Global Agrochemicals Market Product Type (Fertilizer, Pesticide, Plant Growth Regulators), Formulation (Solid, Liquid), Crop Type (Fruits and Vegetables, Cereal and Grains, Oilseeds and Pulses, Turf and Ornamentals, Others), Application Method (Foliar Spray, Soil Treatment, Seed Treatment, Others), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The global Agrochemicals Market size is expected to be worth around USD 382.1 Billion by 2034, from USD 250.8 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

The agrochemicals market refers to the segment of the chemical industry involved in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of products that enhance agricultural productivity. These products include pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and fertilizers, which are designed to prevent crop diseases, eliminate weeds, and improve crop yields. Agrochemicals play a vital role in ensuring global food security by protecting crops from pests and diseases while optimizing the use of land, water, and nutrients.

The agrochemical industry is a highly competitive and rapidly evolving sector, with significant participation from multinational companies. The market is diverse, with players focusing on innovation, sustainable practices, and regulatory compliance. The increasing demand for food, especially in developing nations, has bolstered the need for effective agrochemical solutions. The industry is heavily influenced by factors such as government regulations, envir onmental concerns, and technological advancements in agrochemical formulations.

Several factors contribute to the growth of the agrochemicals market. The world’s growing population, projected to exceed 9 billion by 2050, increases the demand for food production, creating a greater need for agrochemical products. To meet this demand, farmers require advanced solutions to maximize crop yields and minimize losses due to pests, diseases, and weeds.

Furthermore, the shift towards more sustainable farming practices, including integrated pest management (IPM) and precision agriculture, is boosting the adoption of eco-friendly agrochemicals, such as bio-pesticides and organic fertilizers.

Key Takeaways

• Agrochemicals Market size is expected to be worth around USD 382.1 Billion by 2034, from USD 250.8 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 4.3%.
• Fertilizer held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 78.30% share of the global agrochemicals market.
• Solid formulations held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 67.90% share of the global agrochemicals market.
• Cereal & Grains held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 49.20% share of the global agrochemicals market.
• Soil Treatment held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 43.10% share of the global agrochemicals market.
• Asia Pacific (APAC) region is the dominant player in the global agrochemicals market, holding a significant share of 52.40%, valued at approximately USD 131.4 billion.

By Product Type Analysis

In 2024, Fertilizer held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 78.30% share of the global agrochemicals market. Fertilizers are essential in modern agriculture as they provide vital nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are necessary for healthy crop growth and increased agricultural productivity. The continuous demand for higher crop yields, particularly in regions facing food security challenges, has fueled the growth of the fertilizer segment. Fertilizers are widely used across various crops, including cereals, fruits, vegetables, and oilseeds, making them an integral part of global agricultural practices. Additionally, the increasing adoption of precision farming techniques has contributed to the rise in demand for more specialized and effective fertilizers in recent years.

Potassic Fertilizers are another important segment, though they hold a smaller share compared to general fertilizers. In 2024, potassic fertilizers are seeing steady growth, driven by their critical role in improving root development, disease resistance, and overall crop quality. Potassium is essential for the proper functioning of various physiological processes in plants, and its targeted use is becoming more prominent in regions with potassium-deficient soils. As the agricultural sector becomes more focused on sustainable practices, the demand for potassic fertilizers is expected to continue growing, particularly in regions where soil health is a growing concern.

Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs), while still a smaller segment, are also witnessing growing adoption. These chemical compounds are used to regulate and manipulate plant growth, promoting higher yields and improved crop quality. In 2024, plant growth regulators are seeing increased use in both traditional and modern farming techniques, particularly for enhancing fruit setting, controlling plant height, and improving resistance to environmental stress. As farmers continue to seek ways to optimize crop performance and minimize input costs, the demand for PGRs is expected to grow, especially in horticultural and high-value crops.

Formulation

In 2024, Solid formulations held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 67.90% share of the global agrochemicals market. Solid formulations, which include granules, powders, and pellets, are widely preferred due to their ease of handling, precise application, and longer shelf life. These formulations are primarily used in fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, as they allow for controlled release and better effectiveness over time. The stability and efficiency of solid formulations make them suitable for large-scale agricultural operations, where consistent and uniform application is critical. Additionally, the growing demand for bulk treatments in crops like cereals, vegetables, and fruits further boosts the adoption of solid agrochemicals.

