Organic Fertilizer Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2020-2030F

The Organic Fertilizer Market was valued at USD 12.54 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 17.05 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 5.21%. Organic fertilizers are naturally derived carbon-based fertilizers. They are substances that can be added to soil or applied to plants to provide essential nutrients, promoting growth. Common examples of organic fertilizers include mineral sources, animal waste (including meat processing waste, manure, slurry, and guano), and plant-based fertilizers such as compost and bios lids. Additionally, there are other biotic, non-chemical fertilizer technologies available that adhere to the Principles of Organic Agriculture, which determine their suitability for commercial organic agriculture. These organic fertilizers encompass peat, animal and plant wastes from agriculture, and treated sewage sludge. Peat, also referred to as turf, is a partially decomposed plant material.

The growing consumer inclination toward chemical-free produce and the increasing adoption of sustainable agricultural practices are key drivers of the organic fertilizer market. Rising awareness of soil health degradation due to prolonged use of synthetic fertilizers has encouraged farmers to adopt organic alternatives that not only enhance soil fertility but also promote beneficial microbial activity. Moreover, government initiatives and subsidies supporting organic farming, especially in countries like India, the U.S., and several EU nations, are further stimulating market demand. As a result, smallholder farmers and large agricultural operations alike are increasingly integrating organic fertilizers into their nutrient management practices.

In addition to environmental benefits, organic fertilizers offer long-term economic advantages by improving crop yield quality and reducing dependence on chemical inputs. Technological innovations in composting and microbial formulation have expanded the range and efficacy of available organic fertilizers, making them more competitive in the global market. The rise of organic food consumption, especially in urban regions, is expected to bolster demand across various segments such as horticulture, cereals, pulses, and plantation crops. Furthermore, the increasing focus on circular economy models, where agricultural and food waste is recycled into valuable inputs like organic fertilizers, is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping market growth through 2030.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Awareness About the Harmful Effects of Chemical Fertilizers

The growing global awareness regarding the long-term environmental damage caused by chemical fertilizers is playing a pivotal role in driving the adoption of organic fertilizers. Over time, excessive reliance on synthetic fertilizers has been linked to deteriorating soil health, reduced biodiversity, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. According to a 2024 report, nearly 42% of global agricultural land shows signs of moderate to severe degradation due to overuse of chemical inputs. Such alarming data has encouraged policymakers and environmental organizations to push for a shift toward eco-friendly alternatives like organic fertilizers.

Health-related concerns are also prompting the transition. Chemical residues in food crops are increasingly being detected and scrutinized by food safety authorities. A recent study revealed that about 28% of globally consumed vegetables contained unsafe levels of pesticide and fertilizer residues. These residues are associated with a range of chronic health issues, including hormonal disruptions and certain cancers. As public health awareness rises, consumer pressure is pushing agricultural producers to adopt organic farming practices that exclude harmful chemical fertilizers and instead rely on natural inputs to enhance crop health.

The growing availability of information spread through media campaigns, online education, and community outreach is helping both farmers and consumers understand the detrimental effects of prolonged chemical fertilizer use. Governments in various regions are also responding by implementing bans or regulations on excessive fertilizer usage. For instance, several EU countries have placed stricter limits on nitrogen and phosphorus-based fertilizers. These measures, along with educational initiatives, are creating an environment where the benefits of organic fertilizers are more widely understood and appreciated across stakeholder groups.

Key Market Challenges

High Production Costs

High production costs are projected to significantly impact the demand for organic fertilizer on a global scale. Organic fertilizers, though highly beneficial for soil health and productivity, are often more expensive to produce than their synthetic counterparts. This is mainly due to the extensive processes involved in sourcing and processing organic materials, as well as the stringent regulations that organic fertilizer manufacturers must adhere to. As a result, the retail price for organic fertilizers is often higher, making it less accessible for many farmers, particularly those in developing economies.

With the agriculture sector continually striving for cost-effectiveness, these elevated costs are likely to deter many potential users of organic fertilizers. Additionally, the global economic challenges and uncertainties caused by factors such as climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic may further discourage investment in higher-priced inputs, including organic fertilizers. Thus, unless measures are taken to lower production costs or provide subsidies to organic fertilizer manufacturers, the demand for these products is expected to fall in the coming years.

Key Market Trends

Growing Trend of Urban Gardening & Farming

The rising trend of urban gardening and farming is fast becoming a pivotal factor in the escalating global demand for organic fertilizers. Urban dwellers around the world are increasingly embracing the concept of producing their own food, driven by the desire for fresh, healthy produce and the satisfaction of self-sufficiency. This shift is particularly noticeable in densely populated cities where conventional farming is impractical. Organic fertilizers play a key role in these urban farming initiatives, as they are not only eco-friendlier and more sustainable but also essential for cultivating healthier and more nutritious produce in these unconventional settings.

Furthermore, the use of organic fertilizers aligns well with the environmental consciousness often associated with urban gardening enthusiasts. The increasing popularity of organic food and concerns about synthetic fertilizers' adverse environmental impact further fuel the demand. As a result, the global market for organic fertilizers is expected to grow significantly. Therefore, urban gardening and farming's growth trend, coupled with the rising environmental consciousness, is playing a significant role in boosting organic fertilizer use globally.

Key Market Players

• Rizobacter Argentina S.A.
• Lallemand Inc.
• National Fertilizers Limited
• Madras Fertilizers Limited
• T Stanes & Company Limited
• Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd
• String Bio Private Limited
• Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilizers Ltd
• Agrinos Inc.
• Protan AG

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Organic Fertilizer Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Organic Fertilizer Market, By Source:

• Plant
• Animal
• Others

Organic Fertilizer Market, By Crop Type:

• Fruits & Vegetables
• Cereals
• Others

Organic Fertilizer Market, By Form:

• Dry
• Liquid

Organic Fertilizer Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Organic Fertilizer Market.

Available Customizations:

With the given market data, the publisher offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report.

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).