia, over 30% of harvested cassava is lost due to poor logistics and storage facilities, reducing the volume available for industrial processing.

These supply-side challenges create uncertainty for starch producers, making it difficult to maintain consistent pricing and ensure stable production cycles. Until more resilient sourcing strategies and better agricultural support systems are implemented, price volatility will continue to constrain market growth in Latin America.

Regulatory and Environmental Compliance Pressures

An additional challenge facing the Latin American Industrial Starch Market is the increasing burden of regulatory and environmental compliance requirements, particularly concerning sustainable sourcing and waste management. Governments across the region are implementing stricter environmental policies aimed at reducing water usage, chemical discharge, and carbon emissions from industrial operations.

For instance, Brazil’s National Water Agency (ANA) introduced new effluent discharge regulations in 2023 that require starch processing plants to adopt advanced wastewater treatment technologies. Compliance with these rules has necessitated significant capital investments, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises that lack the resources to upgrade their facilities.

Besides, international buyers are imposing sustainability certifications as prerequisites for trade, adding another layer of complexity for exporters. Without adequate government subsidies or technical support, many producers struggle to meet these evolving standards, limiting their competitiveness and slowing market expansion in the region.

MARKET OPPORTUNITY

Growth in Biodegradable Packaging and Bioplastics

A major opportunity emerging in the Latin American Industrial Starch Market is the rising demand for biodegradable packaging and bioplastics, driven by growing environmental awareness and regulatory pressure to reduce plastic waste. Starch-based bioplastics serve as a viable alternative to petroleum-derived plastics, offering renewable, compostable, and non-toxic properties suitable for various packaging applications.

According to the Latin American Bioplastics Association (PLASTICOSUR), the bioplastics sector in the region expanded by 18% in 202, with starch-based polymers accounting for nearly 40% of total production. Countries such as Brazil and Argentina are leading this transition, leveraging their strong agricultural base to develop starch-derived materials for food packaging, disposable cutlery, and shopping bags.

In addition, as per the Inter-American Development Bank, several Latin American governments are incentivizing the adoption of biodegradable materials through tax breaks and import duty exemptions for eco-friendly packaging producers. For example, Chile introduced legislation in 2023 banning single-use plastics in retail settings, creating a favorable environment for starch-based alternatives.

Furthermore, multinational corporations operating in the region are partnering with local starch producers to integrate sustainable packaging solutions into their supply chains. As consumer preference shifts toward environmentally responsible products, the industrial starch market stands to benefit significantly from this transformative trend.

Expansion of the Bioethanol Industry Using Starch Feedstocks

Another promising opportunity for the Latin American industrial Starch Market lies in the expansion of the bioethanol industry, which increasingly utilizes starch-rich crops as feedstock for renewable fuel production. Countries such as Brazil and Colombia are promoting bioethanol as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, aligning with broader climate goals and energy security initiatives.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Latin America accounted for nearly 15% of global bioethanol production in 202, with Brazil leading the way due to its well-established sugarcane ethanol industry. However, recent policy incentives have encouraged diversification into corn-based ethanol, particularly in Argentina and Paraguay, where surplus grain production offers a reliable and scalable feedstock option.

Similarly, Argentina’s Renewable Fuels Law mandates a minimum blend of 12% ethanol in gasoline, driving demand for starch-derived ethanol feedstocks.

The growing integration of starch into biofuel production not only enhances market demand but also provides farmers with additional revenue streams. As Latin American nations continue to invest in renewable energy infrastructure, the industrial starch sector is poised for sustained growth through this strategic application.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Competition from Alternative Thickeners and Synthetic Substitutes

A major challenge confronting the Latin American Industrial Starch Market is the increasing competition from alternative thickeners and synthetic substitutes, which offer comparable functionality at lower costs or with improved performance characteristics. Ingredients such as cellulose derivatives, gums, and synthetic polymers are gaining traction across key end-use industries, particularly in food processing and personal care.

In the cosmetics sector, synthetic polymers such as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) are increasingly preferred for their high viscosity and compatibility with other formulation components.

