Global Plant Breeding and CRISPR Market Set for $13.86 Billion Growth by 2030

According to a recent report titled "Plant Breeding and CRISPR Plants Market by Type, Trait, Technology, Application, and Region – Global Forecast to 2030," published by MarketsandMarkets, the global market for plant breeding and CRISPR plants is projected to grow from USD 8.91 billion in 2025 to USD 13.86 billion by 2030. This marks a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.2% over the forecast period.

Climate Change Accelerates Demand for Resilient Crops

Climate change is emerging as a key driver behind the surge in demand for plant breeding and genome editing technologies. Rising global temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and the increasing prevalence of pests are already diminishing agricultural productivity. A NASA study published in Nature Food warns that maize production could fall by 24% by 2030 if greenhouse gas emissions remain high. Meanwhile, an April 2024 report from Oxfam America underscores the impact of worsening droughts and frequent crop failures, particularly for smallholder farmers who form the backbone of global food supply.

These climate-induced challenges are fueling the adoption of advanced breeding technologies, including CRISPR-based genome editing, to develop crop varieties that are more resilient, productive, and adaptable.

Cereals Grains Lead the Market

Within the market, the cereals and grains segment is expected to retain the largest share. Staple crops such as wheat, rice, and corn are in high demand globally, especially in densely populated regions like Asia Pacific and Africa. The food security of these regions hinges on stable and high-yield harvests.

Modern plant breeding methods, including genome editing and molecular breeding, have enabled the creation of disease-resistant and nutrient-enhanced grain varieties. Furthermore, active governmental support in North America and Asia Pacific for research and development in cereal crop production is propelling the segment’s growth.

For a comprehensive overview, download the PDF copy

Focus on Temperature Stress Tolerance Traits

The temperature and stress tolerance trait segment is expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period. As global warming intensifies, developing crops that can thrive under heat stress has become a priority for researchers and agribusinesses. Both conventional and biotechnological methods are being employed to enhance crop tolerance without sacrificing yield.

Innovations in genome editing have made it possible to make precise changes in plant DNA, enabling faster development of heat-resilient crops. Increased frequency of heatwaves, especially in tropical and subtropical regions, is likely to further drive demand for temperature-resilient crop varieties, boosting investments in this domain.

South America: A Growing Hub for Genetically Modified Crops

South America is poised for notable growth in the plant breeding and CRISPR plants market. Countries like Argentina and Brazil, which are among the largest producers of genetically modified crops, benefit from favorable regulatory environments and expansive commercial farming operations.

These nations are also grappling with severe climate variability, which increases the urgency for resilient agricultural solutions. Supportive government policies and growing adoption of genome editing technologies in key crops such as soybeans and corn are propelling market expansion in the region.

Leading Market Players

The report profiles several major players driving innovation and market growth, including: