GCC CORN STARCH MARKET

GCC corn starch market is expected to grow at a robust CAGR during the forecast period primarily fueled by the rise of the food industry and the thriving textile sector.

Major Market Drivers and Emerging Trends

GCC corn starch market size growth is primarily supported by the continuous expansion of the food production industry as it is involved in the processing of various food items including bakery goods and dairy products among others. As an example among other countries in the region Saudi Arabia is a major consumer of meat products with the average per capita meat consumption is expected to hit 20.2 kg in 2025. This trend is driving strong growth in the processed meat sector in Saudi Arabia where additives including corn starches are incorporated to preserve texture.

This trend is also evident in the United Arab Emirates where high income drives consumer spending which makes the country among the largest economies within the GCC region. High consumer spending is contributing to the rising demand for convenience foods which is directly increasing the need for corn starch in the country.

Corn starch is also commonly included in animal feeds because it provides energy and aids in promoting growth. It also contributes to improving protein and fats digestion in animal feed. In 2022 the GCC meat sales which includes beef and poultry among other halal meat increased to 2.8 million tonnes which contributes to the corn starch market growth.

The growing preference for clean label products is another factor driving market growth. Manufacturing companies are adapting to the trend by creating starches from natural ingredients like corn. Moreover various mild modification processes are gaining momentum owing to their ability to minimize the reliance on harsh chemicals. While natural ingredients are a priority, food producers still demand starches that offer specific functionalities including thickening and altering texture. The focus of clean-label starch innovation is on delivering desired functionalities using naturally sourced and minimally treated methods.

The rapidly growing textile market in the region is further contributing to an increased need for corn starch. The United Arab Emirates as an instance became the 28th largest textile exporter in the world with exports totaling USD 5.92 billion. Corn starch is extensively used in textile production owing to its capacity to improve various fabric properties. This feature is a main factor behind its widespread adoption because it contributes desirable qualities like softness and breathability properties when used in fabric manufacturing processes. Corn starch also improves dye absorption which results in brighter and more durable colors in fabrics. Its contribution to fabric characteristics makes it ideal for numerous applications including household textiles and clothing materials.

By type the market segmentation includes native and modified starch. Native starches are widely employed in food processing for their thickening properties. These starches do not dissolve in water and exhibit different swelling behaviors according to the temperature. They are highly effective because they possess superior moisture retention characteristics. Starch modification is primarily designed to enhance its characteristics to meet specific requirements. Modified starches appear to be a white powder and dissolve easily in cold or hot water.

Based on application corn starch finds significant use in the food and beverage industry. It is frequently used in soups or sauces as a thickening agent and is also utilized in the creation of corn syrup along with other sugar products. Corn starch is also a primary ingredient in many baby powders sold in the market. Corn starch further acts as an anti-slick agent in the production of medical items like gloves and diaphragms which are crafted from natural latex.

Top Market Players

Several players in the market include BASF SE, Kerry Group among others. These companies are concentrating on research along with partnerships and innovation to maintain their market position while gaining a competitive edge.

Key Developments

• • In 2024 a company in the UAE Al Ghurair Foods launched the construction work for its new advanced corn starch production facility at KEZAD. This groundbreaking facility is an important move toward strengthening local food manufacturing and aligning with the national food security initiative.

Segments covered in the Report:

The GCC Corn Starch Market has been segmented on the basis of Type and Application. Based on Type, the market is segmented into Native Starch and Modified Starch. Based on Application, the market is segmented into Food and Beverage, Animal Feed, Pharmaceuticals, Textile, Paper and Corrugated and Other Applications.

Market Segmentation

GCC Corn Starch Market by Type

• • Native Starch
  • Modified Starch

GCC Corn Starch Market by Application

• • Food and Beverage
  • Animal Feed
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Textile
  • Paper and Corrugated
  • Other Applications

GCC Corn Starch Market by Countries

• • UAE Smart Home Market All-Up (Option 1: Free 25% Customization)
  • Saudi Arabia Smart Home Market All-Up (Option 2: Free 25% Customization)
  • Oman Smart Home Market All-Up (Option 3: Free 25% Customization)
  • Kuwait Smart Home Market All-Up (Option 4: Free 25% Customization)
  • Rest of GCC Smart Home Market All-Up (Option 5: Free 25% Customization)

GCC Corn Starch Market Leading players

• • BASF SE
  • Kerry Group