Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By End Use (Fruits and Vegetables, Flowers and Ornamentals, Grains and Cereals), By Material Type (Starch-based, PLA-based, PHA-based, Cellulose-based), By Distribution Channel (Online Retail, Offline Retail, Direct Sales), By Application (Mulching, Soil Erosion Control, Crop Protection, Weed Control), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market is projected to grow from USD 2.85 Billion in 2025 to USD 7.41 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 9.6% from 2026 through 2035. This market encompasses the production and distribution of agriculture films and biomulches made from materials designed to degrade naturally in the soil or composting facilities, offering an environmentally sustainable alternative to conventional plastic products. Key market drivers include increasing environmental regulations globally restricting the use of single-use plastics in agriculture, growing consumer demand for organic and sustainably grown produce, and rising awareness among farmers regarding the long-term ecological benefits of biodegradable solutions. Furthermore, governmental initiatives promoting sustainable farming practices and financial incentives for adopting eco-friendly agricultural inputs are significantly propelling market expansion. Important trends shaping the market include continuous innovation in biopolymer science leading to improved film performance and durability, the development of customized solutions for various crop types and climates, and the integration of smart farming technologies with biodegradable mulches. However, high production costs compared to conventional plastics and a lack of widespread infrastructure for industrial composting in some regions present notable market restraints. Despite these challenges, significant opportunities lie in expanding into emerging agricultural economies and leveraging advancements in material science to create cost-effective and highly efficient products.
Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035
2025 - 2035
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Europe currently dominates the market, driven by stringent environmental regulations, early adoption of sustainable farming practices, and robust research and development activities in bioplastics. The region benefits from strong governmental support for green agriculture and a high level of environmental consciousness among both farmers and consumers. This leadership position is further cemented by the presence of key industry players and well-established distribution channels for bio-based agricultural inputs. Conversely, Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest growing region due to rapid agricultural modernization, increasing population pressure necessitating higher food production, and growing awareness of environmental sustainability. Government initiatives in countries like China and India to curb plastic pollution and promote sustainable agriculture are fueling significant investments in biodegradable and compostable solutions. The region also offers a vast agricultural land area and a large farming community, presenting substantial untapped potential for market penetration.
Leading market players, including Greenfield Global, NatureWorks, BioBag International, Novamont, Braskem, Earthfirst, Mitsui Chemicals, Kuraray, BioWorld, and Borealis Agri, are actively pursuing strategies to capitalize on this growth. These strategies involve substantial investments in research and development to enhance product performance, expand product portfolios, and reduce production costs. Collaborations with agricultural research institutes and local farming communities are common, aiming to develop tailored solutions and facilitate market adoption. Furthermore, strategic partnerships and mergers and acquisitions are being utilized to strengthen market presence, expand geographical reach, and integrate supply chains. Emphasizing sustainable sourcing of raw materials and promoting circular economy principles are also central to their long-term growth strategies, solidifying their commitment to environmental stewardship while meeting agricultural demands.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 2.85 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 7.41 BillionLeading Segment:
Starch-based (42.5% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
Europe (38.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
9.6%
Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Emerging Trends and Insights
Biorenewable Polymers Driving Sustainable Farm Practices
Biorenewable polymers are transforming agriculture by enabling sustainable farm practices. As the demand for biodegradable and compostable agriculture films and biomulches grows, these advanced materials derived from renewable sources are becoming crucial. Farmers are increasingly adopting films and mulches made from plant starches, cellulose, and other biopolymers. This shift reduces reliance on conventional plastics, which persist in the environment and contribute to soil pollution. Biorenewable films biodegrade naturally, enriching soil health and minimizing plastic waste accumulation in fields. This innovation supports circular economy principles in agriculture, fostering healthier ecosystems and more sustainable food production systems. The trend highlights a powerful move towards eco friendly farming solutions.
Smart Biomulch Solutions for Precision Agriculture
Smart Biomulch Solutions represent a significant leap in precision agriculture, leveraging advanced biodegradable and compostable films and materials. This trend focuses on developing biomulches that are not only environmentally friendly but also intelligent. These smart solutions are engineered to release nutrients over time, adapt to specific crop needs, and possess enhanced water retention capabilities. They can incorporate sensors for real time soil moisture and temperature monitoring, or even integrate pest deterrents. By tailoring the biomulch's composition and properties to precise agricultural requirements, farmers can optimize crop growth, reduce water consumption, minimize herbicide use, and improve overall resource efficiency. This leads to higher yields and more sustainable farming practices globally.
Circular Economy Innovations in Agricultural Films
Circular economy principles are driving innovation in agricultural films, shifting from linear "take make dispose" models. This trend focuses on designing films for longevity, reusability, and ultimately, biodegradability or compostability within natural cycles. Instead of single use plastics that pollute fields, new films are being developed from bioplastics that break down into harmless components after their useful life, enriching soil rather than contaminating it. Innovations include materials that are fully compostable under field conditions, reducing plastic waste and supporting soil health. Companies are exploring biobased polymers derived from renewable resources and designing films for multiple crop cycles or easier collection and industrial composting. This minimizes resource depletion, reduces landfill burden, and fosters a regenerative agricultural system where materials are kept in use and regenerated into the biosphere.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market
Rising Demand for Sustainable Agriculture Practices
A growing global population and increased awareness of environmental degradation are fueling the demand for sustainable agriculture. Traditional plastic films contribute to soil and water pollution, prompting a shift towards more eco friendly alternatives. Consumers are increasingly demanding produce grown with minimal environmental impact, pushing farmers to adopt practices that reduce their carbon footprint and preserve natural resources. Biodegradable and compostable agriculture films and biomulches offer a solution by improving soil health, conserving water, and enhancing crop yields without leaving harmful residues. This imperative for sustainable food production systems is a key driver, as farmers seek to balance productivity with ecological responsibility to meet evolving market expectations and regulatory pressures.
Increasing Regulatory Support for Bio-based Products
Governments worldwide are increasingly endorsing bio based products through a suite of supportive policies. This includes implementing tax incentives subsidies and grants for companies developing or utilizing biodegradable and compostable agriculture films and biomulches. Furthermore stricter regulations on conventional plastics are being introduced pushing farmers and manufacturers towards sustainable alternatives. Product labeling schemes are also evolving to clearly identify and promote certified compostable materials building consumer confidence and market demand. These governmental interventions not only reduce the financial burden for companies transitioning to bio based solutions but also accelerate the adoption of these environmentally friendly products across the agricultural sector creating a favorable environment for market growth.
Advancements in Biodegradable Polymer Technology
Advancements in biodegradable polymer technology are significantly propelling the global biodegradable and compostable agriculture film and biomulch market. Researchers and manufacturers are continually innovating to develop novel polymers with enhanced functionality and faster degradation rates. These new materials offer superior mechanical strength, elasticity, and barrier properties, making them more effective for various agricultural applications like mulching, soil solarization, and crop protection. Crucially, these next generation polymers biodegrade completely into harmless natural compounds, addressing concerns about plastic accumulation in soils and oceans. Improved formulations also lead to better processability and cost efficiency, making biodegradable films a more attractive and sustainable alternative to conventional plastics for farmers worldwide. This continuous technological progress fuels market expansion by providing superior, eco friendly solutions.
Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Restraints
High Production Costs and Limited Economies of Scale for Biodegradable Films
High production costs present a significant hurdle for biodegradable agricultural films. The specialized polymers and manufacturing processes required for these environmentally friendly alternatives are inherently more expensive than traditional plastics. This elevated cost base translates to a higher price point for farmers, making the transition to biodegradable films less attractive despite their environmental benefits. Furthermore, the market for biodegradable films is still relatively nascent compared to conventional plastics. This smaller scale of production prevents manufacturers from realizing significant economies of scale. Without the large volume production that drives down per unit costs, companies struggle to offer competitive pricing. This limits broader adoption and innovation, as the financial barrier remains substantial for both producers and end users, hindering market expansion and technological advancements.
Lack of Standardized Certification and Disposal Infrastructure for Compostable Biomulch
The widespread adoption of compostable biomulch faces a significant hurdle due to the absence of uniform certification standards. This lack of standardization makes it difficult for farmers and consumers to confidently identify and trust products claiming biodegradability and compostability. Furthermore, the necessary infrastructure for effective industrial composting and proper disposal is largely inadequate globally. Without easily accessible and reliable facilities for processing these materials, their benefits are diminished. This creates confusion among end users regarding disposal methods and can lead to incorrect disposal in conventional waste streams, negating their environmental advantages. Consequently, the market growth for compostable biomulch is hampered by this systemic deficiency in both product validation and end of life management.
Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Opportunities
Regulatory Tailwinds and Eco-Conscious Farming: The Expanding Demand for Biodegradable Agriculture Films
The opportunity stems from the powerful convergence of environmental governance and sustainable agricultural practices. Regulatory tailwinds are unequivocally propelling the shift towards biodegradable agriculture films. Governments worldwide, recognizing the severe environmental impact of conventional plastic mulches, are enacting stricter policies and incentives that favor compostable alternatives. This legislative push creates a mandatory demand, compelling farmers to adopt greener solutions. Simultaneously, the pervasive rise of eco conscious farming is significantly expanding market appetite. Farmers are increasingly prioritizing soil health, waste reduction, and overall environmental stewardship. They seek sustainable inputs that align with consumer demand for responsibly produced food. Biodegradable films offer an ideal solution by enhancing soil structure, eliminating plastic residue, and reducing labor for film removal, making them an attractive, environmentally sound choice. This dual impetus from strong regulatory support and growing ecological awareness represents a profound and expanding demand in the market, particularly in agriculturally intensive regions evolving towards sustainability.
Optimizing Crop Yield and Soil Health: Driving Adoption of Advanced Compostable Biomulch Solutions
The global shift towards sustainable agriculture presents a significant opportunity for advanced compostable biomulch solutions. These innovative materials directly address critical farming challenges by enhancing soil health and maximizing crop yields. Biomulches improve water retention, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and importantly, enrich the soil as they naturally decompose, eliminating plastic waste inherent with traditional mulches.
The opportunity lies in proactively driving the adoption of these eco friendly technologies among farmers worldwide. By demonstrating tangible benefits like reduced labor, lower input costs over time, and improved produce quality, manufacturers can accelerate market penetration. This requires education on the long term economic and ecological advantages, fostering trust and transitioning farming practices towards more environmentally responsible and productive methods. The immense demand for solutions that prevent soil degradation and increase agricultural productivity without creating plastic pollution positions advanced compostable biomulches as a pivotal tool for achieving future food security and agricultural resilience.
Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Material Type
- •Starch-based
- •PLA-based
- •PHA-based
- •Cellulose-based
By Application
- •Mulching
- •Soil Erosion Control
- •Crop Protection
- •Weed Control
By End Use
- •Fruits and Vegetables
- •Flowers and Ornamentals
- •Grains and Cereals
By Distribution Channel
- •Online Retail
- •Offline Retail
- •Direct Sales
Segment Share By Material Type
Share, By Material Type, 2025 (%)
- Starch-based
- PLA-based
- Cellulose-based
- PHA-based
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Why is Starch-based dominating the Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market?
Starch-based materials hold a significant lead primarily due to their favorable cost efficiency and abundant availability of raw materials. Their robust biodegradability properties and compatibility with existing manufacturing processes make them an attractive option for large scale agricultural use, particularly in applications like mulching and weed control across diverse end use categories.
What application drives the primary demand for biodegradable agriculture films and biomulch?
Mulching stands out as the predominant application segment, significantly influencing market demand. Its widespread adoption is driven by critical benefits such as effective moisture retention, soil temperature regulation, and superior weed suppression. These advantages directly contribute to enhanced crop yields and reduced labor, making it indispensable for farmers cultivating fruits and vegetables.
Which end use sector significantly influences the growth of biodegradable agriculture films and biomulch?
The Fruits and Vegetables end use segment plays a crucial role in shaping the market trajectory. High value crops within this sector particularly benefit from biodegradable films and biomulch for improved growth conditions, disease prevention, and extended growing seasons. This demand considerably outweighs that from grains and cereals or flowers and ornamentals, where the economic drivers for film adoption can differ.
Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Regulatory and Policy Environment Analysis
The global biodegradable and compostable agriculture film and biomulch market is significantly shaped by an evolving regulatory and policy environment. Governments worldwide are increasingly enacting legislation to curb conventional plastic pollution in agricultural soils, thereby fostering demand for sustainable alternatives. The European Union leads with directives promoting circular economy principles, sustainable land management, and explicit restrictions on single use plastics, which often extends to agricultural films. Member states frequently offer incentives or mandates for biodegradable mulches.
North America, particularly California and Canada, demonstrates growing regulatory support through state level initiatives, grants, and organic farming certifications that favor biobased materials. Asia Pacific countries like India and China are also developing policies to address plastic waste, though enforcement varies. Critical for market acceptance are international and national standards such as EN 13432 and ASTM D6400, which define biodegradability and compostability, building industry and consumer trust. These standards influence procurement policies and product labeling requirements, accelerating market penetration. Overall, the global trend leans towards policies that penalize traditional plastics and reward eco friendly agricultural inputs.
Which Emerging Technologies Are Driving New Trends in the Market?
The global biodegradable and compostable agriculture film and biomulch market is undergoing significant transformation driven by continuous innovation. Emerging technologies are revolutionizing material science, focusing on advanced biopolymers like polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and starch lignin blends, offering superior mechanical properties and tailored degradation rates. Innovations include films with enhanced UV stability, improved moisture retention capabilities, and designs optimized for specific crop cycles and soil conditions, ensuring full biodegradation without harmful residues.
Future developments emphasize smart films incorporating biobased sensors for nutrient and water monitoring, further boosting agricultural efficiency and sustainability. Advanced production techniques are also reducing manufacturing costs and improving film consistency. These technological strides are crucial for addressing plastic pollution, enhancing soil health, and meeting stringent environmental regulations. The growing adoption of these sustainable solutions underscores a robust market trajectory, reflecting increasing demand for eco friendly farming practices worldwide.
Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Regional Analysis
Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market
Trends, by Region
Europe Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
Europe · 38.2% share
Europe stands as a dominant region in the global biodegradable and compostable agriculture film and biomulch market, securing a substantial 38.2% market share. This impressive lead is attributed to a confluence of factors including stringent environmental regulations promoting sustainable agricultural practices and a high level of consumer awareness regarding ecological impact. Government incentives and subsidies further encourage the adoption of these innovative solutions among farmers across the continent. Additionally, strong research and development initiatives, coupled with the presence of key industry players, contribute significantly to the technological advancements and market penetration of biodegradable films and biomulch in European agriculture. The region's commitment to reducing plastic waste in farming environments continues to drive this market leadership.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 11.2% CAGR
Asia Pacific is poised to become the fastest growing region in the global biodegradable and compostable agriculture film and biomulch market, projected to expand at an impressive CAGR of 11.2% from 2026 to 2035. This remarkable growth is fueled by several key factors. Governments across the region are increasingly implementing stringent regulations to curb plastic pollution in agriculture, driving demand for sustainable alternatives. Furthermore, growing environmental awareness among farmers and consumers alike is accelerating the adoption of these eco friendly solutions. Innovations in bioplastic technology leading to more cost effective and performance efficient products also contribute significantly. Additionally, the vast agricultural land and diverse crop types in countries like China and India present substantial market opportunities, further cementing Asia Pacific's leading growth trajectory.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical shifts emphasizing circular economies and reduced plastic pollution significantly boost biodegradable film adoption. Regulatory pressure from international bodies and national governments, especially in the EU and North America, mandates sustainable agricultural practices, accelerating market penetration. Trade agreements incorporating environmental clauses further incentivize the shift towards compostable alternatives, impacting supply chain logistics and material sourcing. Resource nationalism around petroleum based plastics could also increase demand for these alternatives.
Macroeconomic factors include rising consumer demand for organically grown produce, driving farmers to adopt sustainable mulching solutions. Increasing fossil fuel prices make conventional plastic films more expensive, enhancing the cost competitiveness of bio-based alternatives. Government subsidies and incentives for sustainable agriculture lower the financial burden for farmers transitioning to biodegradable films. Conversely, economic downturns could temporarily slow adoption due to higher upfront costs compared to traditional plastics. Research and development investment into lower cost materials remains critical.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
NatureWorks announced a strategic partnership with BioBag International to expand the global reach of their Ingeo-based compostable agriculture films. This collaboration aims to leverage NatureWorks' material science expertise with BioBag's extensive distribution network, making high-performance biodegradable mulches more accessible to farmers worldwide.
- July 2024
Novamont unveiled a new generation of its Mater-Bi biodegradable film specifically designed for challenging agricultural environments, offering enhanced resistance to tearing and improved soil integration. This product launch addresses farmer demand for more durable and effective biomulch solutions that fully decompose without leaving microplastic residues.
- September 2024
Braskem completed the acquisition of a specialized bio-based polymer division from Kuraray, aiming to strengthen its portfolio of sustainable materials for agriculture. This acquisition will integrate Kuraray's advanced polymer technology with Braskem's existing production capabilities, accelerating the development of next-generation biodegradable films.
- November 2025
Earthfirst initiated a large-scale pilot program with several leading agricultural cooperatives in Europe to demonstrate the efficacy and environmental benefits of its new line of certified compostable agriculture films. This strategic initiative focuses on gathering real-world performance data and showcasing the economic advantages of transitioning to sustainable farming practices with biodegradable films.
Key Players Analysis
Greenfield Global, NatureWorks, Novamont, and BioBag International lead the biodegradable and compostable agriculture film and biomulch market. These companies leverage technologies like PLA, PHA, and starch blends, focusing on product innovation, strategic partnerships, and expanding production capacity. Their initiatives drive market growth, addressing demand for sustainable agriculture solutions and contributing to reducing plastic pollution.
List of Key Companies:
- Greenfield Global
- NatureWorks
- BioBag International
- Novamont
- Braskem
- Earthfirst
- Mitsui Chemicals
- Kuraray
- BioWorld
- Borealis Agri, Ltd
- Total Corbion PLA
- Plantic Technologies
- Cardia Bioplastics
- FKuR Kunststoff
- BASF
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 2.85 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 7.41 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 9.6% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Biodegradable and Compostable Agriculture Film and Biomulch Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035