BioControl Agents Market Size and Trends

Global biocontrol agents market is expected to reach US$ 8.5 Bn by 2030, from US$ 4.8 Bn in 2023, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.3% during the forecast period. Biocontrol agents refer to living organisms used to control pests and diseases that damage agriculture crops. These include predators, parasitoids, pathogens and other beneficial microorganisms. Biocontrol agents are advantageous over conventional chemical pesticides as these are target-specific, and safe for humans and environmentally sustainable. Key drivers of the market include rising demand for organic food, reduction in use of chemical pesticides, government regulations and increased R&D activities.

Global biocontrol agents market is segmented by type, application method, formulation, crop type, mode of application, and region. By type, the market is segmented into predators, parasitoids, pathogens, and other bioagents. The predators segment is expected to account for the largest share during the forecast period owing to their ability to provide long-term pest control solution.

Global BioControl Agents Market- Trends

Consolidation through Mergers and Acquisitions: The biopesticide industry has witnessed significant consolidation over the past decade. Established agricultural companies are acquiring innovative biocontrol startups and local players to augment their product portfolio. For instance, in 2022, UPL acquired Biofa AG to strengthen its global biosolutions business. The acquisition trend is likely to continue, driven by demand for new microbial strains and access to regional distribution networks. This can enhance R&D capabilities of companies.
Development of Bioherbicides: Weed control represents a major challenge for farmers but use of chemical herbicides raises environmental issues. As a result, companies are increasing focus on introduction of bioherbicidal products. For example, players like Marrone Bio Innovations and BioHerbicides Australia have launched effective microbial bioherbicides. With limited biological options for weed control currently available, There will probably be a lot of new product development in this market. For instance according to the USA Environmental Protection Agency records, the number of bioherbicides registered for use in the U.S. has doubled from 16 in 2011 to 32 by end of 2021
Partnerships with Microbial Providers: As discovery of new strains remains a key focus area, several biopesticide firms are entering strategic partnerships with microbial technology companies. Such collaborations provide access to wider range of microbes and accelerated strain selection capabilities. Companies like Novozymes, Lodo Therapeutics, Zymergen have launched microbial discovery platforms for agricultural applications. Tie-ups with such microbial innovation companies provide growth opportunities for biocontrol players. For instance: According to the data from National Agricultural Statistics Service, U.S., organic agricultural lands had increased by over 15% from 2015 to 2021.
Investments in Commercial Production: A crucial trend being witnessed is establishment of dedicated biopesticide production plants by leading agrochemical companies. In 2022, FMC Corporation opened a new US$ 50 million facility in the U.S. that focuses on microbial strain fermentation and product synthesis. Syngenta also expanded its European production capacity for biologicals in 2021. Such investments will be critical for commercial scale manufacturing and market growth.