Asia Pacific Sugar Confectionery Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

Asia Pacific Sugar Confectionery Market Analysis

The Asia Pacific Sugar Confectionery Market size is estimated at 17.17 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 21.64 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.73% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The Asia Pacific sugar confectionery market is experiencing significant transformation driven by changing consumer demographics and consumption patterns. A notable trend is the increasing influence of young consumers, with countries like India and Indonesia having substantial youth populations approximately 30% of India's population comprises children (aged 0-18 years) as of 2023, while Indonesia reports 29% of its population under 18 years. This demographic advantage is complemented by rising disposable incomes and rapid urbanization across the region, leading to evolved consumption patterns. The shift in consumer behavior is particularly evident in markets like India, where annual per capita sugar consumption reached approximately 20 kg in 2022, indicating a strong cultural affinity for sweet treats.

The distribution landscape is witnessing a remarkable evolution, characterized by the expanding presence of modern retail formats and digital channels. Traditional retail channels are being complemented by a robust network of convenience stores, with China alone hosting over 255,000 convenience stores in 2022. The convenience store channel demonstrated strong performance with a 3.9% increase in sales value in 2023 compared to 2022, while supermarkets and hypermarkets registered an impressive 7.1% growth in sales value from 2021 to 2023. This multi-channel growth reflects the market's adaptation to diverse consumer shopping preferences and urbanization patterns.

Product innovation in the confectionery market is increasingly focused on meeting evolving consumer preferences for healthier options and unique experiences. Manufacturers are responding to health-conscious consumers by introducing sugar-free variants, natural ingredients, and functional benefits such as vitamin enrichment. The innovation landscape extends to packaging designs, with companies offering various convenient options including pocket bottles, metal tins, plastic jars, and pouches to enhance consumer convenience and product differentiation.

The retail landscape is undergoing significant digital transformation, with e-commerce emerging as a crucial distribution channel. Online retail platforms are revolutionizing the shopping experience through personalized recommendations, convenient delivery options, and competitive pricing strategies. The digital channel is projected to demonstrate substantial growth, with online sales expected to increase by 14.22% by 2027 from 2022 levels. This digital shift is accompanied by the integration of advanced technologies in retail operations, including automated vending machines and specialty stores, particularly in developed markets like Japan and South Korea. The rise of premium confectionery and candy offerings on these digital platforms is also notable, catering to a growing demand for luxury and novelty products.

Asia Pacific Sugar Confectionery Market Trends

Festive seasons and holidays often witness a surge in the demand for sugar confectionery, coupled with the presence of leading manufacturers across the region

• Sugar confectionery consumption in Asia-Pacific is attributed to factors like traditional customs, cultural celebrations, and regular snacking among the population in the region. In Asia-Pacific, about 78% of consumers prefer consuming hard candies during their work and traveling period (2022-2023).
• Under product attributes, consumers are significantly focusing on brand image. Around 70% of the total population preferred products with a brand image (what is a good brand Image) in 2023.; Packaging is considered as the second most important product attribute for confectionery products, which determines the likelihood of purchasing.
• In 2023, sugar confections witnessed a hike in their sales by 4.5% when compared to 2022. The sales growth is linked to the growing consumer density for sugar confectioneries with unique flavors.; Under the sugar confectionery category, hard candy has been gaining a significant volume of popularity in 2022 as consumers prefer them during traveling and also during their working hours.
• In Asia, the consumption of sugar confectionery is generally preferred by sweet tooth consumers as these confections are high in sugar content and also come in unique flavors with different ingredients in them.

Segment Analysis: Confectionery Variant

Pastilles, Gummies, and Jellies Segment in Asia Pacific Sugar Confectionery Market

The pastilles, gummies, and jellies segment dominates the Asia Pacific sugar confectionery market, holding approximately 31% market share in 2024. The segment's strong performance is primarily driven by increased consumption of medicinal or throat lozenges, which provide temporary relief from coughs and other throat problems. The availability of fruit-flavored pastilles containing ingredients such as zinc, vitamin C, and honey has gained significant popularity among health-conscious consumers. The segment's growth is further supported by the increasing availability of gummies in various flavors and shapes, like bear-shaped gummies, gummy sharks, and others, which has led to high demand fueled by the growing impulsive purchase behavior of consumers. Additionally, the segment has witnessed substantial growth through convenience stores, which hold more than 40% value share, owing to their numerous locations and consumer-friendly services.

Growth Trajectory of Pastilles, Gummies, and Jellies in APAC Sugar Confectionery Market

The pastilles, gummies, and jellies segment is projected to maintain its market leadership with an impressive growth trajectory, expected to grow at approximately 6% during 2024-2029. This robust growth is attributed to several factors, including the rising demand for functional gummies among consumers, particularly those seeking health benefits such as improved digestion, reduced bloating, and balanced body pH levels. The segment's expansion is further driven by manufacturers' focus on product innovation, including the introduction of sugar-free variants and fortified products with vitamins and minerals. The online retail channel is emerging as a significant growth driver, anticipated to grow at around 4.3% annually, supported by the convenience of product identification through user-friendly options on shopping websites and the increasing penetration of e-commerce platforms across the region.

Remaining Segments in Confectionery Variant

The other significant segments in the Asia Pacific sugar confectionery market include toffees and nougats, hard candy, mints, and lollipops. The toffees and nougats segment maintains a strong presence due to its popularity across various age groups and the availability of diverse flavors and variants, including vegan and sugar-free options. Hard candy continues to be a traditional favorite, particularly in China, where sugar-derived products are highly popular. The mints segment has carved out a significant niche, driven by its oral and digestive health benefits, while the lollipops segment maintains its appeal through continuous innovation in flavors and designs, particularly targeting the younger demographic with various shapes and fruit-based variants.

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

Convenience Store Segment in Asia Pacific Sugar Confectionery Market

The convenience store segment dominates the Asia Pacific sugar confectionery market, holding approximately 41% market share in 2024. The segment's prominence can be attributed to the strategic positioning of sugar confectionery products at checkout counters, which effectively drives impulse purchases. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, CU, Circle K, Lawson, and other retailers are particularly favored for their easy accessibility and quick shopping experience compared to larger retail formats. These stores maintain high cleanliness standards and consistent product availability, often surpassing larger retail establishments. The widespread presence of convenience stores across the region, particularly in countries like Japan where 7-Eleven operates over 21,000 stores, followed by Thailand with around 13,800 stores, further strengthens this distribution channel's market leadership.

Online Retail Store Segment in Asia Pacific Sugar Confectionery Market

The online retail segment is emerging as the fastest-growing distribution channel, projected to grow at approximately 5% between 2024 and 2029. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing convenience of online shopping platforms and changing consumer preferences, especially among younger generations. The segment's expansion is further supported by attractive discounts and promotional offers provided by online sellers to attract consumers. Major brands have been strengthening their e-commerce presence either through their own websites or by partnering with third-party online retailers. The additional benefits like free deliveries, hassle-free order cancellations, efficient refund processes, and promotional coupon codes offered by these platforms enhance the overall shopping experience, contributing to the segment's rapid growth trajectory.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The supermarket/hypermarket segment maintains a significant presence in the sugar confectionery distribution landscape, offering extensive product variety and regular promotional activities. These retail formats benefit from their larger infrastructure, allowing them to accommodate a wide range of confectionery products from different brands. The 'Others' category, which includes warehouse club stores, vending machines, discount stores, drug stores, kiosks, and departmental stores, plays a complementary role in the market by catering to specific consumer preferences and shopping occasions. These alternative channels provide unique advantages such as bulk purchasing options in warehouse clubs and immediate accessibility through vending machines.

Asia Pacific Sugar Confectionery Market Geography Segment Analysis

Sugar Confectionery Market in China

China dominates the Asia-Pacific sugar confectionery landscape, commanding approximately 47% of the regional market value in 2024. The country's sugar confectionery market is primarily driven by the growing consumer preference for tasty and convenient indulgent snacking options. The market's strength is further reinforced by the extensive presence of both domestic and international manufacturers offering diverse product ranges. Chinese consumers show particular interest in innovative flavors and functional confectionery products, especially those with added health benefits. The toffees and nougats segment leads the market, with manufacturers introducing various flavor innovations and sugar-free options to cater to evolving consumer preferences. The country's robust distribution network, spanning from traditional retail to modern trade channels, ensures widespread product availability. Additionally, the growing trend of premiumization in urban areas has led manufacturers to introduce high-end sugar confectionery products with superior ingredients and packaging.

Sugar Confectionery Market in South Korea

South Korea emerges as the most dynamic market in the region, projected to grow at approximately 8% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. The country's sugar confectionery market is characterized by its innovative product developments and strong consumer preference for premium quality products. The pastilles, gummies, and jellies segment dominates the market, holding a significant share of the overall sugar confectionery sales. Korean consumers show particular interest in functional confectionery products, especially those fortified with vitamins and minerals. The market is witnessing a notable shift towards healthier alternatives, with manufacturers introducing sugar-free and naturally sweetened options. Local manufacturers are expanding their market presence by launching products specifically targeted at Korean consumers' preferences, including unique flavors like green tea and red ginseng. The country's robust retail infrastructure and growing e-commerce penetration further support market expansion. Additionally, the strong presence of domestic brands like Lotte, coupled with successful international brand penetration, creates a highly competitive and innovative market environment.

Sugar Confectionery Market in Japan

Japan's sugar confectionery market showcases a unique blend of traditional preferences and innovative product offerings. The market is characterized by its strong focus on product quality and functional benefits, particularly in the mint and gummy candy segments. Japanese consumers demonstrate a high level of sophistication in their confectionery choices, with a growing preference for products that offer both indulgence and health benefits. The availability of functional confectioneries has become a major market driver, with products like pastilles being widely used for specific purposes such as sore throat relief. The country's retail landscape, particularly the convenience store sector, plays a crucial role in product distribution and consumption patterns. Manufacturers in Japan are increasingly focusing on clean label products and natural ingredients, responding to the growing health consciousness among consumers. The market also benefits from the country's gift-giving culture, which drives demand for premium confectionery products.

Sugar Confectionery Market in India

India's sugar confectionery market demonstrates robust growth potential, driven by its large young population and increasing disposable income. The market is characterized by a strong presence of both domestic and international players, offering a wide range of products across different price points. Indian consumers show a particular affinity for traditional and innovative flavors, leading manufacturers to continuously introduce new product variants. The country's vast retail network, spanning from traditional shops to modern retail formats, ensures extensive product reach across urban and rural areas. The market witnesses significant growth in the premium segment, particularly in urban areas where consumers are increasingly seeking high-quality, innovative products. Manufacturers are also responding to the growing health consciousness by introducing sugar-free variants and products fortified with vitamins and minerals. The festive season plays a crucial role in driving sales, with sugar confectionery products being popular gifting options.

Sugar Confectionery Market in Other Countries

The sugar confectionery market in other Asia-Pacific countries, including Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and New Zealand, exhibits diverse consumption patterns and growth opportunities. These markets are characterized by varying consumer preferences, ranging from traditional confectionery products to innovative international offerings. Australia's market shows strong preference for premium and healthy alternatives, while Indonesia's market is driven by its large young population and growing middle class. Malaysia's market benefits from its multicultural consumer base, leading to diverse product offerings, while New Zealand's market focuses on quality and natural ingredients. These countries demonstrate unique market dynamics influenced by local taste preferences, cultural factors, and economic conditions. The presence of both regional and international manufacturers creates a competitive environment, driving innovation and product development across these markets.

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We provide a comprehensive and exhaustive set of data pointers for global, regional, and country-level metrics that illustrate the fundamentals of the confectionery industry. With the help of 45+ free charts, clients can access in-depth market analysis based on price trend analysis of confectionery ingredients and per capita consumption of confections, through granular-level segmental information supported by a repository of market data, trends, and expert analysis. Data and analysis on confections, confectionery variants, sugar content, insights into consumer preferences and purchasing patterns, an overview of key market players, etc., are available in the form of comprehensive reports as well as excel-based data worksheets.