Specialty Fertilizers Market Impressive Growth at 6.4%

Overview

New York, NY – Jan 01, 2026 – The global specialty fertilizers market is witnessing steady expansion, with its value projected to rise from USD 29.0 billion in 2024 to around USD 53.9 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% during 2025–2034. In 2024, Asia-Pacific emerged as the leading region, accounting for over 38.9% of global demand and generating nearly USD 11.2 billion in revenue, supported by intensive farming practices, rising crop productivity needs, and strong policy backing in major agricultural economies.

Specialty fertilizer concentrates include high-analysis and precision-formulated products such as water-soluble NPK blends, chelated micronutrients, controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs), and nano-fertilizers. These inputs are designed for efficient nutrient delivery through fertigation systems, foliar applications, and targeted soil treatments, helping farmers improve nutrient-use efficiency and reduce losses. Their growing adoption aligns with the broader recovery in global fertilizer usage, as the International Fertilizer Association projects total nutrient consumption to reach about 205 million tonnes in FY2025, surpassing pre-pandemic levels after successive rebounds of 4.3% in FY2023, 2.5% in FY2024, and 2.2% in FY2025.

In India, government support has become a major driver for the specialty fertilizer sector. For FY 2024–25, the Department of Fertilizers’ revised budget increased to ₹1,91,836 crore, up from ₹1,68,131 crore, reflecting stronger fiscal commitment. Within this, allocations under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme for phosphatic and potassic fertilizers were raised to ₹54,310 crore, ensuring price stability and sustained nutrient availability. The government’s “One Nation, One Fertilizer” initiative further supports market development by standardizing fertilizer quality and branding nationwide, improving transparency and farmer access.

International collaborations are also strengthening fertilizer supply security. In July 2025, long-term supply agreements were signed between Maaden of Saudi Arabia and Indian firms IPL, KRIBHCO, and CIL to supply 3.1 million metric tonnes of DAP annually for five years starting FY 2025–26. Alongside this, sustainability-focused policies are shaping future growth. Programs such as the NBS scheme continue to promote balanced fertilizer use, while the SIGHT Programme under the National Green Hydrogen Mission targets production of 7.5 lakh tonnes per annum of green ammonia, encouraging low-carbon fertilizer manufacturing. At the state level, initiatives in Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are accelerating adoption of bio-fertilizers, nano-fertilizers, and organic manures, reinforcing the shift toward sustainable and resource-efficient agricultural practices.

The Top Key Players Quick Navigation

• Nutrien Ltd.
• Yara
• ICL
• The Mosaic Company
• CF Industries and Holdings, Inc.
• Nufarm
• SQM SA
• OCP Group
• Kingenta
• K+S Aktiengesellschaft

Nutrien Ltd. – Company Overview

About Nutrien Ltd

Nutrien Ltd. is the world’s largest integrated provider of crop inputs and services, established in 2018 and headquartered in Saskatoon, Canada. The company operates across the full agricultural value chain, producing and distributing potash, nitrogen, and phosphate fertilizers, along with a growing portfolio of specialty fertilizers, micronutrients, enhanced-efficiency products, and crop protection solutions. With estimated annual revenues of approximately US$ 29–31 billion and a global workforce of more than 23,500 employees, Nutrien maintains large-scale mining, manufacturing, and distribution operations across North America, South America, and Australia.

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The company plays a critical role in the specialty fertilizers ecosystem, leveraging advanced nutrient formulations, digital agronomy tools, and an extensive retail network to support precision agriculture, higher crop yields, and improved nutrient-use efficiency. Nutrien’s integrated model—spanning upstream production to downstream farm services—positions it as a cornerstone supplier in global food security and sustainable agriculture.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Nutrien focused on optimizing potash and nitrogen production, aligning output with global demand while maintaining disciplined capital spending.
• The company continued to expand its specialty fertilizer and enhanced-efficiency product portfolio, supporting precision nutrient management and higher-margin growth.
• Nutrien advanced digital farming platforms and agronomic advisory services, improving nutrient-use efficiency and on-farm decision-making for growers.
• During 2025, Nutrien is prioritizing low-carbon fertilizer solutions, including emissions reduction across nitrogen production and increased use of clean energy and efficiency technologies.
• The company is also strengthening its specialty fertilizer offerings, with greater emphasis on micronutrients, controlled-release products, and customized nutrient blends.
• Continued investment in supply-chain resilience and retail expansion is expected to enhance service reach in Latin America and Asia-Pacific, supporting long-term growth in high-potential agricultural markets.

