Global Water-Soluble Fertilisers Market Size, Trend & Opportunity Analysis Report, by Type (Nitrogenous, Phosphatic, Potassic, Micronutrients), Mode of Application (Foliar, Fertigation), and Forecast, 2024–2035
Description
Market Definition and Introduction
The global water-soluble fertilisers market was valued at USD 19.49 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 38.96 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period (2024–2035). Since agricultural models are changing with climate variability, population growth, and shrinking arable land situations, water-soluble fertilisers have become very important inputs in precision farming and sustainable crop nutrition. They dissolve completely in water and deliver nutrients directly to the plants either through fertigation or by being sprayed on the leaf surface, fundamentally changing the way growers manage soil health and crop yield.
Farmers, especially in areas where water is scarce, have taken to these fertilisers as the tools that can permit higher nutrient-use efficiency, faster nutrient absorption by plants, and measurable improvements in yield quality. Increasingly, stakeholders along the chain find themselves resorting to rethinking their strategies in the light of the strictly enforced environmental frameworks aimed at drastically reducing nutrient runoff and greenhouse gas emissions associated with conventional fertilisers. Fertigation and foliar application mechanisms are viewed not just as one of the means to enhance precision but also for minimising waste so that every drop of water counts towards fertilising the crops. The rapidly growing demand for fruits, vegetables, and high-value cash crops has exacerbated the adoption of these fertilisers, primarily in developing economies that are currently investing in modern irrigation infrastructure.
On the supply side, manufacturers are redirecting investments towards custom nutrient blends and innovative formulations of micronutrients specifically formulated to respond to the crop- and soil-specific requirements. Another factor driving the demand for soluble fertilisers is the rapid digitisation of agriculture and the increased adoption of IoT-based irrigation systems, further coupled with the fact that soluble fertilisers fit seamlessly into advanced delivery systems. This new environment has created room for innovation and disruption, as producers try to balance agronomic efficiency with competing sustainability imperatives and the emerging concerns regarding food security.
Recent Developments in the Industry
Haifa Group expands its controlled-release, water-soluble fertilisers for precision world agriculture.
In January 2024, Haifa Group launched a next-generation Poly-Feed™ controlled-release fertiliser line for horticulture and high-value crops. By combining water solubility with controlled nutrient release, the company is addressing the increasing need for precision nutrient management under water-limited conditions. The expansion is in line with Haifa's strategy to augment its presence in Europe and Asia, where demand for efficient fertilisers has increased due to adverse climate change.
Yara International launches digital fertigation solutions to increase nutrient efficiency.
In March 2024, Yara International ASA launched the YaraReCrop™ platform that brings together water-soluble fertilisers with digital decision-support tools. Initially piloted in India and Brazil, the goal was to empower farmers with real-time analytics on nutrient uptake, water use, and soil health. This integration of agritech into fertiliser solutions showed the company's consecutive efforts to reposition its portfolio into sustainable farming systems and a digital agriculture approach.
Nutrien invests to expand its water-soluble phosphate fertiliser capacity in North America.
In June 2023, Nutrien Ltd. announced an investment of over USD 500 million to add production capacity for high-quality phosphatic water-soluble fertilisers produced in Saskatchewan, Canada. The objective was to meet increased requirements for greenhouse horticulture and hydroponic applications. Besides, strengthening Nutrien's footprint in North America will help hedge against supply disruptions and capture a bigger market share in value-added fertiliser categories.
Market Dynamics
Freshwater high-value crop cultivation favours the increasing use of water-soluble fertilisers across the world.
There has emerged a huge demand for soluble fertilisers, given their superior efficiency and direct application modes, because of the rapidly growing horticulture, greenhouse farming, and protected agriculture sectors. Cropping systems for fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and flowers require water-soluble fertilisers to achieve their optimum growth because they have very high sensitivities to timing and concentration of nutrients. Agriculture expansion in Asia and the Pacific and Latin America has further reinforced the trend, where the farmers have subsequently started using fertigation-compatible inputs targeted at export standards and consumer demand for quality produce.
Regulatory pressure for sustainable practices induces innovation in low-runoff technologies for fertilisers.
Governments and international organisations are tightening regulations concerning nutrient leaching and soil degradation, forcing fertiliser producers to adjust focus towards sustainable formulations. Water-soluble fertilisers are being promoted as a solution for sustainability because they allow for accurate application while also lessening the environmental footprint of farming. Policies in Europe under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and initiatives in the United States promoting efficient irrigation are paving the way for the adoption of eco-friendly product lines as the forefront of the industry's innovation.
Profitability and price stability for the fertiliser industry are challenged by volatile raw material costs.
On and off, the industry experiences turmoil caused by the fluctuation of input costs, mainly potash, phosphates, and nitrogen sources. Global supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and energy price volatility have amplified the uncertainty surrounding the production economics. This condition has caused the manufacturers to diversify their sources, go downstream, and establish investment in localised production units to insulate themselves from external shocks. Nonetheless, passing on higher costs to farmers in price-sensitive emerging markets is daunting, hence intensifying the competition among leading players.
