Global Specialty Malt Market to Reach US$5.7 Billion by 2030

The global market for Specialty Malt estimated at US$4.0 Billion in the year 2023, is expected to reach US$5.7 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.1% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Roasted, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 6.1% CAGR and reach US$2.5 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Crystal segment is estimated at 4.7% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$1.1 Billion While China is Forecast to Grow at 8.3% CAGR

The Specialty Malt market in the U.S. is estimated at US$1.1 Billion in the year 2023. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$1.3 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 8.3% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% and 4.3% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 3.5% CAGR.

Global Specialty Malt Market - Key Trends and Drivers Summarized

Why Is Specialty Malt Gaining Traction Among Brewers and Beverage Manufacturers?
Specialty malt is becoming increasingly popular among brewers and beverage manufacturers due to its unique flavor profiles, color attributes, and the ability to enhance the overall sensory experience of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Unlike standard malts, specialty malts are roasted or kilned under specific conditions to achieve diverse tastes and colors, making them essential ingredients for craft breweries, microbreweries, and artisanal distilleries. With the growing consumer demand for craft beers, organic beverages, and low-alcohol drinks, specialty malt is becoming a preferred choice for beverage producers seeking differentiation in a crowded market. Moreover, the rising trend of premiumization and the desire for authentic, locally sourced ingredients is further boosting the demand for specialty malts, driving innovation and growth in the beverage industry.

How Are Technological Innovations Impacting Specialty Malt Production?
Technological advancements in malting processes, roasting techniques, and quality control are revolutionizing the specialty malt market, enabling the production of consistent, high-quality malts that cater to diverse brewing needs. The use of advanced roasting equipment and automated kilning processes allows maltsters to precisely control the flavor, aroma, and color development in specialty malts, resulting in a broader range of products for breweries and distilleries. Innovations in sustainable malting practices, such as water recycling, energy-efficient roasting, and the use of organic barley, are also gaining traction, aligning with the growing demand for environmentally friendly and health-conscious beverages. Additionally, the development of new malt varieties, such as crystal malts, chocolate malts, and caramel malts, is expanding the application scope of specialty malts, making them suitable for a wider range of beverages, including ales, stouts, lagers, and even non-alcoholic drinks.

Which Market Segments Are Driving the Growth of the Specialty Malt Industry?
Types of specialty malts include roasted malt, caramel malt, Munich malt, crystal malt, and chocolate malt, with caramel malt holding a large market share due to its widespread use in craft brewing and flavor enhancement. Applications of specialty malts span brewing, distilling, baking, and food manufacturing, with brewing being the dominant segment due to the high demand for craft beers, ales, and lagers. Form segments comprise whole malt, crushed malt, and liquid malt extracts, with whole malt leading the market due to its popularity among traditional breweries and homebrewers. Geographically, North America and Europe are the largest markets for specialty malts, driven by the strong presence of craft breweries, while Asia-Pacific is expected to witness significant growth due to rising consumer interest in premium and craft beverages and the expanding beverage manufacturing sector.

What Are the Key Drivers of Growth in the Specialty Malt Market?
The growth in the specialty malt market is driven by several factors, including rising demand for craft beers and artisanal spirits, technological advancements in malting and roasting techniques, and the increasing focus on sustainable and organic brewing ingredients. The need to provide unique flavors, colors, and textures for a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is driving the demand for specialty malts. Technological innovations in automated kilning, sustainable malting practices, and new malt varieties, coupled with advancements in quality control, traceability, and ingredient sourcing, are enhancing the quality, consistency, and marketability of specialty malts, supporting market growth. The expansion of specialty malt applications in baking, confectionery, and non-alcoholic beverages, along with the growing emphasis on craftsmanship, authenticity, and storytelling in specialty malt marketing, is creating new opportunities for market players. Additionally, the focus on developing customized, small-batch, and localized malting solutions for craft brewers and beverage manufacturers is further propelling the growth of the specialty malt market.