Liquid formulations, though accounting for a smaller share in comparison, have been steadily gaining traction, particularly in regions with advanced farming techniques. Liquid agrochemicals are often preferred for foliar spraying, where rapid absorption and quick action are crucial. The ease of mixing and application also contributes to the increasing demand for liquid formulations, especially for specialty crops that require precise treatment. As farming practices evolve and new application technologies emerge, the liquid segment continues to expand, albeit at a slower pace compared to solid formulations.

Crop Type

In 2024, Cereal & Grains held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 49.20% share of the global agrochemicals market. This segment, which includes essential crops like wheat, rice, corn, and barley, plays a central role in global food production. The high demand for cereals and grains, combined with the need for efficient pest control and nutrient management, has driven the extensive use of agrochemicals in this sector. Farmers rely on fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides to ensure high yields and quality, especially in regions with large-scale farming operations.

Fruits & Vegetables represented the second-largest crop type segment in 2024. While this segment accounts for a smaller share than cereals, the demand for high-quality, fresh produce is steadily rising due to the growing global population and consumer preference for healthy foods. Agrochemicals used in fruits and vegetables primarily focus on pest control, disease prevention, and boosting crop growth.

Oilseeds & Pulses also held a significant portion of the market, though slightly smaller than fruits and vegetables. These crops, including soybeans, canola, and lentils, are vital for both food and biofuel production. The increasing global demand for plant-based proteins and vegetable oils has propelled the adoption of agrochemicals, particularly fertilizers and herbicides. As these crops are often grown in rotation with cereals, the use of agrochemicals helps maximize yield and protect against weeds and pests.

Turf & Ornamentals accounted for a smaller share of the market in 2024 but showed growth driven by the expanding landscaping and horticulture sectors. Agrochemicals in this category are primarily used for maintaining lawns, gardens, and ornamental plants, with a focus on pest management and growth regulation. This market is particularly active in urban areas, where landscaping for aesthetic purposes is in high demand.

Application Method Analysis

In 2024, Soil Treatment held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 43.10% share of the global agrochemicals market. Soil treatment methods, including the application of fertilizers, pesticides, and soil conditioners, are crucial for improving soil health, fertility, and overall crop productivity. These methods ensure that the soil environment is optimized for plant growth, preventing nutrient deficiencies and combating soil-borne pests and diseases. The high share of this segment is driven by the growing need for efficient and sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in regions with poor or degraded soils.

Foliar Spray is another significant application method, accounting for a notable share of the market. This method involves spraying agrochemicals directly onto the leaves of plants for faster nutrient absorption and pest control. In 2024, foliar spray is gaining popularity, especially in high-value crops like fruits and vegetables, as it provides a quick and effective solution for nutrient deficiencies and pest outbreaks. The convenience and immediate effect of foliar applications have made it a preferred choice for many farmers, driving its consistent growth in recent years.

Seed Treatment continues to be an essential method in crop protection and yield improvement. In 2024, this segment has seen increased adoption, particularly in crops like corn, soybean, and cotton, where seed treatments protect against diseases, pests, and environmental stress during early growth stages. As farmers look for ways to enhance seedling survival rates and boost early plant growth, the demand for seed treatment agrochemicals has steadily risen.

Agrochemicals Market Segments

Product Type

• Fertilizer
  • Nitrogenous
    • Urea
    • Ammonium Nitrate
    • Ammonium Sulfate
    • Ammonia
    • Calcium Ammonium Nitrate
    • Others
  • Phosphatic
    • Monoammonium Phosphate (MAP)
    • Diammonium Phosphate (DAP)
    • Triple Superphosphate (TSP)
    • Others
  • Potassic
    • Potassium Chloride
    • Potassium Sulfate
    • Others
• Pesticide
  • Insecticide
  • Fungicide
  • Herbicide
  • Bio-pesticide
  • Others
• Plant Growth Regulators

