Cassava Market Size & Outlook, 2025-2033

Cassava Market Size

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 1,663.30 million in 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.30% over the forecast period (2025-2033).

Cassava, or yuca or manioc, is a starchy root vegetable native to South America. It is a staple diet in many tropical and subtropical areas of the world. It can be made in a variety of ways. You can cook it by boiling, baking, frying, or grilling it. Bread, cakes, and other baked items can be grilled into flour. It is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and carbs. Additionally, it is a good source of resistant starch, which has been linked to several health advantages, such as better gut health and blood sugar regulation.

The global cassava market is driven by increasing demand for gluten-free products, as it is a key ingredient in gluten-free foods like flour, snacks, and pasta. Additionally, the rise in eco-consciousness has spurred the use of cassava in producing biodegradable bioplastics, offering a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. Cassava's versatility in food, beverage, and industrial applications, cultivation resilience, and high starch content further contribute to its expanding global market presence. It is a staple food in many developing regions, particularly Africa, Latin America, and Asia.

Additionally, cassava-derived starch is widely used in paper, textile, and pharmaceutical industries. Climate resilience and high productivity in poor soils make cassava a vital crop for food security. However, post-harvest losses, price volatility, and disease outbreaks pose challenges, necessitating improved processing and agricultural practices.

Recent Market Trends

Rising Demand for Gluten-Free Products

Cassava flour has become a popular option as more and more consumers are being diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, while others are simply looking for healthier alternatives. Due to its versatility, it can be incorporated into various products, including bread and baked goods, pasta, and snacks, meeting multiple dietary needs and preferences. With the growing awareness of gluten-related problems and the rising demand for various healthy food choices, the flour market is set to keep expanding.

• Good Graces, a new private label offering a comprehensive selection of gluten-free products, was launched by the supermarket chain Hy-Vee, Inc. Good Graces offers 30 gluten-free products at present, with another 60 items being developed in November 2021.

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Cassava Market Growth Factors

Bioplastics Production from Cassava

Cassava starch is a viable material for bioplastic production because of its abundance, low cost, and biodegradability. Disposable dinnerware, agricultural films, and food packaging are just a few of the uses for these bioplastics. However, there are drawbacks to cassava starch bioplastics, including their low mechanical qualities and sensitivity to water. Enhancing these qualities by alterations and mixing with other materials is the primary goal of research. Notwithstanding obstacles, bioplastics made from cassava provide a sustainable substitute for traditional plastics, lessening their adverse effects on the environment and fostering a circular economy.

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

Cassava as An Animal Feed

Cassava is an essential and affordable energy source for animal feed because of its high carbohydrate content, especially for ruminants, pigs, and poultry. The need for cassava in animal feed drives the market. Affordably priced feed components like cassava are becoming increasingly necessary as animal output rises worldwide to satisfy growing protein demands. For producers, this generates a steady and sizable market unaffected by changes in human demand. Through its ability to boost livestock output and give cassava growers a constant source of income, the use in animal feed helps ensure food security.

• According to PMC (Pub Med Central), cassava pellets or chips could be used to replace maize in broiler diets by up to 50%, with enzyme supplementation of such diets. The cassava products had no negative impacts on body weight, belly fat, or body composition.

Restraining Factors

Perishability and Limited Awareness

Cassava’s high perishability remains a significant challenge for market expansion. Fresh cassava roots deteriorate within 24–48 hours of harvest, requiring immediate processing or consumption. The lack of adequate cold storage and efficient transportation infrastructure in many cassava-producing regions, particularly Africa and Southeast Asia, results in significant post-harvest losses. Farmers struggle to access distant markets due to poor logistics, further impacting profitability.

Additionally, low consumer awareness and underutilization in non-traditional markets hinder the global cassava market. Despite being a nutritious source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins, cassava is often overshadowed by staple crops like wheat, rice, and corn. Many consumers remain unaware of its gluten-free benefits and potential as a health food ingredient. Educational campaigns and marketing initiatives promoting cassava-based products such as flour, starch, and ready-to-eat meals could drive greater adoption in developed markets. Investments in better storage technology, value-added processing, and awareness programs are necessary to unlock full market potential.

