Global Genetically Modified Crops Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

The global genetically modified (GM) crops market is segmented by crop type into soybean, maize, cotton, canola, and others. Soybean dominates the market due to its widespread use in food products, animal feed, and industrial applications. Maize follows closely, driven by its importance in both food and feed industries, along with its use in biofuels. Cotton, with its genetic modifications for insect resistance, also holds a significant share, particularly in regions like the United States and India, which are major cotton producers. Canola, though smaller in market share, is growing due to its oil-rich properties and demand for healthier oils. Other crops, such as rice and wheat, are slowly gaining attention for genetic modifications aimed at improving yield and resistance to environmental stresses.

In terms of trait segmentation, herbicide tolerance (HT) is the leading trait among GM crops, with farmers favoring crops that can withstand specific herbicides, thus allowing more efficient weed control. Insect resistance (IR) follows, especially in crops like cotton and maize, where pest resistance significantly improves yield and reduces the need for chemical pesticides. Stacked traits (ST), which combine both herbicide tolerance and insect resistance, are increasingly being adopted due to their superior performance and comprehensive pest and weed management benefits. These traits are driving innovation in crop genetics, enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.

By application, the food and feed industry is the largest consumer of GM crops, driven by the demand for genetically modified soybeans, maize, and canola for animal feed and food products. Biofuels are another growing application, with genetically modified crops such as maize and sugarcane being increasingly utilized for bioethanol production. The adoption of GM crops for biofuels is expected to rise as the global demand for renewable energy sources increases. Other applications, including pharmaceuticals and industrial products, are also gaining traction, although they currently represent a smaller portion of the market.

Geographically, North America is the largest market for GM crops, primarily due to the United States and Canada, where GM crop cultivation is widespread, supported by advanced agricultural technologies and favorable regulations. Europe, while more restrictive in terms of GM crop adoption, is seeing growth in specific regions due to increased acceptance of certain GM crops like maize. The Asia Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth, particularly in countries like China and India, which are focusing on improving crop yield and resistance to pests and diseases. The Middle East and Africa show a growing interest in GM crops, driven by the need for improved food security and climate resilience. Latin America, particularly Brazil and Argentina, is a significant player in the GM crops market, benefiting from favorable climate conditions and strong export demand.

Global Genetically Modified Crops Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Genetically Modified Crops Market has been segmented by Crop Type, Trait, Application and Geography.

Global Genetically Modified Crops Market, Segmentation by Crop Type

The Global Genetically Modified Crops Market has been segmented by Crop Type into Soybean, Maize, Cotton, Canola, and Others.

Maize, also known as corn, is another major crop that has seen widespread adoption of genetically modified varieties. Genetically modified maize is engineered for traits such as insect resistance, herbicide tolerance, and drought tolerance, making it well-suited for cultivation in diverse agroecological conditions. Farmers benefit from the reduced need for chemical pesticides, improved weed control, and enhanced resilience to environmental stresses. Genetically modified maize is extensively cultivated for both food and feed purposes, contributing to food security and livestock nutrition globally.

Cotton is a vital cash crop that has undergone significant genetic modification to enhance its agronomic traits and fiber quality. Genetically modified cotton varieties are engineered for traits such as insect resistance, herbicide tolerance, and improved fiber characteristics, resulting in higher yields and better quality fiber. These traits have revolutionized cotton farming practices, reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides, improving weed management, and increasing profitability for farmers. Genetically modified cotton is widely cultivated in countries like the United States, India, China, and Pakistan, where it serves as a key component of the textile industry and agricultural economy.

Canola, also known as rapeseed, is an oilseed crop that has witnessed substantial genetic modification to improve its oil quality, yield potential, and agronomic performance. Genetically modified canola varieties are engineered for traits such as herbicide tolerance and resistance to pests and diseases, offering farmers greater flexibility in weed management and reducing yield losses due to pests. Genetically modified canola has become a major crop in countries like Canada, the United States, Australia, and Europe, where it is cultivated for its oil content and as a rotational crop in cereal-based cropping systems.

In addition to these major crops, the market for genetically modified crops includes various other species, such as potatoes, papaya, sugar beets, and alfalfa, each with its own unique traits and applications. Genetically modified potatoes, for example, are engineered for traits such as reduced bruising and enhanced resistance to diseases like late blight, offering improved storage qualities and reduced post-harvest losses. Genetically modified papaya varieties are developed for resistance to papaya ringspot virus, helping to safeguard papaya production in regions where the virus is prevalent. These examples highlight the diverse range of genetically modified crops and their contributions to global agriculture and food security.

Global Genetically Modified Crops Market, Segmentation by Trait

The Global Genetically Modified Crops Market has been segmented by Trait into Herbicide Tolerance (HT), Insect Resistance (IR), and Stacked Traits (ST).

Herbicide-tolerant (HT) varieties are designed to withstand the application of specific herbicides, allowing farmers to control weeds more effectively without harming the crop. This trait enhances weed management practices, reduces the reliance on mechanical weed control methods, and facilitates the adoption of conservation tillage systems, thereby promoting soil health and sustainability in agricultural production.