Formulation

• Solid
• Liquid

Crop Type

• Fruits & Vegetables
• Cereal & Grains
• Oilseeds & Pulses
• Turf & Ornamentals
• Others

Application Method

• Foliar Spray
• Soil Treatment
• Seed Treatment
• Others

Driving Factors

Increasing Demand for Food Security

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the global population is expected to reach around 9.7 billion by 2050. As a result, food production must increase by approximately 60% to meet the needs of the growing population. In this context, the efficient use of agrochemicals has become essential for maximizing crop yields and ensuring that farmers can feed the world’s expanding population. Agrochemicals help improve soil fertility, protect crops from pests and diseases, and boost overall productivity, all of which are crucial for achieving food security.

The FAO also reports that nearly 33% of global food production is lost or wasted each year, with a large portion of this loss occurring due to pests, diseases, and inadequate crop protection. To address this, agrochemicals like pesticides and fungicides are necessary to protect crops from these threats, helping to reduce food waste and ensuring that more food reaches consumers. The increasing reliance on agrochemicals in agriculture is directly tied to the need for more efficient crop protection and management to meet global food security goals.

Government Support and Initiatives

Governments around the world have recognized the importance of agrochemicals in achieving food security and have taken significant steps to promote their use. For instance, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has been a strong advocate for the use of fertilizers and pesticides as part of its broader agricultural policy. According to the USDA, farmers in the U.S. apply more than 17 million metric tons of fertilizer annually to ensure high crop yields, particularly for key crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. These fertilizers help optimize soil nutrient levels and increase productivity, supporting the U.S. as one of the world’s largest food producers.

Similarly, the Indian Ministry of Agriculture has been actively promoting the use of agrochemicals to boost crop yields in the country, where food security remains a critical issue. India, with its rapidly growing population, requires increased agricultural production to meet domestic demand. The Indian government has implemented various subsidy programs for fertilizers and pesticides, making them more affordable for farmers. According to data from the Indian Department of Agriculture, over 26 million tons of fertilizers were used in India in 2023 alone, reflecting the significant role that agrochemicals play in the country’s agricultural sector.

In Africa, the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) has highlighted the importance of agrochemicals in improving food security, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. IFPRI notes that the region faces low agricultural productivity, mainly due to poor soil conditions and pest infestations. To combat this, agrochemicals are seen as essential tools for boosting yields and improving the nutritional content of crops. The African Union’s Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) has also called for increased use of fertilizers and pest control measures to achieve the continent’s agricultural growth targets.

Rising Adoption of Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Beyond the basic need to increase food production, there is also a growing emphasis on sustainability in agriculture. Many governments and organizations are now focusing on reducing the environmental impact of farming while maintaining or increasing food production. The adoption of sustainable agrochemicals, such as bio-based pesticides and slow-release fertilizers, is rising to meet this demand. According to the World Bank, sustainable practices in agrochemicals use can reduce the negative impact on soil health and water systems while maintaining crop productivity.

Restraining Factors

Environmental and Health Concerns

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pesticides can have significant health risks, including poisoning, cancer, and neurological disorders, particularly for agricultural workers who are directly exposed to these chemicals. The WHO reports that pesticide poisoning leads to more than 200,000 deaths each year globally. Furthermore, the long-term impact of agrochemicals on the environment, such as contamination of water sources, soil degradation, and harm to non-target organisms, is a growing issue. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has raised alarms about the effect of pesticides on pollinators like bees, which are essential for global food production. It’s estimated that nearly 75% of flowering plants and about 35% of food crops depend on animal pollination, yet the indiscriminate use of certain agrochemicals has been linked to the decline in pollinator populations.

These concerns have triggered regulatory actions in many regions. In Europe, the European Union (EU) has imposed stricter regulations on pesticide use through its Pesticides Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009, which aims to ensure that all chemicals approved for use in the EU are safe for human health and the environment. In fact, the EU has set a target to reduce pesticide use by 50% by 2030 as part of its Farm to Fork Strategy. This strategy seeks to promote sustainable farming practices and minimize the environmental footprint of agriculture. Additionally, the European Commission has introduced the Green Deal, which includes reducing the use of chemical pesticides and encouraging organic farming practices.

