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Somchai P.
HQ Management
Global cassava production projected at 315M tonnes in 2026, up 1.2% from 2025. Thailand output expected at 30.5M tonnes. Nigeria and Brazil remain top producers. Starch demand driven by food, paper, and textile sectors.
Clean label movement drives 12% YoY growth in modified tapioca starch across APAC food manufacturers. E1422 and E1414 see strongest demand in ready-meal and sauce categories. Brands shifting from corn to tapioca for non-GMO positioning.
Thailand and Vietnam combined starch exports reached 2.4M tonnes in Q1 2026, led by strong Chinese demand. Modified starch grades command 15-20% premium over native. Shipping costs stabilize after H2 2025 volatility.
Isan Drought Impact: Cassava Planting Area Down 6%
Office of Agricultural Economics (TH) · Apr 3, 2026
Northeastern Thailand (Isan) cassava planting area declined to 7.2M rai in 2025/26 crop season. Water shortage in Nakhon Ratchasima and Khon Kaen provinces. Government subsidy program announced to support farmers with drought-resistant varieties.
Upcoming Fi Asia (April 15-17, Bangkok) to showcase starch innovations in plant-based meat binding, gluten-free bakery, and pharmaceutical excipients. Industry panels on sustainability and supply chain transparency.
China's State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) mandates updated labeling for imported modified starches effective July 2026. E-number and functional purpose must appear in Chinese. Transition period until December 2026.
Corn Starch Prices Surge in North America — Tapioca Gains Share
S&P Global Commodity Insights · Mar 25, 2026
US corn starch prices up 18% YoY due to poor 2025 corn harvest. Food manufacturers exploring tapioca starch as cost-competitive alternative. Thai exporters report 25% increase in US-bound inquiries for E1422 and native starch.
March exports: 480,000 MT total. Native starch 290,000 MT (China 55%, Indonesia 12%, Japan 8%). Modified starch 190,000 MT (China 42%, EU 18%, USA 10%). Average FOB price $512/MT native, $625/MT modified.
Cassava mosaic disease affecting 15% of planting area in Battambang and Banteay Meanchey provinces. Potential impact on regional cassava supply chain. Thailand monitors border provinces for cross-contamination.