Industrial Hemp Market

Industrial Hemp Market Size and Share:

The global industrial hemp market size was valued at USD 6.2 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 20.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 14.5% during 2025-2033. Asia-Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 35.0% in 2024. The market is witnessing significant growth mainly driven by the extensive change in legislative landscapes facilitating a more favorable environment for hemp cultivation and processing, thereby facilitating the recognition of hemp’s environmental benefits and diversification of hemp applications across numerous end use industries.

The market is majorly driven by the growth in demand for sustainable raw materials for use in various industries. The fact that hemp can be versatilely used in textiles, bioplastics, and construction material is gaining momentum with growing eco-consciousness. Low environmental impact and efficiency in resource utilization are factors behind the legalization of hemp cultivation in many regions and this is driving the market growth. For example, earlier in September 2024, Himachal Pradesh govt. in India declares intentions to legalize cannabis or hemp for medicinal, industrial, and scientific purposes following amendment approved by the state assembly regarding the NDPS Rules 1985. The project involved establishing seed banks, geo-tagging land, and formation of a state authority which shall oversee the production procedures and promote non-narcotic cannabis applications. The growing interest in hemp derived CBD products for wellness and medical purposes further drives the market growth supported by ongoing research and development.

The industrial hemp market in the United States is advancing mainly due to the legalization of hemp cultivation under the Farm Bill which has encouraged large scale hemp production. According to industry reports, in 2023 the value of United States industrial hemp reached USD 291 Million. Open-grown hemp was worth USD 258 Million from 27,680 acres. Protected-grown hemp was worth USD 32.9 million with 3.24 million square feet used for cultivation. Increasing awareness of hemp's versatility and sustainability is also enhancing the use of hemp in textile, bioplastics, and construction materials. Increased demand by consumers for hemp-derived CBD products due to the possible health benefits is adding considerable momentum to the market growth. The increasing emphasis on renewable and biodegradable alternatives in several sectors dovetails well with hemp's inherent ecofriendly attributes, thereby influencing market growth

Industrial Hemp Market Trends:

Legislative Changes and Government Support

The market has experienced significant growth primarily due to the widespread changes in legislative landscapes across various countries. Governments around the world are increasingly realizing the economic and environmental potential of hemp, which is leading to amendments in regulations that earlier restricted the cultivation and processing of hemp. This relaxation in regulations, especially in regions such as North America and Europe, is promoting an increase in hemp production. The versatility in usage that ranges from textiles to construction materials, foodstuffs and beverages to medicinal use further makes governments develop an interest. The total acreage for hemp planting in all uses in the United States under the USDA in 2023 was 27,680 acres. In summary, enhanced support by providing subsidies, grants, and funding more research is driving this boom in the market. This gradual change in policy frameworks enriched the old entrants and also attracted new entrants, which significantly impacted market dynamics.

Sustainability and Environmental Benefits

Industrial hemp is gaining significant traction as a sustainable crop offering numerous environmental benefits which is vital factor driving its market growth. Hemp’s rapid growth cycle and minimal requirement for pesticides and herbicides makes it an ecofriendly alternative to traditional crops. For instance, while cotton requires a lot of harmful pesticides to grow hemp on the other hand is naturally immune to most of the insects, pests, and diseases. Its ability to sequester carbon effectively, replenish soil nutrients and use less water than many other crops further enhance its appeal in the context of climate change and environmental conservation. In line with this, hemp’s biomass can be converted into a variety of ecofriendly products including bioplastics, building materials and biofuels providing a sustainable alternative to non-renewable energy resources. Globally, 85% energy comes from non-renewable fossil fuels including oil, natural gas, and coal. The growing global emphasis on sustainability and reducing carbon footprints is positioning it as an increasingly preferred choice for various industries thereby fueling the market growth.

Diversification in Application and Innovation

The market is witnessing robust growth due to the diversification of its applications and ongoing innovations. Hemp's utility spans a wide array of industries including textiles, construction, food and beverages, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. Innovations in hemp processing technologies have expanded its usability enabling the extraction of high-quality fibers, seeds and cannabinoids like CBD which have diverse applications. The global cannabidiol market size reached USD 7.0 Billion in 2024, according to the IMARC Group. The increasing consumer awareness and demand for natural and organic products have further propelled hemp's incorporation in health foods, cosmetic products and nutraceuticals. A survey by Euromonitor revealed that 71% of Indian consumers would purchase a face cream or lotion if it were marketed as natural. Moreover, the growing interest in CBD-based products due to their therapeutic properties is opening new avenues in the health and wellness sector. This versatility and continuous innovation make it a lucrative market with opportunities for growth across various sectors.

Industrial Hemp Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on type, source, and application.

Analysis by Type:

• Hemp Seed
• Hemp Oil
• Hemp Fiber
• Others
   

Hemp Seed stand as the largest component in 2024, holding around 29.9% of the market. Hemp seeds represent the largest segment in the market primarily attributed to their nutritional value and versatility in applications. These seeds are a rich source of essential fatty acids, protein and various minerals making them highly sought after in the food and beverage industry. They are used in a variety of products including hemp seed oil, protein powder and as a health-focused ingredient in snacks and beverages. Additionally, the growing consumer interest in plant-based diets and natural health products is amplifying the demand for hemp seeds. Moreover, the use of hemp seeds in animal feed is an emerging area expanding the segment's market potential. Furthermore, the incorporation of hemp seeds in cosmetic formulations for their skin nourishing properties is gaining traction. The expanding scope of hemp seed applications across diverse industries underscores their critical role in the industrial hemp market's growth trajectory.

Analysis by Source:

• Conventional                             
• Organic
   

The conventional segment leads the industrial hemp market due to its established cultivation methods and lower production costs compared to organic alternatives. Conventional farming employs chemical fertilizers and pesticides to achieve high yields and pest resistance supporting a wide array of applications such as textiles, construction materials, food, and cosmetics. Its accessibility and affordability make conventionally grown hemp a preferred option for manufacturers especially in regions with limited adoption or regulation of organic farming practices. This widespread cultivation approach ensures a consistent supply, meeting the growing industrial demand for hemp across diverse sectors at competitive pricing.

Analysis by Application:

• Food and Beverages              
• Textiles
• Personal Care Products       
• Pharmaceuticals
• Others                                           
   

Food and Beverages leads the market with around 61.9% of market share in 2024. The food and beverages segment is the largest in the market driven by the growing consumer demand for healthy, natural and nutrition rich products. Hemp seeds and oil are incorporated into various food products due to their high content of proteins and vitamins. These include hemp-based milk, protein powders, bars and cooking oils which cater to the rising popularity of vegan diets and health-conscious eating habits. The beverage industry also utilizes hemp in the production of specialty teas and hemp infused drinks appealing to consumers seeking functional and wellness-oriented beverages. Additionally, the expansion of this segment is further supported by continuous product innovation and an increasing number of retail channels offering hemp derived food and beverage products

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

In 2024, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest market share of over 35.0%. The Asia Pacific region holds the largest share of the market a status attributed to extensive hemp cultivation and historical usage in countries such as China and India. This region benefits from favorable climatic conditions for hemp farming and a long-standing tradition of utilizing hemp in various applications including textiles, food products and traditional medicines. China, being a major producer significantly contributes to the region's dominance in both cultivation and exports of hemp products. The growing industrialization coupled with increasing awareness of hemp's health and environmental benefits continues to drive market growth in this region.

Key Regional Takeaways:

North America Industrial Hemp Market Analysis

The industrial hemp market in North America is experiencing significant growth fueled by progressive regulatory frameworks and growing awareness of hemp versatility and environmental benefits. Legalization efforts across region have enabled the development of diverse applications ranging from textile and construction materials to food, beverages, and personal care products. The rising popularity of hemp derived CBD mainly within wellness and healthcare sectors has further boosted the market demand. North America's focus on sustainable practices aligns with hemp ecofriendly attributes including its lower water usage and potential for carbon sequestration. Technological advancements in cultivation and processing have improved efficiency and lowered costs further enhances the market viability. With the strong support for sustainable agriculture and rising consumer preference for green alternatives North America is positioned as a key region driving innovation and growth in global industrial hemp market.

United States Industrial Hemp Market Analysis

In 2024, United States accounted for a share of 88.80% of the North America market. The industrial hemp market in the United States is experiencing substantial growth driven by several key factors. The 2018 Farm Bill legalization of hemp cultivation has opened up diverse opportunities across sectors such as textiles, food and beverages, personal care and construction materials. A significant portion of U.S. hemp production focuses on “floral hemp” for CBD production accounted for 40% of the 13,189 hectares cultivated. This demonstrates the growing demand for hemp-derived CBD products particularly within the wellness industry. Additionally, rising sustainability trends and the growing preference for ecofriendly alternatives to synthetic materials are accelerating the use of hemp in sectors such as automotive and building materials. Advancements in hemp cultivation and processing technologies have led to greater production efficiency and lower costs further stimulating market growth. As consumer awareness of hemp environmental benefits including its low water usage and carbon sequestration potential increases the demand for hemp products is expected to grow. Government support for sustainable farming practices is also driving expansion within the market ensuring long-term growth.

Europe Industrial Hemp Market Analysis

The European industrial hemp market is experiencing growth driven by favorable regulations, increasing consumer demand for sustainable products and greater investments in hemp-based industries. The European Union (EU) has established clear guidelines for hemp cultivation creating a stable environment for the industry. As part of the EU’s green transition strategy, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable farming practices with hemp offering significant advantages due to its low environmental impact. For example, Europe uses approximately 90 Billion single-use plastic bags annually with around 8 Billion ending up in landfills contributing to land pollution. This highlights the region's urgent need for ecofriendly alternatives and hemp is increasingly seen as a solution particularly for biodegradable plastics and sustainable packaging. The popularity of hemp-based products such as textiles, biodegradable plastics and organic food and beverages is rising as consumers demand environmentally responsible options. The increasing demand for CBD products further contributes to market growth. With strong agricultural sectors in countries like France, Germany and the United Kingdom Europe is well-positioned to maintain a leading role in the global hemp market.

Latin America Industrial Hemp Market Analysis

The industrial hemp market in Latin America is gaining momentum driven by growing awareness of the crop's economic and sustainability benefits. While Colombia is a key player in the region for medicinal cannabis with 2,393 active licenses for production in 2022 most of these are focused on flower production. However, hemp cultivation has been expanding in recent years particularly in relation to indigenous communities and food production. In total 80 licenses were dedicated exclusively to research reflecting the increasing interest in hemp’s potential beyond medicinal use. The region’s favorable climate for hemp farming also supports its growth particularly in countries like Colombia and Uruguay where government policies are encouraging the development of hemp industries. As demand for ecofriendly products such as textiles and bio-based construction materials rises Latin America is poised to capitalize on the hemp market particularly with the increasing focus on sustainable agricultural practices and product innovation.

Middle East and Africa Industrial Hemp Market Analysis

The industrial hemp market in the Middle East and Africa is still in its early stages but is gradually gaining attention due to its economic potential. In South Africa, the legal hemp and cannabis sector has the potential to create more than 130,000 new jobs highlighting the significant opportunities in hemp cultivation and production. Countries like South Africa are exploring hemp cultivation as part of broader agricultural diversification strategies with hemp being seen as a sustainable crop that can benefit local economies. The region's favorable climate for hemp farming offers strong growth potential and government support for the sector is gradually increasing. While regulatory challenges remain in certain areas the rising demand for ecofriendly products such as textiles, construction materials and health supplements is expected to drive interest in industrial hemp. As sustainability becomes a priority in the region hemp could play a key role in meeting the growing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives.

Competitive Landscape:

The industrial hemp market is highly competitive driven by the increasing demand across various sectors including textiles, bioplastics, construction, and personal care. Companies are focusing on product innovation, expanding cultivation, and developing sustainable processing technologies to capture market share. For instance, in November 2024, Aurora Cannabis Inc. expanded its product lineup with new offerings from Greybeard, San Rafael '71, and Tasty's brands. Innovations include infused pre-rolls and vapes, focusing on premium quality and diverse flavors. This move reflects Aurora's commitment to meeting consumer demand for flavorful and intense cannabis options. The market is experiencing rapid growth due to its diverse applications and the rising preference for ecofriendly materials. Regulatory developments and investments in research are intensifying competition as players aim to enhance product quality and efficiency. The expansion of distribution networks and strategic partnerships are further shaping the competitive landscape with a focus on meeting consumer demand and complying with global standards.

The report has also analysed the competitive landscape of the market with some of the key players being:

• Aurora Cannabis
• Boring Hemp Company
• Ecofibre Limited
• Hemp Inc
• HempFlax Group B.V.
• Hempro International GmbH
• MH medical hemp GmbH
• Parkland Industrial Hemp Growers Co-op. Ltd.
• South Hemp Tecno srl
• Valley Bio Limited
   

Latest News and Developments:

• October 2024: Rare Earth Global, a UK-based startup focused on industrial hemp products for feed, construction, and energy, has raised EUR 1 Million (USD 1.3 Million) in a pre-seed round. Led by a UK family office, the round also saw contributions from an impact fund, angel investors, and non-dilutive funding.
• August 2024: Volkswagen has partnered with German start-up Revoltech GmbH to research and develop sustainable materials from industrial hemp. These materials, made from 100% bio-based hemp using regional industry residues, could be used as surface materials in Volkswagen models starting in 2028. The materials can be produced on existing industrial plants and are recyclable or compostable at the end of their life cycle.
• February 2023: Hemp Inc announced the sale of its largest-ever industrial product. DrillWallTM, the only all-natural kenaf/hemp Loss Circulation Material (LCM) mix of its sort on the market, was transported by four semi-trucks in a shipment of 120,000 pounds for the oil and gas well drilling sectors.
• September 2022: Ecofibre Limited formally introduced Green II Gold, a ground-breaking new CBD-based skincare range. The first skincare line, Green II Gold, was created from the ground up to combine clinical strength, full spectrum hemp extract from Ananda Professional with robust botanical-based ingredients to provide professional-level products for spas and salons.
• May 2020: Aurora Cannabis and Reliva, LLC stated that they signed a contract under which Aurora will buy all of Reliva's issued and outstanding membership interests.
   

Industrial Hemp Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the industrial hemp market from 2019-2033.
• The industrial hemp market research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the industrial hemp industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.