In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also imposed tighter regulations on pesticide usage, requiring more comprehensive safety assessments before new chemicals are approved for market use. The EPA’s Pesticide Risk Assessment Guidelines ensure that both the environmental and health risks of these products are carefully considered. In 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported that nearly 48% of farmed land in the U.S. is subject to pesticide application, highlighting the scale at which agrochemicals are used. However, the growing pressure from environmental advocacy groups, such as the Pesticide Action Network (PAN), is encouraging a shift towards integrated pest management (IPM) and organic farming methods.

Health-conscious consumers are also influencing market trends. A survey conducted by the Organic Trade Association (OTA) found that U.S. organic food sales reached $62 billion in 2020, driven by increasing consumer demand for chemical-free, sustainably grown food. The rise of this market reflects broader concerns over the potential risks associated with conventional farming practices that rely heavily on synthetic agrochemicals. As organic farming systems avoid or minimize the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, they are often seen as a safer, more environmentally friendly alternative. As consumers become more aware of the potential dangers posed by chemical agrochemicals, they are increasingly looking for products that align with their health and environmental values.

Growth Opportunity

Sustainable and Organic Farming Practices

One of the most promising growth opportunities for the agrochemicals market lies in the rise of sustainable and organic farming practices. As the world increasingly focuses on reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable agriculture, there is a growing demand for agrochemicals that support these practices. These chemicals include organic pesticides, bio-based fertilizers, and natural herbicides, which help improve crop yield while minimizing harm to the environment, wildlife, and human health.

Sustainable agriculture focuses on using farming techniques that protect and preserve the environment, maintain soil health, and reduce dependence on synthetic chemicals. As a result, there has been a noticeable shift towards the development and adoption of eco-friendly agrochemicals. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), sustainable agriculture is essential for addressing global food security challenges while ensuring environmental preservation. The FAO estimates that sustainable farming practices could increase food production by up to 58% by 2050, while minimizing the ecological footprint of agriculture. This trend is not only driven by consumer demand for cleaner, healthier food but also by the increasing recognition of the economic benefits of sustainable farming practices.

The growing market for organic food is a key driver for the adoption of organic agrochemicals. The International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) reported that the global organic food market reached USD 120.5 billion in 2020, and it is expected to continue growing at a rate of 8–10% annually. This expansion is creating significant demand for organic pesticides and bio-based fertilizers that meet the standards set by certification bodies like the USDA Organic program. As organic farming grows, the need for specialized agrochemicals that are both effective and compliant with organic farming standards is increasing.

Governments around the world are also supporting the shift towards sustainable agriculture through policies and initiatives that encourage the use of eco-friendly agrochemicals. For instance, the European Union’s Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy aim to make food systems fair, healthy, and environmentally-friendly by promoting organic farming and reducing the use of synthetic pesticides. As part of the Green Deal, the EU plans to reduce the use of chemical pesticides by 50% by 2030. This policy shift is creating a favorable environment for companies developing natural and bio-based agrochemicals, providing a significant growth opportunity for the market.

In the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched programs such as the Organic Transition Program, which aims to provide financial support and technical assistance to farmers transitioning to organic farming. These initiatives are designed to help farmers overcome the challenges of switching to organic methods, including the use of organic agrochemicals. As more farmers take advantage of these programs, the demand for organic agrochemicals is expected to rise.

Latest Trends

Increasing Adoption of Precision Farming Techniques

One of the latest trends in the agrochemicals market is the growing adoption of precision farming techniques. Precision farming refers to the use of advanced technologies to optimize crop production and minimize the use of agrochemicals. By using GPS, remote sensing, and data analytics, farmers can apply fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides in a more targeted and efficient manner. This reduces waste, cuts costs, and minimizes the environmental impact of agrochemicals, while ensuring that crops receive exactly what they need for optimal growth.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlights the importance of precision farming in improving agricultural productivity and sustainability. In a report published in 2020, the FAO stated that precision farming technologies could help reduce fertilizer use by 10–15%, while simultaneously increasing crop yields by up to 30% in some regions. This not only leads to better resource management but also significantly lowers the environmental footprint of farming practices. By minimizing chemical runoff, precision farming helps protect water sources, reduce soil degradation, and maintain biodiversity, making it a key trend in modern agriculture.

