United States Biocontrol Agents Market Report, By Active Substance (Microbials, Macro-Organisms, Bio-chemicals), By Crops (Fruits and Vegetables, Cereals & Grains, Pulses, Others), By Application (Seed Treatment, On-Field, Post-Harvest), and Regions 2024-2032

Market Overview:

"The United States biocontrol agents market was valued at US$ 1,368.5 Million in 2023 and is expected to register a CAGR of 8.6% over the forecast period and reach US$ 2,875.5 Million in 2032."

Biocontrol agents are changing the agricultural landscape in the United States by offering sustainable, eco-friendly options to traditional chemical pesticides. These agents, which include microbials (bacteria, fungi, and viruses), macro-organisms (predatory insects and mites), and bio-chemicals, are increasingly being adopted to manage pests and diseases in crops without causing harm to the environment or human health. As consumers demand more organic and pesticide-free produce, U.S. farmers are opting biocontrol solutions to meet these expectations while maintaining high crop yields.

The shift to biocontrol is owing to several drivers, especially regulatory pressure to reduce the use of chemical pesticides; increased awareness of more negative impacts of conventional agriculture on biodiversity and soil health. Biocontrol agents will also provide target specificity, reducing the risk of developing pest resistance and lower harmful effects against other beneficial insects and on the ecosystems around them.

In addition, with the government of the United States promoting sustainable agriculture, this has brought swift changes to adopt biocontrol agents. Advancements in biotechnology have also played a major role, pushing new research breakthroughs, making it possible to develop more elaborate and more specialized biocontrol products suited for certain types of pests and crops.

This shift is changing the U.S. agricultural panorama by promoting healthier ecosystems and contributing to the long-term sustainability of U.S. farming practices. Biocontrol agents not only help in protecting crop yields but also align with the increasing consumer and industry focus on sustainability, transforming the U.S. agricultural sector towards more environmentally responsible methods of pest management.

United States Biocontrol Agents Market Trends and Drivers:

The market for biocontrol agents is growing by leaps and bounds in the U.S. Owing to increased consumer demand for organically and pesticide-free produce and the enhanced focus on sustainable agricultural practices, the U.S. biocontrol agents’ market is witnessing tremendous growth. One of the most important trends is the increased adoption of integrated pest management systems, where biocontrol agents hold a crucial role in reducing dependence on chemical pesticides. Besides growing anxieties over the environmental impact of conventional farming, farmers are increasingly resorting to biocontrol solutions that are biodegradable and, therefore, more environmentally friendly and targeted in their outcome.

The other major push factor is the regulatory support, where tighter regulations on the use of pesticides have also forced the agricultural sector to seek other methods of pest control that are less toxic, but equally effective. The federal government and environmental bodies in the United States have been enjoining the farmers to consider using biocontrol agents as part of multifaceted strategies towards cultivating sustainable farming. This way, an increasing consciousness among the consumers about the possible health hazards of chemical residues in the food products strengthens the demand for organically grown produce.

Technological changes also improve the market growth as advanced microbial formulation discoveries and genetic research allow development of more targeted and effective biocontrol agents. The developments thus improve efficacy for biocontrol agents, which in turn increases their attractiveness to large-scale agricultural operations. In addition, expansions in e-commerce as well as better distribution networks are making these agents available to U.S. farmers and increasing their adoption in fruits and vegetables crop sectors in particular.

United States Biocontrol Agents Market Restraining Factors:

Despite the rapid advancement of biocontrol agents in the U.S, several restraints remain that prevent them from achieving their full market potential. The first significant restraint is that most biocontrol solutions are much costlier than traditional chemical pesticides. This typically results in high up-front expenses that discourage small-scale farmers from using biocontrol agents-particularly in the competitive agricultural sectors where cost efficiency is paramount.

Another limiting factor is the ignorance and technical know-how of farmers in the proper application of biocontrol agents. Though these control agents demand specific knowledge of application, improper use leads to low efficiency, thus being less attractive. In addition, biocontrol agents generally have slower effects than direct-acting chemical pesticides, which often fails to respond to urgent farmer demands during outbreak situations.

Also, regulatory challenges and the overlong approval process for new biocontrol products can defer market entry, restraining the availability of advanced solutions to address developing pest management challenges. 

United States Biocontrol Agents Market Opportunities:

Biocontrol agents in the U.S. market hold huge growth prospects in view of consumers' demands for organic and sustainably produced food items. Increasing awareness of illnesses caused by chemical pesticides among consumers stimulates farmers to look for less harmful substitutes. There has also been push and effort by governmental agencies toward promoting sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management (IPM) systems.

New advancements in biotechnology and microbial formulations will also offer new opportunities for more effective, specialized biocontrol products. This will make the use of biocontrol agents more efficient and appealing to both large-scale commercial farms and small-scale organic producers. Niche segments in cities and greenhouses would also have prospects for growth because pest management by means of biocontrol agents could play a central role.

United States Biocontrol Agents Market Segmentation:

By Active Substance

• Microbials
• Macro-Organisms
• Bio-chemicals

In 2023, the microbials active substance segment dominate the U.S. biocontrol agents’ market due to their effectiveness in managing a wide range of pests and diseases in an environmentally friendly manner. These agents, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, are highly adaptable to different agricultural settings and offer a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. Their popularity is driven by the growing demand for organic farming and integrated pest management practices, as well as increased regulatory support for eco-friendly pest control solutions.

By Crops

• Fruits and Vegetables
• Cereals & Grains
• Pulses
• Others

In 2023, the fruits and vegetables crops segment dominate the U.S. biocontrol agents’ market due to the high demand for organic and pesticide-free produce in these crop categories. Biocontrol agents are widely used to manage pests and diseases in fruits and vegetables, which are sensitive to chemical residues. Additionally, the rising consumer preference for healthier, eco-friendly produce has pushed farmers to adopt biocontrol methods, making this segment a key driver of market growth.

By Application

• Seed Treatment
• On-Field
• Post-Harvest

In 2023, the on-field application segment dominates the U.S. biocontrol agents’ market due to the need for effective pest and disease management during the crop-growing phase. On-field application allows for timely protection of crops, ensuring higher yields and reducing losses caused by pests. As farmers increasingly adopt sustainable farming practices, biocontrol agents are preferred for their environmental benefits and ability to target pests without harming beneficial organisms, making on-field use the most prevalent application.

By Region

• West Region
• Southeast Region
• Southwest Region
• Northeast Region
• Midwest Region

Leading Companies in United States Biocontrol Agents Market & Competitive Landscape:

The U.S. biocontrol agents’ market is highly competitive, with leading players focusing on strategies such as product innovation, strategic partnerships, and expansion to strengthen their market position. Companies are investing in research and development to create advanced microbial and biochemical solutions that are more effective and tailored to specific crop needs. They are also enhancing their distribution networks, particularly through collaborations with agricultural cooperatives and retailers, to reach a broader customer base. Moreover, players are actively promoting eco-friendly, sustainable farming practices, aligning with the growing demand for organic and environmentally conscious farming solutions.

These companies include:

• Arizona Biological Control Inc.
• Andermatt Group AG
• Bioworks Inc.
• Beneficial Insectary Inc.
• Biobee Ltd
• Bioline AgroSciences Ltd
• Koppert Biological Systems Inc.
• Among Others

Recent Development:

• October 2024, Koppert Biological Systems Inc. announced their rebranded Side Effects app to help growers optimize their integrated pest management programs. The app currently provides critical advice on the side effects of chemical agents on biological control products and pollinators to more than 40,000 users worldwide.

• September 2024, FMC Corporation, a leading global agricultural sciences company, today announced an agreement with Ballagro Agro Tecnologia Ltda., a pioneer and leader in fungi-based biosolutions, to provide growers in Brazil with a broad portfolio of differentiated biological solutions. The agreement is part of FMC's strategic plan to grow its biologicals platform in key markets like Brazil.

United States Biocontrol Agents Market Research Scope