Global Seed Industry Analysis

Market Overview: A Market Poised for Sustainable Growth

The global seed industry plays an important role in ensuring food security and the sustainability of agricultural practices. As the world grapples with food insecurity, climate volatility, and shrinking arable land, the market has emerged as a critical enabler of agricultural resilience. According to IMARC Group report, the global seed market size was valued at USD 45.97 Billion in 2024. Furthermore, the seed market is poised for significant growth, propelled by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and an increasing need for more resilient and high-yielding crops.

Seeds: The Core Catalyst of Modern Agriculture

Seeds influence every stage of the agricultural value chain, from planting and growth to harvest and consumption. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), over 80% of the world’s food originates from plants grown from seeds. Their role in ensuring crop resilience, optimizing input use, and enhancing nutritional value makes them the most critical component of farm productivity. With climate change intensifying, the requirement for stress-tolerant, high-yielding seed varieties has risen sharply. For instance, in November 2024, Corteva unveiled a breakthrough non-GMO hybrid wheat seed that delivers up to 20% higher yields under drought conditions. The first commercial launch is expected in North America by 2027.

Key Trends Transforming the Global Seed Market in 2025

• Surge in Demand for Hybrid and High-Yield Seeds

Hybrid seeds, developed by combining the most favorable traits of two parent lines, are witnessing strong demand due to their advantages in yield enhancement, uniformity, and pest resistance. As global agricultural challenges intensify, farmers are increasingly turning to these seeds to boost productivity while keeping input costs under control. Their popularity is especially pronounced in staple crops such as corn, rice, and soybeans, where optimizing output is essential for both profitability and food security. Notably, industry reports indicate that hybrid corn varieties can deliver yield gains of up to 20% compared to traditional open-pollinated types, underscoring their growing role in ensuring resilient, high-performance harvests.

• Growing Adoption of GM Seeds

Genetically modified (GM) seeds are gaining significant traction, particularly in North America, due to their ability to enhance crop resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stress. The adoption of GM crops, such as genetically engineered corn, cotton, and soybean, has been particularly prevalent in the United States, Canada, and parts of Latin America. At present, over 90% of corn, upland cotton, and soybean crops in the United States are cultivated using genetically engineered (GE) seed varieties. These crops are favored for their advantages, such as higher yield potential, reduced need for chemical pesticides, and improved tolerance to droughts and extreme weather conditions, making them highly attractive for large-scale commercial farming.

• Rise of Organic and Non-GMO Seed Demand

In contrast to the adoption of GM seeds, there has been a noticeable rise in demand for organic and non-GMO seeds, particularly in Europe and urban farming regions. Europe aims for a six-fold increase in organic seed production over the next decade, as highlighted at the 2nd European Organic Seed Policy Conference. The green seeds market, focused on eco-friendly, non-GMO, and biologically treated seeds, is experiencing rapid growth as farmers and consumers prioritize sustainability. Urban farming initiatives and smaller-scale agriculture operations are driving this trend as they seek to produce high-quality, non-GMO produce that meets the demand of health-conscious consumers.

• Technological Advances in Seed Treatment and Coating

Technological advancements in seed treatment and coating are another key factor reshaping the seed industry. Seed treatment technologies, such as coating seeds with protective layers, allow for better germination, enhanced resistance to diseases, and protection against harsh environmental conditions. One of the recent notable developments is from Hazera, part of the Limagrain Group, which has launched a new sustainable seed treatment program beginning March 2025. Developed over a decade of research and development (R&D), the program features biological plant protection, innovative bio stimulants, and microplastic-free film coatings, all designed to boost crop resilience while reducing environmental impact. Such innovations are helping farmers optimize their planting efforts and improve overall crop productivity.

• Research and Development (R&D) Investments by Key Players

Seeds research and development (R&D) is undergoing a digital revolution. Major seed companies are investing heavily in developing new varieties of seeds with better yields, improved disease resistance, and increased climate resilience. Breeding innovations, combined with advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), are enabling companies to create more precise and efficient breeding programs. Notably, Bayer CropScience AG is harnessing advanced AI technologies to accelerate seed and trait development, enhance crop protection, and deliver cloud-based solutions across the food value chain.

Market Segmentation and Regional Insights

• Crop Types:

  • Cereals and Grains (Wheat, Corn, Rice): Cereals and grains are widely used across various culinary traditions and industrial applications, including breakfast cereals, baked goods, and pasta. Growing awareness of the health benefits of whole grains is driving increased demand for cereals and grains.
  • Oilseeds (Soybean, Canola, Sunflower): Oilseeds play a crucial role in the production of edible oils, plant-based proteins, animal feed, and biofuels. They are extensively used in processed foods, culinary oils, and industrial applications. Rising demand for sustainable food sources and plant-based diets is fueling the global growth of oilseed cultivation and seed innovations.
  • Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are essential for fresh consumption, processed foods, and value-added products like sauces, juices, and canned goods. They find widespread use in both household and food service settings. Increasing urban consumption of fresh produce is increasing the demand for climate-adapted and disease-resistant horticulture seeds.
     

• Regional Breakdown: North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe

  • North America: North America remains at the forefront of biotech seed innovation, with widespread adoption of genetically engineered (GE) crops in large-scale farming. As per industry reports, in 2024, the adoption of Herbicide-tolerant (HT) soybeans reached its peak, with acreage hitting 96%. The region is characterized by high investment in digital agriculture and a growing focus on seed trait stacking for pest resistance, herbicide tolerance, and drought adaptation. Precision farming and demand for climate-resilient varieties are further shaping seed development strategies.
  • Asia-Pacific: Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing seed market, fueled by the need to increase yields on limited arable land. Countries like India and China are witnessing significant growth in the chia seed market, with India producing 5,000-6,000 mt in 2024. The region’s rapid population growth, coupled with rising food demand and vulnerability to climate extremes, is accelerating the demand for high-yielding, short-duration, and stress-tolerant seed varieties, particularly in cereals and vegetables.
  • Europe: The seed market in Europe is being reshaped by consumer demand for transparency, sustainability, and organic production. With strict GMO regulations in place, the focus has shifted to open-pollinated, heirloom, and certified organic seeds. Additionally, the rise of urban agriculture and vertical farming is increasing the need for compact, fast-growing, and nutrient-rich seed varieties. In Madrid, urban agriculture initiatives have also contributed to broader environmental benefits, increasing food waste composting by over 40%, further reinforcing the link between sustainable city farming and circular economy practices.
     

• High-Growth Regions: India, China, Brazil

  • India:
    • Government schemes like the National Mission on Seeds promote hybrid adoption.
    • Expansion of dryland farming increases demand for drought-resilient seeds.
  • China:
    • There is an increased vegetable seeds market demand, driven by rising vegetable consumption, expanding greenhouse farming, and government support for high-quality seed development.
    • Investments in precision agriculture propel the development of high-efficiency seeds.
  • Brazil:
    • Brazil is one of the global leaders in the production and export of GM soybeans and corn.
    • Increasing environmental regulations push the demand for climate-smart seed solutions.

Forecast (2025–2033)

According to IMARC Group projections, the global seed market is expected to reach USD 53.53 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 1.53% during 2025-2033. The major drivers of this growth will include:

• Climate Change: As weather patterns become more unpredictable, there will be an increasing demand for seeds that can withstand extreme conditions, such as droughts, floods, and temperature fluctuations.
• Population Growth: With the world’s population projected to exceed 9 Billion by 2037, there will be greater pressure on the agricultural sector to produce more food using limited resources.
• Sustainable Farming: The shift toward sustainable farming practices, including organic farming, is likely to drive the demand for non-GMO and eco-friendly seed varieties.

Conclusion

The global seed industry is the backbone of future food systems. With advancements in technology, a shift towards sustainability, and evolving consumer demands, the market is set for transformative growth. Hybrid and high-yield seeds, GM and non-GMO seeds, and innovations in seed treatments will all play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global agriculture. Companies that invest in research and development (R&D), adopt sustainable practices, and respond to the needs of consumers will be poised to lead the industry in the coming years.

IMARC's Role: Fueling Growth and Innovations in the Seed Industry

IMARC Group is dedicated to equipping stakeholders across the seed industry with the actionable market intelligence needed to navigate shifts in demand, embrace cutting-edge innovations, and capture emerging opportunities. Our services enable businesses to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market, empowering them to drive efficiency and future-proof their operations. Here’s how IMARC adds value to the seed industry:

• Unlocking Market Dynamics: Gain actionable insights into key trends shaping the seed industry, such as the rise of hybrid seeds, shifts in GM and non-GMO demand, and evolving regional crop patterns, to align your strategy with market movements.
   
• Future-Ready Perspectives: Stay ahead of change with expert analysis on seed treatment innovations, AI-driven breeding, and sustainable agriculture practices—empowering you to anticipate and adapt to industry disruptions.
   
• Tracking Innovations: Monitor cutting-edge breakthroughs in seed genetics and biotechnology designed to improve yields, enhance resilience, and drive next-generation farming solutions.
   
• Regulatory Foresight: Navigate global GMO regulations, sustainability mandates, and trade policies with clarity, ensuring compliance while minimizing operational risk.
   
• Strategic Advisory Support: Access tailored guidance to refine your go-to-market strategy, strengthen supply chains, and invest in high-impact seed technologies for long-term competitive advantage.

IMARC is your trusted partner in driving smarter decisions and sustainable growth in the evolving seed industry, helping you stay competitive in an increasingly complex global market.