The increasing adoption of technologies such as drones, satellite imaging, and soil sensors allows farmers to monitor crop health in real time and apply agrochemicals only where they are needed. This targeted approach is a stark contrast to traditional methods, which often involve blanket spraying of chemicals across entire fields, leading to unnecessary chemical use and greater environmental impact. For instance, drones equipped with multispectral sensors can detect areas of a field that require specific treatments, ensuring that agrochemicals are applied efficiently and only when necessary.

Governments and industry leaders are recognizing the value of precision farming and are supporting its adoption through various initiatives. For example, the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has allocated funds to promote sustainable farming practices, including precision agriculture, to reduce the environmental impact of farming and improve food security. In the U.S., the USDA’s Precision Agriculture Initiative provides resources and training to help farmers integrate advanced technologies into their operations.

Regional Analysis

Asia Pacific leads the market by holding a major revenue share in the account.

In 2024, the Asia Pacific (APAC) region is the dominant player in the global agrochemicals market, holding a significant share of 52.40%, valued at approximately USD 131.4 billion. This region’s strong market position is primarily driven by the large-scale agricultural activities in countries such as China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asian nations. The growing population and the increasing demand for food security in APAC have led to the extensive use of agrochemicals, especially in staple crops like rice, wheat, and corn.

North America holds the second-largest market share. The U.S. and Canada are major contributors to this market, driven by advanced farming techniques and high demand for crop protection products in both conventional and organic farming sectors. The increasing adoption of precision agriculture and government support for sustainable farming practices have boosted the use of agrochemicals in this region.

Europe also plays a crucial role in the global agrochemicals market, representing about 16.30% of the market share. The European Union’s strong regulations regarding agrochemical usage, along with growing consumer preference for organic produce, have shaped the region’s agrochemical market. Countries like Germany, France, and Italy lead in agrochemical consumption.

The Middle East & Africa and Latin America regions hold relatively smaller shares, but they are witnessing steady growth due to rising agricultural investments and expanding farming activities.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of South America
• MEA
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Israel
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The Agrochemicals market is highly competitive, with several key players leading the industry, including BASF SE, Bayer AG, Syngenta, UPL Limited, and Nufarm. These companies are heavily involved in the development, manufacturing, and distribution of various agrochemical products, ranging from herbicides and pesticides to fertilizers.

BASF SE and Bayer AG are particularly dominant, with a strong global presence in the crop protection and plant nutrition sectors. They have invested significantly in research and development, creating innovative solutions to address the increasing demand for higher agricultural productivity. Similarly, Syngenta, part of the ChemChina group, is a leading player in both crop protection and seed development, focusing on sustainable solutions that cater to modern agricultural needs.

Other significant players in the market include ADAMA Ltd., Corteva, Inc., and Yara International ASA, which focus on a broad portfolio of agrochemicals, including herbicides, fungicides, and plant growth regulators. Corteva, spun off from DowDuPont, continues to strengthen its position in the market with a focus on seed genetics, crop protection, and digital solutions for precision agriculture.

Nutrien, K+S AG, and Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. are also noteworthy players, with Nutrien being a leading supplier of crop nutrients and K+S focusing on potash-based fertilizers. The presence of specialized companies like ICL Group Ltd., Isagro, and FMC Corporation further adds diversity to the competitive landscape, offering tailored solutions in specific agricultural markets.

Top Key Players

• BASF SE
• Bayer AG
• Syngenta
• UPL Limited
• Nufarm
• ADAMA Ltd
• Corteva, Inc
• Yara International ASA
• ADM
• Nutrien
• K+S AG
• Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Compass Minerals International, Inc
• ICL Group Ltd.
• Isagro
• FMC Corporation
• OCP Group
• Other Key Players

Recent Developments

• 2024 BASF SE, the company’s market share in the global agrochemicals industry stands at approximately 10-12%, with a strong presence in both developed and emerging markets, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia.
• In 2024, Bayer’s Crop Science division generated approximately USD 14.8 billion in sales, continuing its steady growth driven by strong demand for sustainable and efficient farming solutions.

Report Scope