PUBLISHER: Stratistics Market Research Consulting | PRODUCT CODE: 1625202
PUBLISHER: Stratistics Market Research Consulting | PRODUCT CODE: 1625202
According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Molecular Breeding Market is accounted for $4.70 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $13.42 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 19.1% during the forecast period. Molecular breeding is the process of improving the genetic characteristics of microbes, plants, or animals by applying sophisticated molecular biology techniques. Compared to conventional breeding techniques, it uses technologies like gene editing, genomic selection, and marker-assisted selection (MAS) to more effectively find, modify, and incorporate advantageous genes. In order to overcome agricultural issues, molecular breeding expedites the production of crops and livestock with improved traits like increased yield, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and improved nutritional content.
Increasing demand for food security
The growing need for food security is one of the main factors propelling the molecular breeding industry. The demand for increased agricultural resilience and production is become more urgent as the world's population continues to rise, especially in emerging nations. Through molecular breeding, it is possible to create crops and livestock that are more resilient to pests, illnesses, and harsh weather conditions like heat or drought, which are becoming more common as a result of climate change. Molecular breeding is a vital respond to guarantee a steady, wholesome food supply by enhancing yield, quality, and sustainability, making it indispensable to addressing upcoming issues with food security.
Lack of skilled workforce
Complex methods like genomic selection, CRISPR gene editing, and next-generation sequencing are used in molecular breeding, and they call for specific expertise in genetics, bioinformatics, and biotechnology. Companies and research institutes are unable to fully utilize the promise of molecular breeding due to a lack of qualified personnel with experience in these cutting-edge technologies. This lack of expertise might hinder the implementation of molecular breeding technologies, raise operating expenses, and postpone research and development activities. In order to close this workforce gap, it will be essential to make investments in training initiatives and academic collaborations as the demand for these technologies increases.
Rising adoption of GMOs and gene editing
Gene editing and genetic modification methods like CRISPR/Cas9 provide accurate and effective solutions to the growing demand for increased crop yields, better resistance to pests and diseases. In a fraction of the time needed by conventional breeding techniques, these technologies allow the growth of crops with desired qualities. GMOs and gene-edited crops are becoming increasingly prevalent in agriculture due to increasing regulatory approval. This trend is assisting in addressing issues related to sustainability, climate change resilience, and food security, which is further propelling the development of molecular breeding in agriculture.
Slow adoption in traditional farming practices
Many farmers still use traditional breeding methods because they are familiar with them as well as are less expensive initially, particularly in rural or underdeveloped areas. Even though molecular breeding has many benefits, such as increased yields and resistance to disease, it frequently necessitates a large investment in infrastructure, skilled labor, and equipment. Farmers may also be cautious of new technology because of ethical concerns about genetically modified organisms (GMOs), regulatory barriers, or doubts about their efficacy. This resistance to molecular breeding hinders its broad use and reduces its ability to solve important issues with agricultural sustainability and food security.
Covid-19 Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the molecular breeding market. Some molecular breeding efforts were slowed down by the disruption of global supply chains, decreased research funding, and stopped field experiments. Interest in technologies like molecular breeding increased as a result of the pandemic's emphasis on the necessity of resilient agricultural systems and food security. After the epidemic, governments and private businesses realized how crucial it was to increase crop yields and resilience in order to guarantee food stability, which sparked a renewed focus on agricultural advances and investment.
The genomic selection (GS) segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The genomic selection (GS) segment is estimated to be the largest, due to its ability to enhance breeding efficiency and precision. By utilizing genome-wide markers, genomic selection enables faster identification of desirable traits, such as disease resistance and yield improvement, without the need for extensive phenotypic testing. This accelerates the breeding process, reduces costs, and allows for the development of superior crops and livestock. As the demand for high-yielding, resilient, and sustainable agricultural products increases, genomic selection is becoming an essential tool for breeders worldwide.
The research institutes segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
The research institutes segment is anticipated to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period, due to their contribution to the development of breeding techniques and genetic technologies. Their work accelerates the development of crops and livestock with improved traits, such as higher yield, disease resistance, and climate resilience. By fostering collaboration with governments, private sectors, and academia, these institutes play a crucial role in scaling molecular breeding techniques, addressing food security challenges, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices globally.
Asia Pacific is expected to have the largest market share during the forecast period fuelled by the increasing demand for food security, a large agricultural base, and the need for climate-resilient crops. Countries like China and India are investing heavily in biotechnology and molecular breeding to improve crop yields, disease resistance, and drought tolerance. Additionally, rising awareness of sustainable farming practices, government support, and growing adoption of genetically modified and gene-edited crops are further accelerating the market's growth in this region.
During the forecast period, the North America region is anticipated to register the highest CAGR, owing to the region's advanced research infrastructure, high adoption of biotechnology, and strong government support for agricultural innovation. The U.S. and Canada are leading the development of genetically modified crops, utilizing molecular breeding techniques to enhance crop yields, pest resistance, and climate adaptability. Additionally, increasing demand for sustainable farming practices and the need for food security are encouraging investments in molecular breeding, making North America a key hub for innovation in agriculture.
Key players in the market
Some of the key players profiled in the Molecular Breeding Market include Kaltura, Inc., Syngenta AG, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Corteva Agriscience, BASF SE, Limagrain, KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA, Bayer CropScience, Inari Agriculture, Evogene Ltd., Genezen Laboratories, Ceres, Inc., Bioceres Crop Solutions, Phytocontrol, Vilmorin & Cie, AgBiome, Inc., Zymergen, and Plant Health Care Plc.
In September 2023, Corteva Agriscience introduced a new insect-resistant trait in corn, leveraging molecular breeding technologies to improve the resistance of corn against major pests.
In May 2023, Syngenta announced the launch of a soybean variety developed through molecular breeding techniques for enhanced tolerance to drought and extreme temperatures. The new variety is designed to help farmers in regions affected by climate change, ensuring better productivity under stress conditions.
In February 2023, Bayer CropScience launched a new seed applied technology for wheat that integrates molecular breeding techniques to improve disease resistance and overall plant health. The technology aims to address the challenges of wheat rusts and other fungal diseases, thus increasing yields for wheat farmers.
Note: Tables for North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East & Africa Regions are also represented in the same manner as above.