The global water-soluble fertilizer (WSF) market was valued at USD 15.08 billion in 2019 and is anticipated to reach USD 36.26 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 7.12% during the forecast period. In the United States, revenues are expected to approach USD 6.49 billion by 2032, driven by the rising demand for high-yield premium crops and the increasing adoption of specialty fertilizers. In 2019, Europe led the market with a 35.54% share.
Water-soluble fertilizers are gaining popularity as a reliable solution for addressing nutrient deficiencies in crops. While their use was initially prominent in developed regions, continuous R&D initiatives and investments by leading manufacturers have expanded adoption across emerging economies.
Key growth is being fueled by the increasing preference for fertilizers that support efficient nutrient uptake and controlled nutrient release. Moreover, the surge in advanced agricultural practices and rising consumption of fruits, vegetables, and other high-value, nutrient-dense crops are expected to create strong growth opportunities.
Information Source: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/water-soluble-fertilizers-wsf-market-102146
Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted the WSF market due to supply chain interruptions and restrictions on agricultural operations. Lockdowns and trade limitations forced many companies to halt production, while farmers in developing countries reduced spending on premium fertilizers amid declining demand for high-value crops.
Despite this short-term slowdown, the long-term outlook remains promising. Rising concerns over food security and shifting consumer preferences toward healthier, immunity-boosting diets are expected to accelerate demand for nutrient-rich crops, creating favorable conditions for specialty fertilizer providers.
Strategic Developments
Industry players are focusing on strategic collaborations and geographic expansion to strengthen their market presence. For example, in December 2019, Van Iperen entered the U.S. market through its subsidiary and expanded its portfolio of water-soluble and specialty fertilizers in collaboration with Milliken. Such initiatives are enabling companies to broaden their regional as well as global reach.
Regional Insights
The WSF market is segmented into North America, South America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa.
- Asia Pacific is projected to record the fastest growth due to shrinking arable land, water scarcity, and increasing involvement of local producers. Expanding cross-border fertilizer trade further supports regional market development.
- North America is expected to post steady growth, led by substantial R&D investments by key players.
- Europe, valued at USD 5.36 billion in 2019, is forecasted to witness stable growth throughout the study period.
Key Market Players
- SQM (Santiago, Chile)
- Nutrien Ltd. (Saskatoon, Canada)
- ICL (Tel Aviv, Israel)
- Yara International (Oslo, Norway)
- Haifa Chemicals Limited (Haifa, Israel)
- The Mosaic Company (Florida, U.S.)
- EuroChem (Zug, Switzerland)
- Coromandel International Limited (Secunderabad, India)
- Qatar Fertilizer Company (Qatar)
- COMPO EXPERT (Munster, Germany)
Recent Industry Updates
- January 2020: Gujarat Agro Industries Corporation (GAIC) announced plans to import WSF products from China for distribution in Ahmedabad. These products will be marketed under the “AGRO” brand as part of its next-generation fertilizer line.
