Beneficial Insects Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Application (Crop Protection, Crop Production, Others), By Type (Predators, Parasitoids, Others), By Crop Type (Fruit & Vegetables, Flowers & Ornamentals, Grains & Pulses) and Regional Analysis, 2024-2031

Beneficial Insects Market Size

The global Beneficial Insects Market size was valued at USD 900.0 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 2,101.3 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 11.39% from 2024 to 2031. In the scope of work, the report includes products offered by companies such as Biobest Group NV, Koppert Biological Systems, Syngenta AG, Bayer AG, Certis USA LLC, Andermatt Biocontrol AG, Sumitomo Chemical Company Limited, Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc., Russell IPM Ltd, Bioline AgroSciences Ltd and Others.

The global market for beneficial insects has experienced substantial growth in recent years due to the growing adoption of sustainable agricultural practices by farmers, as they sought environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional pesticides. The rising consumer preference for organic products further contributed to industry growth, as organic farming created a significant market for natural pest control solutions.

Additionally, the implementation of strict regulations on chemical pesticide use in different regions boosted the development of the beneficial insects market. The industry witnessed expanding opportunities, particularly in greenhouse farming and diverse crop applications, as integrated pest management gained significant traction. Technological advancements in insect breeding and mass production have further played a major role in making beneficial insect solutions more scalable and helped address logistical challenges.

Analyst’s Review

In the forecast years, the global market for beneficial insects is expected to undergo significant changes influenced by sustainability, innovation, and advanced agricultural practices. Ongoing advancements in biotechnology are projected to improve the mass production and effectiveness of beneficial insects, allowing for a more customized and efficient approach to managing pests. Precision agriculture, driven by technologies such as drones and sensors, is likely to enable targeted releases of beneficial insects, thereby optimizing their impact on specific crops.

The integration of artificial intelligence in pest monitoring and decision-making processes is expected to streamline and automate the use of these beneficial organisms. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on climate-resilient agriculture and the development of robust insect strains, which may play a crucial role in adapting beneficial insect solutions to changing environmental conditions. With the increasing demand for organic and sustainable food, these trends are projected to shape the future of the beneficial insects market.

Market Definition

Beneficial insects, often referred to as biological control agents, are organisms that contribute positively to agriculture by preying on or parasitizing harmful pests, thereby aiding in pest management and reducing the need for chemical pesticides. In the global agriculture market, the demand for beneficial insects has been steadily growing as it increasingly adopts sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. The market encompasses a diverse range of species, including predatory insects such as ladybugs and parasitoid wasps, which are utilized for natural pest control in various crops.

The regulatory scenario governing the use of beneficial insects varies globally. In the European Union, regulations such as the Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive (2009/128/EC) emphasize integrated pest management and the use of biological control agents. The United States, through agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), regulates the registration and use of bio pesticides, including beneficial insects. The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) at the international level promotes the sustainable use of biological resources. Additionally, individual countries often have specific regulations.

• For instance, Canada's Pest Control Products Act oversees the registration and use of pest control products, including those derived from beneficial organisms. The regulatory landscape underscores the importance of the safe and effective deployment of beneficial insects, ensuring their contribution to sustainable agriculture while minimizing potential risks to human health and the environment.

Beneficial Insects Market Dynamics

Rising awareness and implementation of biological control methods have played a pivotal role in the growth of the beneficial insects market. Alongside the adoption of sustainable practices and organic farming, farmers have become increasingly aware of the advantages associated with utilizing beneficial insects for pest management. This growing awareness among farmers has fueled the demand for natural solutions and has been further reinforced by various initiatives undertaken by agricultural extension services, research institutions, and government agencies. These entities strive to encourage the integration of beneficial insects into integrated pest management strategies, thereby promoting both ecological and economic benefits.

Moreover, the substantial growth of indoor agriculture, specifically vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture, has created a significant opportunity for the growth of the beneficial insects market. With mounting consumer demand for pesticide-free and premium-quality produce, indoor farming establishments are increasingly adopting biological control methods as an effective means of pest management. Beneficial insects present a sustainable and chemical-free solution for controlling pests within indoor environments, where conventional pesticide application may prove impractical or unfavorable. This trend is primarily driven by the necessity to comply with rigorous food safety regulations, minimize environmental repercussions, and maximize crop yields within controlled growing conditions.

Despite the advantages offered by beneficial insects, regulatory hurdles and certification requirements pose a significant challenge to market growth. The use of live organisms for pest control may be subject to stringent regulations and oversight by government agencies, particularly in regions where biosecurity and quarantine measures are enforced. Obtaining regulatory approval for the importation, release, and commercial use of beneficial insects can be a lengthy and costly process, involving extensive testing, documentation, and compliance with safety standards.

