USA GMO Corn Industry Analysis | Global Market Analysis Report – 2035 – Fact.MR

Report on the United States Genetically Modified (GM) Corn Industry: 2025-2035 Forecast and Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

Executive Summary

The United States Genetically Modified (GM) corn industry is projected to experience significant growth, with its market value forecasted to increase from USD 14.0 billion in 2025 to USD 19.8 billion by 2035. This expansion, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.5%, is intrinsically linked to advancing several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The industry’s growth is driven by the increasing need for agricultural productivity and resource efficiency, directly supporting SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through enhanced food security and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) via more sustainable agricultural systems. Innovations in biotechnology and precision agriculture are central to this trajectory, aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and contributing to climate resilience in agriculture, a key target of SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Market Projections and Contribution to Economic Growth (SDG 8)

The GM corn sector’s expansion is a key contributor to economic growth and stability within the U.S. agricultural landscape. The projected absolute increase of USD 5.8 billion over the decade underscores the industry’s role in fostering economic development in line with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Forecasted Growth Phases

1. 2025–2030: The market is expected to grow from USD 14.0 billion to USD 16.7 billion. This phase will be characterized by rising demand from the livestock sector, which seeks greater feed efficiency to support sustainable production models (SDG 12).
2. 2030–2035: A further increase from USD 16.7 billion to USD 19.8 billion is anticipated. This period will be defined by the integration of advanced biotechnologies, precision agriculture, and the development of climate-resilient crop varieties, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to innovation (SDG 9) and climate adaptation (SDG 13).

This sustained growth is supported by key drivers that align with global sustainability targets, including rising livestock feed requirements, increasing biofuel production as a renewable energy source, and the widespread adoption of technologies that enhance agricultural productivity and resource management.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The U.S. GM corn industry’s development is directly contributing to the achievement of several critical SDGs through technological innovation and enhanced production efficiencies.

• SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): By increasing crop yields, enhancing pest resistance, and improving nutritional content for animal feed, GM corn plays a vital role in ensuring a stable and secure food supply.
• SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): The sector is a hub of biotechnological innovation. The development of stacked traits, climate-resilient seeds, and the integration of digital farming technologies represent significant advancements in building resilient agricultural infrastructure.
• SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): GM corn improves feed conversion efficiency in livestock, reducing the overall resources required for food production. Furthermore, its use in ethanol production supports a circular economy and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
• SDG 13 (Climate Action) & SDG 15 (Life on Land): The adoption of climate-resilient varieties helps agriculture adapt to environmental stressors. Traits like herbicide tolerance facilitate no-till farming practices, which improve soil health, reduce erosion, and sequester carbon. Insect-resistant traits reduce the need for broad-spectrum chemical insecticides, protecting biodiversity.

Segmental Analysis: Driving Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Analysis by Trait

The dominance of specific traits within the GM corn market reflects a strategic focus on sustainable and efficient farming operations.

• Herbicide Tolerance: Projected to account for 56.8% of demand in 2025, this trait is fundamental to sustainable weed management. It enables conservation tillage practices that protect topsoil from erosion and enhance soil carbon storage, directly contributing to SDG 15.
• Insect Resistance: This trait reduces crop losses and minimizes the application of chemical pesticides, thereby protecting non-target species and promoting biodiversity, in line with SDG 15.
• Stacked Traits: The integration of multiple traits (e.g., drought tolerance, insect resistance, and herbicide tolerance) provides a comprehensive solution for farmers, enhancing crop resilience to climate change (SDG 13) and improving overall resource efficiency.

Analysis by Application

The primary applications for GM corn underscore its importance in creating sustainable and efficient value chains.

• Animal Feed: Representing an expected 67.9% of demand in 2025, GM corn is critical for sustainable livestock production (SDG 12). Its high nutritional value and digestibility improve feed conversion rates, reducing the environmental footprint of meat and dairy production and supporting the broader goal of food security (SDG 2).
• Ethanol Production: The use of GM corn as a biofuel feedstock contributes to renewable energy goals and supports the transition away from fossil fuels, aligning with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13.

Regional Analysis: Fostering Innovation and Resilient Agriculture

Regional growth patterns highlight a nationwide commitment to adopting advanced agricultural technologies to meet sustainability and productivity goals.

Regional Growth Outlook (CAGR 2025-2035)

• West: 3.8%
• Northeast: 3.6%
• Midwest: 3.3%
• South: 3.2%

Key Regional Drivers

The West leads in growth due to its rapid adoption of precision agriculture and innovative farming technologies, positioning it as a leader in advancing SDG 9. The Midwest, as the nation’s corn belt, remains central to ensuring national food security (SDG 2) through large-scale, efficient production. Growth in the Northeast and South is driven by the modernization of agricultural infrastructure and an increasing focus on efficient livestock operations, contributing to regional economic resilience (SDG 8) and sustainable production (SDG 12).

Competitive Landscape and Corporate Innovation (SDG 9)

The competitive landscape is dominated by key biotechnology firms dedicated to research and development, driving the innovations necessary for sustainable agriculture.

Leading Market Participants

• Bayer AG (Monsanto)
• Corteva Inc.
• Syngenta AG
• BASF SE
• KWS SAAT SE

These companies are making substantial investments in genetic innovation, crop performance enhancement, and digital farming platforms. Their efforts to develop next-generation seeds with improved yield, climate resilience, and resource efficiency are fundamental to achieving the targets of SDG 2 and SDG 13. Strategic partnerships and a focus on comprehensive agricultural solutions are strengthening the industry’s capacity to meet global food and sustainability challenges.

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals in the GMO Corn Industry Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger

   • The article focuses on increasing agricultural productivity and yield enhancement through GMO corn. This is directly linked to ensuring food security, as corn is a staple crop for both human consumption (food processing) and animal feed, which in turn supports meat and dairy production. The text states that demand is driven by “rising livestock feed requirements” and “growing demand for agricultural productivity solutions.”

2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • The article provides a detailed economic analysis of the GMO corn industry, projecting its growth from “USD 14.0 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 19.8 billion by 2035.” This highlights the industry’s contribution to economic growth, value creation, and market expansion, which are central themes of SDG 8.

3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • Innovation is a core theme of the article. It discusses “advanced biotechnology adoption,” “deployment of stacked trait technologies,” “integration of precision agriculture and digital farming technologies,” and significant investments by companies like Bayer AG and Corteva Inc. in research and development. This aligns with SDG 9’s focus on building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation.

4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

   • The article mentions the “growing adoption of sustainable agriculture principles” and the need to meet production expectations while maintaining “environmental sustainability.” This connects to SDG 12’s goal of ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns by promoting resource and energy efficiency in the agricultural sector.

5. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • The text explicitly mentions the development and adoption of “climate-resilient varieties” and “climate adaptation initiatives.” This directly addresses the need to build resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related challenges in agriculture, which is a key component of SDG 13.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger

   • Target 2.3: By 2030, double the agricultural productivity and incomes of small-scale food producers. The article’s emphasis on “yield enhancement,” “agricultural productivity,” and “farming efficiency” through biotechnology directly supports the goal of increasing productivity.
   • Target 2.4: By 2030, ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices that increase productivity and production. The mention of “sustainable agriculture principles,” “climate-resilient varieties,” and technologies for “pest management” aligns with this target.

2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • Target 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading and innovation. The article’s entire premise is based on the economic growth of a high-technology sector, driven by “biotechnology innovation,” “advanced crop technologies,” and “precision agriculture.”

3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries. The article details how companies are investing in “biotechnology development,” “next-generation agricultural systems,” and “data-driven breeding,” which directly reflects the activities described in this target.
   • Target 9.b: Support domestic technology development, research and innovation. The focus on the USA market and the role of key players like Bayer, Corteva, and Syngenta in developing and deploying advanced agricultural technologies within the country supports this target.

4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

   • Target 12.2: By 2030, achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources. The article’s discussion of using GMO traits like “herbicide tolerance” and “insect resistance” points towards more efficient production methods that can reduce the need for broader chemical applications, contributing to more sustainable resource management in farming.

5. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters. The development of “climate-resilient varieties” and “climate adaptation initiatives” mentioned in the article is a direct strategy to help the agricultural sector adapt to the impacts of climate change.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. For SDG 2 (Zero Hunger)

   • Implied Indicator: Increased yield and productivity. The article’s core argument is that GMO corn enhances yield. While it doesn’t provide specific yield-per-hectare data, the “growing demand for agricultural productivity solutions” implies that this is a key performance metric for the industry.
   • Implied Indicator: Adoption rate of sustainable and resilient agricultural practices. The mention of “growing adoption of climate-resilient varieties” and “sustainable agriculture principles” suggests that tracking the percentage of farmland using these technologies could be a relevant indicator.

2. For SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)

   • Direct Indicator: Growth rate of real GDP per capita. The article provides specific economic data that can be used as a proxy for this indicator at the industry level, such as the projected market value growth from “USD 14.0 billion in 2025 to USD 19.8 billion by 2035” and the “compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.5%.”

3. For SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure)

   • Implied Indicator: Research and development expenditure as a proportion of GDP. While no specific figures are given, the article highlights that “Companies are investing in biotechnology development” and “leading investments in next-generation agricultural systems,” implying significant R&D activity by key players like Bayer AG, Corteva Inc., and Syngenta AG.
   • Direct Indicator: Proportion of medium and high-tech industry value added. The entire GMO corn industry, with its focus on “advanced biotechnology,” “stacked traits,” and “precision agriculture,” is a high-tech segment of the agricultural sector. Its market value growth is a direct measure of this indicator.

4. For SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)

   • Implied Indicator: Adoption of sustainable farming practices. The text states that the “growing adoption of sustainable agriculture principles” is a driver of demand, suggesting this is a measurable trend within the industry.

5. For SDG 13 (Climate Action)

   • Implied Indicator: Adoption of agricultural practices that build climate resilience. The article’s reference to the “enhancement of stacked trait methods, gaining particular significance through climate adaptation initiatives” and the development of “climate-resilient varieties” serves as a qualitative indicator of progress in strengthening adaptive capacity.

4. Summary Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: factmr.com