Market Opportunity

Raising Demand for Fuels

The increasing global focus on renewable energy and sustainability presents a significant opportunity for the market, particularly in biofuel production. Cassava is a key feedstock for bioethanol production, offering a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. With governments worldwide implementing policies to cut greenhouse gas emissions and reduce reliance on petroleum-based fuels, the demand for bioethanol is surging.

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 raw material for ethanol conversion, particularly in regions where traditional ethanol sources like sugarcane and corn are costly or limited.

• In November 2024, major oil and gas companies ramped up their investments in the biofuels sector, focusing on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with 43 projects expected to be operational by 2030. Thailand and Nigeria, the largest producers, have announced large-scale initiatives to integrate cassava bioethanol into their national energy policies.

Beyond energy, cassava-derived biofuels could boost rural economies, create employment opportunities, and provide smallholder farmers with a stable income. As governments strengthen renewable energy mandates and carbon reduction targets, cassava’s role in the green energy transition is expected to expand significantly.

Regional Insights

Asia-Pacific: Dominant Region with Robust Market Growth

Asia-Pacific remains the largest producer and exporter, driven by favorable climatic conditions, fertile soil, and government-backed agricultural policies. Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia are the top cassava-producing nations, with a well-developed processing industry supporting domestic consumption and exports. Cassava starch is in high demand, serving as a key raw material in the food, pharmaceutical, and biofuel industries.

Additionally, the increasing demand for cassava-based animal feed is boosting production, particularly in China and Vietnam, where livestock farming is growing. The region’s strategic focus on cassava exports further strengthens its dominance in the global market. Investments in modern processing technologies and R&D for high-yield cassava varieties are expected to increase production efficiency and international competitiveness further.

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

North America: Rapid Expansion Fueled by Emerging Markets

The North American market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for gluten-free and grain-free food alternatives. Cassava flour and starch are gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers and individuals with dietary restrictions, including celiac disease and gluten intolerance.

Moreover, cassava-based products such as snacks, frozen foods, and beverages are gaining traction due to the region's growing interest in exotic and ethnic cuisines. Latin American and African diaspora communities in the U.S. and Canada contribute to rising cassava consumption. However, North America lacks significant domestic cassava production, leading to increased imports from Asia, Africa, and Latin America to meet demand.

• According to market reports, U.S. imports of cassava-based products grew by 25% in 2024, with significant shipments coming from Thailand and Vietnam. Major food brands and startups are introducing cassava-based bakery and snack products, further expanding market opportunities.

Countries Insights

• Nigeria: Nigeria is the world’s largest producer, harvesting over 59 million tonnes annually, but post-harvest losses and inefficient processing remain challenges. The country invests in industrial cassava processing to boost value-added products such as flour, ethanol, and biofortified cassava varieties. In September 2024, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) introduced 56 new cassava varieties in Nigeria, improving yields and nutritional value.
• India: India’s production has been steadily increasing, reaching 7.8 million tonnes in 2020, according to FAO data. The country mainly uses cassava for starch extraction, food processing, and animal feed production. In January 2024, Kanthao district exported over 310,000 tonnes of dried cassava, achieving 96.72% of its annual export target and generating USD 39.6 million in revenue.
• Vietnam: Vietnam is a significant exporter, with China as its largest market. In February 2024, Vietnam exported 401,945 tonnes of cassava and cassava-based products to China, marking a 48% increase in volume and a 38% increase in value from the previous month. Investment in modern cassava processing plants boosts Vietnam’s export capacity and competitiveness.
• Tanzania: Tanzania’s cassava sector is evolving with the BEST Cassava Initiative, which focuses on sustainable seed systems to provide farmers with improved varieties. According to IITA, the initiative has helped develop disease-resistant and high-yield cultivars, enhancing productivity and farmer incomes. Tanzania’s industry also seeks to expand exports to neighboring African nations and international markets.
• Laos: Cassava farming in Laos has expanded rapidly, with 54,000 hectares under cultivation in the Xayaboury region alone, producing 1.56 million tonnes in 2024. Cassava is emerging as a key cash crop, supporting smallholder farmers and the regional economy. Laos is looking to expand cassava processing facilities to increase value-added exports.

