Introduction – Thailand’s Tapioca Starch Market: A Quantitative Overview
When it comes to tapioca starch, Thailand stands tall as a global powerhouse. Not only is it one of the largest producers and exporters of tapioca starch in the world, but the industry also plays a vital role in the Thai economy. With over 500,000 households involved and more than 100 billion baht generated annually, this isn’t just an industry – it’s a national asset.
But here’s the kicker: the global market is dynamic. Prices fluctuate, demand varies, and geopolitical factors can shift trade flows overnight. That’s why businesses looking to source tapioca starch from Thailand need to rely on more than just gut feeling. A data-driven approach is key to making smart, sustainable, and profitable sourcing decisions.
Platforms like Freshdi are stepping in to make this easier. Offering real-time RFQ trends, supplier verification, and detailed market analytics, Freshdi empowers buyers to make informed decisions based on hard data – not just sales pitches.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
Thailand’s dominance in the tapioca starch market isn’t just hearsay – it’s backed by numbers.
In 2022 alone, Thailand exported:
– 3.75 million tons of native tapioca starch worth $1.77 billion
– 1.13 million tons of modified starch valued at $920 million
Top export destinations include China, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia, and the United States. In 2023, the breakdown was:
– China: $6.2 million
– Bangladesh: $5.15 million
– United States: $4.33 million
– Pakistan: $3.31 million
– Philippines: $2.2 million
However, things are shifting. China – the biggest taker of Thai tapioca – is now leaning on coal for ethanol production. That means lower demand for Thai tapioca chips in the near future. But Thailand is already adapting. A recent MoU with China secured the export of 440,000 tons of tapioca in 2025, valued at 5.3 billion baht.
Want to know what demand looks like in real-time? Freshdi’s RFQ dashboard gives you a snapshot of rising demand by region, product variant, and price point – a game-changer for serious buyers.
Top 8 Verified Tapioca Starch Suppliers in Thailand – Proven Export Performers
If you’re on the hunt for reliable suppliers, we’ve done the heavy lifting. These suppliers have been vetted for their export credentials, certifications, customer reviews, and activity on platforms like Freshdi.
1. Sui Heng Lee Co., Ltd.
A long-standing name in tapioca starch exports, known for consistent quality and timely delivery. They serve clients across Asia and North America.
2. Ubon Sunflower Company Limited
Located in the heart of cassava-growing regions, Ubon Sunflower is a key player offering competitive pricing and bulk supply capabilities.
3. Burapa Prosper Co., Ltd.
Well-known for both native and modified tapioca starch, they offer BRC and ISO certifications, making them a favorite among food and pharma clients.
4. Thai Wah Public Co., Ltd.
A publicly listed company with decades of experience, Thai Wah is a global exporter with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.
5. Mangmee Enterprise Company Limited
This supplier is gaining traction for its flexible MOQs and responsive customer service, especially popular among mid-sized importers.
6. Triple Nine Co., Ltd.
A consistent exporter with strong logistics support and a diversified client base in Europe and Southeast Asia.
7. General Starch Limited (GSL)
Offers both bulk and custom-packaged tapioca starch, with HACCP and Halal certifications.
8. Chorchaiwat Industry Co., Ltd.
Focused on premium-grade tapioca starch, this supplier has a strong reputation for quality assurance in niche markets.
Dynamic Ranking Note: Supplier performance can fluctuate based on seasonality, buyer feedback, and market activity. Platforms like Freshdi regularly update dynamic rankings such as “Top Supplier of the Month” or “Quarterly Export Achievers,” helping buyers stay ahead of the curve.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Pricing Analysis & Export Dynamics
Let’s break down the trends so you’re not just buying blindly.
Cassava Production Base
Cassava – the raw material for tapioca starch – is grown in 48 out of Thailand’s 76 provinces. The northeast region alone contributes over 50% of total production. Major provinces include:
– Nakhon Ratchasima
– Kamphaeng Phet
– Chaiyaphum
– Sa Kaeo
– Chachoengsao
Annual yield: 28–30 million tonnes of fresh cassava roots.
Export Trends
In 2024, cassava exports hit US$3.13 billion, down 15.6% year-over-year. However:
– Tapioca starch exports rose by 8.2%
– Modified starch exports increased by 1.8%
Top buyers?
