Cassava Market Growth, Trends & Forecast By 2033

Cassava, also known as yuca or manioc, is a starchy root vegetable native to South America and a staple food in many tropical and subtropical regions. It can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, baking, frying, and grilling. Additionally, cassava can be processed into flour for baking bread, cakes, and other goods. It is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and carbohydrates, making it a valuable dietary staple. Furthermore, it contains resistant starch, which has been linked to several health benefits, including improved gut health and blood sugar regulation.

The global cassava market is expanding due to rising demand for gluten-free products, as cassava is a key ingredient in gluten-free flour, snacks, and pasta. Growing environmental awareness has also spurred interest in cassava for biodegradable bioplastics, providing a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. Its versatility across food, beverage, and industrial applications and its resilience in harsh climates and high starch content further strengthen its global market position. Cassava is essential to food security in many developing regions, particularly in Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

Market Dynamics Bioplastics production from cassava drives market growth

Cassava starch is a cost-effective, abundant, and biodegradable material, making it an ideal candidate for bioplastic production. These bioplastics are used in disposable dinnerware, agricultural films, and food packaging. However, challenges such as low mechanical strength and water sensitivity limit their widespread adoption. Research is focused on enhancing these properties by modifying cassava starch and blending it with other materials. Despite these limitations, cassava-based bioplastics offer a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics, reducing environmental impact and promoting a circular economy.

• According to the Indian Ministry of Science and Technology, the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) supported an initiative in July 2024 to produce compostable bioplastic bags from cassava starch in Nagaland.

The increasing global focus on renewable energy and sustainability presents a significant opportunity for the cassava market, particularly in biofuel production. Cassava is a key raw material for bioethanol, providing a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. With governments worldwide enacting policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on petroleum-based fuels, the demand for cassava-derived bioethanol is growing.

Several countries in Asia, South America, and Africa are investing in cassava-based ethanol production, recognizing its economic and environmental benefits. Cassava's high starch content (70-80%) makes it an efficient feedstock for ethanol production, particularly in regions where traditional ethanol sources like sugarcane and corn are costly or limited.

• In November 2024, major oil and gas companies increased biofuel investments, with 43 Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) projects expected by 2030. Thailand and Nigeria, the largest cassava producers, announced large-scale initiatives to integrate cassava bioethanol into their national energy policies.

Beyond energy, cassava-based biofuels can drive rural economic growth, generate employment, and provide smallholder farmers with stable incomes. As governments intensify renewable energy mandates and carbon reduction targets, cassava's role in the green energy transition is set to expand further.

Regional Analysis

Asia-Pacific dominates global cassava production and exports due to favorable climatic conditions, fertile soil, and supportive agricultural policies. Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia are the top cassava-producing nations, with well-developed processing industries catering to domestic and export markets. Cassava starch is in high demand as a critical raw material for the food, pharmaceutical, and biofuel industries.

The rising demand for cassava-based animal feed is also boosting production, particularly in China and Vietnam, where livestock farming is expanding. The region's strategic emphasis on cassava exports further strengthens its global market leadership. Investments in advanced processing technologies and R&D for high-yield cassava varieties are expected to enhance production efficiency and global competitiveness.

• According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, Vietnam exported 76,118 tonnes of cassava in February 2024, generating USD 19.9 million and recording the highest export growth rate.

Key Highlights

• The global cassava market size was valued at USD 815.64 million in 2024 and is expected to reach from USD 878.61 million in 2025 to USD 1663.30 million in 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.30% over the forecast period (2025-33).
• Based on the category, the global cassava market is segmented into conventional and organic. The organic segment owns the highest market share.
• Based on applications, the global cassava market is segmented into food & beverages, animal feed, and others. Food and drinks have the highest market share.
• Based on form, the global cassava market is segmented into solid and liquid. The liquid segment owns the highest market share.
• Based on region, the global market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. Asia-Pacific is the most significant shareholder in the global cassava market.