Top Fertilizer Companies
31 Jan, 2024

The global fertilizer market surpassed US$ 192.56 Billion in 2023. The global fertilizer market plays a pivotal role in supporting agricultural productivity. The fertilizer market has grown appreciably with growing food demand, an emerging global population, and the need for sustainable farming practices.  Developing regions, mainly in Asia and Africa, contribute substantially to the growing demand for fertilizers as they attempt to enhance food self-sufficiency and agricultural output. With the global population predicted to exceed nine billion humans with the aid of 2050, the rural area is poised to face even large stressors. According to Food and Agriculture Organization opinions, over 70% of the Earth's population will stay in towns by 2050. In one of these situations, farmers more and more rely upon fertilizers to decorate agricultural output and trap up on the worldwide lack of arable land.

Several factors drive the growth of the fertilizer market. Population growth and urbanization lead to expanding arable land, increasing the need for fertilizers. Additionally, adopting precision farming practices and technological advancements contribute to the market's growth. Rising awareness of the importance of balanced crop nutrition and the necessity of fertilizers for sustainable agriculture further propels the industry forward. Government initiatives, subsidies, and support for the agriculture sector also play a crucial role in fostering market expansion.

While the fertilizer market thrives, it faces environmental concerns, volatile raw material prices, and stringent regulations. Balancing the need for increased agricultural output with environmental sustainability poses a significant challenge for the industry. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation, such as the development of environmentally friendly fertilizers and precision application technologies. Market players can capitalize on these opportunities by investing in research and development to create sustainable, efficient, and eco-friendly fertilizer solutions, addressing both environmental concerns and the demand for enhanced agricultural productivity.

The global fertilizer market is poised to achieve a remarkable valuation driven by a multitude of factors, including government initiatives, financial assistance schemes, and rising demand for fertilizers owing to the surge in consumption of fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts for health reasons. The burgeoning population levels and the escalating product adoption across the agriculture industry also contribute significantly to the sales of fertilizers. Furthermore, the growing awareness about the hazardous effects of synthetic chemicals on water bodies and marine life is further fueling the market's growth, making it an unstoppable force.

According to Renub Research, the global fertilizer market is predicted to grow at a rate of 3.80% from 2024 to 2030, reaching US$ 250 Billion by 2030.

Top 10 Global Fertilizer Companies 

Yara International ASA
Founded: 1905
Headquarters: Norway

Yara International ASA (Yara) is a chemical manufacturing company specializing in producing and marketing agricultural development and industrial products. Its operations encompass phosphate mining, ammonia production, and establishing local market expertise and customer relationships. Yara's diverse product portfolio includes urea, compound fertilizer, calcium ammonium nitrate, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, and feed phosphates. Additionally, the company provides environmental solutions such as NOx abatement, odor control, and process solutions. Yara extends its offerings to include equipment and services for storing and handling these products. With production facilities, terminals, and retail outlets across Asia-Pacific, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, Yara caters to markets such as transport, chemicals, mining, utilities, and the food and beverages industry.

In May 2023, Yara International announced its plan to construct a massive global production plant to generate premium specialty crop nutrition products and biostimulants. This state-of-the-art facility is set to be one of the largest in the world for such products, which are essential for achieving food security and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Nutrien Ltd.
Founded: 2018
Headquarters: Canada

Nutrien Ltd is a leading global fertilizer manufacturing company that specializes in providing top-quality fertilizers such as potash, nitrogen, phosphate, and ammonium sulfate, along with innovative agriculture solutions, including crop protection and nutrient products, merchandise products, seed solutions, and digital tools for crop growers. Company team of experts offers unparalleled retail services such as field advisory, crop consulting, and agronomic solutions. With a strong presence across Canada, the US, Australia, Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, India, China, and other Latin American and Asian countries, the company caters to a diverse range of industrial and agricultural customers worldwide.

In 2022, Nutrien Ltd. is considering building the world's largest clean ammonia facility in Geismar, LA. The project's next phase will be the front-end engineering design, with a final investment decision projected for 2023. The $2 billion facility will be constructed in 2024, with production expected to commence by 2027.

K+S AG
Founded: 1889
Headquarters: Germany

K+S AG holds a prominent position among the top 20 global fertilizer companies, with a history dating back to 1889. Over the years, the company has evolved into a significant contributor to the agricultural sector, specializing in extracting and processing mineral resources, particularly potassium and salt-based products essential for crop nutrition.

With a commitment to sustainability, K+S AG boasts an extensive portfolio featuring various fertilizers, such as potassium chloride and sulfate, and salt products in diverse industries. Its innovative mining and processing methods show the company's dedication to minimizing environmental impact. K+S is crucial in the global food supply chain by improving soil fertility and increasing crop yields. Additionally, K+S AG maintains a strategic global presence, operating in Europe, North and South America, and Asia-Pacific. The company's emphasis on research and development positions it at the forefront of advancements in agricultural technology.

CF Industries Holdings
Founded: 1946
Headquarters: United States

CF Industries has emerged as a notable force in the fertilizer industry, famous for its substantial contributions to agriculture by producing and distributing a wide range of nitrogen-based

fertilizers. Playing a pivotal role in promoting soil fertility and enhancing plant growth, CF Industries is considered a key supporter of food production globally.
Epitomizing a steadfast commitment to innovation and sustainability, CF Industries sets itself apart through its strategically positioned facilities across North America, with a significant presence in the United States and other countries worldwide. CF Industries is equipped with cutting-edge technology, with manufacturing plants that ensure highly efficient production processes. With headquarters in Deerfield, Illinois, USA, CF Industries boasts a rich operational history spanning more than 78 years, typically leading the way in adopting sustainable and environmentally responsible practices.

In December 2023, CF Industries acquired Incitec Pivot Limited's ammonia production complex in Waggaman, Louisiana.

Grupa Azoty S.A
Founded: 1927
Headquarters: Poland

Grupa Azoty SA (Azoty) is a specialty chemical company. Azoty researches, develops, produces, and sells engineering plastics, semi-finished products, catalysts, mineral fertilizers, and chemicals. It offers polyamides, pigments, catalysts, and plasticizers. The company also provides sulfur products, including molten sulfur, prilled sulfur, tablets of sulfur, and milled sulfur. Azoty's products find application in manufacturing precision machine parts, pipe connectors, levers, bumpers, gear wheels, coils, paints, flooring, footwear, furniture, wallpaper, and roofing. The company has operations across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

In Feb 2023, Grupa Azoty Group opened an R&D Centre for Biofertilizers at its Gda?sk-based plant Grupa Azoty Fosfory to implement green projects within its agro segment. The center will serve as the Group’s competence center for biofertilizers.

ICL Group
Founded: 1968
Headquarters: Israel

ICL has morphed into a diversified specialty minerals and chemicals company with a noteworthy focus on fertilizers. The company's strong presence spans over 30 countries, enabling a wide-reaching impact on global agriculture. ICL's success is fostered by its commitment to innovation and sustainable operations in fertilizer production. The company is acclaimed for its extensive portfolio of fertilizers, such as potash, phosphate, and specialty fertilizers for different crops and soil types. This wide range allows ICL to cater to the unique needs of farmers globally, contributing to better crop yields and agricultural productivity. Additionally, ICL Group is deeply invested in research and development, continuously striving to create cutting-edge solutions that cater to the evolving challenges in agriculture.

In July 2023, ICL recently announced the launching of a new line of water-soluble fertilizers in North America under their Nova brand. The line includes four flagship products: Nova FINISH™, Nova PULSE™, Nova ELEVATE™, and Nova FLOW™.

Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA
Founded: 1968
Headquarters: Chile

Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA is a non-metallic mining company that extracts, processes and commercializes minerals for crucial industries. Operating primarily in northern Chile, SQM mines process caliche ore and brine deposits. Its diverse product portfolio includes specialty plant nutrients, potassium nitrate, iodine and its derivatives, lithium and its derivatives, potassium sulfate, potassium chloride, and certain industrial chemicals like industrial nitrates and solar salts. The company distributes its products globally through a network of offices and distribution affiliates. SQM has an operational presence in North America, Europe, Asia, and Central and South America.

BASF SE.
Founded: 1865
Headquarters: Germany

BASF SE, commonly known as BASF, is a chemical company that produces, markets and sells a diverse range of chemicals, plastics, crop protection products, and performance goods. The extensive product line includes solvents, adhesives, surfactants, fuel additives, pigments, paints, electronic chemicals, food additives, fungicides, and herbicides. Serving various industries such as construction, furniture, agriculture, electronics, automotive, paints, coatings, home care, nutrition, and more, BASF conducts research and development collaboratively with global customers, scientists, and partners. The company operates globally through a network of manufacturing facilities, maintaining a presence in Asia Pacific, Africa, South America, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

In Nov 2023, BASF and Yunnan Yuntianhua launched a pilot project in China to reduce CO2e emissions from Yuntianhua's urea fertilizer. The results will support climate-smart farming initiatives and global program expansion opportunities.

PhosAgro
Founded: 2001
Headquarters: Russia

PhosAgro is a leading Russian company in the global fertilizer industry, specializing in phosphate-based fertilizers. The company manages the entire production chain with a vertically integrated business model, from mining phosphate rock to manufacturing various fertilizer products. PhosAgro's strategic assets, including mines with substantial phosphate reserves, ensure a stable supply chain and high product quality. Notably, the company distinguishes itself through a commitment to sustainability, implementing advanced technologies to reduce environmental impact, and aligning with global efforts for responsible agriculture.

Internationally recognized for high-quality products and innovation, PhosAgro exports fertilizers to over 100 countries. Awards and certifications underscore its environmental sustainability, product quality, and corporate governance excellence. As a significant force in the global fertilizer landscape, PhosAgro's dedication to innovation and sustainability continues to drive agricultural growth and environmental stewardship.

PhosAgro Group aims to increase its fertilizer exports to Africa twice in the next three years, as of July 2023.

The Mosaic Company
Founded: 2004
Headquarters: United States

The Mosaic Company has become a global leader in agricultural production, specializing in concentrated phosphate and potassium. With over 19 years in the fertilizer industry, Mosaic's expertise is crucial for optimizing crop yields and promoting sustainable agriculture. Renowned for excellence, Mosaic is a top global producer with extensive infrastructure, including mines, processing plants, and distribution facilities spanning tens of thousands of square meters. Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, U.S., Mosaic's nearly two-decade presence in the fertilizer industry underscores its credibility and prominence. Employing around 13,000 individuals across eight countries, the company's enduring commitment to production, distribution, and quality solidifies its esteemed position in the international agricultural landscape.

Mosaic Biosciences was announced in August 2023 to improve global agriculture using advanced technologies to enhance crop health and optimize yield. Its primary focus is on supporting the natural biology of plants and soil.