Controlled Release Fertilizer Global Market Report 2024

The controlled release fertilizer market size has grown strongly in recent years. It will grow from $3.14 billion in 2023 to $3.43 billion in 2024 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1%. Historical growth can be attributed to several factors, including robust economic expansion in emerging markets, increased demand for agricultural products, a surge in the adoption of vegan diets, and an escalating demand for organic food.

The controlled release fertilizer market size is expected to see strong growth in the next few years. It will grow to $4.89 billion in 2028 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3%. The forecasted growth is driven by modern agriculture adoption, population rise, government initiatives, and robust R&D. Key trends include tech advancements, innovation, increased investments, M&A, and partnerships.

The controlled-release fertilizer market is experiencing significant growth, primarily propelled by the increasing adoption of modern agricultural practices. Modern agriculture represents an evolving approach that incorporates innovative farming practices and technologies to enhance efficiency while minimizing the utilization of natural resources, such as water, land, and energy. Controlled-release fertilizers play a crucial role in modern agriculture, employing precision applications based on the 4-R approach - delivering the right amount of fertilizer at the right time to the right plant during the appropriate stage of growth. A study conducted by Khulna University Studies in July 2022 revealed that a majority of surveyed farmers, averaging over 23 years of experience, are embracing modern technologies for irrigation management, seed improvement, and the use of chemical fertilizers. Approximately 60% of respondents have adopted modern harvesting technologies. This trend is expected to drive the growth of the controlled-release fertilizer market.

Government initiatives are anticipated to be a significant driver for the controlled-release fertilizer market during the forecast period. Positive governmental interventions related to agriculture contribute to the increased demand for controlled-release fertilizers. In November 2022, the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR), a US-based agency established by the US government to foster collaborations between the public and private sectors in support of innovative scientific research, launched the Efficient Fertilizer Consortium. This public-private partnership research initiative aims to advance the development of efficient, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective fertilizers and management practices. Additionally, in October 2022, the Indian government introduced the 'One Nation One Fertilizer' initiative under the fertilizer subsidy scheme known as 'Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Urvarak Pariyojna' (PMBJP). This initiative involves the introduction of a single brand named 'Bharat' for all types of fertilizers, ensuring uniformity in fertilizer branding across the country. The implementation of such government initiatives is expected to contribute significantly to the growth of the controlled-release fertilizer market in the forecast period.

The controlled-release fertilizer market is witnessing a notable trend driven by technological advancements. Key companies operating in this sector are strategically focused on the development of advanced products to enhance their market positions. An illustrative example is ICL Group, an Israel-based company renowned for its work in fertilizers, metals, and specialized chemical products. In September 2021, ICL Group introduced the fifth version of its Osmocote controlled-release fertilizer. Osmocote 5 incorporates unique nutrient-matching release technology and an upgraded Optimised Trace Element Availability (OTEA) system, aligning with the specific needs of plants throughout the release program. This results in improved plant health, color, and growth. In response to the industry's trend towards reducing or eliminating peat, Osmocote 5 also features a slightly increased Nitrogen concentration to enhance growth.

A notable trend in the controlled-release fertilizer market is the launch of innovative fertilizers. Companies within the sector are actively engaged in developing groundbreaking products to gain a competitive advantage and fortify their market positions. An instance of this trend is evident in ICL Group's actions. In September 2022, the company introduced eqo.x, a revolutionary and rapidly biodegradable release technology designed for open-field agriculture. This innovative solution represents a pioneering approach as the first controlled release fertilizer (CRF) coating for urea. Notably, eqo.x is tailored to meet the future European fertilizer standards scheduled to take effect in 2026. It delivers a reduction in nutrient loss and enhances nutrient use efficiency (NUE) by up to 80%. This development is designed to assist farmers in improving crop performance while minimizing environmental impact, highlighting the industry's commitment to innovation and sustainability.

In October 2021, Profile Products LLC, a US-based manufacturer specializing in erosion control technologies, acquired Florikan, an undisclosed deal. This acquisition bolsters agronomic expertise for both companies, amplifying Profile's ability to cater to diverse client needs across all business sectors. Florikan, also US-based, focuses on controlled-release fertilizers and innovative nutrient encapsulation coatings, enhancing plant nutrition while minimizing environmental impact.

Major companies operating in the controlled release fertilizer market report are Yara International ASA, Kingenta Ecological, Nutrien Ltd., ICL Group, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A, Jcam Agri, Helena chemical company, Haifa Chemicals, Compo Expert GMbh, Nufarm Ltd., Sunpalm Australia, Hebei Woze Wufeng Biological Technology Co. Ltd., Hebei Sanyuanjiuqi Fertilizer Co. Ltd., Haifa Group, China BlueChemical Ltd., CF Industries, Borealis, Fertilore, HELM IBÉRICA SA, ADOB, Uralchem, PhosAgro, Acron, UralKali, Yara Canada Inc., The Mosaic Company, Verdesian, Koch Fertilizer, Wilbur-Ellis Company LLC, ScottsMiracle-Gro, K+S Potash Canada, ArrMaz, Agrium U.S. Inc., Nortox, Israel Chemicals Ltd (ICL), Qatar Fertilizer Co (QAFCO), Indorama Eleme Fertilizer & Chemicals Limited, Dangote Fertilizer, Twiga Chemical Industries Limited, Kynoch.

The Asia-Pacific was the largest region in the controlled release fertilizer market in 2023 and is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the forecast period. The regions covered in the controlled release fertilizer market report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East, Africa. The countries covered in the controlled release fertilizer market report are Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, South Korea, UK, USA, Italy, Spain, Canada.

These fertilizers encompass various types such as slow-release, nitrogen stabilizers, and coated and encapsulated variants. Slow-release types release their components gradually over an extended period, differing from immediate release. They come in liquid, granular, and powder forms and find applications in foliar, fertigation, soil, and other uses. End-users include grains, cereals, pulses, oilseeds, commercial crops, fruits, vegetables, turf, ornamentals, and more.

The controlled release fertilizer market research report is one of a series of new reports that provides controlled release fertilizer market statistics, including controlled release fertilizer industry global market size, regional shares, competitors with a controlled release fertilizer market share, detailed controlled release fertilizer market segments, market trends and opportunities, and any further data you may need to thrive in the controlled release fertilizer industry. This controlled-release fertilizer market research report delivers a complete perspective of everything you need, with an in-depth analysis of the current and future scenario of the industry.

The controlled release fertilizer market consists of sales of controlled-release fertilizer products such as urea formaldehyde and crotonylidenediurea. Values in this market are ‘factory gate’ values, that is the value of goods sold by the manufacturers or creators of the goods, whether to other entities (including downstream manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and retailers) or directly to end customers. The value of goods in this market includes related services sold by the creators of the goods.


The market value is defined as the revenues that enterprises gain from the sale of goods and/or services within the specified market and geography through sales, grants, or donations in terms of the currency (in USD unless otherwise specified).

The revenues for a specified geography are consumption values that are revenues generated by organizations in the specified geography within the market, irrespective of where they are produced. It does not include revenues from resales along the supply chain, either further along the supply chain or as part of other products.