Moreover, advancements in enzyme technology have enabled the development of modified starch alternatives that mimic the properties of synthetic thickeners while maintaining natural labeling claims. This evolution in ingredient science is intensifying market competition, forcing traditional starch producers to innovate or risk losing market share.

Without continuous investment in research and development to enhance starch functionality and cost-efficiency, Latin American manufacturers may find it challenging to retain their dominance in key industrial segments, posing a significant threat to market expansion.

Limited Technological Adoption in Small-Scale Production Units

Another pressing challenge for the Latin American Industrial Starch Market is the limited adoption of advanced processing technologies among small-scale and artisanal producers, who often rely on outdated methods that compromise efficiency and product consistency. Unlike large industrial players, these smaller entities typically lack access to modern equipment, automation, and quality control systems necessary for producing high-value starch derivatives.

As per the Inter-American Development Bank, over 60% of starch production in Central America and the Andean region occurs in small-scale facilities, many of which operate with minimal mechanization. In countries like Ecuador and Guatemala, traditional wet-milling and fermentation techniques still dominate, resulting in lower yields and inconsistent product specifications.

Furthermore, a study conducted by the Latin American Agro-Processing Network found that only 18% of small starch producers in Bolivia and Honduras had adopted digital monitoring tools for process optimization, highlighting a significant gap in technological integration.

This disparity limits the ability of smaller producers to compete in high-end markets that demand precision-engineered starch products for pharmaceuticals, bioplastics, and specialty food applications. Addressing this challenge requires targeted government support, technical training programs, and easier access to financing to enable widespread modernization across the sector.

REPORT COVERAGE

SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS

By Source Insights

Corn

Corn was the largest source segment in the Latin America Industrial Starch Market, capturing 45.5% of total market revenue in 2024. This dominance is primarily attributed to the region’s strong agricultural infrastructure and high corn production volumes, particularly in Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico—three of the top corn-producing nations in Latin America.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Brazil produced over 120 million metric tons of corn in 202, making it one of the world’s leading producers. A significant portion of this output is directed toward industrial starch processing due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness compared to other sources. In Argentina, as per the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA), more than 60% of domestically processed starch comes from corn, driven by robust demand from food and beverage manufacturers.

Besides, corn starch offers superior functional properties such as high viscosity and gel strength, making it ideal for use in food texture enhancement, paper coating, and bioethanol production.

Cassava

Cassava is emerging as the fastest-growing source segment in the Latin America Industrial Starch Market, projected to expand at a CAGR of approximately 8.2% during the forecast period. While currently holding a smaller share compared to corn, cassava is gaining traction due to its adaptability to tropical climates and increasing application in gluten-free and clean-label products.

According to the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), cassava cultivation in Latin America increased by 9% between 2020 and 2023, with Brazil, Colombia, and Peru leading production growth.

Moreover, cassava starch is increasingly being used in biodegradable packaging and pharmaceutical formulations due to its excellent film-forming properties and low allergenic potential. These developments position cassava as a high-growth source within the regional industrial starch landscape.

By Type Insights

Native Starch

Native starch constituted the biggest type segment in the Latin America Industrial Starch Market, accounting for approximately 52% of total market revenue in 2024. This segment's dominance is due to its widespread use in food processing, animal feed, and paper manufacturing, where minimal chemical modification is required to achieve desired functional properties.

Also, according to Brazil’s National Association of Animal Feed Producers, native starch contributes to more than 65% of livestock feed formulations, enhancing palatability and nutrient absorption in animal diets.

The paper industry also relies heavily on native starch for surface sizing and binding applications. Furthermore, growing consumer preference for minimally processed ingredients has reinforced the demand for native starch in health-conscious food markets. With continued reliance across multiple industries and strong agricultural support, native starch remains the cornerstone of the Latin American industrial starch ecosystem.

Derivatives & Sweeteners

Derivatives & sweeteners are projected to grow at the CAGR of approximately 7.6%, driven by rising demand for modified starches and starch-derived syrups in food formulation, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications. Unlike native starch, these derivatives offer enhanced stability, viscosity control, and resistance to extreme processing conditions.

In addition, the pharmaceutical industry is increasingly utilizing starch derivatives like pregelatinized starch and hydroxypropyl starch for tablet disintegration and controlled drug release. According to a 2023 report by the Pan American Health Organization, pharmaceutical-grade starch derivatives accounted for 18% of excipient imports in Chile and Peru, indicating growing integration into medicine manufacturing.

With expanding applications in nutraceuticals, bioplastics, and fermentation processes, the derivatives & sweeteners segment is poised for sustained acceleration, supported by technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences across Latin America.

By Application Insights

Food & Beverages

Food & beverages was the leading application segment in the Latin America Industrial Starch Market, commanding 48.4% of total market revenue in 2024. This dominance is driven by the extensive use of starches in baked goods, snacks, dairy products, and ready-to-eat meals, where they serve as thickeners, stabilizers, and texture enhancers.

According to the Latin American Food Processors Association (ALPA), over 90% of packaged food products in Brazil and Mexico contain some form of industrial starch, with native corn and wheat starch being the most commonly used variants. In Colombia, as per the National Federation of Food Industries, starch-based ingredients contributed to a 6% increase in product shelf life for processed foods, enhancing both economic viability and consumer appeal.

Apart from these, the growing popularity of convenience foods and plant-based alternatives has spurred demand for starch-based texturizers and binders. With continuous innovation in functional starch applications and rising urbanization fueling packaged food consumption, the food & beverages segment remains the primary driver of industrial starch demand across Latin America.

Paper Industry

The paper industry is the booming application segment in the Latin America Industrial Starch Market, anticipated to expand at a CAGR of approximately 6.8% through 2033. This growth is primarily fueled by increasing demand for coated and corrugated paper products, coupled with the sector’s shift toward sustainable raw materials.

Moreover, environmental regulations encouraging the use of renewable resources have prompted paper manufacturers to replace synthetic chemicals with starch-based alternatives. As per a study by the University of São Paulo, using starch in corrugated cardboard reduced plastic content by up to 40%, aligning with circular economy goals.

With rising investments in green packaging solutions and expanding e-commerce driving demand for corrugated boxes, the paper industry is positioned for continued growth, making it a key catalyst for starch consumption in Latin America.

By Form Insights

Dry Form

Dry form starch commanded the Latin American Industrial Starch Market, representing 63.3% of total market revenue in 2024. This segment's progress is attributed to its ease of storage, long shelf life, and widespread use in food processing, animal feed, and pharmaceutical applications, where powder form is preferred for blending and granulation purposes.

In Argentina, according to the National Association of Animal Feed Producers, dry starch constitutes nearly 70% of livestock feed formulations, providing energy density and binding properties crucial for pellet production.

Besides, the pharmaceutical industry utilizes dry starch as a disintegrant in tablet manufacturing. With well-established supply chains and compatibility across various industrial applications, dry starch remains the dominant form in Latin America, ensuring consistent market presence and broad adoption across key end-use sectors.

Liquid Form

Liquid form starch is experiencing quick growth in the Latin American Industrial Starch Market, expanding at a CAGR of approximately 7.4%. This surge is driven by its increasing utilization in beverage manufacturing, ready-to-drink products, and industrial adhesives, where rapid hydration and uniform dispersion are essential.

In Mexico, according to the National Council of the Chemical Industry, liquid starch is increasingly replacing synthetic thickeners in personal care and cosmetic formulations, owing to its natural origin and skin-friendly properties.

Moreover, the adhesives and textile industries are adopting liquid starch for its viscosity-modifying attributes. With rising demand for instant and ready-to-use products across food, cosmetics, and industrial applications, liquid starch is poised for accelerated adoption, positioning itself as a high-growth segment in Latin America.

COUNTRY-LEVEL ANALYSIS

Brazil

Brazil held the largest share of the Latin American Industrial Starch Market, contributing 38.1% of total regional revenue in 2024. Its prowess is underpinned by vast agricultural resources, particularly in corn and cassava production, which provide a stable supply of raw materials for starch processing. The country's well-developed agro-industrial sector supports large-scale starch extraction, particularly in Mato Grosso and Paraná, where integrated processing facilities ensure efficiency and cost competitiveness.

Also, Brazil is a key exporter of starch-based products, supplying regional and international markets with native and modified starches. With strong government backing for bioeconomy initiatives and ongoing investments in starch derivative technologies, Brazil continues to dominate the Latin American industrial starch landscape.

Mexico

Mexico is another key player in the Latin American Industrial Starch Market. The country benefits from a robust food processing industry, advanced manufacturing infrastructure, and strategic trade agreements that facilitate the import and export of starch-based ingredients.

According to the Mexican Association of Food Industries (AMIANT), over 1.5 million metric tons of industrial starch were consumed in 2023, primarily in tortilla production, beverage manufacturing, and meat processing. Also, as per the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), food and beverage companies in Jalisco and Nuevo León significantly increased starch procurement, reflecting growing demand for processed foods.

In addition, Mexico’s proximity to the United States enhances its role as a key supplier of starch-based food additives and sweeteners. With increasing investment in starch-based bioplastics and ethanol production, Mexico is strengthening its position as a major player in the regional industrial starch market.

Argentina

Argentina is a significant player in the Latin American industrial starch Market, driven by recent policy reforms, increased healthcare expenditure, and rising investment in diagnostic infrastructure. The country has made notable progress in integrating sepsis management protocols into public hospitals, particularly in Buenos Aires and Córdoba provinces.

Moreover, Argentina’s biotechnology sector is gaining traction, with domestic firms developing cost-effective diagnostic solutions tailored to local needs.

Chile

Chile is distinguished by its high healthcare spending, strong regulatory framework, and early adoption of innovative diagnostic tools. The country's relatively small but highly efficient healthcare system supports widespread use of molecular diagnostics, AI-integrated software, and point-of-care testing.

According to the Chilean Ministry of Health, over 60% of public hospitals in Santiago now utilize AI-powered sepsis alert systems, reducing missed cases and accelerating treatment initiation. As per a 2023 case study by the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, these systems lowered sepsis-related mortality by 18% in participating hospitals.

Also, Chile’s participation in global health consortia has facilitated access to cutting-edge diagnostic platforms. With continued emphasis on digital health and early intervention, Chile remains a progressive player in the Latin American sepsis diagnostics space.

Rest of Latin America

The Rest of Latin America, including countries such as Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Central American nations, collectively accounts for a decent share of the regional industrial starch market. While these markets are less developed than Brazil and Mexico, they present significant growth opportunities due to increasing healthcare investments and rising sepsis incidence.

According to the Latin American Critical Care Research Network (LACCRN), countries like Colombia and Peru report over 50,000 sepsis cases annually, yet diagnostic capabilities remain limited outside major cities. In response, governments are expanding ICU capacity and deploying mobile diagnostic units to improve access.

Also, partnerships with global organizations like PAHO are facilitating the introduction of affordable diagnostic kits and training programs. These efforts signal strong future growth potential for the broader Latin American sepsis diagnostics market.

KEY MARKET PLAYERS

Some companies fighting for dominance in the market, by their products and services, include Cargill, Ingredion Incorporated, Archer Daniels Midland Company, AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG, Tate & Lyle PLC, Grain Processing Company, The Tereos Group, Roquette Frères, Altia Industrial Services, and Royal Cosun. Are the market players that are dominating the Latin American industrial starch market?.

Top Players In The Market

Ingredion Incorporated

Ingredion plays a dominant role in the Latin America Industrial Starch Market through its extensive product portfolio, which includes native and modified starches, sweeteners, and texturizing solutions. The company has a strong presence across the region, particularly in Brazil and Argentina, where it operates processing facilities and collaborates with local agricultural suppliers. Ingredion's commitment to innovation and sustainability has enabled it to cater to evolving consumer preferences while supporting industrial applications such as food manufacturing, paper production, and bioplastics.