Yara International ASA – Company Overview

About Yara International ASA

Yara International ASA is a global leader in crop nutrition and sustainable fertilizer solutions, founded in 1905 and headquartered in Oslo, Norway. The company produces and markets nitrogen-based fertilizers, specialty fertilizers, nitrates, NPK blends, micronutrients, and industrial chemicals, serving agriculture, food production, and environmental applications worldwide.

With estimated revenues of approximately US$ 15–16 billion and a workforce of over 17,000 employees, Yara operates more than 50 production plants and a global distribution network spanning over 60 countries. Yara plays a central role in the specialty fertilizers market, offering water-soluble fertilizers, fertigation solutions, foliar nutrition, and precision farming products that help improve nutrient-use efficiency and crop productivity. Its integrated production, logistics, and agronomic advisory model positions Yara as a key contributor to global food security and climate-smart agriculture.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Yara advanced its cost and efficiency improvement program, optimizing fertilizer production in response to energy market volatility while maintaining supply reliability.
• The company expanded its specialty fertilizer portfolio, with increased focus on water-soluble fertilizers, micronutrient blends, and fertigation-based solutions for high-value crops.
• Yara strengthened its digital farming and agronomic advisory platforms, helping growers reduce fertilizer losses and improve yields through data-driven nutrient management.
• During 2025, Yara is accelerating investments in low-carbon and green fertilizer production, including the scale-up of green ammonia and clean nitrogen initiatives aligned with global decarbonization goals.
• The company is also expanding partnerships across Asia-Pacific and Latin America, targeting growth in specialty and premium fertilizer segments.
• Sustainability priorities in 2025 include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving nitrogen-use efficiency on farms, and supporting regenerative agriculture practices, reinforcing Yara’s long-term environmental commitments.

ICL Group – Company Overview

About ICL

ICL is a global specialty minerals and specialty chemicals company, established in 1968 and headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel. The company operates across fertilizers, industrial products, food & pharma solutions, and specialty minerals, with a strong focus on potash, phosphate-based fertilizers, specialty plant nutrition products, bromine compounds, and performance materials.

With estimated annual revenues of approximately US$ 7.0–7.5 billion and a workforce of more than 11,000 employees, ICL maintains integrated mining, processing, and manufacturing operations in Israel, Europe, the Americas, and Asia. ICL is a major participant in the specialty fertilizers market, supplying water-soluble fertilizers, controlled-release products, micronutrients, and phosphate-based specialty inputs designed for precision agriculture and high-value crops. Its vertically integrated resource base and formulation expertise position ICL as a key contributor to global food security and sustainable agricultural productivity.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, ICL expanded its specialty plant nutrition portfolio, focusing on controlled-release fertilizers and water-soluble formulations to support precision farming and nutrient-use efficiency.
• The company continued to optimize potash and phosphate production, balancing operational efficiency with market demand amid global fertilizer price normalization.
• ICL strengthened sustainability initiatives, including reductions in energy intensity, water usage, and environmental footprint across mining and processing operations.
• During 2025, ICL is advancing innovation in specialty fertilizers, particularly micronutrient-enriched and bio-enhanced products targeting horticulture, fertigation, and protected agriculture systems.
• The company is also scaling digital agronomy and advisory solutions, helping growers improve yield outcomes while reducing fertilizer losses.
• Sustainability priorities in 2025 include lower-carbon fertilizer production, circular resource utilization, and responsible mineral extraction, reinforcing ICL’s long-term ESG and climate commitments.

The Mosaic Company – Company Overview

About The Mosaic Company

The Mosaic Company is a leading global producer of phosphate and potash fertilizers, established in 2004 and headquartered in Tampa, Florida. The company supplies essential crop nutrients used in row crops, fruits, vegetables, and specialty agriculture, supporting food security across major farming regions. With estimated annual revenues of US$ 12.0–13.0 billion and a workforce of approximately 13,500 employees, Mosaic operates large-scale mining, processing, and distribution assets across North America and key international markets. Mosaic plays a significant role in the specialty fertilizers ecosystem, particularly through premium phosphate products, specialty blends, and enhanced-efficiency formulations tailored for high-value crops and precision agriculture. Its vertically integrated model—from mineral extraction to finished nutrient products—enables cost control, supply reliability, and consistent quality, positioning Mosaic as a core supplier within the global agricultural inputs value chain.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Mosaic focused on operational efficiency and cost discipline, optimizing phosphate and potash production amid normalizing global fertilizer prices.
• The company expanded its specialty fertilizer and value-added phosphate portfolio, targeting higher-margin products for horticulture and specialty crops.
• Mosaic advanced sustainability initiatives, including reductions in water intensity, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions across its mining and processing operations.
• During 2025, Mosaic is prioritizing growth in specialty and premium fertilizers, with greater emphasis on customized nutrient blends and efficiency-enhanced products.
• The company is also investing in digitalization and automation across mining and processing assets to improve productivity, safety, and cost performance.
• Sustainability efforts in 2025 center on responsible mining practices, land reclamation, and lower-carbon fertilizer production, aligning Mosaic’s operations with long-term ESG and climate objectives.

CF Industries Holdings, Inc. – Company Overview

About CF Industries Holdings, Inc

CF Industries Holdings, Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of nitrogen-based fertilizers, founded in 1946 and headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois. The company specializes in the production of ammonia, urea, urea ammonium nitrate (UAN), ammonium nitrate, and related nitrogen solutions, supplying essential nutrients to global agriculture and industrial markets. With estimated annual revenues of US$ 6.5–7.0 billion and a workforce of approximately 2,800 employees, CF Industries operates large-scale, low-cost nitrogen production complexes primarily in North America, supported by an integrated logistics and distribution network. Beyond fertilizers, the company plays a growing role in clean energy and low-carbon solutions, leveraging its ammonia expertise for hydrogen and clean ammonia applications. CF Industries’ focus on operational efficiency, cost leadership, and decarbonization positions it as a critical supplier within the global fertilizer and energy-transition value chain.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, CF Industries prioritized capital discipline and operational optimization, maintaining high plant utilization while navigating volatile global nitrogen markets.
• The company advanced its low-carbon ammonia strategy, progressing joint initiatives focused on carbon capture and storage (CCS) to reduce emissions from ammonia production.
• CF Industries continued investments in plant reliability, safety, and energy efficiency, supporting stable fertilizer supply to global markets.
• During 2025, CF Industries is accelerating development of clean ammonia and hydrogen projects, targeting demand from energy, shipping, and industrial decarbonization sectors.
• The company is also strengthening supply agreements and export capabilities, positioning North American ammonia as a strategic input for global fertilizer and energy markets.
• Sustainability efforts in 2025 focus on lower-carbon nitrogen production, emissions intensity reduction, and scalable clean-energy partnerships, reinforcing CF Industries’ long-term climate and ESG commitments.

Nufarm – Company Overview

About Nufarm

Nufarm is a global agricultural solutions provider, founded in 1956 and headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, with a strong focus on crop protection products, seed technologies, and specialty agricultural inputs. The company develops and supplies herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, seed treatments, and bio-based solutions, supporting growers across broad-acre crops, specialty crops, and pasture management systems. With annual revenues of approximately US$ 3.3–3.6 billion and a workforce of over 3,000 employees, Nufarm operates manufacturing, formulation, and distribution facilities across more than 20 countries.

The company plays a meaningful role in the specialty agriculture and nutrient-efficiency ecosystem, particularly through integrated crop solutions that improve yield, resilience, and sustainability. Nufarm’s increasing emphasis on seed technologies and sustainable crop inputs positions it as a key contributor to modern, productivity-driven farming systems.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Nufarm continued its strategic transformation toward higher-margin seed and specialty crop technologies, strengthening its Seeds and Traits platform.
• The company optimized its crop protection portfolio, prioritizing differentiated and sustainable solutions while exiting lower-return product lines.
• Nufarm advanced cost-efficiency and supply-chain optimization initiatives, improving operating margins amid challenging global agricultural conditions.
• During 2025, Nufarm is accelerating investment in seed genetics, biologicals, and sustainable crop solutions, targeting long-term growth in climate-resilient agriculture.
• The company is expanding innovation partnerships and R&D programs, particularly in trait-based seeds and integrated crop systems.
• Sustainability priorities in 2025 focus on lower environmental impact products, responsible manufacturing, and farmer productivity gains, reinforcing Nufarm’s role in sustainable global food production.