Technological advancement in irrigation systems opens new growth frontiers for soluble fertilisers.
The adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems across the board, on big farms as well as small ones, is acting as a catalyst for an uptake of fertigation-compatible fertilisers and irrigation systems. Precision technologies like IoT-enabled soil sensors, satellite monitoring, and AI-based nutrient scheduling are well-suited to the application of water-soluble fertilisers. As agritech gets relevant, fertiliser producers who invest in collaborations with digital agricultural companies will be able to realise long-term value from this relationship by delivering integrated solutions instead of commodity products.
Emerging market demand and urban agriculture expansion: untamed opportunities
The growing urban population and the increasing activities of vertical farming, hydroponics, and rooftop agriculture in urban centres unleash new demand channels. The Asia-Pacific region, comprising a huge population base, food demand, and Africa, with increasing investments in modern irrigation, presents extremely attractive opportunities. Such producers of fertilisers that adjust their portfolios toward the smallholder farmers and high-tech vertical farms are expected to achieve considerable resilience in their applicable markets and also drive the broader food security agenda.
Attractive Opportunities in the Market
Green Agriculture Push – Rising environmental awareness accelerates demand for eco-friendly, low-runoff fertiliser formulations.
Digital Farming Integration – Combining fertilisers with IoT and AI-enabled irrigation systems boosts precision nutrient delivery.
High-Value Crop Growth – Expanding fruit and vegetable cultivation sustains steady market demand for soluble fertilisers.
Hydroponic Expansion Trend – Rapid global growth of hydroponics and urban farming drives niche fertiliser applications.
Asia-Pacific Momentum – Growing population and agriculture modernisation stimulate market expansion in Asia-Pacific.
Regulatory Compliance Advantage – Firms aligning with CAP, USDA, and eco-certification gain a competitive edge.
Micronutrient Innovation – Tailor-made blends for soil deficiencies open lucrative product diversification opportunities.
Sustainability-linked Financing – Investments in sustainable production attract ESG-focused capital inflows.
M&A-driven Diversification – Consolidation enhances R&D pipelines and strengthens global supply capabilities.
Farmer Education Initiatives – Expanding extension services boost awareness and adoption of water-soluble fertilisers.
Report Segmentation
By Type: Nitrogenous, Phosphatic, Potassic, Micronutrients
By Mode of Application: Foliar, Fertigation
By Region: North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico), Europe (UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific), LAMEA (Brazil, Argentina, UAE, Saudi Arabia (KSA), Africa Rest of Latin America)
Key Market Players
Haifa Group, Yara International ASA, ICL Group Ltd., Nutrien Ltd., Coromandel International Ltd., The Mosaic Company, Gujarat State Fertilisers & Chemicals Ltd. (GSFC), K+S Aktiengesellschaft, EuroChem Group, SQM (Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile).
Report Aspects
Base Year: 2024
Historic Years: 2022, 2023, 2024
Forecast Period: 2024-2035
Report Pages: 293
Dominating Segments
Nitrogen presently capsulates most of the global fertiliser market, enabled by a perpetual dependence on the same input in just about all cereal-legume combinations, vegetable systems, non-tropical fruits, and industrial crops.
So-called water-soluble nitrogenous fertilisers, including urea, ammonium nitrate, and calcium ammonium nitrate, have enjoyed a dominating share by criticality in the growth and high yield of a plant. As a foremost macronutrient for conducting photosynthesis and chlorophyll synthesis, nitrogen is currently not to be scoffed at, and it also remains vital for almost all cereals, pulses, and vegetable crops. Farmers mostly rely on nitrogenous sources for fertigation and foliar applications for the physiological functions they help release, especially in the case of vegetative growth. The widening nucleotide threats—the rapidly increasing demand for high-yield hybrid seeds, especially in the Asia-Pacific, where consumption is at its peak—are irresistibly raising nitrogen-dependence. Even with the concern that an excessive dose may result in soil degradation and runoff, the vitality of the market has continued with the development of new stabilised nitrogen compounds and N-release soluble mixes, whilst companies are bringing out water-soluble nitrogen poly-blends for drop and greenhouse applications, thereby expecting their raw dominance during these periods.
Foliar feeding competes with fertigation in the precision promotion of irrigation diversity.
Fertigation, a practice whereby fertilisation is done using the irrigation water combined with the Emitsel-type water-soluble fertilisers, has emerged as the fastest-growing mode of application in the global water-soluble fertilisers market. This is based on the fact that it enhances water-use efficiency in such a way that diminution in losses, increases in nutrient-use efficiency, and popping up of root-zone feeding far outweigh any fertiliser-direct-to-leaf system. Also, applying fertigation as a means of watering and cultivation in areas where there are few good rains has worked positively for farmers; they, thus, visit fertigation. Mechanical or electrical fertigation ensures that additional fertilisation meets the site demand, irrespective of the relative concentration of the nutrient residue in the surface substrate. Crops that set up fertigation to be more compatible are those that present a high export potential. Fertigation also fits into the digital farming approach by integrating precision tools into the control system to monitor soil moisture and nutrient levels in real time. On the other hand, foliar feeding, from use in micronutrient corrections and increasing resistance to specific diseases, continues to hold its relevance. Therefore, while the latter has its own appropriateness, emphases behind growth in fertigation encompass diverse demands on its operating scales on large farms in association with greenhouse cultivation.
