The global market for biodegradable mulch films was valued at USD 50.75 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 82.82 million by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 8.9% from 2025 to 2030. The increasing necessity for sustainable food crop cultivation, driven by the global population, is fostering growth for biodegradable mulch films as a green alternative to traditional plastic films used in modern agriculture.
The depletion of arable land and environmental concerns have driven the agricultural industry to adopt eco-friendly solutions like biodegradable films, which help improve crop yields while conserving water, reducing soil pollution, and combating climate change.
The sustainability movement in global agriculture is fueling the demand for environmentally friendly materials. Governments and organizations worldwide are advocating for reduced plastic usage, and biodegradable films are increasingly favored since they lower soil contamination and eliminate waste disposal challenges. Advances in material technology have improved the durability and performance of biodegradable films, encouraging their broader adoption. As a result, government policies and environmental campaigns continue to promote the expansion of this market.
Growing environmental awareness and strict regulations are primary forces behind the rising adoption of biodegradable mulch films. Many governments have introduced directives aimed at reducing single-use plastics, encouraging farmers and agricultural businesses to switch to biodegradable options. These regulations not only promote environmental benefits but also offer economic incentives, supporting the use of eco-friendly films.
Emerging markets, especially in regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America, present substantial growth opportunities. In these areas, increasing focus on sustainable farming, supportive government policies, and financial incentives are fueling market expansion. Establishing partnerships with local distributors and educating farmers about the benefits of biodegradable films could unlock significant market potential.
The main barrier to widespread adoption remains the higher cost of biodegradable mulch films compared to conventional plastics. Farmers often hesitate to switch due to cost concerns, especially in regions with tight margins or limited access to capital. Additionally, inconsistent performance in extreme weather conditions is sometimes cited as a concern, acting as a barrier to mass adoption and growth.
Thermoplastic starch (TPS) held the largest market share in 2024 at over 61.25%. TPS degrades entirely into non-toxic products when placed in soil, making it environmentally safe. Increasing worries over the environmental impacts of synthetic polymers used in traditional agricultural films have shifted focus toward renewable, biodegradable alternatives derived from natural resources. This trend is expected to increase demand for starch-based biodegradable films.
Starch, primarily sourced from food crops like potatoes, maize, and cassava, is cost-effective and widely available, making it a preferred material. Although often associated with thickeners in food, starch is used to produce TPS, which flows at high temperatures under pressure. The availability and affordability of starch have positively influenced its adoption for eco-friendly mulch films.
Polylactic acid (PLA), derived from sugar and starch, is emerging as a popular biopolymer due to its biodegradability and versatile processing. Despite its higher cost compared to synthetic plastics, government incentives and increasing consumer awareness boost its market share. PLA is especially suitable for short-life applications in food packaging and agriculture.
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), produced from microbial fermentation of sugars or glucose, are biodegradable plastics with applications in medical fixation devices, bioplastics, tissue engineering, food packaging, and agriculture. Continuous innovations in PHA production are lowering costs and broadening its application spectrum.
Fruits and vegetables were the dominant crop category in 2024, accounting for over 50.16% of global biodegradable mulch film demand. This segment is expected to see the fastest growth during 2025–2030. Using biodegradable films helps prevent contact between fruits and soil, reducing rot and improving produce quality.
The demand for biodegradable mulch films in fruit and vegetable farming is projected to rise, driven by increasing consumer awareness of nutritional benefits such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The trend toward fresh and organic produce is boosting market growth.
The North American market is expected to see significant growth due to environmental awareness and regulatory measures to reduce plastic waste in agriculture. In particular, Canadian farmers face increasing pressure to adopt eco-friendly solutions supported by government initiatives and environmental organizations.
The U.S. is progressing in biodegradable mulch films driven by policies promoting environmental sustainability. Growing focus on protecting soil health and reducing plastic waste encourages increased adoption of biodegradable films, supported by subsidies and incentives for sustainable farming practices.
Asia-Pacific led the global market in 2024, capturing over 62% of revenue, due to rapid agricultural expansion and a shift toward sustainable farming practices. Countries like India, Thailand, and Vietnam, major agricultural producers, are confronting soil degradation caused by plastic use. Governments in these nations often promote biodegradable solutions through subsidies and regulations, facilitating market growth.
The Chinese market is particularly notable due to extensive plastic mulch use, which has led to severe soil pollution. Regulatory measures aiming to reduce plastic waste are driving the adoption of biodegradable options in the country.
The European market is set to grow steadily at a CAGR of 4.1%, supported by strict regulations aimed at plastic reduction and sustainability, including the EU’s Green Deal and Farm to Fork strategies. Countries like France, Germany, and Spain are actively promoting the use of biodegradable mulching films through government incentives and high environmental standards.
The market features intense competition among prominent companies such as BASF SE, Kingfa Sci & Tech Co Ltd, BioBag International AS, AEP Industries Inc., RKW SE, British Polythene Industries PLC, Armando Alvarez, Al-Pack Enterprises Ltd., Novamont, and AB Rani Plast OY. Investing heavily in research and development, these companies aim to improve the performance and sustainability of their biodegradable products.
| Attribute | Details |
| Market size in 2025 | USD 54.18 million |
| Projected market size in 2030 | USD 82.82 million |
| Growth rate (CAGR) | 8.9% from 2025 to 2030 |
| Base year | 2024 |
| Forecast period | 2025–2030 |
| Units of measurement | Revenue in USD million; volume in million or kilotons |
| Coverage | Revenue projections, key companies, competitive landscape, growth drivers, and trends |
| Segments included | Raw materials, crop types, regions |
| Regional scope | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa |
| Countries covered | U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Brazil, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa |
| Key players profiled | BASF SE; Kingfa Sci & Tech Co Ltd; BioBag International AS; AEP Industries Inc.; RKW SE; British Polythene Industries PLC; Armando Alvarez; Al-Pack Enterprises Ltd.; Novamont; AB Rani Plast OY |
This report projects revenue growth and examines trends across the globe, regions, and individual countries from 2018 to 2030, segmented by raw materials, crops, and geographical areas.
The global biodegradable mulch films market was valued at approximately USD 50.75 million in 2024.
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.9% from 2025 to 2030, potentially reaching USD 82.82 million by 2030.
Fruits and vegetables accounted for the largest market share of over 50.16% in 2024, with rapid growth expected over the coming years.
Key players include BASF SE, Kingfa Sci & Tech Co Ltd, BioBag International AS, AEP Industries Inc., RKW SE, British Polythene Industries PLC, Armando Alvarez, Al-Pack Enterprises Ltd., Novamont, and AB Rani Plast OY.
Increasing environmental concerns, government regulations reducing plastic use, and rising demand for sustainable agricultural practices are the primary drivers supporting biodegradable mulch films’ market growth.