SQM SA – Company Overview

About SQM SA

SQM SA is a global specialty chemicals and plant nutrition company, founded in 1968 and headquartered in Santiago, Chile. The company operates across lithium, specialty plant nutrients, iodine, industrial chemicals, and potassium-based fertilizers, supplying critical materials to agriculture, energy storage, and industrial markets worldwide. With estimated annual revenues of approximately US$ 7.3–7.8 billion and a workforce exceeding 7,000 employees, SQM manages large-scale extraction and processing operations primarily in northern Chile, supported by global sales and logistics networks.

In the specialty fertilizers and plant nutrition segment, SQM is known for potassium nitrate, specialty NPKs, water-soluble fertilizers, and fertigation-grade products, which are widely used in high-value crops, greenhouse farming, and precision agriculture. SQM’s combination of unique mineral resources, formulation expertise, and global reach positions it as a key supplier supporting food security and sustainable agricultural productivity.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, SQM continued to optimize lithium and specialty plant nutrition production, balancing capacity utilization with evolving global demand conditions.
• The company strengthened its specialty fertilizer portfolio, particularly water-soluble potassium nitrate and premium plant nutrition solutions for fertigation and protected agriculture.
• SQM advanced sustainability and water-management initiatives in Chile, focusing on improved brine efficiency, reduced freshwater usage, and enhanced environmental monitoring.
• During 2025, SQM is prioritizing growth in high-margin specialty plant nutrients, targeting expansion in Asia-Pacific and Latin America where demand for precision agriculture inputs is rising.
• The company is also progressing long-term strategic partnerships and regulatory alignment to secure operational continuity and responsible resource development in Chile.
• Sustainability priorities in 2025 emphasize lower environmental impact extraction, circular water use, and reduced carbon intensity, reinforcing SQM’s commitment to responsible production across both fertilizer and lithium businesses.

OCP Group – Company Overview

About OCP Group

OCP Group is a global leader in phosphate mining, processing, and phosphate-based fertilizer solutions, founded in 1920 and headquartered in Casablanca, Morocco. The group controls the world’s largest phosphate rock reserves, supplying essential nutrients used in phosphate fertilizers, specialty plant nutrition products, and industrial phosphates.

With estimated revenues of US$ 8.5–9.0 billion and a workforce exceeding 21,000 employees, OCP operates integrated mining, chemical processing, fertilizer production, and logistics infrastructure across Morocco and international markets. The company plays a pivotal role in the specialty fertilizers and global food-security ecosystem, offering customized NPK blends, water-soluble fertilizers, and crop-specific nutrient solutions tailored to regional soil and crop needs. OCP’s vertically integrated model—from rock extraction to finished fertilizers—supports large-scale, cost-efficient supply while enabling innovation in precision agriculture and sustainable nutrient management.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, OCP continued large-scale investments in fertilizer production capacity and logistics, strengthening its ability to supply phosphate and specialty fertilizers to Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
• The group expanded its customized fertilizer programs, delivering crop- and soil-specific formulations to improve yields and nutrient-use efficiency in emerging agricultural markets.
• OCP advanced its sustainability roadmap, accelerating progress toward renewable energy use, water desalination, and reduced carbon intensity across its Moroccan operations.
• During 2025, OCP is scaling its green ammonia and green fertilizer strategy, supporting its goal of achieving 100% clean energy use and carbon-neutral fertilizer production in the coming decade.
• The company is also expanding fertilizer manufacturing and blending partnerships in Africa and India, reinforcing local production and supply-chain resilience.
• Sustainability priorities in 2025 include circular water management, lower-emission phosphate processing, and expanded support for climate-smart agriculture, strengthening OCP’s long-term ESG and food-security commitments.

Kingenta Ecological Engineering Group – Company Overview

About Kingenta

Kingenta Ecological Engineering Group is a leading Chinese fertilizer and agricultural solutions company, founded in 1998 and headquartered in Linyi, Shandong Province. The company is best known for its strong position in controlled-release fertilizers (CRF), specialty fertilizers, water-soluble fertilizers, and compound NPK products, serving both domestic and international agricultural markets. With estimated annual revenues of CNY 22–25 billion and a workforce of more than 10,000 employees, Kingenta operates large-scale fertilizer manufacturing complexes, R&D centers, and agricultural service platforms across China.

The company plays a key role in the specialty fertilizers market, particularly in slow- and controlled-release technologies that improve nutrient-use efficiency, reduce fertilizer losses, and support sustainable farming practices. Kingenta’s integration of fertilizer production with agronomic services, soil health management, and digital agriculture solutions positions it as a major contributor to modern, productivity-focused agriculture in China and emerging markets.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, Kingenta continued to expand controlled-release fertilizer capacity, reinforcing its leadership position in CRF technologies for staple and cash crops.
• The company strengthened its eco-agriculture strategy, integrating specialty fertilizers with soil improvement, water efficiency, and digital agronomy services.
• Kingenta also advanced resource-efficiency initiatives, focusing on reduced nutrient runoff and improved fertilizer utilization rates in large farming regions.
• During 2025, Kingenta is prioritizing next-generation specialty fertilizers, including enhanced-efficiency, bio-integrated, and crop-specific formulations.
• The company is expanding technology-driven agricultural service platforms, combining fertilizers with precision application guidance and data-based farm management.
• Sustainability efforts in 2025 emphasize lower environmental impact fertilizers, soil health restoration, and reduced chemical input intensity, aligning with China’s long-term green agriculture and food-security objectives.

K+S Aktiengesellschaft – Company Overview

About K+S Aktiengesellschaft

K+S Aktiengesellschaft is a leading European producer of potash, magnesium products, and salt, founded in 1889 and headquartered in Kassel, Germany. The company supplies potash and magnesium-based fertilizers, industrial salts, food-grade salt, and de-icing products, serving agriculture, food processing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and industrial markets. With estimated annual revenues of EUR 4.2–4.6 billion and a workforce exceeding 11,000 employees, K+S operates mining, processing, and logistics facilities across Germany, Europe, and North America.

In the specialty fertilizers segment, K+S focuses on chloride-free potash fertilizers, magnesium-enriched products, and specialty nutrient solutions designed for soil health, high-value crops, and precision agriculture. Its strong resource base, integrated production model, and emphasis on quality and sustainability position K+S as a key supplier in the global plant nutrition and industrial minerals value chain.

Recent Developments

• In 2024, K+S continued to strengthen its specialty fertilizer portfolio, focusing on chloride-reduced and magnesium-rich fertilizers for sustainable agriculture.
• The company advanced cost-optimization and efficiency programs across its German mining operations, improving competitiveness amid volatile fertilizer markets.
• K+S also made progress on environmental performance, reducing water usage and improving tailings and residue management at key sites.
• During 2025, K+S is prioritizing higher-margin specialty fertilizers and industrial applications, reducing reliance on commodity-grade volumes.
• The company is expanding digitalization and automation initiatives in mining and processing to improve productivity, safety, and operational transparency.
• Sustainability efforts in 2025 focus on lower-carbon production, responsible resource extraction, and long-term water and waste management, aligning with EU environmental regulations and global ESG expectations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, specialty fertilizers have become a crucial component of modern agriculture, supporting precision nutrient management and higher crop productivity around the world. Unlike traditional bulk fertilizers, specialty products such as controlled-release, water-soluble, and micronutrient blends are engineered to deliver nutrients in synchronization with crop needs, which can improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce wastage through leaching and volatilization.

This targeted approach helps farmers enhance yield and quality, particularly in high-value crops and intensive cropping systems. The global market for specialty fertilizers was valued at around USD 29.0–32.3 billion in 2024, and is projected to expand to more than USD 50–58 billion by 2034, reflecting sustained demand driven by precision agriculture, environmental concerns, and the need for sustainable crop nutrition solutions.

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