Biodegradable Mulch Film Market Size, Share and Trends 2025 to 2034

Biodegradable Mulch Film Market Size and Forecast 2025 to 2034

The global biodegradable mulch film market size was calculated at USD 50.81 billion in 2024 and is predicted to increase from USD 54.99 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 111.95 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 8.22% from 2025 to 2034. Rising demand and need for food crops across the globe are the key factors driving market growth. Also, the surging demand for sustainability solutions in agricultural practices coupled with the promotion activities done by governments and other organizations to support biodegradable options can fuel market growth further.

Biodegradable Mulch Film Market Key Takeaways

• In terms of revenue, the biodegradable mulch film market is worth around $54.99 billion in 2025.
• The market is projected to reach $111.95 billion by 2034.
• The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.22% from 2025 to 2034.
• China country led the Asia Pacific market and contributed 38% of the market share in 2024.
• Asia Pacific dominated the global biodegradable mulch film market with the largest market share of 62% in 2024.
• North America is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 8.12% over the studied period.
• By polymer, the thermoplastic starch (TPS) segment has held a major market share of 62% in 2024.
• By application, the fruits and vegetables segment contributed the largest share of 51% in 2024.
• By application, the grain and oilseeds segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the projected period.

Role of Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture

In the biodegradable mulch film market AI-driven systems enable easy weather predictions, assess farms, and control and monitor agricultural sustainability technology using data such as precipitation, temperature, sun radiation, and wind speed in combination with photographs taken by drones and satellites. Furthermore, artificial intelligence systems can assist farmers in regulated and precision farming by offering them the correct advice on crop rotation, water management, optimal planting, pest attacks, and timely harvesting.

• In April 2024, Google launched an AI-based agricultural information tool for India to provide insights on drought preparedness and irrigation. The new AI platform will provide information at a granular level, which is essential for the Indian agricultural landscape. It will use high-resolution satellite imagery, machine learning to draw boundaries between fields, information on drought preparedness, irrigation, market access, etc.

Asia Pacific Biodegradable Mulch Film Market Size and Growth 2025 to 2034

The Asia Pacific biodegradable mulch film market size was exhibited at USD 31.50 billion in 2024 and is projected to be worth around USD 69.97 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 8.30% from 2025 to 2034.

Asia Pacific dominated the global biodegradable mulch film market in 2024. The dominance of the region can be attributed to the ongoing expansion of the agriculture industry coupled with the increasing emphasis on eco-friendly farming practices. Emerging economies in this region, such as Thailand, India, and Vietnam, are huge agricultural producers and sometimes confront hurdles with soil degradation because of wide plastic mulch use. Furthermore, the governments of major countries in the region are focusing on promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation initiatives.

• In April 2023, BASF SE announced that it would work with AGCO Corporation to develop new features and incorporate Smart Spraying technology into Fendt Rogator sprayers for commercialization.

North America is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the biodegradable mulch film market over the studied period. The growth of the region can be credited to the strict government laws on plastic usage in the agriculture sector and increasing environmental awareness, which are the major market drivers in the region. Within North America, the U.S. led the market owing to the combination of environmental policy initiatives and demand to safeguard soil health. As a prominent player in agricultural production, the U.S. is taking steps to decrease plastic waste in farming.

Market Overview

Biodegradable mulch films are materials derived from animals and plants, giving benefits like maintenance of soil structure, weed control, and protecting crops from soil contamination. These films are a more sustainable and convenient alternative to conventional plastic mulch, raced from decomposable raw materials. The films are mainly used in agricultural practices to improve crop yields and retain soil moisture while providing the benefit of cutting the requirement for film removal after harvest.

Top 5 wheat exporters by country in 2023

Biodegradable Mulch Film Market Growth Factors

• Governments across the globe are implementing stringent regulations on plastic use, which will boost the biodegradable mulch film market.
• The increasing trend towards organic farming is expected to propel market growth shortly.
• The integration of circular economy models will likely contribute to the market expansion over the forecast period.

Market Scope

Market Dynamics

Driver

Surge in growth of the horticulture sector

The ongoing growth of the horticulture sector is the major factor driving the growth of the biodegradable mulch film market. The rising emphasis of the horticulture sector on efficient and eco-friendly production methods aligns smoothly with the advantages provided by biodegradable mulch film. In addition, increasing technological advances in farming, along with the strict government regulation on the use of biomaterials.

• In December 2024, the Horticulture Department launched the rejuvenation of old, senile orchards. The project focuses on the conversion of the nursery to a Hi-tech nursery with the latest facilities under NABARD and instructed the officer for preparation of DPR, including infrastructure developmental works and protected cultivation structures.

Restraint

High biodegradable films cost

The high cost of these films is the primary factor hampering the biodegradable mulch film market growth. This high cost of films is due to the costly raw materials used in their manufacturing and the tedious production processes involved. Moreover, the inconsistent performance of these films because of frequently changing environmental conditions can lead to cost fluctuation and hence limit their ability, affecting their widespread application in many areas. 

Opportunity

Innovations in biodegradable polymer technology

The biodegradable mulch film market is majorly influenced by substantial developments in biodegradable polymer technology. The R&D in this field is fuelling the creation of more effective, durable, and cost-effective biodegradable mulch films. Furthermore, the latest biodegradable films are created to provide the same advantages as traditional plastic films, like flexibility, strength, and water permeability, by ensuring total biodegradability. Advancements in the manufacturing process are decreasing the cost of biodegradable films.

• In December 2024, Symphony Environmental launched biodegradable resin for the plastics industry. The company says its new resin reduces the fossil content of plastic and can be recycled but biodegrades within months if it escapes into the natural environment. NbR comprises 20 percent non-fossil natural compounds and is suitable for making a wide variety of packaging, carrier bags, garbage bags, etc.

Polymer Insights

The thermoplastic starch (TPS) segment dominated the biodegradable mulch film market in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be attributed to the increasing environmental concerns about the utilization of traditional synthetic polymers in the manufacturing of agricultural films, which have shifted the trend towards the adoption of biodegradable materials. Additionally, thermoplastic starch decomposes into harmless substances when placed in soil. Strict government regulations promoting sustainable packaging solutions can propel the segment.

The starch blended with polylactic acid (PLA) segment led the market in 2024. The growth of the segment can be credited to the surging consumer awareness, government incentives, and the extensive availability of raw materials. PLA is also created chemically by treating starch and sugar. PLA can be processed using ordinary equipment. Moreover, the use of starch in PLA can substantially improve certain properties, like barrier attributes and stiffness, which makes the blend more sophisticated for an extensive range of applications in agriculture.

• In July 2024, Emirates Biotech launched the PLA bioplastics venture in Dubai. The company, Emirates Biotech, will spearhead the production and marketing of PLA biopolymers across the Middle East, Africa, and India, offering a sustainable and circular solution to replace traditional fossil fuel-based plastics.

Application Insights

In 2024, the fruits and vegetables segment led the biodegradable mulch film market by holding the largest share. The dominance of the segment can be linked to their capability to protect weed growth, improve soil temperature, and conserve soil moisture, which enhances fruit and vegetable quality and increases yield performance. Furthermore, rising demand for organic and eco-friendly produce fuels the adoption of these films in this segment, which aligns with consumer preferences for sustainably responsible farming initiatives.

The grain and oilseeds segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the projected period. The growth of the segment is driven by rising awareness of environmentally friendly agricultural practices and soil conservation. Grains and oilseeds, like wheat, corn, and soybean, are major crops in widely cultivated areas across the globe. Also, these films in the segment help in weed control and moisture retention, which contributes to stronger and higher crop yields and decreases agricultural waste.

• In December 2024, BARC launches high-yield, climate-resilient varieties of wheat and rice. Developed using radiation-based mutation breeding techniques, these non-GMO crop varieties are set to revolutionize agriculture across the globe.

Biodegradable Mulch Film Market Companies

• BASF SE
• Kingfa Sci and 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

Latest Announcement by Industry Leaders

• In October 2024, BASF and AM Green announced the signing of MoU for opportunities in Iow-carbon chemicals. Under the MoU, BASF and AM Green intend to conduct feasibility studies on low-carbon chemical production in India, including a joint evaluation of potential technologies. The MoU was signed by Markus Kamieth, chairman of the board of executive directors of BASF SE, and Mahesh Kolli.

Recent Developments

• In February 2024, NUREL introduced two new grades of INZEA biopolymers for agricultural mulch films. These materials enhance crop production while addressing environmental concerns linked to traditional plastic mulches.
• In October 2023, Mondi partnered with Cotesi and introduced a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic mulching films used in agriculture. Their new product, Advantage Kraft Mulch, is made entirely from 100% kraft paper sourced from responsibly managed forests.
• In June 2023, BASF inaugurated its Center of Excellence for Biodegradation and Microplastics at its Wyandotte site in Michigan. This facility aims to assist customers in North America in attaining their circularity and sustainability objectives.

Segments Covered in the Report

By Polymer

• Thermoplastic Starch (TPS)
• Starch Blended with Polylactic Acid (PLA)
• Starch Blended with Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA)
• Aliphatic Aromatic Copolyesters (AAC)
• Others

By Application

• Fruits and Vegetables
• Grains and Oilseeds
• Flowers and Plants

By Geography

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa