The global market size of soybeans is USD 208 billion in 2025. It is expectedly to reach nearly USD 320 billion by 2034. The overall growth rate of this market is 4.40% CAGR. This market is slowly growing because of a rise in demand for animal-based foods. Vegans who want alternatives to animal products are creating a significant effect on the growth of the soybean industry. There are more factors behind it, and some of them are rising demands for soybeans in animal feed, medicines, and biofuel.
Some regions have very high dependency on soybeans, and the Asia-Pacific region is one of them. Moreover, it has the highest consumption rate in the world. The reason is soybean-based food, beverage, animal feed, and pharmaceutical production in China and India.
Asia-Pacific 41%
North America 28%
Europe 23%
South America 5%
Middle East and Africa 3%
GMO vs Non-GMO Soybeans
The largest contribution in the soybean industry is of the GMO type, where it holds an 84% share. The rest of the share is held by non-GMO soybeans. Since the demand is huge, the agriculture sectors focus on GMO soybeans to meet those demands. However, some markets demand non-GMO soybeans to get better health benefits.
There are only a few countries that control the global supply of soybeans. Two of them are from the Americas, and one is from Asia. It shows that there are specific conditions for farming required for soybean production, and these countries have them. Besides, the US and China have massive agricultural facilities to meet global soybean demands.
USA 45%
Brazil 20%
China 12%
ROW 23%
Consumers prefer soybeans not only because they are an alternative to dairy and meat products, but also because of their health benefits. The benefits, like protein, fiber, and good fats, make soybeans one of the healthy options for consumers. LDL cholesterol reduction, better bone health, and safety from coronary heart disease are some of the prime benefits. Soybeans also aid in creating better artery wall elasticity for better heart health. Likewise, there are some other benefits that make soybeans a healthy option for consumers.
The animal feed segment in the soybean consumers is the highest, which is 73%. Soybean-based fish and poultry feeds affect the demand size globally. Since chickens, cattle, fish, and several other animals feed on soybeans, the meat and dairy industry also benefits from it. Although it is an alternative to dairy and meat products, the animal feed helps these industries, besides causing some financial damage.
Then comes the food and beverage sector, which is the second largest one. Consumers in the Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe regions like to consume soybean products often. Therefore, the consumption rate in these regions is the highest, especially in China and India. Since most Indians don’t consume beef because of religious sanctity with cows, they consume alternatives like soybean milk and cheese besides vegetables. That makes them one of the largest soybean consumers in the world. Besides, countries in the Asia-Pacific region like to consume soybean products like below.
Soy milk
Tempeh
Soy floor
Natto
Soy cheese
Soy yoghurt
Soy nut
Soy meat
Soy mayonnaise
Biofuel, Pharmaceutical, and Supplements Industry
Then there is another industry that demands soybeans, and it is the biofuel industry. Since plant-based fuels are already entering the fuel industry, soybeans are also being considered. The industries that use it also capitalize on the same soybean for industrial and commercial biofuel.
Besides, the pharmaceutical and supplements industries use soybeans for their health benefits. Bones and heart get multiple benefits, which lead to higher demands in these medical sectors. Therefore, the Asia-Pacific region, which has mainland China, demands it in bulk. The supplements and medicines require specific amounts of ingredients, and Chinese manufacturers know it well. They use soybeans for the bulk production of various food and medical products, which end consumers look for.
However, there are a few challenges in this industry. The first is in the farming process, and the second is in the consumption process. Here are both in detail.
High temperatures can damage soybean crops. That means they require enough moisture and special care in hot weather. Farmers face a challenge in protecting the crops in extreme summers; otherwise, low soil moisture could cause lots of damage. Dry conditions in specific seasons also cause problems for the farmers, which affects the global demands. In case anything goes wrong in the cultivation process, the supply faces high disruption. Then the prices of soybeans and their byproducts become high.
Some consumers have to be extra cautious because of having allergies to soybeans. People who have such problems face nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, confusion, hives, itching, and lip tingling right after they eat soybeans. It could lead to severe problems if the consumed quantity is very high. Babies and children whose parents are not aware of their soybean allergies often face these challenges. That’s why products that contain soybeans have special warning signs on the labels.
Soybeans are among the most demanded alternatives of meat and dairy products. People who don’t consume meat, especially beef, milk, and cheese, prefer soybean-based products. Regions like Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe have the most soybean consumers in the world. The Asia-Pacific region has the highest consumption of soybeans. Besides the food and beverage industry, the animal feed and pharmaceutical sectors have high demands for soybeans. The reasons behind them are the health benefits consumers get that are similar to dairy and meat products.
Who should not eat soybeans?
Consumers with soy allergies must avoid soybeans. Also, people with thyroid problems and gastrointestinal issues should avoid it.
Can soybeans help lower LDL or bad cholesterol?
Yes, it can lower LDL cholesterol if people consume around 25 or a maximum of 50 grams often. However, it is better to consult a doctor for safe suggestions.
Is soybean healthy or unhealthy?
It is a healthy option for many people. If someone has an allergy to soy, they should avoid it. Also, consult a health expert before regularly consuming soy products like milk, cheese, and even steak.
Can soybeans cause digestive issues?
People who have gastrointestinal issues may get a triggered response from soybeans. Also, excess consumption can cause digestive issues.
Is tofu a soybean?
Tofu is a byproduct of soybeans. Soy milk is the base of tofu, which makes it a byproduct.
Is soybean better than meat?
It depends on the health conditions of a person, and also the consumption size. There are various factors in it, and both are good in their own places.
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