Insect resistance (IR) is another key trait incorporated into GM crops to combat pest pressure and minimize yield losses caused by insect pests. GM crops with insect-resistant traits produce proteins that are toxic to specific insect pests, thereby reducing the need for chemical insecticides and protecting the crop from damage. By incorporating IR traits, farmers can achieve more consistent yields, reduce input costs associated with insecticide applications, and mitigate the risk of pest-related crop losses. This trait has been particularly beneficial in crops like maize and cotton, where insect pests pose significant challenges to production.

Stacked traits (ST) represent a combination of multiple beneficial traits within a single GM crop variety. These stacked traits often include combinations of herbicide tolerance, insect resistance, and other agronomic traits tailored to specific cropping systems and environmental conditions. By stacking multiple traits into a single crop variety, breeders can offer farmers increased flexibility, improved pest and weed management options, and enhanced yield potential. Stacked trait varieties are widely adopted in regions where complex pest and weed pressures necessitate comprehensive crop protection strategies, thereby contributing to more sustainable and productive agriculture.

Global Genetically Modified Crops Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Genetically Modified Crops Market has been segmented by Application into Food and Feed, Biofuels, and Others.

The global genetically modified (GM) crops market has been segmented based on application into food and feed, biofuels, and others. The food and feed segment is the largest and most significant application for GM crops, as these crops are used to enhance the quality, yield, and resistance of various food products, including grains, vegetables, and fruits. GM crops in this category provide higher nutritional value and longer shelf life, making them essential for feeding the growing global population.

The biofuels segment has witnessed substantial growth due to the increasing demand for renewable energy sources. GM crops are genetically engineered to produce higher yields of biofuel feedstocks such as corn, soybeans, and sugarcane, offering a more efficient and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. As governments and industries focus on reducing carbon emissions, biofuels made from GM crops play a crucial role in meeting energy needs while promoting environmental sustainability.

The "others" segment includes various applications where GM crops are used for non-food purposes, such as industrial enzymes, pharmaceuticals, and bioplastics. Although smaller in comparison to food, feed, and biofuels, this segment holds potential due to ongoing research and innovation. GM crops in this category are engineered for specific purposes, such as producing medicines or biodegradable plastics, supporting a variety of industries beyond traditional agricultural uses.

Global Genetically Modified Crops Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Genetically Modified Crops Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

Global Genetically Modified Crops Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America, particularly the United States and Canada, stands as a leading hub for GM crop cultivation and innovation. Favorable regulatory environments, advanced biotechnology infrastructure, and widespread adoption among farmers have propelled the dominance of GM crops in North American agriculture. Maize, soybean, and cotton are among the most extensively cultivated GM crops in this region, driving significant economic and agronomic benefits.

In Europe, the adoption of GM crops has been more limited due to stringent regulatory policies, consumer skepticism, and concerns over environmental and health implications. Certain countries, such as Spain and Portugal, have embraced the cultivation of GM maize and soybean varieties, albeit on a smaller scale. The European market for GM crops remains influenced by complex regulatory dynamics and ongoing debates surrounding biotechnology and food safety.

The Asia Pacific region represents a diverse landscape for GM crop adoption, with varying levels of acceptance and cultivation across different countries. China, India, and the Philippines are among the key players in the region, with GM cotton, maize, and soybean being the primary crops of interest. In recent years, increasing population pressures, rising demand for food and feed, and the need for sustainable agricultural practices have fueled discussions around the potential role of GM crops in addressing these challenges.

In the Middle East and Africa, the adoption of GM crops has been relatively limited, with few countries engaging in commercial cultivation. South Africa stands out as a notable exception, with widespread cultivation of GM maize and soybean varieties. Regulatory frameworks, access to technology, and socio-economic factors play significant roles in shaping the adoption landscape in this region.

Latin America emerges as a significant player in the global GM crop market, with countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay leading in the cultivation of GM soybean, maize, and cotton. Favorable agro-climatic conditions, strong agricultural industries, and supportive policy environments have driven widespread adoption and expansion of GM crop cultivation in this region.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Genetically Modified Crops Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities.

Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities

Drivers:

• Increasing Demand for Enhanced Crop Yields
• Rising Need for Sustainable Agriculture
• Efforts to Combat Crop Losses
• Supportive Regulatory Frameworks in Certain Regions

• Growing Demand for Biofuel Feedstocks - Growing demand for biofuel feedstocks drives the adoption of genetically modified (GM) crops designed to enhance oilseed yields, oil composition, and agronomic traits suitable for biofuel production. GM crops engineered for increased oil content, improved fatty acid profiles, and enhanced tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses offer sustainable solutions to meet the rising global demand for renewable biofuels. The expansion of biofuel markets, coupled with government incentives and renewable energy mandates, incentivizes farmers to cultivate GM oilseed crops as feedstocks for biodiesel and biojet fuel production.

  Advancements in biotechnology enable the development of GM crops with optimized traits for biofuel feedstock production, including rapid growth rates, high biomass accumulation, and efficient conversion of biomass into biofuels. Biotechnological innovations such as genome editing techniques facilitate precise modifications to crop genomes, enhancing their suitability for bioenergy applications while maintaining agronomic performance and environmental sustainability. As a result, GM crops tailored for biofuel feedstock production contribute to the diversification of energy sources, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and promotion of sustainable agriculture practices. Growing concerns over energy security, climate change mitigation, and air quality improvement drive the expansion of biofuel markets and the adoption of GM feedstock crops worldwide. Policymakers and industry stakeholders recognize the role of biofuels in achieving renewable energy targets, reducing dependency on fossil fuels, and mitigating the adverse environmental impacts of conventional energy production. Investments in research and development, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks support the commercialization and deployment of GM crops for biofuel feedstock production, fostering innovation and market growth in the global bioenergy sector.

Restraints:

• Public Concerns Over Safety and Ethics
• Resistance and Opposition from Environmental Groups
• Crop Contamination and Cross-Pollination

• Intellectual Property Rights and Access to Technology - Intellectual property rights (IPRs) and limited access to technology pose significant restraints to the widespread adoption of genetically modified (GM) crops for biofuel feedstock production. The complex landscape of patents, licensing agreements, and proprietary technologies associated with GM crop development creates barriers to entry for small-scale farmers, research institutions, and developing countries seeking to access and utilize advanced biotechnologies. High licensing fees, technology transfer restrictions, and legal uncertainties surrounding IPR enforcement hinder the dissemination of GM crop traits optimized for biofuel production, limiting their adoption and scalability in diverse agricultural systems.

  Concerns over technology dependency and monopolistic control by multinational biotechnology corporations constrain the equitable distribution and dissemination of GM crop technologies for bioenergy applications. Access to essential genetic resources, research tools, and proprietary traits necessary for the development of biofuel feedstock crops may be restricted by proprietary rights and exclusive licensing agreements, impeding innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among stakeholders in the bioenergy value chain. As a result, the concentration of intellectual property in the hands of a few dominant players may exacerbate inequities in technology access and hinder the development of locally adapted, sustainable biofuel feedstock solutions. Regulatory frameworks governing intellectual property rights and technology transfer in the agricultural biotechnology sector vary widely across regions, leading to inconsistencies in licensing practices, legal protections, and technology access mechanisms. Differential treatment of IPRs and technology transfer agreements in different jurisdictions can create regulatory uncertainty, administrative burdens, and legal disputes, deterring investment in GM crop research and development for biofuel feedstock applications. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts among governments, research institutions, industry stakeholders, and civil society to promote transparent, inclusive, and equitable approaches to technology sharing, intellectual property management, and knowledge dissemination in the global bioenergy sector.

Opportunities:

• Continued Investment in Biotechnology Research and Development (R&D)
• Collaboration Across Value Chain Stakeholders
• Customized Crop Solutions for Local Conditions
• Integration of Biotechnology with Sustainable Agriculture

• Investment in Biofortified and Nutrient-Enhanced Crops - Investment in biofortified and nutrient-enhanced crops presents a compelling opportunity to address global malnutrition and food security challenges while promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Biofortification involves the breeding or genetic modification of crops to enhance their nutritional content, such as increasing levels of essential vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients. By investing in research and development initiatives focused on biofortified crops, stakeholders can contribute to improving the nutritional quality of staple foods, particularly in regions where nutrient deficiencies are prevalent.

  These nutrient-enhanced crops have the potential to significantly impact public health outcomes by addressing deficiencies in key micronutrients like vitamin A, iron, zinc, and vitamin D, which are linked to various health conditions, including anemia, blindness, stunted growth, and impaired immune function. By leveraging biotechnological innovations, such as genetic engineering and marker-assisted breeding, researchers can accelerate the development of biofortified crop varieties with enhanced nutritional profiles, resilience to environmental stressors, and improved agronomic performance, facilitating their adoption by farmers and food processors worldwide. Investing in biofortified and nutrient-enhanced crops aligns with broader sustainability goals by promoting resilient agricultural systems, reducing post-harvest losses, and enhancing the nutritional resilience of vulnerable populations in the face of climate change and environmental degradation. These crops offer a cost-effective and scalable solution to combat malnutrition and food insecurity, particularly in resource-constrained settings where access to diverse and nutritious foods is limited. By integrating biofortified varieties into existing agricultural value chains and nutrition programs, stakeholders can empower communities to improve their dietary diversity, health outcomes, and economic livelihoods, fostering long-term resilience and sustainable development.

Key players in Global Genetically Modified Crops Market include:

• Bayer AG
• BASF SE
• DuPont
• Syngenta AG
• The Dow Chemical Company
• JR Simplot Co.
• Groupe Limagrain
• Stine Seed Farm, Inc.
• Calyxt Inc.
• Maharashtra Hybrid Seed Company (MAHYCO)
• Dabeinong Science and Technology Group Co.
• JK Agri Genetics Ltd.
• Nuseed Pty Ltd.
• Dabeinong Science and Technology Group Co.
• Origin Agritech Limited
• Monsanto
• Sensako

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis