Fertilizer Market

Fertilizer Market Size and Share:

The global fertilizer market size was valued at USD 182.3 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 246.6 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.07% from 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 52.5% in 2024. The rapid population expansion, high demand for food, increased income levels, government policies and subsidies, increased activities in research and development (R&D), and rapid increases in agricultural technology are some of the factors driving the market growth across the region.

The global fertilizer market is experiencing steady growth, driven by the increasing demand for food production and the need to improve agricultural output. The growing populations worldwide are putting pressure on farmers to produce more from fewer resources. Fertilizers, especially nitrogen phosphorous and potassium-based products, will be in high demand if soil fertility is to increase and crop productivity is also to be improved. Population growth, among other factors, is trending the market upwards. Adoption of organic fertilizers, as well as eco-friendly production methods, is increasingly becoming the norm. The government also plays a part in the market through the adoption of subsidies and regulations on food security and sustainable agriculture. The market, however, remains threatened by fluctuating raw materials and environmental concerns over using chemical fertilizers, though with these challenges, coming years are expected to bear new growth through innovations for slow-release and bio-based fertilizers.

The United States emerged as a key regional market for fertilizers. The need to cater to the growing demand for agricultural products due to a rising population and changed dietary habits drives the fertilizer market in the U.S. Increasingly, precision farming techniques that optimize fertilizer usage are also fueling growth. Government initiatives, coupled with subsidies, have been encouraging farmers to pursue food security more sustainably while increasing fertilizer demand. Organic farming is on the rise and there will be higher demand for bio-based and organic fertilizers. Other developments in fertilizer formulation are slow-release and nutrient-efficient products, which bring high crop productivity while leaving low residues that harm the environment. Some of the challenges are fluctuating raw material costs and pressure from regulation, however the response to this is through creative innovations.

Fertilizer Market Trends:

Population growth and increased food demand

The fast growth of the world population has been a key driver in the fertilizer market. According to the United Nations, the world population had hit 8 billion in 2022, and it is expected to reach 9.7 Billion by 2050. Such a population explosion increases food demand by 60% by mid-century. The more people on the planet, the more food they will require. As demand continues to rise over the coming generations, farmers keep searching to increase agricultural output and higher crop yields for production. Fertilizers contribute by providing nutrients back into the soil, which assists healthy growth among plants and pushes out yields from more harvests on each site. With the expanding world's population, growing pressure occurs on the farmlands to produce all food grown on less ground space than ever before. This has led to a continued increase in the demand for fertilizers to enhance crop yields and ensure food security.

Economic Development and Increasing Incomes 

Economic development and growing incomes in developing economies directly relate to fertilizer consumption. According to the International Monetary Fund, world GDP expanded by around 3.5 percent in 2022. Emerging markets and developing economies contributed the most to this growth, with an average growth of 4.2 percent in GDP, compared to 1.8 percent in advanced economies. Growth in economies increases living standards and changes eating habits toward greater consumption of diversified food products. This change in food consumption, like increased meat intake, requires more animal feed, and the latter would require fertilizers for cultivating feedstock. In addition, an increase in income allows farmers to invest in improved agricultural techniques, including fertilizers, to boost crop yields and improve their quality. Such an economic transition in emerging markets stimulates the fertilizer market.

Government Policies and Subsidies

Government policies and subsidies greatly affect the fertilizer market. Many countries follow agricultural policies to encourage farmers and make them more productive in agriculture. As per the International Fertilizer Association, fertilizer subsidy worldwide exceeded USD 50 Billion every year, and India spent around USD 13 Billion on its farmer support schemes in 2023-24. Such policies include fertilizers, which are made to be cheap and within reach of farmers. Moreover, governments encourage the use of certain fertilizers in certain agricultural situations or for particular environmental reasons. Conversely, changes in government policies, such as reducing or abolishing subsidies on fertilizers, negatively affect the fertilizer market since its demand and profitability would decrease.

Fertilizer Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global fertilizer market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on product type, product, product form and crop type.

Analysis by Product Type:

• Chemical Fertilizer
• Biofertilizers
   

In 2024, the chemical fertilizer segment leads the global fertilizer market, holding a significant 66.6% of the market share. The growth of this segment is mainly due to the increasing demand for food production, especially in regions that have large-scale agricultural operations. Chemical fertilizers, including nitrogenous, phosphatic, and potash-based fertilizers, are essential for replenishing vital nutrients in the soil and ensuring optimal crop growth. Chemical fertilizers, however, play a critical role in meeting the food security challenges in the face of a rising population worldwide by increasing the productivity of existing arable land. Chemical fertilizers are also relatively inexpensive and yield benefits immediately, thus remaining a favorite among farmers globally. Innovation in this segment is also happening with new formulations like slow and controlled-release fertilizers to promote nutrient uptake, decrease the harmful effects on the environment, and reduce the application, which all contribute to continued dominance in the market.

Analysis by Product:

• Straight Fertilizers
  • Nitrogenous Fertilizers
    • Urea
    • Calcium Ammonium Nitrate
    • Ammonium Nitrate
    • Ammonium Sulfate
    • Anhydrous Ammonia
    • Others
  • Phosphatic Fertilizers
    • Mono-Ammonium Phosphate (MAP)
    • Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP)
    • Single Super Phosphate (SSP)
    • Triple Super Phosphate (TSP)
    • Others
  • Potash Fertilizers
    • Muriate of Potash (MoP)
    • Sulfate of Potash (SoP)
  • Secondary Macronutrient Fertilizers
    • Calcium Fertilizers
    • Magnesium Fertilizers
    • Sulfur Fertilizers
  • Micronutrient Fertilizers
    • Zinc
    • Manganese
    • Copper
    • Iron
    • Boron
    • Molybdenum
    • Others
• Complex Fertilizers
   

Straight fertilizers, which include single-nutrient products like nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium fertilizers lead the global fertilizer market. These fertilizers find significant use only when one identifies a certain nutrient deficiency in soil and, therefore, make targeted supplementation in the crop possible. The growth in precision agriculture practices has created momentum for the growth of direct application fertilizers, wherein fertilizers make focused input applications efficient at the micro-plot, soil condition, and crop requirement basis. With the rise in demand for food production and the need to optimize crop yields, straight fertilizers are becoming indispensable for farmers aiming to achieve higher productivity while maintaining soil health. As these products are designed to address specific nutrient needs, their use is expanding in regions where soil fertility is low or where nutrients are required for optimal crop growth. Such easy-to-use formulations, having direct implications on crop performance, render these popular among farmers in general.

Analysis by Product Form:

• Dry
• Liquid

Dry fertilizers dominate the market, holding 81.8% share in 2024.  The general acceptance of dry fertilizers lies in the fact that they are easy to handle and can be applied in considerable amounts. Dry fertilizers are usually broadcast or directly incorporated into the soil. Dry fertilizers have a long shelf life and do not easily decompose under different environmental conditions, making them more reliable for the farmer. The dry fertilizer is also applicable in places where transportation and distribution logistics require bulk delivery as it can be delivered and stored in large quantities. The market for dry fertilizers remains on the rise with more and more global agricultural sectors utilizing high-efficiency farming practices, such as precision agriculture that requires timely and effective application of nutrients. Dry fertilizers' cost-effectiveness, coupled with their availability, ensures continuous dominance in the fertilizer sector.

Analysis by Crop Type:

• Grains and Cereals
• Pulses and Oilseeds
• Fruits and Vegetables
• Flowers and Ornamentals
• Others
   

Grains and cereals are one of the largest crop types, which amounts to 45.8% of the global fertilizer market in 2024. These crops are staple food items for most of the population around the world. Wheat, rice, and maize are essential sources of food for billions of people worldwide. The demand for fertilizers in the grains and cereals segment is driven by the need to increase yield productivity to meet the growing food requirements. Fertilizer application is essential in enriching soil fertility, ensuring these crops get the nutrients they require for proper growth and good yields. With land per capita continuing to decline, it becomes important to maximize the use of arable land in place. Fertilizers, especially nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium-based products, are essential to improve crop performance, reduce yield gaps, and increase general food production. The increasing acceptance of sustainable and efficient farming practices, such as precision farming technologies, accelerates fertilizer demand in this segment to meet global food security goals.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

In 2024, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share of over 52.5%. Asia Pacific dominates the market since the region is characterized by a vast and diverse agricultural landscape, coupled with its large population. Moreover, the presence of major agricultural economies, such as China and India, plays a pivotal role in fueling fertilizer consumption. Thereby, favorable government policies and initiatives, along with the embracing of highly technical farming techniques and methods, including precision farming and innovative fertilizers in practice, enhance productivity across this region. Furthermore, being a major fertilizer-producing country and exporter also maintains its position in the fertilizer market across the globe in this continent called Asia Pacific. It will also be able to take both domestic and international demand since it is highly competitive in terms of production capability and cost efficiency. This gives the region a high market share. In line with this, the region's increased awareness about sustainable agriculture and environmental concerns has led to the development and adoption of eco-friendly fertilizers, further propelling its leadership in the global fertilizer market.

The North American fertilizer market is growing steadily, with more people adopting precision farming. This practice has been gathering increased attention, and the demand for high-yielding crops is growing at a fast pace. Modern technologies such as GPS-guided application systems and drones ensure fertilizer efficiency. The increasing focus on sustainable agriculture also encourages the demand for organic and bio-based fertilizers. Also included in this market growth is regulatory support and subsidies toward fertilizer usage. The more recently developed popularity of controlled-release fertilizers and eco-friendly formulations further complies with regional demand for the more sustainable, efficient practice of farming.

The fertilizer market in Europe is focused on sustainability and reduction of environmental impact. There is strong support for organic and bio-based fertilizers within the EU's Green Deal and Farm to Fork Strategy. Governments are nudging the adoption of friendly environmental practices, which has heightened demand for products that decrease the runoff of nitrogen and help improve soil health. Precision agriculture, which is increasingly using smart farming practices, is also on the rise. In addition, strict regulations on chemical fertilizers for environmental reasons are making this continent shift to more environmentally and resource-friendly fertilizer solutions.

Latin America fertilizer market is growing, mainly due to the increasing demand for agricultural productivity, especially in Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico. Large-scale farming of crops such as soybeans, corn, and coffee, which are common in the region, consumes a lot of fertilizers. The adoption of precision agriculture and other advanced farming technologies is also increasing the demand for fertilizers. The use of fertilizers helps to improve soil fertility and yields while maximizing yields, which is being addressed by Latin American countries amidst this growth in food demand at a global level. Additionally, policies that support agriculture, as well as agreements with respect to international trade, stimulate market dynamics in the region.

Middle East and Africa fertilizers have high growth, with huge agriculture-based production in Egypt and South Africa. The increasing demand for food in these regions has resulted in increased use of fertilizers. Increased adoption of modern agricultural techniques like drip irrigation and controlled-release fertilizers is further boosting the market expansion. The pressure to become self-sufficient in food production also fuels investment in fertilizers. It emphasizes increasing the crop yield and improving the soil's fertility, with government programs and increased awareness about sustainability practices acting as a trendsetter for this market.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Fertilizer Market Analysis

In 2024, the United States accounts for over 77.80% of the fertilizer market in North America. The healthy agricultural sector in the U.S. is highly supported by its fertilizer market. In fiscal year 2024, the USDA said that about USD 437.2 Billion is committed to agriculture, of which fertilizers account for the cost. Nitrogen-based fertilizers dominate the market, with one of the significant cost drivers being natural gas, which comprises about 90% of the costs for ammonia production at USD 7 per MMBtu. Huge quantities of imported ammonia drive U.S. production of critical DAP and MAP fertilizers that feed directly into yield enhancements in crops. The top export product has been urea, taking advantage of the competitiveness of natural gas pricing in the United States. Technological capability and sustainability features give CF Industries and Nutrient a leg up in the market. The fertilizer market is also facing challenges from the increase in energy prices, however this is offset by eco-friendly fertilizer innovation and government-backed R&D programs. Strategic collaborations with and investments in domestic production further strengthen the global position of the U.S. fertilizer market.

Europe Fertilizer Market Analysis

Sustainability and technological innovation characterize the fertilizer market in Europe, which is a result of strict government policies. According to Eurostat, the region had approximately 8.9 million metric tons of nitrogen-based fertilizers consumed in 2022. The production of ammonia became costly due to the shortages that occurred due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, so the manufacturers sought greener alternatives. As ammonia was Europe's largest source from Russia, trade disruptions occurred by the Black Sea that halted its supply chain. European companies such as Yara are leaders in nitrates and technical ammonium nitrate production, catering to both agricultural and industrial needs. Industrial applications, such as diesel exhaust fluids, are growing due to regulatory pressures to reduce emissions. Europe also invests heavily in R&D to develop innovative fertilizers that meet sustainability goals. Mature markets like Germany and France emphasize precision farming and nutrient efficiency, ensuring stable fertilizer demand. Despite the challenges, Europe remains a critical region for advancing fertilizer technology and promoting sustainable agriculture.   

Asia Pacific Fertilizer Market Analysis

Asia is the largest shareholding region in the fertilizer market, accounting for 57% of global consumption of nitrogen in 2020, with China alone taking 23.7 Mt and India 20.4 Mt, as per an industry report. New plant constructions in Saudi Arabia and Oman will help to address regional deficits with a balanced supply for Asia. Global supply constraints and affordability are two challenges that are likely to lead to moderate growth over the next years, as estimated by the IFA. Asia is a very crucial region in the trade of urea as being one of the most essential fertilizers. Chinese exports have been limited since late 2021, when the country prohibited exports from controlling its fertilizer prices. The consumption of nitrogen fertilizers in the industrial sector is rising rapidly, especially in urea-formaldehyde resins used in many industries. Investment in the production of nitrogen fertilizers is growing due to the agricultural requirements of Asia. Regional initiatives focus on self-sufficiency and sustainability, ensuring that Asia is a vital player in the fertilizer industry, regardless of the changes seen in the market.    

Latin America Fertilizer Market Analysis

Latin America fertilizer market is in fast growth due to the agricultural potential and the increasing food demand at the global level. The largest consumer in the region is Brazil, with a usage of 41.1 million metric tons in 2022, according to the National Association for Fertilizer Promotion. The nitrogen-based product usage has been relatively strong in Brazil. Reportedly, the import of urea from the Arab Gulf supports agricultural activities in the region. Production is increasing with investment in the field that tries to reduce dependence on imports. The fertilizer trade of Venezuela impacts North America's supply chains, thereby connecting the region. Mosaic and Yara are expanding their footprint in Latin America as the region enter an agricultural boom. Brazil has adequate natural gas, which it uses to manufacture ammonia for use in the production of urea and DAP fertilizers. The market has some disadvantages, including volatile energy prices and supply chain issues, but it has the advantages of technology and government support. Latin America is strategically located and has the potential to export. Hence, it is one of the important players in the global fertilizer market. 

Middle East and Africa Fertilizer Market Analysis

The Middle East and Africa have become significant geographical locations in the global fertilizer market. This is due to the region's gigantic natural gas supplies. They can be applied cheaply for ammonia and urea, which are mostly used to manufacture nitrogen fertilizers. Nitrogen application in Africa stands at less than 4% of global intake according to IFA, considering supply and availability factors in 2020. The Middle East, led by Qatar’s Qafco, is a major urea exporter, with most ammonia surpluses converted into fertilizers for global trade. The Russia-Ukraine conflict disrupted traditional Black Sea trade flows, increasing demand for Middle Eastern exports. Africa faces challenges in scaling production, but investments in fertilizer plants are underway, supported by international collaborations. Rising global prices have prompted African governments to prioritize fertilizer accessibility. Meanwhile, the Middle East has been the leader in export markets due to its strategic location and competitive production costs, so it is a prominent player in the fertilizer supply chain.

Competitive Landscape:

The competition in the global fertilizer market is highly intense, and the players are diversely spread. Being one of the most important industries in agriculture, numerous companies, both large conglomerates and specialized firms, participate in this highly dynamic sector. Here again, the competition is intense due to factors such as the range of products, quality, fertilizer market price strategies, distribution networks, and innovative solutions. Market leaders look to position themselves as leaders in thought and subject matter experts in fertilizer market research and consulting services to make themselves different from their competition.  Also, companies are constantly innovating and developing their products to be more aligned with the changing requirements of farmers and other agricultural stakeholders. They also invest significantly in R&D to create environment-friendly and sustainable fertilizers in line with increasing environmental issues. This would mean, according to fertilizer market forecast, a world where a growing global population makes food security a great challenge, hence, an increasingly fierce competition that will require companies to innovate, cooperate, and adapt to ever-swiftly changing natures.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the fertilizer market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• CF Industries
• Haifa Group
• Indian Farmers Fertiliser Co-operative Limited (IFFCO)
• Israel Chemicals Ltd. (ICL)
• Nutrien Limited
• Sociedad Química y Minera (SQM)
• The Mosaic Company
• Uralkali
• Yara International

Latest News and Developments:

• September 2024: Russia's Uralkali agreed to supply 600,000 tons of potash to India before the end of the year. The deal was signed early in 2024 and requires $279 per ton between April and September and $285 per ton between October and December. Russia is one of the main fertilizer providers to India.
• August 2024: ICL agreed to sell specialty water-soluble fertilizers in China with the AMP Holdings Group signing a five-year deal worth $170 million. The transaction will involve drip irrigation, where apples and strawberries are examples of the high-value crops targeted under the deal. The agreement supports the expansion of ICL into China's growing fertilizer market.
• April 2024: Haifa Group entered the Indian market through a partnership with Deepak Fertilizers, focusing on better nutrition for plants, higher crop yields, and increased sustainability in Indian agriculture.

Fertilizer Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the fertilizer market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global fertilizer market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the fertilizer industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.