The global cassava market is poised for robust expansion in the coming decade. According to the Market Research Future (MRFR) report, the industry was estimated at USD 198.90 billion in 2024, and it is forecast to reach USD 312.15 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 4.18% from 2025 to 2035.
This growth reflects the rising importance of cassava across multiple sectors — from food and beverages to animal feed to industrial applications — coupled with evolving consumer preferences and improvements in processing technologies.
Key Growth Drivers
Demand for functional & gluten-free foods
As health consciousness rises globally, consumers are increasingly opting for foods that support wellness. Cassava starch is becoming a valued ingredient due to its gluten-free nature and functional properties (binding, thickening, texture) in processed foods.Strong share in food & beverages
The report highlights that food & beverage applications already account for ~70.4% of global market revenue. Busy lifestyles and demand for processed foods drive the incorporation of cassava derivatives into bakery, snacks, extruded foods, and more.Growth of organic cassava
The organic category currently secures about 35% of market revenue, driven by premiumization and consumer willingness to pay more for “clean label” and natural ingredients.Liquid vs. solid forms
Cassava in liquid forms (e.g. syrups, pastes) is presently the highest revenue contributor, while solid forms (powders, flours) are the fastest-growing segment, fueled by demand in bakery, snacks, and functional food sectors.Regional growth dynamics
North America leads current consumption, owing to strong demand for functional foods, dietary supplements, and healthier ingredients.
Europe stands second, driven by its robust food & beverage sector and increasing adoption of alternative food ingredients.
Asia-Pacific is forecast to grow at the fastest rate, supported by large consumer bases, increasing industrialization, and expansion of cassava processing infrastructure, especially in India, China, and Southeast Asia.
Challenges & Constraints
Infrastructure & logistics
Processing cassava close to production zones is ideal to avoid spoilage, but rural regions often lack adequate infrastructure, increasing costs and losses.Quality consistency & standardization
Especially for export markets, consistency in starch yield, moisture, and purity is critical. Variability among small producers poses a challenge.Regulations & certification
For organic or export-grade products, adhering to food safety standards, traceability systems, and certification costs can be barriers for smaller players.Competition from alternative starch sources
Corn, wheat, potato starches still have entrenched supply chains. For many cost-sensitive applications, traditional starches can be difficult to displace.
Strategic Opportunities
Investment in processing tech
Improved milling, drying, fractionation, and enzyme modification can boost yields, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.Value-added product development
Innovations in bioplastics, specialty starches, pregelatinized cassava, and novel food formulations can unlock premium revenue streams.Farmer aggregation & supply chain traceability
Cooperatives or aggregator networks can help smallholders meet volume, quality, and certification standards.Regional export hubs
Identifying strategic regions (e.g. West Africa, Southeast Asia) as processing-export hubs, linking local production to global markets.
Conclusion
The MRFR forecasts suggest that the cassava market is not just growing — it’s transforming. From a staple crop in many countries, cassava is becoming a versatile industrial and food ingredient with broad applicability. The projected growth from USD 198.90 billion to USD 312.15 billion by 2035 underscores this shift. That said, unlocking the full potential will require strategic investments, supply chain coordination, and consistent quality. Stakeholders — from farmers to processors to brands — that align across the value chain stand to gain.