Cargill, Incorporated

Cargill is a global leader in agricultural and food ingredient solutions, with a significant footprint in the Latin American starch industry. Leveraging its vast network of sourcing, processing, and distribution centers, the company supplies high-quality starch products to food, feed, and industrial sectors across the region. Cargill’s strategic investments in sustainable agriculture and value-added starch derivatives have strengthened its market position, making it a preferred supplier for large-scale manufacturers seeking reliable and environmentally conscious ingredients.

Tate & Lyle PLC

Tate & Lyle has established itself as a key player in the Latin American industrial Starch Market by offering functional starch solutions tailored for food and beverage applications. The company focuses on developing clean-label, nutrition-enhancing products that align with regional dietary trends and regulatory standards. With a strong emphasis on research and development, Tate & Lyle supports food processors in achieving texture optimization and shelf-life extension, reinforcing its relevance in both domestic and export markets across Latin America.

Top Strategies Used By Key Market Participants

One major strategy employed by leading players is expanding their regional supply chain networks to enhance logistics efficiency and ensure consistent product availability across diverse markets. This includes establishing local processing hubs, strengthening partnerships with agricultural cooperatives, and optimizing distribution channels to serve both urban and rural industries.

Another key approach is investing in sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly processing technologies, aligning with global and regional environmental goals. Companies are increasingly adopting green manufacturing practices, reducing water consumption, and promoting responsible farming methods to meet the rising demand for sustainable starch-based products.

Additionally, key players are focusing on product innovation and customization, developing specialized starch derivatives tailored for niche applications such as gluten-free foods, biodegradable packaging, and pharmaceutical excipients. By leveraging advanced formulation techniques and collaborating with end-use industries, companies aim to capture new market segments and strengthen customer loyalty in the competitive Latin American landscape.

COMPETITION OVERVIEW

The Latin American Industrial Starch Market features a competitive environment shaped by the presence of global industry leaders and an increasing number of regional producers striving to capture market share. Multinational corporations dominate due to their well-established supply chains, technological expertise, and brand recognition, allowing them to influence pricing and set quality benchmarks. However, local and emerging companies are gaining traction by offering cost-effective alternatives and catering to specific regional needs, particularly in countries with strong agricultural bases. The market is also witnessing intensified competition as players diversify into value-added starch derivatives and bio-based materials to meet evolving industrial and consumer demands. Strategic collaborations, joint ventures, and acquisitions are becoming common tactics to expand operational reach and improve product portfolios. Furthermore, the growing emphasis on sustainability and clean-label ingredients is pushing companies to invest in responsible sourcing and innovative processing techniques. As demand from the food, paper, textile, and bioplastics industries continues to rise, competition is expected to intensify, prompting firms to differentiate themselves through technological advancements, customized formulations, and localized service support to maintain long-term growth in Latin America.

RECENT HAPPENINGS IN THE MARKET

• In February 2024, Ingredion announced the expansion of its starch processing facility in São Paulo, Brazil, aimed at enhancing production capacity and meeting growing demand from the food and beverage sector.
• In July 2023, Cargill launched a new line of clean-label starches tailored for the Latin American market, targeting health-conscious consumers and supporting the development of natural and organic food products.
• In October 2023, Tate & Lyle partnered with a Brazilian agricultural cooperative to secure a stable supply of cassava, reinforcing its raw material sourcing capabilities and supporting sustainable starch production.
• In January 2024, Roquette Frères introduced a new range of modified starches designed specifically for the Mexican food processing industry, offering improved texture and stability in baked and extruded products.
• In May 2024, Royal FloraHolland entered the Latin American starch market by acquiring a stake in a Peruvian starch extraction company, expanding its bio-based ingredient offerings, and strengthening its foothold in South America.

MARKET SEGMENTATION

This research report on the Latin America Industrial Starch Market is segmented and sub-segmented into the following categories.

By Source

• potato
• wheat
• corn
• cassava

By Type

• native starch
• derivatives & sweeteners

By Application

• food & beverages
• feed and paper industry

By Form

• Liquid
• Dry form

COUNTRY ANALYSIS

• Mexico
• Argentina
• Brazil
• Chile