Global Market Overview
The global pasta and noodles market is currently valued at an estimate of $141.8 billion in 2024 and is predicted to grow at an annual rate of 6.73% (CAGR 2024 – 2028). According to Statista, the top 5 countries that generate the most revenue, in USD, from pasta and noodles in 2024 are China ($28B), India ($19B), Japan ($10B), the United States ($9B), and France ($6B).
Key Trends
The pasta and noodles market are thriving due to various shifts in the economic and sociocultural environment of the food and beverage industry. To begin, demand for pre-packaged, instant, and ready-to-cook types of pasta and noodles that come in single-serve portions, microwaveable packs and meal kits has been increasing. Individuals with fast-paced lifestyles and chaotic schedules are opting for more convenient and inexpensive meal solutions. But that doesn’t mean that they are compromising on taste or quality. As a matter of fact, demand for dishes inspired by international cuisines, exotic flavors and spices has grown as more consumers have been willing to try diverse types of pasta and noodles.
Furthermore, thanks to changing dietary preferences and health-conscious consumers, more companies are manufacturing pasta and noodles made with alternative ingredients (i.e. legumes, lentils, chickpeas, vegetables). These types of products also cater to those who prefer organic, gluten free, plant-based, low sodium, and low-carb foods. These individuals are looking for pasta and noodles, with nutritional benefits, that are full of functional ingredients (i.e. protein and fiber) and vitamins such as iron and folic acid.
Top Importers & Exporters
According to Tridge, the top 10 importers of pasta in 2022, in millions of US dollars, were the United States ($991M), Germany ($526.9M), France ($425M), United Kingdom ($420.2M), Japan ($306.2M), Canada ($249.9M), South Korea ($186.4M), Netherlands ($164.1M), Spain ($103M), and Australia ($96.8M).
According to World’s Top Exports, the top 10 exporters of pasta in 2022, in millions of US dollars, were Italy ($4,200), China ($1,200), South Korea ($978.4), Turkey ($964.5), Thailand ($663.3), United States ($439), Vietnam ($426.1), Belgium ($412.9), Germany ($385.4), and the Netherlands ($361.9).
US Market Overview
The United States is the largest importer of pasta. The US pasta and noodles market is valued at $9.24B USD in 2024 and is expected to grow annually at a rate of 8.89% (CAGR 2024 – 2028). According to the Italian Food Union, the U.S. stands as one of the largest pasta consumers per capita at 8.8kg (19.4 pounds) of pasta in 2022. And not only is pasta consumption high but so is the consumption of instant noodles, a pantry staple. A survey of 1,000 consumers, 18 – 65 years by Appinio in 2023 found that 82% of consumers eat instant noodles at a frequency of once a month to almost every day.
In 2023, Pasta held the largest share of market sales in the USA at $4.4B and was predicted to have a growth rate of 3% (CAGR 2023 – 2028). In contrast, according to Euromonitor International, noodles are the fastest growing segment as they are projected to grow at an annual rate of 5.5% (CAGR 2023 – 2028) but currently hold the second-largest share of market sales at $3.8B. All in all, this analysis presents significant growth opportunities for all exporters of pasta and noodles.