Thermoplastic Starch Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

Thermoplastic Starch (TPS) Market Analysis

The Thermoplastic Starch Market size is estimated at 184.49 kilotons in 2025, and is expected to reach 263.50 kilotons by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.39% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The thermoplastic starch industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by the global shift towards sustainable materials and circular economy principles. Manufacturing companies are increasingly adopting innovative processing methods to enhance the mechanical properties and versatility of thermoplastic starch products. The food processing sector, a major end-user of TPS packaging, has shown remarkable growth, with Germany's food industry projected to generate USD 245.50 billion in revenue in 2023. This industrial expansion has created new opportunities for TPS manufacturers to develop specialized packaging solutions that meet both sustainability and performance requirements.

The integration of thermoplastic starch in 3D printing applications has emerged as a revolutionary trend, particularly in the manufacturing and healthcare sectors. South Korea's defense industry demonstrated the technology's potential by successfully printing over 3,500 defense components using 3D printers in 2022, highlighting the material's versatility and precision in advanced manufacturing applications. The adoption of TPS in 3D printing has expanded beyond traditional applications, with manufacturers developing specialized grades optimized for additive manufacturing processes, offering improved print quality and mechanical properties.

The market is witnessing a significant shift in manufacturing technologies, with companies investing in advanced production facilities and research capabilities. Manufacturers are focusing on developing new formulations that combine improved processability with enhanced mechanical properties. The integration of automation and smart manufacturing processes has enabled producers to achieve better quality control and consistency in TPS production. This technological evolution has particularly benefited the packaging sector, where, according to the Flexible Packaging Association of the United States, food packaging accounts for over 50% of flexible packaging applications.

The TPS industry landscape is being reshaped by strategic collaborations between material manufacturers and end-users, driving innovation in product development. Companies are investing in research and development to overcome traditional limitations of TPS materials, such as moisture sensitivity and mechanical strength. The focus has shifted towards developing multi-functional TPS compounds that can serve various applications while maintaining their biodegradable properties. These advancements have enabled manufacturers to expand their product portfolios and cater to diverse industry requirements, from agricultural films to medical device components.

Thermoplastic Starch (TPS) Market Trends

Increasing Demand from the Packaging Industry

The packaging industry has emerged as a significant driver for thermoplastic starch (TPS) market growth, primarily due to the increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions across various sectors. Thermoplastic starch films offer numerous advantages, including biodegradability, low cost, ease of processing, and renewability, making them an ideal choice for food preservation and packaging applications. This is evidenced by major investments in the sector, such as Huatian Technology's March 2023 investment of CNY 2.858 billion in advanced packaging research and industrialization projects, demonstrating the industry's commitment to innovative packaging solutions. The growing adoption of TPS in the packaging sector is further supported by its ability to act as a filler in plastic films, enhancing their biodegradability while maintaining essential packaging properties.

The food and beverage industry's expansion has significantly contributed to the rising demand for TPS packaging solutions. For instance, in Germany, the packaging industry generated revenue of EUR 32.5 billion in 2023, driven by increasing demand for customized products and innovative packaging solutions. Similarly, the United Kingdom's packaging manufacturing industry reports annual sales of around GBP 14 billion, employing over 85,000 people and representing 3% of the UK manufacturing workforce. Companies are actively transitioning towards sustainable packaging materials, as demonstrated by Ingredion's introduction of CRISP FILM, a high amylose corn starch-based product offering superior film-forming characteristics and protective barrier properties for food applications. The thermoplastic starch price remains competitive, further fueling its adoption in the industry.

Favorable Government Policies Promoting Bio-Plastics

Government initiatives and regulatory support have become instrumental in driving the adoption of bioplastics, including thermoplastic starch products. The increasing concerns about depleting natural resources and growing environmental issues caused by petroleum-based materials have resulted in the emergence of biopolymer-based materials like TPS. Various governments are implementing stringent regulations on traditional plastic usage while offering manufacturers incentives such as tax exemptions and certifications to promote green materials. This regulatory push has been particularly effective in encouraging industries to transition towards more sustainable packaging solutions, with TPS emerging as a viable alternative to conventional plastics.

The agricultural sector's support through government policies has also contributed to the growth of the TPS market. In France, the agricultural sector demonstrated its significance with a production value of EUR 56.6 billion in 2023, while Italy's agri-food system contributes approximately 15% to the country's GDP, highlighting the potential for bio-based materials in these markets. The United States Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) has made significant strides by developing starch-based films and coatings that enhance water resistance and biodegradability in various materials, effectively reducing synthetic product accumulation in landfills. These developments, coupled with increasing environmental awareness and regulatory support, have created a favorable environment for the growth of thermoplastic starch applications across various industries. As part of the starch-based materials market, TPS continues to gain traction due to its sustainable properties.

Segment Analysis: Manufacturing Type

Extrusion Molding Segment in Thermoplastic Starch Market

Extrusion molding dominates the global thermoplastic starch market, holding approximately 58% of the market share in 2024. This manufacturing process has established itself as the preferred choice across various end-user industries, particularly in the packaging and printing sectors. The process begins with thermoplastic in the form of pellets or granules, which are stored in a funnel-shaped receptacle and then delivered to a heated barrel. The molten plastic material is passed through a custom steel machine, having the shape of a tube-like or rod-like continuous workpiece. This manufacturing type is particularly valued for its ability to create very thin plastic sheeting and films that find extensive applications across different sectors. The process offers significant benefits, including lower production costs, material recyclability, and the ability to make post-extrusion alterations as the plastic remains warm and malleable for longer periods.

Injection Molding Segment in Thermoplastic Starch Market

The injection molding segment is projected to witness the fastest growth in the thermoplastic starch market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 9% during the forecast period 2024-2029. This manufacturing process is gaining significant traction due to its ability to produce parts in large volumes with consistent quality and reliability. The process requires careful design considerations, including the shape and features of the part, the materials for the part and the mold, and the properties of the molding machine. Injection molding has become increasingly popular for manufacturing various products, from everyday plastic items like bottle tops to remote control casings, syringes, and various others. The technology's versatility extends to producing larger parts such as car body panels, making it a preferred choice for industries requiring high-volume production with repeatable manufacturing processes. This segment is a critical component of the molding starch market.

Segment Analysis: Application

Films Segment in Thermoplastic Starch Market

Films account for the dominant share in the global thermoplastic starch market, holding approximately 48% of the market volume in 2024. The widespread adoption of thermoplastic starch films can be attributed to their excellent biodegradability and versatile applications in the packaging industry. These films are increasingly being used as sustainable alternatives to conventional plastic films, particularly in food packaging applications where they provide good barrier properties and help extend product shelf life. The growing demand for starch-based films among consumers, responding to the trend towards sustainable and environmentally sourced food packaging materials, has further strengthened this segment's position. Major companies are actively developing innovative starch-based film solutions, with applications ranging from food packaging to agricultural purposes, driving the segment's continued dominance in the market. This segment is a significant part of the film forming starch market.

Bags Segment in Thermoplastic Starch Market

The bags segment is experiencing the fastest growth in the thermoplastic starch market, projected to expand at approximately 9% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. This robust growth is driven by increasing environmental regulations against single-use plastic bags and rising consumer awareness about sustainable packaging solutions. Thermoplastic starch bags are gaining significant traction as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional plastic bags, particularly in retail and food packaging applications. The segment's growth is further supported by technological advancements in manufacturing processes that have improved the durability and performance characteristics of these biodegradable bags. Major retailers and food service providers are increasingly adopting these sustainable bag solutions, while government initiatives promoting bio-based materials are creating favorable conditions for market expansion.

Remaining Segments in Application Segmentation

The 3D printing and other applications segments complete the thermoplastic starch market's application landscape. The 3D printing segment is witnessing increasing adoption in various industries, particularly in manufacturing customized products and prototypes, driven by the material's biodegradability and ease of processing. The other applications segment, which includes disposable tableware and medical applications, is also gaining prominence as industries seek sustainable alternatives to traditional plastics. These segments are benefiting from ongoing research and development activities focused on enhancing material properties and expanding application possibilities. The versatility of thermoplastic starch in these applications, combined with growing environmental consciousness, continues to drive innovation and market expansion across these segments. This is indicative of the broader starch-based materials market.

Thermoplastic Starch (TPS) Market Geography Segment Analysis

Thermoplastic Starch Market in Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region represents a significant thermoplastic starch market, driven by robust growth in packaging applications and increasing environmental regulations. Countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea are witnessing increased adoption of biodegradable materials across various industries. The region's growth is supported by expanding food processing sectors, rising environmental awareness, and government initiatives promoting sustainable packaging solutions. The presence of major manufacturing facilities and growing research and development activities in countries like China and Japan further strengthen the TPS market dynamics in this region.

Thermoplastic Starch Market in China

China dominates the Asia-Pacific thermoplastic starch market, holding approximately 47% of the regional market share. The country's market leadership is driven by its massive packaging industry and strong agricultural sector. China's food industry has shown remarkable growth, with packaging accounting for over 50% of flexible packaging applications. The country has also emerged as a leader in agricultural plastic research, focusing on biodegradable alternatives. The government's emphasis on environmental sustainability since 2017 has led to increased interest in sustainable packaging solutions, particularly in the food and beverage sector.

Thermoplastic Starch Market in India

India represents the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region, with a projected growth rate of approximately 11% during 2024-2029. The country's market expansion is driven by increasing environmental consciousness and government initiatives promoting biodegradable materials. India's packaging sector, being the fifth-largest sector in the economy, is witnessing significant transformation with the adoption of sustainable materials. The country's robust agricultural sector, coupled with a growing food processing industry and e-commerce surge, is creating substantial opportunities for thermoplastic starch applications. The implementation of strict regulations on single-use plastics has further accelerated the demand for biodegradable alternatives.

Thermoplastic Starch Market in North America

The North American thermoplastic starch market is characterized by strong technological advancement and increasing adoption of sustainable packaging solutions. The region demonstrates a robust market structure with the United States, Canada, and Mexico as key contributors. The market is driven by stringent environmental regulations, growing consumer awareness about sustainable products, and increasing demand from the food packaging industry. The region's strong focus on research and development in biodegradable materials further supports market growth.

Thermoplastic Starch Market in United States

The United States leads the North American market, commanding approximately 83% of the regional market share. The country's dominant position is supported by its large food and beverage industry, which represents a significant portion of the economy. The US packaging industry shows a strong preference for sustainable materials, particularly in food packaging applications. The country's advanced agricultural sector and growing emphasis on biodegradable materials in various applications, including 3D printing, further strengthen its market position.

Thermoplastic Starch Market in Canada

Canada emerges as the fastest-growing market in North America, with an expected growth rate of approximately 10% during 2024-2029. The country's market is driven by its ambitious targets for food and agricultural export growth and increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Canada's strong focus on environmental sustainability and growing investment in biodegradable materials research contributes to its rapid market expansion. The country's robust food and beverage industry, coupled with increasing penetration of food delivery services, creates substantial opportunities for TPS applications.

Thermoplastic Starch Market in Europe

Europe represents a mature market for thermoplastic starch, with a well-established infrastructure for biodegradable materials. The region encompasses key markets including Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, France, and the Nordic countries. The European market benefits from strong environmental regulations and consumer awareness about sustainable packaging solutions. The region's commitment to reducing plastic waste and promoting circular economy principles drives the adoption of TPS across various applications.

Thermoplastic Starch Market in Germany

Germany stands as the largest market in Europe, demonstrating leadership in both market size and technological advancement. The country's strong position is supported by its robust food and beverage industry, which is the fourth-largest industry in terms of growth potential. Germany's emphasis on research and development in sustainable materials, coupled with its strong manufacturing base, reinforces its market leadership.

Thermoplastic Starch Market Growth in Germany

Germany also leads in terms of market growth, supported by its innovative approach to sustainable materials and strong industrial infrastructure. The country's advancement in biodegradable packaging solutions and increasing adoption of thermoplastic starch in various applications drive its growth trajectory. The presence of major global players and continuous investment in research and development further strengthen Germany's position in the European market.

Thermoplastic Starch Market in Rest of the World

The Rest of the World market, comprising South America and the Middle East & Africa, represents an emerging market for thermoplastic starch. In South America, Brazil emerges as both the largest and fastest-growing market, driven by its vast agricultural resources and growing packaging industry. The Middle East & Africa region shows increasing adoption of sustainable packaging solutions, with Saudi Arabia leading the market growth through its Vision 2030 initiatives and growing focus on sustainable materials.