Summary

The starch market in the Middle East and Africa has developed alongside the region’s agricultural and industrial growth, with major sources including corn, cassava, potato, sorghum, and wheat serving as the foundation for food and non-food applications. Traditionally, starch was used in culinary preparations for thickening soups, sauces, and bakery items, while also finding applications in textiles, adhesives, and paper due to its binding and sizing properties. Industrialization and urbanization over recent decades expanded starch demand across processed foods, confectionery, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. The introduction of modified starches allowed manufacturers to overcome challenges such as heat instability, freeze-thaw sensitivity, and variable viscosity, enabling wider applicability in food, industrial, and pharmaceutical processes. Increasing health awareness, rising preference for convenience foods, and the growing demand for clean-label and plant-based ingredients encouraged innovation in pre-gelatinized, resistant, and specialty starches. Environmental and sustainability considerations have driven the adoption of starch in biodegradable packaging, eco-friendly adhesives, and coatings. Local agricultural production supports regional sourcing, reducing reliance on imports while accommodating diverse functional requirements. Advances in chemical, physical, and enzymatic modification enabled development of derivatives such as cyclodextrins, which provide enhanced solubility, stability, and controlled-release functionality in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications. Government support for agriculture, industrial development, and research further strengthens supply chains and facilitates production of high-quality starches. Collectively, historical usage, technological progress, regulatory frameworks, and sustainability trends have transformed the Middle East and Africa starch market into a versatile industry, meeting modern food, pharmaceutical, industrial, and environmental requirements, while leveraging regional agricultural resources and supporting innovation and efficiency across multiple sectors. According to the research report, "Middle East and Africa Starch Market Outlook, 2031," published by Bonafide Research, the Middle East and Africa Starch is anticipated to add to more than USD 2.02 Billion by 2026?31. Starch production and utilization in the Middle East and Africa are governed by regulatory measures that ensure product safety, quality, environmental sustainability, and consumer protection across food, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. Food-grade starch must comply with hygiene, contamination control, and labeling standards to prevent harmful residues and maintain consumer safety. Regulations define permissible levels of mycotoxins, heavy metals, and microbiological contaminants, while industrial and pharmaceutical starches are subject to rules covering excipients, additives, and biodegradable materials to ensure consistent performance and reliability. Environmental regulations encourage sustainable sourcing, efficient processing, and eco-friendly packaging, promoting reduced waste and emissions. Traceability and documentation requirements support compliance audits, inspections, and consumer confidence. Labeling transparency is critical, covering allergen declaration, nutritional content, and clean-label compliance to meet public health and consumer information standards. Some countries regulate genetically modified organisms, mandating monitoring, labeling, and compliance for GMO-derived starches. Certification frameworks such as ISO standards, HACCP protocols, and organic labeling further reinforce safety, quality, and environmental performance. Regulatory oversight drives innovation in modified starches and derivatives that meet functional, environmental, and safety requirements while addressing industrial and consumer needs. Collectively, these measures ensure that starch production in the Middle East and Africa maintains high-quality standards, safeguards consumers, encourages sustainable practices, and supports functional applications across food, pharmaceutical, and industrial industries, reflecting regional priorities for safety, environmental responsibility, and technological advancement. Market Drivers ? Rising Processed Food DemandUrbanization, changing lifestyles, and increasing disposable incomes in the Middle East have boosted consumption of processed and convenience foods. Starch plays a critical role in bakery products, sauces, dairy preparations, and ready-to-eat meals, providing thickening, binding, and texture stabilization. Its use ensures consistent product quality, improved mouthfeel, and extended shelf life. Foodservice providers, restaurants, and institutional kitchens rely on starch to maintain quality across large-scale meal preparation, which drives sustained demand in the region. ? Industrial and Packaging ApplicationsStarch is increasingly used in adhesives, paper, textiles, and biodegradable packaging due to its versatility and eco-friendly properties. Industries in the Middle East prefer starch as a renewable alternative to synthetic polymers, aligning with environmental initiatives and sustainability goals. Functional characteristics such as film formation, moisture retention, and binding support industrial processes. Expanding industrial sectors and growing awareness of sustainable practices are major factors fueling starch adoption in non-food applications throughout the region. Market Challenges ? Raw Material Supply VolatilityThe starch industry depends heavily on raw materials such as corn, potato, and cassava. Fluctuations in availability due to climate conditions, pests, or logistical issues create supply and price instability. This volatility affects both food and industrial starch production, making it challenging for manufacturers to maintain consistent output. Effective sourcing strategies and alternative raw material adoption are critical to mitigate these challenges in the Middle East. ? Regulatory Compliance PressureManufacturers face strict regulations related to food safety, labeling, and environmental standards. Compliance increases operational complexity and costs, particularly when sourcing and processing starch for multiple applications. Companies must ensure traceability, quality, and sustainable practices, which can slow production and create challenges for smaller producers. Adhering to these regulations is essential to maintain consumer trust and market access. Market Trends ? Modified Starches GrowthModified starches are increasingly used in processed foods, sauces, bakery products, and industrial applications due to enhanced heat stability, freeze-thaw resistance, and viscosity control. They allow manufacturers to maintain product consistency, improve shelf life, and optimize operational efficiency. The ability to tailor starch properties for specific applications supports adoption across food, beverage, and industrial sectors in the Middle East. ? Clean Label and Natural IngredientsConsumers in the Middle East are increasingly seeking natural, minimally processed, and plant-based ingredients. Starch and its derivatives are positioned as clean-label ingredients in food and beverage products, enhancing appeal to health-conscious buyers. This trend drives product development, marketing strategies, and adoption across foodservice, packaged foods, and industrial applications while aligning with sustainability goals. Food and beverage services lead starch consumption in the Middle East and Africa because starch supports bulk food preparation, traditional recipes, and cost-efficient meal production. Food and beverage services dominate starch usage across the Middle East and Africa due to the structure of food consumption and preparation in the region. A significant share of daily meals is prepared in communal, institutional, or commercial settings such as restaurants, hotels, catering services, labor camps, schools, hospitals, and religious gathering centers. Many traditional foods rely heavily on starch for thickening, binding, and texture, including sauces, stews, gravies, flatbread accompaniments, porridges, and dessert preparations. In professional kitchens, starch is used to stabilize food during long cooking times and repeated reheating, which is common in buffet service, large-scale catering, and event-based foodservice. Starch also helps improve yield and portion consistency, which is essential in price-sensitive markets where foodservice operators must control costs while serving large populations. In African markets, starch is widely used in sauces and soups paired with staple foods, while in the Middle East it supports consistency in rice dishes, meat gravies, and dairy-based preparations. Beverage services also rely on starch for thickening and mouthfeel in traditional drinks and dairy beverages. The affordability, availability, and versatility of starch make it preferable to more expensive functional ingredients. Its plant-based nature also aligns with regional dietary preferences and halal compliance requirements. Additionally, the growing hospitality and tourism sectors across the Gulf and parts of Africa have increased demand for standardized foodservice ingredients that perform reliably. These operational, cultural, and economic factors explain why food and beverage services remain the leading starch application in the Middle East and Africa. Film-forming functionality is growing fastest because starch-based films address food protection and packaging needs under challenging climatic conditions. The growth of starch as a film-forming agent in the Middle East and Africa is driven by practical needs related to food preservation, packaging, and environmental conditions. High temperatures and humidity in many parts of the region accelerate food spoilage, increasing demand for edible coatings and protective films that help reduce moisture loss and oxidation. Starch-based films are used on fruits, vegetables, confectionery, and processed foods to improve shelf stability without synthetic preservatives. These films are particularly valuable where refrigeration and cold-chain infrastructure are limited or inconsistent. In packaging, starch films are adopted for biodegradable wraps and water-soluble sachets used in food, detergents, and agricultural inputs. Their ability to dissolve or degrade naturally reduces waste management challenges in regions facing landfill and plastic disposal constraints. Agricultural applications also support growth, as starch films are used for seed coatings and protective layers that dissolve after planting. Pharmaceutical producers in the region use starch films for capsules and coatings due to their predictable solubility and safety profile. Starch film production benefits from relatively simple processing methods and access to locally sourced starch, keeping costs manageable. Government initiatives aimed at reducing plastic usage and improving food safety further support adoption. These climate-driven, logistical, and environmental realities explain why film-forming functionality is expanding faster than other starch functions across the Middle East and Africa. Corn leads as a starch source because it enables reliable processing, scalable production, and consistent functional performance. Corn dominates starch sourcing in the Middle East and Africa due to its processing advantages and adaptability to industrial-scale production. While the region uses multiple starch crops, corn is preferred for wet milling because it delivers consistent starch yields and predictable functional properties. Many starch processors rely on imported or regionally sourced corn that fits established milling technologies, reducing variability in output. Corn starch performs reliably across food, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications, making it suitable for standardized manufacturing. Storage and handling of corn are easier compared to tuber crops, which are more perishable and sensitive to transport conditions. Corn also supports a wide range of downstream products, including sweeteners, dextrins, and modified starches, allowing processors to diversify output from a single raw material stream. In food manufacturing, corn starch is widely accepted in traditional and modern formulations, minimizing reformulation challenges. Regulatory familiarity and halal compliance further support its use. By-products from corn processing are utilized in animal feed, improving overall resource efficiency. Starch derivatives are growing fastest because they perform better than native starch under demanding processing conditions. Starch derivatives are expanding rapidly in the Middle East and Africa due to their ability to handle processing challenges common in regional food and industrial manufacturing. Native starch often breaks down under high heat, acidity, or prolonged cooking, which limits its usefulness in sauces, gravies, and processed foods that are cooked in bulk and reheated multiple times. Starch derivatives provide improved viscosity control, stability, and resistance to breakdown, making them more suitable for foodservice and packaged foods. In pharmaceuticals, derivatives are used as binders and disintegrants that ensure consistent tablet performance. Industrial sectors such as paper, textiles, and adhesives rely on derivatives for uniform coating and bonding strength. Growing urbanization and expansion of packaged food production require ingredients that deliver repeatable results across large volumes. Derivatives also support reformulation efforts aimed at improving texture while reducing fat or synthetic additives. These functional advantages explain why starch derivatives are growing faster than native starch in the region. Cyclodextrin is growing fastest because it improves ingredient stability and usability in food, pharmaceutical, and personal care applications. Cyclodextrin’s growth in the Middle East and Africa is driven by its unique ability to encapsulate other molecules and protect them from heat, oxidation, and degradation. In food and beverages, cyclodextrins are used to stabilize flavors, mask bitterness, and improve solubility of vitamins and functional ingredients, which is valuable in fortified foods and beverages. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use cyclodextrins to improve solubility and bioavailability of active compounds, supporting consistent therapeutic performance. In personal care products, cyclodextrins help control fragrance release and stabilize sensitive ingredients. The compound is also used to remove undesirable substances such as cholesterol from food products. Increasing regulatory acceptance and growing awareness of advanced excipients have supported wider adoption. Cyclodextrin’s plant-based origin aligns with clean-label and halal requirements. These functional benefits explain why cyclodextrin is the fastest-growing starch derivative in the Middle East and Africa. The main reason Saudi Arabia is leading in the MEA E-pharmacy market is its government-driven healthcare digitization and high technology adoption. Saudi Arabia has prioritized the digital transformation of its healthcare sector through national strategies, encouraging telemedicine, electronic prescriptions, and e-pharmacy services. The country’s modern healthcare infrastructure, coupled with strong regulatory frameworks for online pharmaceutical sales, ensures consumer safety and quality control while facilitating convenient access to medications. High smartphone penetration and internet connectivity allow citizens to order prescription and over-the-counter medications through mobile applications and online portals. Leading pharmacy chains and digital health startups provide integrated solutions that include teleconsultation, automated refill reminders, and home delivery, meeting the needs of urban populations and individuals with limited mobility. Public awareness regarding chronic disease management, preventive care, and wellness has increased reliance on e-pharmacy services as an efficient alternative to in-person visits. Logistics systems are designed to handle temperature-sensitive medications, ensuring safe and timely delivery across the country. Partnerships between insurers, healthcare providers, and e-pharmacy platforms streamline prescription fulfillment and support adherence to treatment plans. Investment in AI-driven health platforms and data management systems enhances user experience, trust, and efficiency. Government initiatives, such as the adoption of e-health strategies and support for digital innovation, encourage widespread acceptance of online pharmacy services. The combination of modern infrastructure, regulatory compliance, technological adoption, and government support positions Saudi Arabia as the leader in the MEA e-pharmacy market, demonstrating the impact of a strategic, digitized healthcare ecosystem on expanding access, convenience, and quality in pharmaceutical services. ***Please Note: It will take 48 hours (2 Business days) for delivery of the report upon order confirmation.

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Table of Contents

Table of Contents

1. Executive Summary
2. Market Dynamics
2.1. Market Drivers & Opportunities
2.2. Market Restraints & Challenges
2.3. Market Trends
2.4. Supply chain Analysis
2.5. Policy & Regulatory Framework
2.6. Industry Experts Views
3. Research Methodology
3.1. Secondary Research
3.2. Primary Data Collection
3.3. Market Formation & Validation
3.4. Report Writing, Quality Check & Delivery
4. Market Structure
4.1. Market Considerate
4.2. Assumptions
4.3. Limitations
4.4. Abbreviations
4.5. Sources
4.6. Definitions
5. Economic /Demographic Snapshot
6. Middle East & Africa Starch Market Outlook
6.1. Market Size By Value
6.2. Market Share By Country
6.3. Market Size and Forecast, By Application
6.4. Market Size and Forecast, By Function
6.5. Market Size and Forecast, By Source
6.6. Market Size and Forecast, By Type
6.7. Market Size and Forecast, By Starch Derivatives
6.8. United Arab Emirates (UAE) Starch Market Outlook
6.8.1. Market Size by Value
6.8.2. Market Size and Forecast By Application
6.8.3. Market Size and Forecast By Function
6.8.4. Market Size and Forecast By Source
6.8.5. Market Size and Forecast By Type
6.8.6. Market Size and Forecast By Starch Derivatives
6.9. Saudi Arabia Starch Market Outlook
6.9.1. Market Size by Value
6.9.2. Market Size and Forecast By Application
6.9.3. Market Size and Forecast By Function
6.9.4. Market Size and Forecast By Source
6.9.5. Market Size and Forecast By Type
6.9.6. Market Size and Forecast By Starch Derivatives
6.10. South Africa Starch Market Outlook
6.10.1. Market Size by Value
6.10.2. Market Size and Forecast By Application
6.10.3. Market Size and Forecast By Function
6.10.4. Market Size and Forecast By Source
6.10.5. Market Size and Forecast By Type
6.10.6. Market Size and Forecast By Starch Derivatives
7. Competitive Landscape
7.1. Competitive Dashboard
7.2. Business Strategies Adopted by Key Players
7.3. Porter's Five Forces
7.4. Company Profile
7.4.1. Archer-Daniels-Midland Company
7.4.1.1. Company Snapshot
7.4.1.2. Company Overview
7.4.1.3. Financial Highlights
7.4.1.4. Geographic Insights
7.4.1.5. Business Segment & Performance
7.4.1.6. Product Portfolio
7.4.1.7. Key Executives
7.4.1.8. Strategic Moves & Developments
7.4.2. Tate & Lyle PLC
7.4.3. Cargill, Incorporated
7.4.4. Ingredion Inc.
7.4.5. Royal Ingredients Group B.V.
7.4.6. Royal Avebe U.A.
7.4.7. Company 7
7.4.8. Ompany 8
8. Strategic Recommendations
9. Annexure
9.1. FAQ`s
9.2. Notes
9.3. Related Reports
10. Disclaimer

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List of Tables/Graphs

List of Figures

Figure 1: Middle East & Africa Starch Market Size By Value (2020, 2025 & 2031F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 2: Middle East & Africa Starch Market Share By Country (2025)
Figure 3: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Starch Market Size By Value (2020, 2025 & 2031F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 4: Saudi Arabia Starch Market Size By Value (2020, 2025 & 2031F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 5: South Africa Starch Market Size By Value (2020, 2025 & 2031F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 6: Porter's Five Forces of Global Starch Market

List of Tables

Table 1: Influencing Factors for Starch Market, 2025
Table 2: Top 10 Counties Economic Snapshot 2024
Table 3: Economic Snapshot of Other Prominent Countries 2022
Table 4: Average Exchange Rates for Converting Foreign Currencies into U.S. Dollars
Table 5: Middle East & Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast, By Application (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 6: Middle East & Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast, By Function (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 7: Middle East & Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast, By Source (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 8: Middle East & Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast, By Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 9: Middle East & Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast, By Starch Derivatives (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 10: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Starch Market Size and Forecast By Application (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 11: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Starch Market Size and Forecast By Function (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 12: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Starch Market Size and Forecast By Source (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 13: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Starch Market Size and Forecast By Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 14: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Starch Market Size and Forecast By Starch Derivatives (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 15: Saudi Arabia Starch Market Size and Forecast By Application (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 16: Saudi Arabia Starch Market Size and Forecast By Function (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 17: Saudi Arabia Starch Market Size and Forecast By Source (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 18: Saudi Arabia Starch Market Size and Forecast By Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 19: Saudi Arabia Starch Market Size and Forecast By Starch Derivatives (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 20: South Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast By Application (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 21: South Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast By Function (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 22: South Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast By Source (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 23: South Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast By Type (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 24: South Africa Starch Market Size and Forecast By Starch Derivatives (2020 to 2031F) (In USD Billion)
Table 25: Competitive Dashboard of top 5 players, 2025