Cassava Market Segmentation Analysis

The global cassava market is segmented based on category, applications, and form.

By Category

Organic segment dominated, because consumers are becoming more conscious of environmental and health issues. Those looking for sustainable and natural food options will find organic cassava appealing because it lacks artificial fertilizers and pesticides. Customers who prioritize clean-label items or have dietary restrictions are significantly affected by this trend. The market for organic cassava is anticipated to grow as consumer demand for food supplied responsibly and organically increases.

By Applications

Food and beverages segments accounted for the largest market share. Cassava flour and starch are utilized in various culinary products, including baked goods, snacks, and beverages, catering to traditional and modern diets. It is a well-liked component for people with dietary requirements because it is gluten-free. Its dominance in this market category is further cemented by cassava being widely used in manufacturing food and beverages due to its affordability and accessibility in many areas.

By Form

The liquid segment dominated the market with the most significant market revenue. This is due to the adaptability and convenience of these liquid forms. Their appeal in food processing and manufacturing stems from their ease of incorporation as ingredients, sweeteners, or flavor enhancers into a variety of food and beverage items. More investigation would be required to verify this supremacy and investigate the particular liquid cassava products propelling the industry.

Company Market Share

Leading companies are spending money on better disease-resistant cassava cultivars that provide larger yields. They are also concentrating on farmer training initiatives and sustainable farming methods to guarantee a steady supply chain. Higher-value cassava products, such as bioplastics and modified starches, are being produced thanks to investments in cutting-edge processing methods. They are also developing strategic alliances and broadening their distribution networks to reach new markets, especially in areas with a growing demand for sustainable and gluten-free products. The goal of research and development is to increase the variety of uses for cassava.

Cargill: An emerging player in the market

Cargill Incorporated is a major player in the market, especially when turning the crop into valuable goods like syrup and tapioca starch. They work closely with local farmers to get cassava, especially tapioca, from important producing regions like Thailand and Indonesia. Cargill specializes in turning cassava into components for various industrial and culinary uses. Their activities range from locating raw materials to sophisticated processing, resulting in goods utilized in multiple industries, such as the production of food and beverages. Cargill supports the farmers in their supply chains by prioritizing quality control and pursuing sustainable sourcing methods.

List of key players in Cassava Market

1. Cargill, Inc
2. Tate & Lyle
3. Ingredion
4. AGRANA Starch
5. The Dutch Agricultural Development & Trading Company BV
6. Visco Starch
7. Vaighai Agro
8. Aryan International
9. Psaltry International Limited
10. Ekta International
11. Chorchaiwat Industry Company Limited
12. Agrideco Vietnam Co., Ltd.
13. American Key Food Products Inc.
14. Archer Daniels Midland Company
15. Grain Millers Inc.

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Recent Developments

• December 2024- Google LLC, the Finnish Fund for Industrial Cooperation Ltd. (Finnfund), and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) announced a USD 90 million initial equity investment in Cassava Technologies Limited.

Analyst Opinion

As per our analyst, the global cassava market is expected to increase significantly due to the growing need for sustainable substitutes such as bioplastics and gluten-free goods. Strong production and processing capabilities support Asia Pacific's supremacy, whereas North America's quick growth reflects shifting consumer preferences. With Cargill playing a significant role in processing, top companies invest in enhanced varieties and sustainable procedures in response to the fragmented market. There is much potential for innovation in value-added products and biofuel uses. Perishability and awareness, however, continue to be significant obstacles. With an emphasis on technological developments and diversification, the market is on a generally good trajectory.