Micros boom in soil-deficient culture and high-value niche crop markets. Several micronutrients are very important these days.
Use of zinc, iron, manganese, and boron has been considered an excellent addition due to its profoundly varied use and heightened needs on account of the widespread soils we witness with the present-day cultivation of fruits, veggies, and cash crops requiring extremely precise supplementation. Soluble synthetic forms and amphipathic molecules are placed in magnetic fields to study binding site preferences. Cold air leads to minimal vapour activity on both ends. Most of the activities of micronutrients in plants are a helping hand in defence, stretching, and thanks a lot to Metabolite Support, in combating diseases. These formulations contribute to disorder regulation and nutrient supply. In regions of intensive agriculture and fast climate hazards, soil deficits have not spared them at all, so micronutrient demand is seen to rise. Some governments and agricultural extension agencies have also taken steps to overtly promote such supplements to cure hidden hunger, particularly in Asia and Africa. Friends in the fertiliser company have been striving to yield some minor research in chelating forms and liquid forms of micronutrients in commercial generalities and compatibility with fertigation. While its earthfather(s) are never equally important as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, some growth by destiny in the form of use is still expected for the micronutrient bracket, a mere expectation.
Key Takeaways
Nitrogenous Lead Role – Nitrogen-based fertilisers remain indispensable for staple crops and greenhouse farming efficiency.
Fertigation Upsurge – Increasing irrigation modernisation cements fertigation as the leading application method.
Micronutrient Growth – Soil health decline drives demand for tailored water-soluble micronutrient solutions.
Eco-friendly Push – Fertilisers formulated for lower runoff gain favour under tightening regulations.
Asia-Pacific Growth – Expanding food demand and irrigation investments bolster Asia-Pacific dominance.
Technological Synergies – Digital farming integration enhances value-added fertiliser applications.
Greenhouse Adoption – Protected agriculture accelerates reliance on soluble fertilisers for precision.
Urban Farming Impact – Hydroponics and vertical farming stimulate specialised fertiliser innovation.
Price Sensitivity Risk – Volatile raw material costs challenge industry profitability and farmer affordability.
Innovation Imperative – R&D investments in customised blends drive competitive differentiation.
Regional Insights
North America drives market expansion through sustainable farming innovations and irrigation modernisation.
Water-soluble fertilisers have a big market share in North America with a strong foothold in the USA, thanks to its very advanced irrigation infrastructure and extensive greenhouse farming. The farmers of this region were the earliest adopters of fertigation technology, with the backup of government programmes promoting efficient water use and nutrient management. Due to a well-established horticulture sector growing fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals for the domestic and export markets, the demand for soluble fertilisers keeps increasing. In addition, leading companies Nutrien and Mosaic have enhanced local production capacity, which in turn secures the supply with confidence amid global disturbances. The regulatory pressure in favour of sustainability coming from the USDA and consumer demand for residue-free produce is pushing producers to embrace differentiated and more eco-friendly fertiliser formulations. This convergence thus makes North America a key area of significance, such as for consumption and innovation in the global market.
Europe remains the prime mover of sustainable fertiliser innovations under stringent regulatory provisions.
Europe remains the lead user of eco-friendly water-soluble fertilisers due to strict environmental regulations and sustainability agendas under the EU Green Deal and CAP framework. Countries like Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands, with extensive horticulture and greenhouse operations, very much rely on soluble fertilisers to keep yielding competitively and meet the requirements of high quality. European fertiliser companies invest heavily in research and development of formulation systems ensuring minimal environmental impact, e.g., blends of phosphates with low runoff and organic alternatives to micronutrients. Consumer demand for organic produce and sustainably grown products within the region has also made farmers take up water-soluble fertilisers compatible with organic systems. High production costs and complying with regulations are challenges; however, Europe, in its proactive turn towards sustainable agriculture, will always have a place at the forefront of innovation worldwide.
Asia-Pacific appears as a highly promising market due to factors such as a sustained population rise and irrigation exploitation.
Asia-Pacific is bound to actually rule global demand growth for water-soluble fertilisers through a number of factors, largely attributed to its massive population and increasing food consumption, and the fast-modernisation process in agriculture. China and India are right at the heart of the action with major government-facilitated interventions into building irrigation infrastructure and farmer training and extension programmes for promoting fertigation adoption. The intensifying demand for fruits, vegetables, and protein diets from a growing middle class within the region has demanded intensive cultivation with precise nutrient management. Greenhouse farming and hydroponics are now expanding quickly in the largely populated urban environment and opening new frontiers for the consumption of soluble fertilisers. Local fertiliser manufacturers, in addition to international companies like Yara and ICL, are expanding their reach to address the growing demand in the region. Supported by favourable government policies and increasing awareness among the farmers, Asia-Pacific's role as the growth engine for the market will keep strengthening through the planned period.
LAMEA showcases steady growth as irrigation adoption and food security initiatives expand
LAMEA forms an infrastructural status for the emergent but worthy water-soluble fertilisers market, showing promise. Brazil acts in all ways towards the extensive application of water-soluble fertiliser in the cultivation of soybeans, sugarcane, and horticultural crops, powered by government grants on irrigation renewal. The Middle East-from Saudi Arabia-Incl. The UAE is putting money into hydroponics and vertical farming, paving a path towards less foreign food dependency, and developing, therefore, the demand for soluble fertilisers for controlled environment agriculture. Africa, although in its infancy, is gradually transitioning towards fertigation-compatible systems spurred on by food security initiatives and international investments. While infrastructure and affordability are moonlighting in constraining adoption, there remains a positive long-term outlook for adoption, with global fertiliser companies increasingly entering joint ventures and alliances to shore up their presence in these promising frontier markets.
Core Strategic Questions Answered in This Report
What is the expected growth trajectory of the water-soluble fertilisers market from 2024 to 2035?
The global water-soluble fertilisers market is projected to grow from USD 19.49 billion in 2024 to USD 38.96 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 6.5%. This growth is driven by expanding applications in fertigation and foliar feeding, coupled with rising demand for high-value crops and sustainable farming solutions.
Which key factors are fuelling the growth of the water-soluble fertilisers market?
Several key factors are propelling market growth:
Expanding greenhouse and protected agriculture practices worldwide
Rising demand for high-quality horticultural and cash crops
Growing adoption of fertigation and modern irrigation systems
Stringent regulations encouraging sustainable farming inputs
Increasing farmer awareness and precision agriculture adoption
What are the primary challenges hindering the growth of the water-soluble fertilisers market?
Major challenges include:
High cost of water-soluble fertilisers compared to conventional alternatives
Volatility in raw material pricing for nitrogen, phosphate, and potash inputs
Limited adoption among smallholder farmers due to affordability constraints
Infrastructure gaps in irrigation systems in emerging regions
Environmental concerns around nutrient runoff in intensive farming systems
Which regions currently lead the water-soluble fertilisers market in terms of market share?
North America currently leads the water-soluble fertilisers market due to its advanced irrigation systems, strong horticultural base, and emphasis on sustainable agriculture. Europe closely follows, driven by regulatory compliance and leadership in eco-friendly fertiliser innovation.
What emerging opportunities are anticipated in the water-soluble fertilisers market?
The market is ripe with new opportunities, including:
Growth of hydroponics and vertical farming in urban centres
Rising government support for fertigation adoption in Asia and Africa
Development of sustainable and organic-compatible soluble fertilisers
Expansion of tailored micronutrient blends for soil deficiency corrections
Collaborations with digital agriculture platforms for integrated solutions
Key Benefits for Stakeholders
The report offers a quantitative assessment of market segments, emerging trends, projections, and market dynamics for the period 2024 to 2035.
The report presents comprehensive market research, including insights into key growth drivers, challenges, and potential opportunities.
Porter's Five Forces analysis evaluates the influence of buyers and suppliers, helping stakeholders make strategic, profit-driven decisions and strengthen their supplier-buyer relationships.
A detailed examination of market segmentation helps identify existing and emerging opportunities.
Key countries within each region are analysed based on their revenue contributions to the overall market.
The positioning of market players enables effective benchmarking and provides clarity on their current standing within the industry.
The report covers regional and global market trends, major players, key segments, application areas, and strategies for market expansion.
The global water-soluble fertilisers market was valued at USD 19.49 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 38.96 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period (2024–2035). Since agricultural models are changing with climate variability, population growth, and shrinking arable land situations, water-soluble fertilisers have become very important inputs in precision farming and sustainable crop nutrition. They dissolve completely in water and deliver nutrients directly to the plants either through fertigation or by being sprayed on the leaf surface, fundamentally changing the way growers manage soil health and crop yield.
Farmers, especially in areas where water is scarce, have taken to these fertilisers as the tools that can permit higher nutrient-use efficiency, faster nutrient absorption by plants, and measurable improvements in yield quality. Increasingly, stakeholders along the chain find themselves resorting to rethinking their strategies in the light of the strictly enforced environmental frameworks aimed at drastically reducing nutrient runoff and greenhouse gas emissions associated with conventional fertilisers. Fertigation and foliar application mechanisms are viewed not just as one of the means to enhance precision but also for minimising waste so that every drop of water counts towards fertilising the crops. The rapidly growing demand for fruits, vegetables, and high-value cash crops has exacerbated the adoption of these fertilisers, primarily in developing economies that are currently investing in modern irrigation infrastructure.
On the supply side, manufacturers are redirecting investments towards custom nutrient blends and innovative formulations of micronutrients specifically formulated to respond to the crop- and soil-specific requirements. Another factor driving the demand for soluble fertilisers is the rapid digitisation of agriculture and the increased adoption of IoT-based irrigation systems, further coupled with the fact that soluble fertilisers fit seamlessly into advanced delivery systems. This new environment has created room for innovation and disruption, as producers try to balance agronomic efficiency with competing sustainability imperatives and the emerging concerns regarding food security.
Recent Developments in the Industry
Haifa Group expands its controlled-release, water-soluble fertilisers for precision world agriculture.
In January 2024, Haifa Group launched a next-generation Poly-Feed™ controlled-release fertiliser line for horticulture and high-value crops. By combining water solubility with controlled nutrient release, the company is addressing the increasing need for precision nutrient management under water-limited conditions. The expansion is in line with Haifa's strategy to augment its presence in Europe and Asia, where demand for efficient fertilisers has increased due to adverse climate change.
Yara International launches digital fertigation solutions to increase nutrient efficiency.
In March 2024, Yara International ASA launched the YaraReCrop™ platform that brings together water-soluble fertilisers with digital decision-support tools. Initially piloted in India and Brazil, the goal was to empower farmers with real-time analytics on nutrient uptake, water use, and soil health. This integration of agritech into fertiliser solutions showed the company's consecutive efforts to reposition its portfolio into sustainable farming systems and a digital agriculture approach.
Nutrien invests to expand its water-soluble phosphate fertiliser capacity in North America.
In June 2023, Nutrien Ltd. announced an investment of over USD 500 million to add production capacity for high-quality phosphatic water-soluble fertilisers produced in Saskatchewan, Canada. The objective was to meet increased requirements for greenhouse horticulture and hydroponic applications. Besides, strengthening Nutrien's footprint in North America will help hedge against supply disruptions and capture a bigger market share in value-added fertiliser categories.
Market Dynamics
Freshwater high-value crop cultivation favours the increasing use of water-soluble fertilisers across the world.
There has emerged a huge demand for soluble fertilisers, given their superior efficiency and direct application modes, because of the rapidly growing horticulture, greenhouse farming, and protected agriculture sectors. Cropping systems for fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and flowers require water-soluble fertilisers to achieve their optimum growth because they have very high sensitivities to timing and concentration of nutrients. Agriculture expansion in Asia and the Pacific and Latin America has further reinforced the trend, where the farmers have subsequently started using fertigation-compatible inputs targeted at export standards and consumer demand for quality produce.
Regulatory pressure for sustainable practices induces innovation in low-runoff technologies for fertilisers.
Governments and international organisations are tightening regulations concerning nutrient leaching and soil degradation, forcing fertiliser producers to adjust focus towards sustainable formulations. Water-soluble fertilisers are being promoted as a solution for sustainability because they allow for accurate application while also lessening the environmental footprint of farming. Policies in Europe under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and initiatives in the United States promoting efficient irrigation are paving the way for the adoption of eco-friendly product lines as the forefront of the industry's innovation.
Profitability and price stability for the fertiliser industry are challenged by volatile raw material costs.
On and off, the industry experiences turmoil caused by the fluctuation of input costs, mainly potash, phosphates, and nitrogen sources. Global supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and energy price volatility have amplified the uncertainty surrounding the production economics. This condition has caused the manufacturers to diversify their sources, go downstream, and establish investment in localised production units to insulate themselves from external shocks. Nonetheless, passing on higher costs to farmers in price-sensitive emerging markets is daunting, hence intensifying the competition among leading players.
Technological advancement in irrigation systems opens new growth frontiers for soluble fertilisers.
The adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems across the board, on big farms as well as small ones, is acting as a catalyst for an uptake of fertigation-compatible fertilisers and irrigation systems. Precision technologies like IoT-enabled soil sensors, satellite monitoring, and AI-based nutrient scheduling are well-suited to the application of water-soluble fertilisers. As agritech gets relevant, fertiliser producers who invest in collaborations with digital agricultural companies will be able to realise long-term value from this relationship by delivering integrated solutions instead of commodity products.
Emerging market demand and urban agriculture expansion: untamed opportunities
The growing urban population and the increasing activities of vertical farming, hydroponics, and rooftop agriculture in urban centres unleash new demand channels. The Asia-Pacific region, comprising a huge population base, food demand, and Africa, with increasing investments in modern irrigation, presents extremely attractive opportunities. Such producers of fertilisers that adjust their portfolios toward the smallholder farmers and high-tech vertical farms are expected to achieve considerable resilience in their applicable markets and also drive the broader food security agenda.
Attractive Opportunities in the Market
Green Agriculture Push – Rising environmental awareness accelerates demand for eco-friendly, low-runoff fertiliser formulations.
Digital Farming Integration – Combining fertilisers with IoT and AI-enabled irrigation systems boosts precision nutrient delivery.
High-Value Crop Growth – Expanding fruit and vegetable cultivation sustains steady market demand for soluble fertilisers.
Hydroponic Expansion Trend – Rapid global growth of hydroponics and urban farming drives niche fertiliser applications.
Asia-Pacific Momentum – Growing population and agriculture modernisation stimulate market expansion in Asia-Pacific.
Regulatory Compliance Advantage – Firms aligning with CAP, USDA, and eco-certification gain a competitive edge.
Micronutrient Innovation – Tailor-made blends for soil deficiencies open lucrative product diversification opportunities.
Sustainability-linked Financing – Investments in sustainable production attract ESG-focused capital inflows.
M&A-driven Diversification – Consolidation enhances R&D pipelines and strengthens global supply capabilities.
Farmer Education Initiatives – Expanding extension services boost awareness and adoption of water-soluble fertilisers.
Report Segmentation
By Type: Nitrogenous, Phosphatic, Potassic, Micronutrients
By Mode of Application: Foliar, Fertigation
By Region: North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico), Europe (UK, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific), LAMEA (Brazil, Argentina, UAE, Saudi Arabia (KSA), Africa Rest of Latin America)
Key Market Players
Haifa Group, Yara International ASA, ICL Group Ltd., Nutrien Ltd., Coromandel International Ltd., The Mosaic Company, Gujarat State Fertilisers & Chemicals Ltd. (GSFC), K+S Aktiengesellschaft, EuroChem Group, SQM (Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile).
Report Aspects
Base Year: 2024
Historic Years: 2022, 2023, 2024
Forecast Period: 2024-2035
Report Pages: 293
Dominating Segments
Nitrogen presently capsulates most of the global fertiliser market, enabled by a perpetual dependence on the same input in just about all cereal-legume combinations, vegetable systems, non-tropical fruits, and industrial crops.
So-called water-soluble nitrogenous fertilisers, including urea, ammonium nitrate, and calcium ammonium nitrate, have enjoyed a dominating share by criticality in the growth and high yield of a plant. As a foremost macronutrient for conducting photosynthesis and chlorophyll synthesis, nitrogen is currently not to be scoffed at, and it also remains vital for almost all cereals, pulses, and vegetable crops. Farmers mostly rely on nitrogenous sources for fertigation and foliar applications for the physiological functions they help release, especially in the case of vegetative growth. The widening nucleotide threats—the rapidly increasing demand for high-yield hybrid seeds, especially in the Asia-Pacific, where consumption is at its peak—are irresistibly raising nitrogen-dependence. Even with the concern that an excessive dose may result in soil degradation and runoff, the vitality of the market has continued with the development of new stabilised nitrogen compounds and N-release soluble mixes, whilst companies are bringing out water-soluble nitrogen poly-blends for drop and greenhouse applications, thereby expecting their raw dominance during these periods.
Foliar feeding competes with fertigation in the precision promotion of irrigation diversity.
Fertigation, a practice whereby fertilisation is done using the irrigation water combined with the Emitsel-type water-soluble fertilisers, has emerged as the fastest-growing mode of application in the global water-soluble fertilisers market. This is based on the fact that it enhances water-use efficiency in such a way that diminution in losses, increases in nutrient-use efficiency, and popping up of root-zone feeding far outweigh any fertiliser-direct-to-leaf system. Also, applying fertigation as a means of watering and cultivation in areas where there are few good rains has worked positively for farmers; they, thus, visit fertigation. Mechanical or electrical fertigation ensures that additional fertilisation meets the site demand, irrespective of the relative concentration of the nutrient residue in the surface substrate. Crops that set up fertigation to be more compatible are those that present a high export potential. Fertigation also fits into the digital farming approach by integrating precision tools into the control system to monitor soil moisture and nutrient levels in real time. On the other hand, foliar feeding, from use in micronutrient corrections and increasing resistance to specific diseases, continues to hold its relevance. Therefore, while the latter has its own appropriateness, emphases behind growth in fertigation encompass diverse demands on its operating scales on large farms in association with greenhouse cultivation.
Micros boom in soil-deficient culture and high-value niche crop markets. Several micronutrients are very important these days.
Use of zinc, iron, manganese, and boron has been considered an excellent addition due to its profoundly varied use and heightened needs on account of the widespread soils we witness with the present-day cultivation of fruits, veggies, and cash crops requiring extremely precise supplementation. Soluble synthetic forms and amphipathic molecules are placed in magnetic fields to study binding site preferences. Cold air leads to minimal vapour activity on both ends. Most of the activities of micronutrients in plants are a helping hand in defence, stretching, and thanks a lot to Metabolite Support, in combating diseases. These formulations contribute to disorder regulation and nutrient supply. In regions of intensive agriculture and fast climate hazards, soil deficits have not spared them at all, so micronutrient demand is seen to rise. Some governments and agricultural extension agencies have also taken steps to overtly promote such supplements to cure hidden hunger, particularly in Asia and Africa. Friends in the fertiliser company have been striving to yield some minor research in chelating forms and liquid forms of micronutrients in commercial generalities and compatibility with fertigation. While its earthfather(s) are never equally important as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, some growth by destiny in the form of use is still expected for the micronutrient bracket, a mere expectation.
Key Takeaways
Nitrogenous Lead Role – Nitrogen-based fertilisers remain indispensable for staple crops and greenhouse farming efficiency.
Fertigation Upsurge – Increasing irrigation modernisation cements fertigation as the leading application method.
Micronutrient Growth – Soil health decline drives demand for tailored water-soluble micronutrient solutions.
Eco-friendly Push – Fertilisers formulated for lower runoff gain favour under tightening regulations.
Asia-Pacific Growth – Expanding food demand and irrigation investments bolster Asia-Pacific dominance.
Technological Synergies – Digital farming integration enhances value-added fertiliser applications.
Greenhouse Adoption – Protected agriculture accelerates reliance on soluble fertilisers for precision.
Urban Farming Impact – Hydroponics and vertical farming stimulate specialised fertiliser innovation.
Price Sensitivity Risk – Volatile raw material costs challenge industry profitability and farmer affordability.
Innovation Imperative – R&D investments in customised blends drive competitive differentiation.
Regional Insights
North America drives market expansion through sustainable farming innovations and irrigation modernisation.
Water-soluble fertilisers have a big market share in North America with a strong foothold in the USA, thanks to its very advanced irrigation infrastructure and extensive greenhouse farming. The farmers of this region were the earliest adopters of fertigation technology, with the backup of government programmes promoting efficient water use and nutrient management. Due to a well-established horticulture sector growing fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals for the domestic and export markets, the demand for soluble fertilisers keeps increasing. In addition, leading companies Nutrien and Mosaic have enhanced local production capacity, which in turn secures the supply with confidence amid global disturbances. The regulatory pressure in favour of sustainability coming from the USDA and consumer demand for residue-free produce is pushing producers to embrace differentiated and more eco-friendly fertiliser formulations. This convergence thus makes North America a key area of significance, such as for consumption and innovation in the global market.
Europe remains the prime mover of sustainable fertiliser innovations under stringent regulatory provisions.
Europe remains the lead user of eco-friendly water-soluble fertilisers due to strict environmental regulations and sustainability agendas under the EU Green Deal and CAP framework. Countries like Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands, with extensive horticulture and greenhouse operations, very much rely on soluble fertilisers to keep yielding competitively and meet the requirements of high quality. European fertiliser companies invest heavily in research and development of formulation systems ensuring minimal environmental impact, e.g., blends of phosphates with low runoff and organic alternatives to micronutrients. Consumer demand for organic produce and sustainably grown products within the region has also made farmers take up water-soluble fertilisers compatible with organic systems. High production costs and complying with regulations are challenges; however, Europe, in its proactive turn towards sustainable agriculture, will always have a place at the forefront of innovation worldwide.
Asia-Pacific appears as a highly promising market due to factors such as a sustained population rise and irrigation exploitation.
Asia-Pacific is bound to actually rule global demand growth for water-soluble fertilisers through a number of factors, largely attributed to its massive population and increasing food consumption, and the fast-modernisation process in agriculture. China and India are right at the heart of the action with major government-facilitated interventions into building irrigation infrastructure and farmer training and extension programmes for promoting fertigation adoption. The intensifying demand for fruits, vegetables, and protein diets from a growing middle class within the region has demanded intensive cultivation with precise nutrient management. Greenhouse farming and hydroponics are now expanding quickly in the largely populated urban environment and opening new frontiers for the consumption of soluble fertilisers. Local fertiliser manufacturers, in addition to international companies like Yara and ICL, are expanding their reach to address the growing demand in the region. Supported by favourable government policies and increasing awareness among the farmers, Asia-Pacific's role as the growth engine for the market will keep strengthening through the planned period.
LAMEA showcases steady growth as irrigation adoption and food security initiatives expand
LAMEA forms an infrastructural status for the emergent but worthy water-soluble fertilisers market, showing promise. Brazil acts in all ways towards the extensive application of water-soluble fertiliser in the cultivation of soybeans, sugarcane, and horticultural crops, powered by government grants on irrigation renewal. The Middle East-from Saudi Arabia-Incl. The UAE is putting money into hydroponics and vertical farming, paving a path towards less foreign food dependency, and developing, therefore, the demand for soluble fertilisers for controlled environment agriculture. Africa, although in its infancy, is gradually transitioning towards fertigation-compatible systems spurred on by food security initiatives and international investments. While infrastructure and affordability are moonlighting in constraining adoption, there remains a positive long-term outlook for adoption, with global fertiliser companies increasingly entering joint ventures and alliances to shore up their presence in these promising frontier markets.
Core Strategic Questions Answered in This Report
What is the expected growth trajectory of the water-soluble fertilisers market from 2024 to 2035?
The global water-soluble fertilisers market is projected to grow from USD 19.49 billion in 2024 to USD 38.96 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 6.5%. This growth is driven by expanding applications in fertigation and foliar feeding, coupled with rising demand for high-value crops and sustainable farming solutions.
Which key factors are fuelling the growth of the water-soluble fertilisers market?
Several key factors are propelling market growth:
Expanding greenhouse and protected agriculture practices worldwide
Rising demand for high-quality horticultural and cash crops
Growing adoption of fertigation and modern irrigation systems
Stringent regulations encouraging sustainable farming inputs
Increasing farmer awareness and precision agriculture adoption
What are the primary challenges hindering the growth of the water-soluble fertilisers market?
