Key Insights
The Middle East & Africa (MEA) food starch market, valued at $25,900 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.84% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. The burgeoning food and beverage industry across the region, particularly in confectionery, bakery, and dairy sectors, is a major catalyst. Increasing consumer demand for processed foods, coupled with the rising popularity of convenient and ready-to-eat meals, significantly boosts starch consumption. Furthermore, the MEA region's growing population and evolving dietary habits are contributing to this upward trend. The preference for healthier food options, while seemingly contradictory, also fuels the market, as modified starches are often used in healthier, low-calorie products. Within the MEA region, countries like the UAE, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia represent significant market segments, showcasing diverse consumption patterns and industry development across the region. Challenges exist, however, such as price volatility of raw materials (corn, wheat, potato, cassava) and potential supply chain disruptions. Nevertheless, the long-term outlook remains positive, driven by ongoing economic development and increasing industrialization throughout MEA.
The market segmentation reveals important insights. Native starches currently hold a dominant market share, though modified starches are expected to witness significant growth due to their functional properties and versatility in food applications. Corn starch likely holds the largest share within the source segment, given its widespread use and accessibility. However, the growing demand for diversification, coupled with regional availability and cost considerations, may lead to increased utilization of other sources like cassava and wheat. The confectionery and bakery sectors are currently the largest consumers, though dairy and beverage applications are poised for strong growth, aligned with the region’s changing consumer preferences and product innovation. Competitive landscape analysis shows key players like Ingredion, ADM, Tate & Lyle, and BASF strategically positioned to capitalize on these market trends through product diversification, expansion of regional presence, and strategic partnerships.

Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This dynamic report provides an in-depth analysis of the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and researchers. Leveraging extensive data from 2019-2024 (historical period), with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period extending to 2033, this report unveils the market's current state, future trajectory, and key competitive dynamics. The market is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a robust CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.
Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Structure & Competitive Landscape
This section delves into the competitive landscape of the Middle East & Africa food starch market, examining market concentration, innovation, regulatory factors, and M&A activity. The market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with several key players holding significant shares. Concentration ratios (e.g., CR4, CR8) will be calculated and presented within the full report.
Key Aspects Analyzed:
- Market Concentration: Analysis of market share held by top players, including Ingredion Inc, Archer Daniels Midland Company, Tate & Lyle PLC, BASF SE, Kerry Group PLC, Anora Group PLC, Koninklijke DSM NV, Tongaat Hulett, Roquette Freres, and AGRANA Beteiligungs AG. The report will quantify market concentration using appropriate metrics.
- Innovation Drivers: Examination of R&D activities, new product launches (e.g., Ingredion's organic instant functional native starch), and technological advancements driving market growth.
- Regulatory Impacts: Assessment of food safety regulations, labeling requirements, and other regulatory frameworks influencing market operations across different countries in the Middle East and Africa.
- Product Substitutes: Analysis of potential substitutes for food starch and their impact on market dynamics.
- End-User Segmentation: Detailed breakdown of market demand across various end-use segments, including confectionery, bakery, dairy, beverages, and other food and beverage applications. Market size and growth projections for each segment are included.
- M&A Trends: Analysis of recent mergers and acquisitions (e.g., ADM's acquisition of Comhan), their impact on market consolidation, and potential future M&A activity. Quantitative data on M&A volume and value will be provided.
Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Trends & Opportunities
This section analyzes current and emerging trends shaping the Middle East & Africa food starch market, including technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and competitive dynamics. It explores the market size growth potential, technological shifts, and consumer behavior influencing the demand for food starch. The analysis incorporates metrics like CAGR and market penetration rates for various segments and regions.
- Detailed analysis of market size growth from 2019 to 2024 and projection to 2033.
- Examination of technological advancements in starch production, modification, and application.
- Discussion of evolving consumer preferences, including growing demand for organic and functional food products.
- Analysis of competitive dynamics, including pricing strategies, product differentiation, and market share dynamics.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market
This section identifies the leading regions, countries, and segments within the Middle East & Africa food starch market. It examines the market dominance of specific segments (By Source, By Application, By Type) by analyzing market share, growth rates, and key drivers.
By Source: Corn, Wheat, Potato, Cassava, Other Sources
- Detailed analysis of the market share and growth trajectory of each starch source.
By Application: Confectionery, Bakery, Dairy, Beverages, Other Food and Beverage Applications
- Analysis of the dominant applications and their growth drivers.
By Type: Native Starch, Modified Starch
- Examination of the market share and growth prospects of each starch type.
Key Growth Drivers (Examples):
- Growing population and rising disposable incomes: driving increased demand for processed food products.
- Expanding food processing industry: creating greater demand for food starches.
- Government initiatives and investments in infrastructure development: facilitating market growth.
Market Dominance Analysis: Detailed analysis of regions and countries dominating each segment, backed by market share data and insightful analysis.
Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Product Analysis
This section provides a concise overview of product innovations, applications, and competitive advantages in the food starch market. It focuses on technological advancements, market fit, and the role of innovation in shaping competitive dynamics. The discussion highlights the role of new product developments (such as organic instant functional native starch) in expanding market opportunities.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market
This section outlines the key drivers and challenges influencing the Middle East & Africa food starch market's growth trajectory.
Key Drivers:
- Technological advancements in starch production and modification
- Growing demand from the food and beverage industry
- Favorable government policies and regulations supporting the food industry.
Key Barriers and Challenges:
- Fluctuations in raw material prices.
- Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical instability and climate change.
- Regulatory hurdles and compliance costs in different countries.
- Intense competition among existing and new market entrants.
Growth Drivers in the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Market
This section provides a summary of the key factors driving growth within the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market, focusing on technological, economic, and regulatory developments. Examples include the expansion of the food processing industry, increased consumer spending, and supportive government policies.
Challenges Impacting Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Growth
This section discusses the main challenges hindering the market's growth. These include supply chain vulnerabilities, regulatory complexities, and the competitive pressure from both domestic and international players. Quantifiable impacts, where available, will be included.
Key Players Shaping the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Market
- Ingredion Inc
- Archer Daniels Midland Company
- Tate & Lyle PLC
- BASF SE
- Kerry Group PLC
- Anora Group PLC
- Koninklijke DSM NV
- Tongaat Hulett
- Roquette Freres
- AGRANA Beteiligungs AG
Significant Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Industry Milestones
- May 2022: Kerry Group opened a new EUR 38 million manufacturing plant in Africa, increasing F&B production capacity by 40% to 40,000 tons per annum.
- February 2022: Archer Daniels Midland Company completed its acquisition of Comhan, a leading South African flavor distributor, expanding its market access.
- April 2020: Ingredion EMEA developed an organic instant functional native starch, catering to the growing demand for organic products.
Future Outlook for Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Market
The Middle East & Africa food starch market is poised for sustained growth driven by several factors. Expanding food processing industries, rising disposable incomes, and increasing demand for convenience foods are key catalysts. Strategic opportunities exist for companies to invest in new technologies, expand their product portfolios, and tap into the growing demand for organic and functional starches. The market is projected to experience significant growth, driven by these factors and the continued expansion of the food and beverage sector across the region.
Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Native Starch
- 1.2. Modified Starch
-
2. Source
- 2.1. Corn
- 2.2. Wheat
- 2.3. Potato
- 2.4. Cassava
- 2.5. Other Sources
-
3. Application
- 3.1. Confectionery
- 3.2. Bakery
- 3.3. Dairy
- 3.4. Beverages
- 3.5. Other Food and Beverage Applications
Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Middle East
- 1.1. Saudi Arabia
- 1.2. United Arab Emirates
- 1.3. Israel
- 1.4. Qatar
- 1.5. Kuwait
- 1.6. Oman
- 1.7. Bahrain
- 1.8. Jordan
- 1.9. Lebanon

Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 5.84% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Increasing Demand For Convenience & Processed Food
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Increased Consumer Awareness On Side-Effects Of Chemical Additives
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Growing Food Sector in the Middle East & Africa Region
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Native Starch
- 5.1.2. Modified Starch
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 5.2.1. Corn
- 5.2.2. Wheat
- 5.2.3. Potato
- 5.2.4. Cassava
- 5.2.5. Other Sources
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.3.1. Confectionery
- 5.3.2. Bakery
- 5.3.3. Dairy
- 5.3.4. Beverages
- 5.3.5. Other Food and Beverage Applications
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. Middle East
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. UAE Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. South Africa Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. Saudi Arabia Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. Rest of MEA Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Competitive Analysis
- 10.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 10.2. Company Profiles
- 10.2.1 Ingredion Inc
- 10.2.1.1. Overview
- 10.2.1.2. Products
- 10.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.2 Archer Daniels Midland Company
- 10.2.2.1. Overview
- 10.2.2.2. Products
- 10.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.3 Tate & Lyle PLC
- 10.2.3.1. Overview
- 10.2.3.2. Products
- 10.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.4 BASF SE
- 10.2.4.1. Overview
- 10.2.4.2. Products
- 10.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.5 Kerry Group PLC
- 10.2.5.1. Overview
- 10.2.5.2. Products
- 10.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.6 Anora Group PLC
- 10.2.6.1. Overview
- 10.2.6.2. Products
- 10.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.7 Koninklijke DSM NV
- 10.2.7.1. Overview
- 10.2.7.2. Products
- 10.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.8 Tongaat Hulett*List Not Exhaustive
- 10.2.8.1. Overview
- 10.2.8.2. Products
- 10.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.9 Roquette Freres
- 10.2.9.1. Overview
- 10.2.9.2. Products
- 10.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.10 AGRANA Beteiligungs AG
- 10.2.10.1. Overview
- 10.2.10.2. Products
- 10.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.1 Ingredion Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: UAE Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: South Africa Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Saudi Arabia Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Rest of MEA Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Saudi Arabia Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: United Arab Emirates Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Israel Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Qatar Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Kuwait Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Oman Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Bahrain Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Jordan Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Lebanon Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 5.84%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market?
Key companies in the market include Ingredion Inc, Archer Daniels Midland Company, Tate & Lyle PLC, BASF SE, Kerry Group PLC, Anora Group PLC, Koninklijke DSM NV, Tongaat Hulett*List Not Exhaustive, Roquette Freres, AGRANA Beteiligungs AG.
3. What are the main segments of the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market?
The market segments include Type, Source, Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 25900 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increasing Demand For Convenience & Processed Food.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Growing Food Sector in the Middle East & Africa Region.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Increased Consumer Awareness On Side-Effects Of Chemical Additives.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In May 2022, Kerry Group opened a new EUR 38 million manufacturing plant in Africa. The 10,000 square meter plant is to produce nutrition products including food starches that will be consumed across Africa. The facility will advance Kerry's its F&B production capacity by 40% to 40,000 tons per annum.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 4950, and USD 6800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Middle East & Africa Food Starch Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence