Forecast
Period
|
2025-2029
|
Market
Size (2023)
|
USD
22.25 billion
|
CAGR
(2024-2029)
|
5.28%
|
Fastest
Growing Segment
|
Herbicide
Tolerance
|
Largest
Market
|
North
America
|
Market Overview
Global
Transgenic Seeds Market was valued at USD 22.25 billion in 2023 and is
anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 5.28%
through 2029. The global transgenic seeds market, often referred to as the
genetically modified (GM) seeds market, is a vital component of modern
agriculture. It involves the cultivation of crops with genetically engineered
traits, such as resistance to pests, herbicide tolerance, and environmental
stress tolerance. These genetically modified crops have significantly impacted
agricultural practices, productivity, and sustainability.
The
global transgenic seeds market plays a pivotal role in addressing the
challenges of food security, sustainable agriculture, and resource efficiency.
It continues to evolve with innovative traits, advanced biotechnology, and an
increasing focus on environmental sustainability and consumer preferences.
However, it also faces regulatory, environmental, and consumer perception
challenges that need to be addressed for continued growth and acceptance.
Key Market Drivers
Increased Agricultural
Productivity
Increased
agricultural productivity is a fundamental driver for the growth of the global
transgenic seeds market. This concept refers to the ability of transgenic
seeds, also known as genetically modified (GM) or genetically engineered seeds,
to enhance the efficiency and output of agricultural production. Transgenic seeds are designed to carry
specific genetic traits that enable crops to achieve higher yields. These
traits may include resistance to pests, diseases, or environmental stress, as
well as improved growth characteristics. For instance, crops engineered to
resist insect pests can result in larger and healthier harvests, ultimately
increasing overall productivity.
With
the world's population steadily growing, there is an increasing demand for
food. The agricultural sector faces the challenging task of producing more food
with limited arable land and resources. Transgenic seeds have the potential to
play a pivotal role in ensuring global food security by increasing crop yields
and making more efficient use of available resources. Increased agricultural
productivity benefits not only the global food supply but also the financial
well-being of farmers. Higher crop yields mean more income for agricultural
producers. This can help improve their livelihoods, provide stability for their
businesses, and contribute to economic growth in rural areas. Farmers adopting
transgenic seeds often find themselves with greater financial security due to
reduced production costs and increased revenues.
Transgenic
seeds can lead to more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming
practices. For instance, crops engineered for pest resistance reduce the need
for chemical pesticides. This results in less chemical runoff into the
environment, decreased harm to non-target species, and a reduced carbon
footprint associated with pesticide application. Similarly, herbicide-tolerant
crops enable farmers to control weeds with less environmental impact, provided
sustainable farming practices are followed. Transgenic seeds can also
contribute to resource efficiency in agriculture. For example, crops engineered
for drought tolerance can thrive with less water, which is especially important
in regions facing water scarcity. This efficient use of resources, such as
water, can help conserve valuable natural resources and reduce production
costs. Continued research and development in the field of transgenic seeds are
leading to the creation of crops with multiple beneficial traits. This includes
crops that resist both pests and drought, providing a holistic approach to
enhancing agricultural productivity.
Pest and Disease Resistance
Pest
and disease resistance is a critical driver for the growth of the global
transgenic seeds market. This concept refers to the genetic modification of
seeds to confer resistance to specific pests, insects, and plant diseases.
These genetically modified (GM) crops are designed to withstand attacks from
harmful organisms, resulting in several benefits for farmers, consumers, and
the agricultural industry as a whole. Pest and disease resistance in transgenic
seeds helps reduce crop losses. Traditional crops are often vulnerable to
various pests and diseases, which can lead to significant yield losses. GM
crops, on the other hand, have built-in resistance mechanisms, allowing them to
fend off these threats. This translates to higher crop yields and, ultimately,
increased agricultural productivity.
One
of the most significant advantages of pest-resistant transgenic seeds is the
reduced reliance on chemical pesticides. Farmers cultivating GM crops can use
fewer or less potent pesticides, which has several advantages Fewer pesticides
mean less chemical runoff into water bodies and reduced harm to non-target
organisms, leading to a lower environmental impact. Farmers spend less on
purchasing and applying pesticides, contributing to reduced production costs. Reduced
exposure to pesticides benefits farmworkers and minimizes health risks
associated with chemical handling.
Pest
and disease-resistant transgenic seeds promote more sustainable agricultural
practices. By reducing the need for chemical inputs and minimizing crop losses,
they contribute to a more eco-friendly and economically viable approach to
farming. This aligns with the growing demand for sustainable agriculture in
today's world. GM crops with pest and disease resistance offer improved food
quality and safety. Reduced pesticide residues on crops mean that consumers are
less exposed to potentially harmful chemicals. In addition, the decreased risk
of contamination by pests and pathogens during crop cultivation, harvesting,
and storage enhances food safety. By mitigating the impact of pests and
diseases, pest-resistant transgenic seeds provide stability for farming
communities. These communities can depend on more consistent yields and reduced
financial risk, which, in turn, can help alleviate rural poverty and support
livelihoods.
Herbicide Tolerance
Herbicide
tolerance is a significant driver for the growth of the global transgenic seeds
market. This concept involves the genetic modification of seeds to make crops
resistant to specific herbicides. These genetically modified (GM) crops can
withstand the application of certain herbicides, which offers various benefits
for both farmers and the agricultural industry. Herbicide-tolerant transgenic seeds simplify
weed management for farmers. Weeds are a major challenge in agriculture as they
compete with crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Herbicide-tolerant crops
allow farmers to use specific herbicides that target weeds while sparing the
crop. This targeted approach streamlines weed control efforts and reduces the
labor required for manual weeding. Herbicide-tolerant GM crops contribute to
higher crop yields. By effectively controlling weeds with herbicides, the crop
can grow with reduced competition, resulting in more robust and productive
plants. Enhanced yields are a significant incentive for farmers to adopt these
transgenic seeds.
Herbicide-tolerant
crops can promote resource efficiency in agriculture. They enable more
efficient use of resources such as water, as weeds compete for limited water
resources. Reducing weed pressure through herbicide application ensures that
the primary crop receives an adequate supply of water, leading to improved
water use efficiency. Farmers who use herbicide-tolerant transgenic seeds often
experience cost savings. They spend less on labor for weeding and use fewer
herbicides compared to traditional farming practices. Reduced expenses enhance
the economic viability of farming operations and contribute to improved
profitability. While herbicide use is associated with environmental concerns,
herbicide-tolerant crops can contribute to a reduction in the environmental
impact of agriculture Targeted herbicide application minimizes chemical runoff
into water bodies, which can harm aquatic ecosystems. Effective weed control
prevents soil erosion by maintaining ground cover, protecting valuable topsoil,
and preserving soil health.
Environmental Stress Tolerance
Environmental
stress tolerance is a significant driver for the growth of the global
transgenic seeds market. This concept involves the genetic modification of
seeds to enhance a crop's ability to withstand adverse environmental
conditions, such as drought, salinity, extreme temperatures, and other
environmental stresses. These genetically modified (GM) crops offer a range of
benefits to farmers and the agricultural industry, contributing to the
expansion of the transgenic seeds market. Environmental stress-tolerant
transgenic seeds are designed to make crops more resilient in the face of
challenging conditions. Drought-tolerant crops, for instance, can maintain
productivity even in periods of water scarcity, contributing to stable yields
and food security.
Crops
engineered for drought tolerance can make more efficient use of water
resources. They require less water to produce the same or even higher yields,
which is particularly valuable in regions with limited access to irrigation or
facing water scarcity. Some transgenic seeds are developed to thrive in saline
soils, where traditional crops struggle to grow. Salinity-tolerant crops can
expand arable land by making use of soil that would otherwise be unproductive. Crops
engineered for temperature resilience can withstand temperature extremes,
including cold and heat stress. This enables farmers to cultivate crops in
regions with unpredictable or extreme weather patterns. Environmental stress
tolerance ensures more stable crop yields. This is especially important in the
face of climate change, which can lead to increased weather variability. Stable
yields contribute to food security and reduce economic risks for farmers. Tolerant
transgenic crops often exhibit better resource efficiency. By requiring less
water and withstanding environmental stresses, they make more efficient use of
natural resources and reduce production costs.
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Key Market Challenges
Regulatory Hurdles
The
regulatory approval process for transgenic crops can be time-consuming and
costly. Biotechnology companies must navigate a complex web of regulations and
safety assessments before commercializing their products. Delays in approvals
can hinder the timely introduction of new transgenic seeds to the market.
Different
countries have distinct regulatory frameworks for genetically modified
organisms (GMOs). This inconsistency can lead to market fragmentation, with
companies needing to seek approvals from multiple agencies or adapt their
products to comply with various national regulations. This can increase costs
and slow down market expansion. Opposition to transgenic crops by some
governments, NGOs, and segments of the public can lead to regulatory hurdles.
Political decisions and public perception can influence whether GM crops are
approved or banned, further complicating the regulatory landscape. Some regions
and countries require labeling of GM products. Compliance with labeling and
traceability regulations can be complex and costly, affecting market access and
consumer acceptance.
Environmental and Ecological
Concerns
The
development of pest and disease resistance to transgenic crops, as well as the
emergence of herbicide-resistant weeds, is a growing concern. These issues can
result in reduced effectiveness of transgenic seeds over time, increasing the
need for additional pest control methods.
There
are concerns that transgenic crops may have unintended impacts on local
ecosystems, potentially harming non-target species and biodiversity. This can
lead to ecological imbalances and harm the environment. Transgenic crops may
crossbreed with wild or non-GM crops, leading to gene flow. This can raise
concerns about the spread of transgenic traits beyond cultivated fields,
potentially impacting non-GM crops and natural ecosystems. The reduced use of
pesticides with some GM crops can result in the resurgence of secondary pests
that were previously controlled by broad-spectrum pesticides. This can
necessitate the use of additional pest management strategies.
Consumer and Public Perception
Skepticism
and concerns regarding the safety of transgenic crops can influence consumer
behavior. Some consumers may choose non-GM products, which can reduce demand
for transgenic crops and limit market growth.
The
demand for clear labeling and transparency regarding the presence of GM
ingredients in food products can lead to higher costs for manufacturers and
impact consumer choices. This can also affect market dynamics. Misinformation
and misconceptions about GM crops can persist in the public domain. Accurate
and accessible information is essential to address these concerns and improve
consumer acceptance. Activist groups opposed to GM crops may engage in
campaigns that raise public awareness about perceived risks associated with
transgenic seeds. These campaigns can influence public opinion and, in turn,
affect market demand.
Key Market Trends
Advanced Biotechnology and
Trait Stacking
One
of the prominent trends in the transgenic seeds market is the continual
advancement of biotechnology, which allows for more precise and complex genetic
modifications. Trait
stacking involves introducing multiple genetically engineered traits into a
single crop variety. For example, a single crop may be engineered to resist
multiple pests, tolerate environmental stress, and deliver improved nutritional
content. Trait stacking enhances the value proposition of transgenic seeds by
offering more comprehensive solutions to farmers. Emerging gene-editing
techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 have opened new possibilities for crop improvement.
These technologies allow for precise modifications of specific genes, which can
lead to the development of new traits or the fine-tuning of existing ones. Gene
editing offers the potential to accelerate the development of transgenic seeds.
RNA interference (RNAi) is another innovative biotechnological trend. It
enables the silencing of specific genes in pests or pathogens, reducing their
ability to cause harm to crops. RNAi technology can complement existing
transgenic traits by providing an additional layer of protection.
Focus on Sustainability and
Environmental Impact
A
growing concern for sustainability and environmental impact is driving several
trends in the transgenic seeds market. As
climate change poses increasing challenges to agriculture, there is a
heightened focus on developing crops that can thrive in adverse conditions,
such as drought or extreme temperatures. Transgenic seeds with improved
environmental stress tolerance are becoming more essential. In response to
concerns about pesticide and herbicide usage, there is a trend toward
developing transgenic crops that require fewer chemical inputs. This not only
addresses environmental concerns but also reduces production costs for farmers.
Crop developers are increasingly considering the potential impact of transgenic
crops on local ecosystems and biodiversity. Efforts are being made to minimize
unintended ecological consequences, such as gene flow to wild relatives,
through containment strategies and risk assessments. In recognition of the
growth of organic farming, there is an emerging trend to develop transgenic
traits that are compatible with organic agricultural practices.
Organic-compatible traits allow organic farmers to benefit from genetic
advancements while maintaining their certification.
Consumer Demand for
Transparency and Traceability
Consumers
are becoming more discerning about the food they consume, leading to trends
that emphasize transparency and traceability. Increased
demand for clear labeling of genetically modified (GM) products is leading to
greater transparency in food labeling. This trend enables consumers to make
informed choices about the products they purchase. There is a growing market
for non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) and identity-preserved crops. This
trend allows consumers to access products that are not genetically modified and
are carefully monitored throughout the supply chain to maintain their non-GMO
status. The trend of educating and engaging consumers in discussions about GM
crops and their benefits and risks is gaining momentum. Companies and industry
stakeholders are investing in outreach and communication efforts to provide
accurate information to the public. The coexistence of GM and non-GM crops is
increasingly considered, with efforts made to establish buffer zones and best
practices to prevent cross-contamination and gene flow in areas where both
types of crops are grown.
Segmental Insights
Trait Insights
Based
on the category of Trait, the Herbicide tolerance (HT)
segment emerged as the dominant player in the global market for Transgenic
Seeds Market in 2023. Herbicide-tolerant transgenic
seeds simplify weed management for farmers. Weeds are a persistent problem in
agriculture, competing with crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight. The HT
trait enables farmers to use specific herbicides that target and eliminate
weeds while leaving the crop unharmed. This targeted approach reduces the labor
and time required for manual weeding, making it an attractive choice for farmers.
Herbicide tolerance contributes to
higher crop yields. With effective weed control, transgenic crops can grow with
reduced competition from weeds. As a result, they develop more robustly and
produce larger harvests. Improved yields are a significant incentive for
farmers to adopt herbicide-tolerant transgenic seeds. Herbicide-tolerant crops
conserve water by eliminating the need for extensive weed control that
typically requires extra irrigation. This is especially valuable in regions
with water scarcity. While herbicides are used, the targeted application of
herbicides is more efficient and requires fewer chemicals than broad-spectrum
pesticide applications. This reduction in pesticide usage has environmental and
economic benefits. Farmers adopting herbicide-tolerant transgenic seeds often
experience cost savings. These savings come from reduced labor costs for manual
weeding, fewer herbicide purchases, and increased productivity. This combination of cost-effective
weed management and enhanced yields makes HT crops financially attractive for
farmers. These factors are expected to drive the growth of this segment.
Crop Type Insights
The
Corn segment is projected to experience rapid growth during the forecast
period. Corn has a significantly high adoption rate among transgenic crops.
Many countries have embraced GM maize varieties, making it one of the most
widely grown genetically modified crops globally. This high level of adoption
demonstrates the strong demand for transgenic corn among farmers. Corn is a
staple crop with vast economic importance. It is used for various purposes,
including food and feed production, as well as industrial applications such as
ethanol production. The economic significance of corn drives the adoption of
transgenic varieties, which offer several advantages to growers. Transgenic
corn is engineered to provide resistance to pests and tolerance to herbicides.
For instance, Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) corn varieties produce a protein
toxic to certain insect pests, reducing the need for chemical insecticides.
Herbicide-tolerant corn varieties allow farmers to use specific herbicides for
weed control without damaging the crop. These traits contribute to increased
yield potential and cost savings for farmers. Transgenic corn varieties are
developed to exhibit high yield potential. The resistance to pests, coupled
with efficient weed control, allows the crop to grow more robustly and produce
larger harvests. The high yield potential of transgenic corn aligns with the
demand for increased food production to feed a growing global population. These
factors collectively contribute to the growth of this segment.
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Regional Insights
North
America emerged as the dominant player in the global Transgenic Seeds Market in 2023, holding the largest market share in terms of value. North America, particularly the United States, was one of
the earliest regions to adopt and develop genetically modified (GM) crops. The
introduction of transgenic seeds, such as herbicide-tolerant soybeans and
insect-resistant maize (corn), marked a turning point in agriculture. This
early adoption allowed North American farmers to benefit from improved crop
traits and higher yields. North America cultivates a diverse range of
transgenic crops, including maize, soybeans, cotton, and canola, among others.
The availability of various genetically modified crops provides options for
farmers to address specific agricultural challenges, leading to a significant
market share in the global transgenic seeds market. Transgenic seeds in
North America have demonstrated increased agricultural productivity and
economic benefits for farmers. Traits such as herbicide tolerance and pest
resistance have reduced production costs and contributed to higher yields,
making transgenic crops a preferred choice for North American growers. North
America has a strong tradition of modern agricultural practices and large-scale
farming. Transgenic seeds align with the region's focus on efficiency and
productivity in agriculture, making them an integral part of the farming
landscape. The regulatory framework for GM crops in North America has been
relatively supportive, which has encouraged their adoption. Streamlined
approval processes and clear guidelines have facilitated the commercialization
of transgenic crops.
The Asia-Pacific market is poised to be
the fastest-growing market, offering lucrative growth opportunities for Transgenic
Seeds Market players during the forecast period. Factors such as the Asia-Pacific
region is home to a rapidly growing population. As the demand for food
increases, there is a need for technologies that enhance agricultural
productivity. Transgenic seeds can address food security challenges in the
region. The Asia-Pacific region encompasses a wide range of agroclimatic
conditions, from tropical to temperate. Transgenic seeds engineered for pest
resistance, herbicide tolerance, and environmental stress tolerance can adapt
to and thrive in diverse environments, making them appealing to farmers in this
region. Rice and wheat
are staple crops in many Asian countries. The development of transgenic
varieties of rice, such as Golden Rice, and wheat with improved traits has the
potential to significantly impact food production in the region. Several
countries in the Asia-Pacific region have shown support for transgenic crops,
recognizing their potential to enhance agricultural productivity and address
challenges like pests, diseases, and adverse environmental conditions. The
Asia-Pacific region includes emerging economies with expanding agricultural
sectors. These markets are increasingly adopting transgenic seeds to improve
agricultural practices and achieve higher yields.
Recent Developments
- In October 2023 - Syngenta AG announces
a partnership with the Potato Sustainability Alliance to enhance on-farm
sustainability reporting for potato growers. The partnership will help potato
growers to track and measure their sustainability performance, and to identify
areas where they can improve.
- In
October 2023, Vilmorin & Cie SA announces a partnership with the French
government to develop new agricultural technologies for French farmers. The
partnership will focus on developing new varieties of crops that are resistant
to pests and diseases, and that can thrive in changing climate conditions.
- In
July 2023 Monsanto Co.
announces that it has reached a settlement with the U.S. government over a
lawsuit alleging that the company used false and misleading advertising to
promote its herbicide products. The company will pay $100 million to settle the
lawsuit, but it did not admit any wrongdoing.
Key Market Players
- Monsanto
Co
- E.I
du Pont de Nemours & Company
- Syngenta
AG
- Vilmorin
& Cie SA
- Bayer
CropScience AG
- BASF
SE
- Dow
Agroscience LLC
- Suntory
Holdings Ltd
By
Trait
|
By
Crop Type
|
By
Region
|
- Herbicide
Tolerance
- Insect-resistance
- Others
|
- Corn
- Soya
- Cotton
- Canola
- Others
|
- North
America
- Europe
- Asia
Pacific
- South
America
- Middle
East & Africa
|
Report Scope:
In this report, the Global Transgenic Seeds Market
has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry
trends which have also been detailed below:
- Transgenic Seeds Market, By Trait:
o Herbicide Tolerance
o Insect-resistance
o Others
- Transgenic Seeds Market, By Crop Type:
o Corn
o Soya
o Cotton
o Canola
o Others
- Transgenic Seeds Market, By Region:
o North America
§ United States
§ Canada
§ Mexico
o Europe
§ France
§ United Kingdom
§ Italy
§ Germany
§ Spain
o Asia-Pacific
§ China
§ India
§ Japan
§ Australia
§ South Korea
o South America
§ Brazil
§ Argentina
§ Colombia
o Middle East & Africa
§ South Africa
§ Saudi Arabia
§ UAE
Competitive Landscape
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Transgenic
Seeds Market.
Available Customizations:
Global Transgenic Seeds Market report with
the given market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to a
company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for
the report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and profiling of additional
market players (up to five).
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