Overview of China’s Modified Starch Industry
Market Size and Growth Trends
According to the China Starch Industry Association, China’s modified starch production reached 1.9438 million tons in 2022, a 6.42% increase compared to the previous year. Domestic consumption was approximately 2.39 million tons, up 3% . The market is expected to maintain steady growth in the coming years.
Main Production Regions and Companies
Production is mainly concentrated in corn starch-producing provinces, such as Shandong, Hebei, Heilongjiang, Ningxia, and Jilin .
Major companies like COFCO Biotechnology Co., Ltd. hold significant positions in the industry.
Import and Export Situation
China imported more than 380,000 tons of modified starch, decreasing to 500,000 tons in 2023 (a 13.75% decrease), while exports remained above 70,000 tons, reaching 157,300 tons in 2023 (up 17.74%). This indicates that although domestic production is growing, high-end products still rely on imports.
Comparison Between Vietnam and China in Modified Starch
| Item | Vietnam | China |
|---|---|---|
| Global Ranking | 3rd largest cassava and cassava products exporter | 2nd largest cassava starch producer |
| Main Export Markets | Mainland China, Taiwan, Philippines, Korea, Indonesia | Mainland China, Taiwan, Philippines, Korea, Indonesia |
| Production Technology | Produces high-quality modified starch meeting US & EU standards | Technology improving, but high-end products still require imports |
| Main Products | E1420, E1404, E1412, E1413, E1414, E1422, E1450, E1451 | E1412, E1442, E1450, E1451, etc. |
| Export Value (2022) | $1.35 billion | ~$1.05 billion |
Summary
China holds a significant position in the modified starch industry, but there is still a gap in high-end products. Compared with countries like Vietnam, China needs to continue improving technological innovation and product diversification. With technological advancements and evolving market demand, China’s modified starch industry is expected to achieve higher quality development in the coming years.
