Dry Beans Market Size and Share
Dry Beans Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence
The global dry beans market, valued at USD 8.9 billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 11.3 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 4.9%. The market expansion is attributed to increasing demand for plant-based proteins, heightened health consciousness, and the agricultural advantages of beans as nitrogen-fixing crops. Investments in high-moisture extrusion technology, protein extraction methods, and gene-edited varieties are facilitating new industrial applications while strengthening climate resilience. Market growth is further supported by the expansion of pulse-crop rotations and tariff reductions in major consuming nations, complemented by increased consumption among vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian populations. Despite challenges from climate-induced yield variations and disparate mechanization levels, the dry beans market maintains its significance as both a traditional food staple and a functional ingredient in modern food applications.
Key Report Takeaways
- By geography, the Asia-Pacific region accounted for 47% of the dry beans market share in 2024, while Africa is projected to register a 4.2% CAGR through 2030.
Global Dry Beans Market Trends and Insights
Drivers Impact Analysis
| Driver | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rising global adoption of vegan and flexitarian diets | +1.2% | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Expanding pulse-crop rotations across the globe | +0.8% | North America, Australia, Europe | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Import-tariff cuts on plant proteins in key consuming nations | +0.6% | Asia-Pacific, especially India and China | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| On-farm carbon-credit monetization for nitrogen-fixing beans | +0.4% | North America, Europe, Australia | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Development of gene-edited drought-tolerant cultivars | +0.5% | Global, priority in arid regions | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Growth of pulse-based meat-analog processing capacity | +0.7% | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
Rising Global Adoption of Vegan and Flexitarian Diets
The consumption of plant-forward foods continues to expand beyond traditional vegetarian consumer segments. Consumers select legumes over meat products due to their protein content, cholesterol-free nutritional profile, and environmental benefits. Dry beans contain 20-45% protein and significant fiber content, attracting health-conscious urban consumers who demonstrate a willingness to pay premium prices for organic and quick-cook varieties. Manufacturers are increasing their retail presence through convenient microwave-ready pouches and flavored bean snacks. E-commerce and direct-to-consumer distribution channels enhance product visibility among younger consumers. The food service industry's integration of bean-based dishes in their menus facilitates the mainstream adoption of plant-rich meals.
Expanding Pulse-Crop Rotations Across the Globe
Farmers in Canada, the United States, and Australia are transitioning from cereal-only rotations to diversified systems incorporating dry beans, chickpeas, and lentils. The nitrogen-fixing properties of these crops enable farmers to reduce synthetic fertilizer use by 50-100 kg/ha, decreasing costs and lowering nitrous oxide emissions by up to 90%. Government support through cost-share programs for pulse inoculants and cover-crop insurance further encourages this transition. The practice increases soil organic matter content, improving water retention and yield stability for subsequent wheat and barley crops. This rotation system benefits processors by expanding supply while reducing chemical residues, facilitating compliance with European and Japanese residue-limit regulations.
Import-Tariff Cuts on Plant Proteins in Key Consuming Nations
The Government of India has extended the duty suspension on lentils and chickpeas until 2026, reinforcing its plant protein security measures. The Chinese government has implemented reductions in most-favored-nation tariffs on specific pulses and is conducting bilateral negotiations with the United States regarding separate quotas for navy and pinto beans. The reduction in duties has minimized landed-cost differentials, presenting market opportunities for North American and South American exporters. Asian packaging firms are capitalizing on price reductions to build inventory positions as a hedge against market volatility. Export cooperatives are implementing upgrades to their fumigation, grading, and cold-storage infrastructure to comply with enhanced phytosanitary protocols at major destination ports.
On-Farm Carbon-Credit Monetization for Nitrogen-Fixing Beans
Agricultural platforms Nori and Indigo Ag implement protocols to measure reduced fertilizer emissions from pulse crop cultivation. Verified farmers receive USD 20-50 per hectare, enhancing profitability in regions with 10-12% operating margins. Blockchain tracking systems allow exporters to aggregate low-carbon beans into sustainable ingredient categories. Food companies utilize these emission credits to meet Scope 3 reduction targets, establishing preferred supplier agreements through long-term contracts. Financial institutions provide reduced interest rates to farms with consistent carbon credit revenue, driving broader adoption of these practices.
Restraints Impact Analysis
| Restraint | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pest and viral disease vulnerability raising farm-gate losses | -0.9% | Humid tropics worldwide | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Yield volatility from extreme weather cycles | -1.1% | South America, Africa | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
| Slow mechanization in smallholder-dominated regions | -0.6% | Africa, Asia-Pacific smallholder zones | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
| Export-price swings linked to currency shocks | -0.8% | Emerging-market exporters | Medium term (2-4 years) |
| Source: Mordor Intelligence | |||
Pest and Viral Disease Vulnerability Raising Farm-Gate Losses
Disease pressures from bacterial blight, root rots, and Bean common mosaic virus result in yield reductions of 15-25% across tropical regions. The insufficient diagnostic laboratory infrastructure impedes the timely detection and implementation of integrated pest management protocols. Agricultural producers utilize fungicide applications, which increase operational costs and present residue compliance issues for European market access. Despite the ongoing development of disease-resistant cultivars by seed companies, rapid pathogen mutations necessitate continuous varietal improvements. Processing operations encounter operational inefficiencies in optical sorting systems and increased rework expenses due to variations in raw material specifications and moisture parameters.
Yield Volatility from Extreme Weather Cycles
Frost damage in Argentina reduced the 2024 harvest to its lowest level since 2013, limiting alubia exports to less than 40,000 metric tons and constraining European canners who depend on coarse white beans.[1]Camara de Legumbres de la Republica Argentina, “Harvest Report 2024,” clera.org.ar Concurrent heat waves in California, with temperatures exceeding 100°F, disrupted lima bean pod formation and decreased local dehydration capacity. Climate models indicate an increasing frequency of combined weather events, including heat, drought, and unseasonable rainfall, that affect bean drying. As insurance costs increase and exporters expand contract tolerances, buyers are diversifying their supply sources despite higher logistics expenses. Risk management has become essential for maintaining profitability in the dry beans market.
Geography Analysis
Asia-Pacific held a 47% share of the dry beans market in 2024, driven by China's production capacity and India's consumption patterns. China produced 706.5 million metric tons of total grains in 2024, reflecting its focus on agricultural self-sufficiency.[2]National Bureau of Statistics of China, “Grain Production 2024,” stats.gov.cn India experienced a 90% increase in pulse imports due to domestic supply shortages and changing dietary preferences, while reduced tariffs facilitated increased North American exports. In Myanmar, manual bean harvesting remains prevalent, with women workers facing potential displacement from increasing mechanization. Australia projects a 22% increase in pulse production in 2025, supported by favorable farm-gate prices and increased chickpea cultivation.[3]Rural Bank, “Australian Pulse Outlook 2025,” ruralbank.com.au
Africa demonstrates the highest growth rate with a CAGR of 4.2% through 2030. The African Bean Consortium implements marker-assisted selection to develop disease-resistant cultivars in response to anthracnose outbreaks affecting 100 million dependents. Uganda's Yellow Star Produce introduced a high-protein composite flour to address child malnutrition, showing progress in local value addition. Kenya works with CGIAR on genome sequencing to accelerate breeding for heat tolerance. Tanzania and Ethiopia report gradual yield improvements from conservation-agriculture initiatives, despite some drought-affected areas. Minor challenges persist regarding preparation time and digestive comfort concerns.
South America exhibits divergent patterns. Brazil projects bean production of 3.4 million metric tons in 2025, representing a 9.3% increase due to expanded first-crop area and yields of 880 kg/ha. Argentina experienced substantial losses with frost damage impacting 80% of bean fields in 2024, reducing alubia exports. Mexico achieved production of 856,000 metric tons, supported by PROSEBIEN's price guarantee of USD 1.41/kg (MX 27/kg) and elite seed distribution. North America leverages mechanization and rail infrastructure to supply domestic canners and Asian processors, while Europe maintains its position as a premium market specializing in organic production, with emphasis on traceability and climate-smart practices.
Recent Industry Developments
- January 2025: IBGE forecasted Brazilian dry-bean production at 3.4 million metric tons for 2025, a 9.3% annual increase.
- October 2024: Michigan dry bean producers voted to extend the Michigan Bean Commission's operations and activities for five years, from January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2029.
- February 2024: AGT Foods Africa acquired Pannar's dry bean seed business, aligning with their existing business model.
Research Methodology Framework and Report Scope
Market Definitions and Key Coverage
Mordor Intelligence frames the dry beans market as the value generated by all mature, dried seeds of leguminous plants traded under HS-0713, including kidney, navy, pinto, black, and similar beans, measured at the point they leave primary processors and before any substantial further transformation into canned, frozen, or fractionated ingredients. We consider both export-oriented commodity flows and in-country direct consumption channels.
Scope Exclusions: The study deliberately leaves out fresh green beans, soybeans, chickpeas, and any revenue from ready-to-eat, dehydrated, or canned bean products.
Segmentation Overview
- By Geography (Production Analysis (Volume), Consumption Analysis (Volume and Value), Import Analysis (Volume and Value), Export Analysis (Volume and Value), and Price Trend Analysis)
- North America
- United States
- Mexico
- Europe
- Russia
- Italy
- France
- Germany
- Asia-Pacific
- China
- India
- Myanmar
- Australia
- South America
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Middle East
- United Arab Emirates
- Turkey
- Iran
- Africa
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Kenya
- Egypt
- North America
Detailed Research Methodology and Data Validation
Primary Research
To verify numbers and fill gaps, Mordor analysts conduct structured interviews with bean exporters in Brazil, cleaning-plant operators in North Dakota, procurement leads at Asian food manufacturers, and regional agronomists tracking seed varieties. These conversations test yield assumptions, typical farm-gate prices, and realistic loss factors before we lock the model.
Desk Research
Our analysts start by mapping global production and trade using public datasets such as FAOSTAT, UN Comtrade, USDA-ERS, Eurostat, and Brazil's IBGE, which reveal where beans are grown, shipped, and priced. We then enrich those baselines with insight from multilateral bodies (FAO, World Bank), regional farm boards, and academic journals that track yield trends, pest incidents, and dietary shifts. Financial filings, investor decks, and reputable press stories supply company-level expansion clues. Access to D&B Hoovers and Dow Jones Factiva lets us cross-check revenue ranges and news on privately held handlers. This list is illustrative; many other open and subscription sources underpin our evidence gathering.
Market-Sizing & Forecasting
A top-down production-plus-trade construct sets the first view: national output, minus on-farm seed retention and post-harvest losses, plus net imports gives the consumable pool in value and volume. We reconcile that figure with sampled bottom-up checks, processor throughput reports, and average selling price times volume snapshots in five key markets to tighten the total. Variables such as harvested acreage, average yields, farm-gate prices, per-capita bean intake, income elasticity, and plant-based diet penetration feed the model. Forecasts rely on multivariate regression blended with scenario analysis so we can stress-test for weather shocks and policy shifts flagged by interviewees.
Data Validation & Update Cycle
Before release, separate analyst teams run variance screens versus shipment data and food-balance sheets, then senior reviewers sign off. The model refreshes annually; interim updates trigger when big crop failures, tariff changes, or currency moves alter the outlook.
Why Mordor's Dry Beans Baseline Earns Trust
Published estimates often differ because firms choose dissimilar scopes, price anchors, and refresh speeds. Our disciplined selection of HS-0713 only, use of farm-gate values, and yearly updates keeps figures realistic and comparable.
Key gap drivers usually stem from others mixing canned or dehydrated formats, applying retail price multipliers, or rolling forward old production data without weather-adjusted acreage.
Benchmark comparison
| Market Size | Anonymized source | Primary gap driver |
|---|---|---|
| USD 8.90 B (2025) | Mordor Intelligence | - |
| USD 4.93 B (2024) | Global Consultancy A | Excludes informal trade flows and values only packaged retail beans |
| USD 7.25 B (2024) | Industry Association B | Omits losses and assumes uniform farm-gate pricing across regions |
| USD 15.92 B (2023) | Regional Consultancy C | Merges canned, dehydrated, and fresh beans with dry commodity totals |
Differences shown above highlight why buyers seeking a balanced, transparent starting point rely on Mordor's numbers: our scope is precise, our inputs are verified twice, and our update cadence ensures decisions rest on the latest realities.
Key Questions Answered in the Report
What is the current size of the dry beans market?
The dry beans market is valued at USD 8.9 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 11.3 billion by 2030 at a 4.9% CAGR.
What consumer trends are fueling demand for dry beans today?
The mainstream shift toward vegan and flexitarian eating highlights dry beans’ 20-45% protein, high fiber, and zero cholesterol, while their low-input cultivation supports climate-friendly purchasing decisions.
Which processing technologies are unlocking new bean applications?
High-moisture extrusion and wet fractionation convert bean flour into meat-like fibers and 60-70% protein concentrates, enabling launches of burgers, pastas, and high-protein snacks.
How are recent tariff changes reshaping global dry-bean trade flows?
India’s suspension of pulse duties through 2026 and China’s gradual tariff cuts reduce landed costs, opening larger import windows for competitive producers in North America and South America.
In what ways does extreme weather threaten dry-bean supply stability?
Frost-hit Argentine fields lost over 80% of area in 2024, while California heat waves above 100 °F curtailed pod set, illustrating how temperature shocks translate directly into export shortfalls.
What methods help farmers curb pest and viral disease losses in beans?
Integrated pest management combining resistant cultivars, timely fungicide sprays, and field scouting can cut bacterial blight–related yield losses by up to 25%, safeguarding both volume and quality.
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