Biocontrol Agents Market - By Active Substance (Microbials, Macro-Organisms, Bio-chemicals), By Crops (Fruits and Vegetables, Cereals & Grains, Pulses, Others), & By Application (Seed Treatment, On-Field, Post-Harvest) & Forecast, 2024 – 2032

Biocontrol Agents Market Size

Biocontrol Agents Market was valued at around USD 5.23 billion in 2023 and is estimated to reach USD 20.4 billion by the end of 2032, registering a CAGR of over 16.4% between 2024 and 2032. Biocontrol agents, also known as biological control agents or biopesticides, are organisms that are used to control pests and diseases in agriculture, forestry, and other settings. Unlike traditional chemical pesticides, biocontrol agents rely on natural mechanisms and interactions to suppress or manage populations of harmful organisms. The rising demand for organic farming, especially in Europe, is constantly developing the market.
 

Biocontrol agents are considered environmentally friendly and sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides because they generally have lower environmental impacts, reduce the risk of chemical resistance in pests, and can be integrated into broader pest management strategies. However, their effectiveness may vary depending on factors such as environmental conditions and the specific pest or pathogen being targeted.

While the use of biocontrol agents in agriculture offers numerous environmental and sustainability benefits, a significant limitation lies in their comparatively higher cost when juxtaposed with conventional fertilizers and pest control methods. The increased expenses associated with the development, production, and application of biocontrol agents can act as a deterrent for widespread adoption among farmers, particularly those facing economic constraints. To address this limitation, concerted efforts are required to enhance the efficiency and scalability of biocontrol agent production processes, leading to cost reductions. Furthermore, increased awareness and education within the agricultural community about the long-term benefits and ecological advantages of biocontrol agents may foster greater acceptance, potentially justifying the initial higher costs through enhanced market demand and economies of scale.
 

Biocontrol Agents Market Trends

In recent years, the market has witnessed a surge in demand driven by growing environmental concerns, increased awareness of sustainable agriculture, and a rising preference for organic food production. The shift towards integrated pest management (IPM) practices and stringent regulations on chemical pesticide usage have propelled the adoption of biocontrol agents. Moreover, technological advancements and research breakthroughs have led to the development of more effective and targeted biopesticides, enhancing their overall efficacy. The market is also experiencing a trend towards the commercialization of genetically modified biocontrol agents for improved performance. With a heightened focus on precision farming and the promotion of eco-friendly solutions, the biocontrol agents industry is expected to continue its upward trajectory, offering promising opportunities for innovation and investment in the agriculture sector.
 

Biocontrol Agents Market Analysis

Based on active substance, the market is segmented as microbials, macro-organisms, and bio-chemicals. Microbials held a majority market value of USD 3.09 billion in 2023. The biocontrol agents’ market can be comprehensively segmented based on the active substances employed in pest and disease management. Firstly, microbials, which include beneficial microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and nematodes, are gaining prominence for their ability to target specific pests while minimizing environmental impact. Macro-organisms constitute another segment, encompassing larger organisms like predatory insects, parasitoids, and nematodes, which play a pivotal role in controlling pest populations through predation or parasitism. Bio-chemicals, as a distinct category, involve the use of naturally occurring compounds and substances, such as pheromones, enzymes, or plant extracts, to disrupt pest behaviors or physiology. Each of these segments within the market represents a diverse range of sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, catering to the evolving needs of agriculture while aligning with the global shift towards environmentally conscious pest management practices.
 

Based on crop, the market is segmented as a fruits and vegetables, cereals & grains, pulses, and others (mushroom, oil seeds etc.). Fruits and vegetables held a dominant market share of around 42% in 2023 and is expected to grow at a lucrative pace through 2032. The biocontrol agents market exhibits a nuanced segmentation based on the diverse range of crops it serves. One significant segment comprises fruits and vegetables, where biocontrol agents are increasingly employed for their role in safeguarding crops against pests and diseases without leaving residues harmful to human health. Cereals and grains represent another vital category within the market, with biocontrol agents contributing to sustainable pest management practices in staple food production. The pulses segment benefits from biocontrol solutions that mitigate the impact of pests on leguminous crops. Additionally, the market extends its influence to a varied assortment of crops categorized as 'Others,' encompassing mushrooms, oilseeds, and other specialty crops. This broad spectrum of crop segmentation underscores the versatility of biocontrol agents, catering to the distinct needs of different agricultural sectors and contributing to the overall resilience and sustainability of global food production systems.
 

Based on application, the market is segmented as Seed Treatment, On-field, and post-harvest. On-field held a dominant market share of around 47% in 2023 and is expected to grow at a lucrative pace till 2032. The biocontrol agents market exhibits a strategic segmentation based on various application methods, reflecting the diverse stages of agricultural production where these agents prove instrumental. Seed treatment stands out as a critical segment, involving the application of biocontrol agents directly to seeds before planting. This method ensures early protection against pests and diseases, setting the foundation for healthy plant growth. On-field applications, another significant category, encompass the use of biocontrol agents during the crop's growth phase, providing sustained protection against pests while minimizing environmental impact. Post-harvest applications represent a key stage in the market, involving measures taken after the crop has been harvested to preserve quality during storage and transportation. Each application segment addresses specific challenges in the agricultural lifecycle, collectively contributing to the holistic and sustainable approach promoted by biocontrol agents in modern farming practices.
 

France has solidified its dominance in the European biocontrol agents market, commanding a substantial majority market share and achieving a noteworthy revenue of USD 395.3 million in 2023. The country's leadership in this sector is propelled by several factors. Firstly, a strong emphasis on sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation aligns with the principles of biocontrol, fostering widespread adoption. Additionally, France has been proactive in research and development, promoting innovation in biocontrol technologies and formulations. The collaborative efforts between research institutions, government bodies, and private enterprises create a conducive environment for the growth of the biocontrol market. Furthermore, the stringent regulatory framework in France, ensuring the responsible use of chemical pesticides, has accelerated the demand for biocontrol agents. The nation's commitment to organic farming and agroecological practices further reinforces its dominance, positioning France as a key player shaping the trajectory of the global biocontrol agents industry.
 

Biocontrol Agents Market Share

BASF SE, Syngenta Ag, Cropscience Bayer Ag, and Biobest N.V collectively assert a significant dominance in the biocontrol agents industry, holding a substantial 49% share of the global market. Their formidable presence is indicative of their strategic initiatives, extensive research and development investments, and diversified product portfolios. As key industry players, BASF and Syngenta leverage their global reach and comprehensive agrochemical expertise, contributing to the widespread adoption of biocontrol solutions. Bayer Cropscience, with its innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture, particularly in bio-based products, plays a pivotal role. Biobest N.V, known for its focus on integrated pest management solutions, complements this dominance with a specialization in beneficial insects. This consortium of leading companies not only influences market dynamics but also underscores the collective commitment of major industry players towards steering the market's growth and shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.
 

Biocontrol Agents Market Companies

Major players operating in the biocontrol agents industry include:

• BASF SE
• Syngenta Ag
• Cropscience Bayer Ag
• Biobest N.V
• Novozymes
• Koppert Biological Systems
• Andermatt Biocontrol AG
• Valent Bioscience Ag
• Certis USA
• Marrone Bio Innovations
• Isagro S.p.A.
• Certis Europe B.V.
• CBC (Europe) S.r.l.
• BioWorks Inc.
• Nufarm Limited
   

Biocontrol Agents Industry News

• July 2023: BASF announced acquisition of Verdesian Life Sciences, a leading US-based developer and manufacturer of biocontrol agents and natural pest control solutions. This expands BASF's biocontrol portfolio and market reach in North America.
   
• May 2022: Syngenta Ag expanded its biocontrol agent portfolio with the acquisition of Valagro, an Italian company specializing in biocontrol agents and biocontrol solutions. This strengthens Syngenta's presence in the growing biocontrol agents industry.
   
• September 2023: Cropscience Bayer Ag introduced BioAct, a new digital platform for connecting farmers with suppliers of biocontrol agents and other sustainable crop protection solutions. This aims to make it easier for farmers to adopt biocontrol methods.
   

Biocontrol agents market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million & Tons from 2018 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Active Substance

• Microbials
  • Bacteria
  • Fungi
  • Virus
  • Protozoa
  • Yeast
  • Others (Mycorrhizae) 
• Macro-organisms
  • Insects
  • Mites
  • Nematodes
  • Others (Invertebrates)
• Bio-chemicals
  • Semio-chemicals
  • Plant extracts
  • Plant growth regulators
  • Organic Acids
  • Minerals

Market, By Crop

• Fruits and Vegetables
• Cereals & Grains
• Pulses
• Others(Mushroom, Oil Seeds Etc.)

Market, By Application

• Seed Treatment
• On-Field
• Post-Harvest

The above insurrection is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Indonesia
  • Thailand 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE