The global malt market is poised for robust expansion over the coming decade, with its value projected to grow from USD 4,078.3 million in 2025 to USD 5,752.8 million by 2035. This growth, reflecting a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.5%, is driven by a rising consumer preference for natural, clean-label, and nutrient-rich ingredients across food and beverage applications. As health awareness increases globally, malt—derived primarily from barley and other grains—is gaining favor for its ability to naturally enhance sweetness, improve texture, and boost nutritional content in a wide variety of products.
The commercial development of the malt industry is closely tied to the rising demand in the food and beverage sector. From craft beers and specialty whiskies to bakery products and malt-based health drinks, the versatility of malt continues to attract innovation. As consumers seek better-for-you alternatives, manufacturers are incorporating malt extracts and flours into energy bars, breakfast cereals, and functional drinks. Specialty product development, combined with strong cultural associations—particularly in beer and baked goods—are ensuring sustained growth and global interest in malt products.
Gain Early Access to Market Insights – Request a Sample: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1296
𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐜𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
Key players in the malt market are engaging in mergers and acquisitions to strengthen global distribution networks, increase production capacity, and diversify product portfolios. Notably, large-scale brewers and ingredient manufacturers are acquiring regional maltsters to cater to localized demand for craft and specialty products. These acquisitions also focus on boosting sustainable and organic malt production capabilities, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Key Takeaways
- Market Size Projection: The global malt market is expected to reach USD 5,752.8 million by 2035.
- Growth Rate: A CAGR of 3.5% is forecast from 2025 to 2035.
- Primary Drivers: Increased demand for clean-label, nutritious, and functional ingredients.
- Industry Focus: Strong momentum in craft beer, premium whisky, functional foods, and health beverages.
Emerging Trends in the Global Market
- Clean-label & Organic Demand: Natural and non-GMO malt varieties are in demand across developed markets.
- Growth in Functional Beverages: Malt is increasingly used in energy and nutrition drinks.
- Rise of Craft Brewing: Small breweries are seeking premium malt for unique flavor profiles.
- Non-Alcoholic Innovations: Expansion of malt-based soft drinks and health-focused beverages.
Significant Developments in the Global Sector
Recent innovations include gluten-free malt for allergy-sensitive consumers and malt extracts tailored for sports nutrition. Companies are investing in low-energy processing technologies and traceability systems to meet sustainability targets. Malt’s expansion into beauty supplements and pet nutrition formulations is also being explored.
Trends and Opportunities in the Market
- Bakery and Snack Expansion: Malt is becoming a staple in artisanal and clean-label baked goods.
- Personalized Nutrition: Opportunities abound in malt applications for targeted health outcomes.
- Export Growth: Countries with surplus malt production like Germany and France are exploring new markets in Asia and Africa.
- Digitalization of Supply Chains: Producers are leveraging AI and blockchain to ensure quality and traceability.
Transform Data into Action – Get the Full Market Report: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/malt-market
Competition Outlook
The global malt market features a competitive landscape dominated by both multinational giants and regional players. Companies are focusing on specialty malt offerings—like chocolate, caramel, and smoked malts—to stand out. Strategic partnerships with craft breweries and health food brands are also enabling firms to target niche consumer segments. Investments in eco-friendly production and vertical integration are key strategies shaping competitive advantage.
Market Share Analysis by Company
- Malteurop Groupe (VIVESCIA Industries)
- Boortmalt Group ( Axéréal )
- Cargill, Incorporated
- GrainCorp Limited (United Malt)
- Simpsons Malt Ltd.
- Bairds Malt Ltd.
Region-Wise Insights
United States (CAGR: 3.4%)
The U.S. market is expanding due to rising demand in craft beer, specialty whisky, and natural sweeteners for baked goods. Malt extracts are increasingly used in cereals, granolas, and beverages. Innovation in gluten-free and non-alcoholic malt beverages is creating strong growth potential.
United Kingdom (CAGR: 3.3%)
Malt is central to the UK’s ale, whisky, and baked goods sectors. Demand for organic and non-GMO variants is increasing. British bakeries are turning to malt for flavor enhancement and natural coloring, while distilleries emphasize local and traceable sourcing.
European Union (CAGR: 3.5%)
As the world’s largest malt producer and exporter, the EU’s market thrives on clean-label trends and demand for non-alcoholic beverages. Countries like Germany and France lead in sustainable malt production, backed by eco-focused regulations.
Japan (CAGR: 3.2%)
Driven by the premium whisky market and traditional malt-based sweets, Japan’s malt demand is stable. Artisanal brewing and health drinks featuring malt are on the rise, supported by a focus on ingredient purity and process precision.
South Korea (CAGR: 3.6%)
South Korea is seeing growing malt use in functional beverages, health snacks, and energy bars. Malt’s digestive benefits are gaining popularity in wellness circles, and local breweries are exploring unique malt blends for product differentiation.
Explore Functional Food Ingredients Industry Analysis: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/industry-analysis/functional-food-ingredients
Key Segments
By Type:
- Liquid extract
- Dry extract
- Malt flour
By Application:
- Beer Industry
- Whisky Distilleries
- Food & Beverages
- Pharmaceutical industry
By source:
- Barley
- Wheat
- Rye
By Distribution Channel:
- Online
- Offline
By Region:
- North America
- Latin America
- Western Europe
- Eastern Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Middle east and Africa