Millets Market Analysis

The global millets market has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a largely regional, subsistence-focused crop to a product of increasing international interest driven by health, sustainability, and climate resilience concerns. Traditionally, millets were staples in parts of Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East, with crops like pearl millet in India, foxtail millet in China, and finger millet in East Africa forming critical components of local diets. Over the past two decades, growing awareness of their high fiber content, rich micronutrient profiles, gluten-free properties, and low glycemic index has propelled millets onto the global health and wellness stage. This has coincided with rising interest in plant-based and functional foods in regions like North America and Europe, where consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives to refined grains. International institutions, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), have actively promoted millets for their drought tolerance, low water requirements, and ability to thrive under marginal soils, framing them as vital crops for climate-smart agriculture. Simultaneously, the United Nations’ declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets significantly boosted awareness and research efforts worldwide. Millets’ global journey also reflects culinary integration, from traditional porridges and flatbreads in Africa and Asia to modern bakery items, breakfast cereals, and snack bars in urban markets across Europe, North America, and Australia. The market’s evolution demonstrates a convergence of nutritional science, sustainability imperatives, and cultural revival, positioning millets as both an ancient grain and a modern solution for food security, dietary diversification, and environmentally resilient agriculture. According to the research report "Global Millets Market Research Report, 2030," published by Actual Market Research, the Global Millets market was valued at more than USD 14.15 Billion in 2025, and expected to reach a market size of more than USD 20.57 Billion by 2031 with the CAGR of 6.60% from 2026-2031. On the global stage, the millets market is driven by a mix of production, trade, and product innovation, with companies and institutions shaping supply and consumer awareness. India remains a major producer and exporter, with firms like National Agro Industries, Cargill India, and 24 Mantra Organic supplying both domestic and international demand.

In Africa, Nigeria and Niger contribute significant volumes of pearl millet, while Ethiopia produces teff and other small grains for local consumption and export. Health and wellness brands in Europe, such as Hodmedod’s in the UK and Alnatura in Germany, have incorporated millets into packaged flours, breakfast cereals, and snack products. In North America, companies like Bob’s Red Mill and Arrowhead Mills have popularized millet-based flours, granolas, and ready-to-eat items. Research and development efforts by organizations such as ICRISAT, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and national agricultural universities have focused on high-yielding, climate-resilient varieties, mechanized processing techniques, and value chain improvements to meet rising demand. Trade flows have intensified, with exports of millet from India, Myanmar, and parts of Africa reaching Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Foodservice sectors in urban centers worldwide are experimenting with millet in bakery products, beverages, porridges, and convenience foods, reflecting growing consumer curiosity about ancient grains. The global millets market is characterized by interconnected production hubs, innovative product offerings, and research-driven cultivation, positioning it as a versatile grain segment poised to address both nutritional and environmental challenges on an international scale..

Market Dynamic

MilletsSegmentation

Sorghum is leading by product type in the global millets market due to its versatility and adaptability in diverse agricultural conditions.

Sorghum is recognized as one of the most resilient grains, which is a primary reason for its dominance in the global millets market. Its ability to thrive in a range of climates, particularly in drought-prone regions, gives it a significant advantage over other millets. Sorghum's versatility extends beyond its agronomic benefits; it is used in a wide variety of food products, including flour, syrup, and even alcoholic beverages, making it a crucial commodity in both food and industrial sectors. For instance, in many African countries, sorghum is not only a staple food but is also integral to the brewing industry, especially in the production of traditional beers and spirits. Its nutritional value, with high fiber content and antioxidants, contributes to its growing popularity in health-conscious markets. Additionally, sorghum’s ability to be used in gluten-free products is another reason for its demand surge, especially in markets where there is an increasing focus on dietary requirements like gluten intolerance and celiac disease. Furthermore, sorghum is a valuable livestock feed, providing a dual-use in both human and animal food systems. It is also an important crop for biofuel production, as its stalks are rich in cellulose, contributing to its economic value. Sorghum’s drought tolerance, combined with its diverse applications across industries, makes it a favored choice for farmers in regions prone to water scarcity, such as parts of India, sub-Saharan Africa, and the United States, ensuring its continued relevance in the global market.

Whole grain is leading by form in the global millets market because of its strong demand for maintaining the grain’s natural nutritional profile.

Whole grain millets are preferred globally due to their nutritional benefits, which remain intact when the grain is consumed in its whole form. Unlike refined grains, whole grains retain all three parts of the kernel the bran, germ, and endosperm making them a superior source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This is especially relevant as global dietary patterns continue to shift toward healthier and more natural food options. Whole grain millets are rich in essential nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, and iron, which are often lost during the refining process. This has led to an increase in their popularity, particularly among health-conscious consumers who are seeking foods that are minimally processed and provide maximum nutritional value. In addition, whole grain millets are a good source of plant-based protein, making them a key ingredient in vegetarian and vegan diets. Their high fiber content is also beneficial for digestive health, helping to prevent constipation and regulate blood sugar levels. Whole grain millets are used in a wide variety of products, including porridges, breads, and soups, and can be incorporated into a balanced diet in many different forms. They are particularly valued in regions such as Asia and Africa, where traditional diets are based on whole grains. Moreover, the increasing awareness of the health benefits of whole foods is driving the demand for whole grain millets in developed markets as well, where consumers are increasingly turning to ancient grains as a way to improve overall well-being.

Online stores are leading by distribution channel in the global millets market due to their convenience and the growing preference for e-commerce in food shopping.

The rise of online stores in the global millets market is closely tied to the increasing consumer preference for convenience and the ability to shop from home. E-commerce platforms allow consumers to easily access a wide variety of millet-based products that may not be available in their local grocery stores, especially in remote or rural areas. This is particularly important for products such as organic millets, millet flour, or ready-to-eat millet snacks, which may not be consistently stocked in traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Online platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and specialized health food websites have made it possible for consumers to explore different millet products, compare prices, and read reviews, which enhances the overall shopping experience. Furthermore, online shopping offers the convenience of home delivery, eliminating the need to physically visit stores and providing better access to niche or specialty millet products. The growth of mobile technology and smartphones has further fueled this trend, allowing consumers to purchase millet-based products on-the-go with just a few taps. As more consumers seek healthier alternatives to traditional grains, online stores provide a convenient way to access a broader selection of millet products, ranging from flour and grains to more processed items like bars and ready-to-eat meals. The ability to reach global markets through online sales channels has also opened up opportunities for local millet producers to expand their customer base, particularly in regions where the demand for millets is on the rise due to their perceived health benefits. With the continued shift towards digital shopping, online stores are expected to maintain a significant role in the distribution of millet products worldwide.

Conventional is leading by nature in the global millets market due to its long-established farming methods and the widespread availability of conventionally grown millets in global food systems.

Conventional millets dominate the global market largely due to their long-standing role in agriculture and the established farming techniques used to cultivate them. Conventional millet farming involves traditional agricultural practices that have been passed down through generations, particularly in regions of Asia and Africa where millets have been a staple for thousands of years. These methods are often low-cost, labor-intensive, and suited to smallholder farming systems, which are prevalent in many of the countries that produce millets. As conventional farming requires fewer specialized inputs compared to organic farming, it remains the most economically feasible option for many farmers, especially in developing regions where resources for organic certification or farming practices may be scarce. The accessibility and affordability of conventionally grown millets have also led to their widespread availability in global food systems. While organic farming methods are gaining traction in certain regions, conventional millets continue to dominate the market because they meet the demands of both local consumption and international trade. The established supply chains for conventional millets make it easier for large-scale distributors and food manufacturers to source the grain, ensuring its availability in various food products such as flours, snacks, and ready-to-cook meals. Additionally, the conventional millet market benefits from the support of government agricultural policies in many countries, which provide subsidies and incentives to farmers, making conventional millet cultivation more financially viable. As the global demand for millets grows, the conventional farming system remains a reliable and sustainable way to meet this demand on a large scale.

Direct consumption is leading by application in the global millets market due to its fundamental role in traditional diets across many regions.

Direct consumption of millets remains the leading application in the global market due to the integral role that millets play in traditional diets, particularly in Asia and Africa. For centuries, millet has been a cornerstone of the diet in regions where it is grown, providing a source of nutrition and sustenance. In countries such as India, China, and Ethiopia, millet is traditionally consumed in various forms such as porridge, roti (flatbread), and steamed dishes, making direct consumption the most popular way to enjoy this ancient grain. Its versatility allows it to be used in a wide range of recipes, from savory stews to sweet porridges, making it a staple food for millions of people. The health benefits of millets, such as their high fiber content, low glycemic index, and abundance of micronutrients, have also contributed to the growing interest in consuming millets directly as part of a balanced diet. Moreover, as awareness of the health benefits of whole grains increases globally, consumers in developed markets are also turning to millet as a nutritious alternative to more commonly consumed grains like wheat and rice. Direct consumption of millets is seen as an easy way to incorporate a nutrient-dense, gluten-free grain into one’s diet. In regions where millet has traditionally been used for direct consumption, such as in rural parts of India, Africa, and the Middle East, the grain continues to be an affordable and readily available food source, which drives its popularity. The trend toward incorporating millets into everyday meals, combined with growing consumer interest in health-conscious eating, has further fueled the preference for direct consumption of millets globally.

Millets Market Regional Insights

APAC is leading the region in the global millets market due to the region's strong agricultural heritage and growing health awareness among consumers.

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region leads the global millets market primarily because of its deep-rooted agricultural heritage and a growing shift toward health-conscious eating habits. Countries such as India, China, and Nepal have a long history of millet cultivation, with millets being a staple food for centuries. In India, for example, millets like pearl millet, finger millet, and sorghum are consumed daily in various forms like porridge, flatbread, and rice. As the APAC region continues to account for the largest share of global millet production, the demand for millets remains strong, both for direct consumption and as a key ingredient in various processed foods. In recent years, there has also been a growing interest in millets as a healthy alternative to rice and wheat, especially in the face of rising health concerns related to gluten intolerance, obesity, and diabetes. This has led to increased consumer awareness about the nutritional benefits of millets, such as their high fiber content, low glycemic index, and rich mineral profile. Additionally, millets are particularly suited to the diverse climates of the APAC region, where they are able to thrive in both dry and wet conditions, making them a reliable crop for smallholder farmers. In countries like India and China, the push toward sustainable agriculture practices has further contributed to the increased production of millets, as they require fewer resources like water and synthetic fertilizers compared to other grains. As more consumers in the APAC region turn to plant-based and gluten-free diets, the demand for millets continues to rise, solidifying APAC's leadership in the global market.