– China (51.4%)
– Japan (9.4%)
– Indonesia (7.4%)
– Taiwan (5.1%)
– Malaysia (4.1%)
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Prices move with the seasons. Back in 2016, exports dropped to $315/ton from $483/ton in 2013. As of early 2025, prices are hovering between $415–$435/ton FOB Bangkok. Historical price patterns show a dip during harvest months (October–January) and a rise during off-season months.
Knowing when to buy is half the battle – and that’s where historical pricing data on Freshdi becomes incredibly useful.
Global Market Forecast
The global tapioca starch market is expected to reach:
– US$5.00 billion by 2025
– US$6.99 billion by 2030
– CAGR: 6.87%
However, Thailand’s own market may see a slight contraction (-0.19% by 2027) due to global competition and shifts in demand.
Recovery Signs
December 2024 saw a 7.8% YoY increase in cassava exports, with strong growth in:
– China (25.1%)
– USA (14.8%)
– Indonesia (55.9%)
– Australia (9.3%)
– Netherlands (72.6%)
This uptick is a promising sign of market stabilization, thanks in part to government initiatives and trade partnerships.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Optimized Supply Chains
Thailand’s tapioca starch industry isn’t just surviving – it’s adapting, evolving, and finding new global footholds. With over 4 million tons of starch exported annually, and a strong supply chain rooted in decades of agricultural expertise, Thailand remains a critical player in the global starch market.
But sourcing smartly is more than just picking a supplier off a list. Businesses need to evaluate export performance, pricing trends, seasonal fluctuations, and certification requirements. That’s where platforms like Freshdi come in – offering live RFQ data, supplier scorecards, and dynamic trade insights that help you make strategic, data-backed choices.
So, next time you’re sourcing tapioca starch from Thailand, don’t just go with your gut. Go with the numbers.
Key Takeaways
- Thailand exports over $2.6 billion worth of tapioca starch annually.
- China, USA, and Indonesia are top buyers.
- Seasonal price fluctuations can impact profitability.
- Verified suppliers like Thai Wah and Sui Heng Lee offer consistent quality.
- Platforms like Freshdi help streamline sourcing with real-time data.
Sourcing Checklist for Tapioca Starch Buyers
✔️ Verify supplier certifications (BRC, ISO, Halal, etc.)
✔️ Compare FOB prices and incoterms using historical data
✔️ Check seasonal pricing trends before finalizing contracts
✔️ Use Freshdi to request RFQs and compare offers
✔️ Monitor dynamic supplier rankings for performance insights
Future Outlook
Despite some market headwinds, Thailand’s tapioca starch industry is poised for long-term growth. With innovations in modified starch, expanding trade agreements, and digital sourcing tools, buyers can expect better access, transparency, and efficiency.
As sustainability and traceability become more important, platforms like Freshdi will play a key role in connecting ethical producers with global buyers – making sure your supply chain is strong from root to warehouse.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Thailand such a big player in tapioca starch production?
A: Thailand has ideal conditions for cassava farming, a strong agricultural base, and decades of experience in starch processing and exports.
Q2: What’s the difference between native and modified tapioca starch?
A: Native starch is the pure form extracted from cassava roots. Modified starch is chemically or physically altered to improve stability, texture, or functionality for specific industries.
Q3: Are tapioca starch prices stable year-round?
A: Not really. Prices tend to dip after harvest and rise during off-seasons. Using historical data helps time your purchases better.
Q4: How can I verify a supplier’s credibility?
A: Use platforms like Freshdi, which provide verified supplier profiles, certifications, past trade data, and buyer reviews.
Q5: What are the emerging markets for Thai tapioca starch?
A: While China remains dominant, there’s growing demand in the U.S., Japan, and parts of Europe, especially for modified starch in food and industrial applications.
References
- Wikipedia – Tapioca Industry of Thailand
- NguyenStarch – Market Overview
- WITS – Thai Tapioca Exports
- Nation Thailand – Market Challenges
- Thailand PRD – MoU With China
- Trade Council – Market Response
- MekongInt – Price Trends
- 6W Research – Thailand Market Outlook
- LinkedIn – Export Situation Update