Additionally, ensuring the proper identification and classification of beneficial insect species is essential for regulatory compliance and consumer confidence. Overcoming these regulatory challenges and streamlining certification processes are critical for facilitating market access and promoting the widespread adoption of biological control methods in agriculture.

Segmentation Analysis

The global market is segmented based on application, type, crop type, and geography.

By Application

Based on application, the market is categorized into crop protection, crop production, and others. The crop protection segment emerged as the frontrunner in the beneficial insects market, securing a commanding position with a revenue of USD 353.9 million in 2023. This dominance is attributed to the segment's pivotal role in offering efficient pest management solutions, mitigating the risks associated with chemical pesticides, and promoting environmental sustainability.

Beneficial insects, renowned for their effectiveness in pest control, are increasingly sought after as a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides, driven by growing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. The segment's sustained prominence underscores the agricultural industry's shift toward biological pest control methods to ensure long-term sustainability and environmental stewardship.

By Type

Based on type, the market is classified into predators, parasitoids, and others. The parasitoids segment accounted for a significant share of 28.10% in 2023. Parasitoid insects, by laying eggs on or within host pests, provide effective and targeted pest control with minimal environmental impact. Their ability to target specific pest species and minimize non-target effects makes them a preferred choice for sustainable pest management strategies in agriculture. This segment's prominence highlights the significance of parasitoids as essential biological control agents, which contributes to their continued adoption for environmentally friendly pest control solutions.

By Crop Type

Based on crop type, the market is divided into fruit & vegetables, flowers & ornamentals, and grains & pulses. Flowers & ornamentals generated the highest revenue of USD 324.2 million in 2023. The dominance is driven by factors such as the high value and specialization of ornamental crops, increasing demand for aesthetic preservation, and the availability of targeted pest control solutions offered by beneficial insects. With a projected CAGR of 12.24% over 2024-2031, this segment is poised to experience continued growth, underlining its importance in addressing pest management needs in the flowers and ornamentals sector.

Beneficial Insects Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market is classified into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

The North America Beneficial Insects Market share stood around 32.78% in 2023 in the global market, with a valuation of USD 295 million. The continent's vast agricultural landscape, characterized by a diverse range of crops and farming systems, presents significant potential for beneficial insects market development. In particular, the adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) practices has been on the rise, supported by growing awareness of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation efforts. The United States and Canada, as leading agricultural producers in the region, have witnessed increased demand for beneficial insects as alternatives to chemical pesticides.

Additionally, the emergence of precision agriculture technologies and the expansion of specialty crop production, such as fruits, vegetables, and greenhouse-grown crops, have created potential opportunities for implementing biological control solutions. Moreover, collaborations between research institutions, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders have facilitated innovation in insect rearing techniques and biological control strategies, thereby driving market growth in North America.

Europe experienced significant growth in 2023, generating a value of USD 201.4 million. The regional market has experienced notable growth, fueled by unique regional dynamics and opportunities. The continent's stringent regulations on chemical pesticide use, coupled with a strong consumer preference for organic and sustainably produced food, have stimulated the demand for biological pest control solutions. European farmers are increasingly adopting integrated pest management (IPM) practices, including the use of beneficial insects, to comply with regulatory standards and meet consumer demands for pesticide-free produce.

Moreover, government incentives and subsidies for sustainable agriculture practices have encouraged farmers to invest in biological control methods as part of their pest management strategies. The prevalence of greenhouse horticulture and protected cropping systems in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and France has created a niche market for beneficial insects, particularly for controlling pests in high-value vegetable and ornamental crops. Additionally, advancements in insect rearing technologies and the establishment of biocontrol research networks have contributed to the growth of the beneficial insect market in Europe, positioning the region as a key hub for innovation and development in biological pest control solutions.

Competitive Landscape

The beneficial insects market report will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the industry. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their market shares across different regions. Strategic initiatives, including investments in R&D activities, the establishment of new manufacturing facilities, and supply chain optimization, could create new opportunities for market growth.

List of Key Companies in Beneficial Insects Market

• Biobest Group NV
• Koppert Biological Systems
• Syngenta AG
• Bayer AG
• Certis USA LLC
• Andermatt Biocontrol AG
• Sumitomo Chemical Company Limited
• Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
• Russell IPM Ltd
• Bioline AgroSciences Ltd

The global Beneficial Insects Market is segmented as:

By Application

• Crop Protection
• Crop Production
• Others

By Type

• Predators
• Parasitoids
• Others

By Crop Type

• Fruit & Vegetables
• Flowers & Ornamentals
• Grains & Pulses

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • France
  • U.K.
  • Spain
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • North Africa
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America.