Major challenges include:
High cost of water-soluble fertilisers compared to conventional alternatives
Volatility in raw material pricing for nitrogen, phosphate, and potash inputs
Limited adoption among smallholder farmers due to affordability constraints
Infrastructure gaps in irrigation systems in emerging regions
Environmental concerns around nutrient runoff in intensive farming systems
Which regions currently lead the water-soluble fertilisers market in terms of market share?
North America currently leads the water-soluble fertilisers market due to its advanced irrigation systems, strong horticultural base, and emphasis on sustainable agriculture. Europe closely follows, driven by regulatory compliance and leadership in eco-friendly fertiliser innovation.
What emerging opportunities are anticipated in the water-soluble fertilisers market?
The market is ripe with new opportunities, including:
Growth of hydroponics and vertical farming in urban centres
Rising government support for fertigation adoption in Asia and Africa
Development of sustainable and organic-compatible soluble fertilisers
Expansion of tailored micronutrient blends for soil deficiency corrections
Collaborations with digital agriculture platforms for integrated solutions
Key Benefits for Stakeholders
The report offers a quantitative assessment of market segments, emerging trends, projections, and market dynamics for the period 2024 to 2035.
The report presents comprehensive market research, including insights into key growth drivers, challenges, and potential opportunities.
Porter's Five Forces analysis evaluates the influence of buyers and suppliers, helping stakeholders make strategic, profit-driven decisions and strengthen their supplier-buyer relationships.
A detailed examination of market segmentation helps identify existing and emerging opportunities.
Key countries within each region are analysed based on their revenue contributions to the overall market.
The positioning of market players enables effective benchmarking and provides clarity on their current standing within the industry.
The report covers regional and global market trends, major players, key segments, application areas, and strategies for market expansion.
Table of Contents
285 Pages
- Chapter 1. Market Snapshot
- 1.1. Market Definition & Report Overview
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Key Takeaways
- 1.3.1. Top Investment Pockets
- 1.3.2. Top Winning Strategies
- 1.3.3. Market Indicators Analysis
- 1.3.4. Top Impacting Factors
- 1.4. Application Ecosystem Analysis
- 1.4.1. 360’ Analysis
- Chapter 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. CEO/CXO Standpoint
- 2.2. Strategic Insights
- 2.3. ESG Analysis
- 2.4. Market Attractiveness Analysis (top leader’s point of view on the market)
- 2.5. Key Findings
- Chapter 3. Research Methodology
- 3.1. Research Objective
- 3.2. Supply Side Analysis
- 3.2.1. Primary Research
- 3.2.2. Secondary Research
- 3.3. Demand Side Analysis
- 3.3.1. Primary Research
- 3.3.2. Secondary Research
- 3.4. Forecasting Models
- 3.4.1. Assumptions
- 3.4.2. Forecasts Parameters
- 3.5. Competitive breakdown
- 3.5.1. Market Positioning
- 3.5.2. Competitive Strength
- 3.6. Scope of the Study
- 3.6.1. Research Assumption
- 3.6.2. Inclusion & Exclusion
- 3.6.3. Limitations
- Chapter 4. Industry Landscape
- 4.1. Market Dynamics
- 4.1.1. Drivers
- 4.1.2. Restraints
- 4.1.3. Opportunities
- 4.2. Porter’s 5 Forces Model
- 4.2.1. Bargaining Power of Buyer
- 4.2.2. Bargaining Power of Supplier
- 4.2.3. Threat of New Entrants
- 4.2.4. Threat of Substitutes
- 4.2.5. Competitive Rivalry
- 4.3. Value Chain Analysis
- 4.4. PESTEL Analysis
- 4.5. Pricing Analysis and Trends
- 4.6. Key growth factors and trends analysis
- 4.7. Market Share Analysis (2024)
- 4.8. Top Winning Strategies (2024)
- 4.9. Trade Data Analysis (Import Export)
- 4.10. Regulatory Guidelines
- 4.11. Historical Data Analysis
- 4.12. Analyst Recommendation & Conclusion
- Chapter 5. Global Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market Size & Forecasts by Type 2024-2035
- 5.1. Market Overview
- 5.1.1. Market Size and Forecast By Type 2024-2035
- 5.2. Nitrogenous
- 5.2.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 5.2.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 5.2.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- 5.3. Phosphatic
- 5.3.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 5.3.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 5.3.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- 5.4. Potassic
- 5.4.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 5.4.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 5.4.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- 5.5. Micronutrients
- 5.5.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 5.5.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 5.5.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- Chapter 6. Global Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market Size & Forecasts by Application 2024–2035
- 6.1. Market Overview
- 6.1.1. Market Size and Forecast By Application 2024-2035
- 6.2. Foliar
- 6.2.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 6.2.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 6.2.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- 6.3. Fertigation
- 6.3.1. Market definition, current market trends, growth factors, and opportunities
- 6.3.2. Market size analysis, by region, 2024-2035
- 6.3.3. Market share analysis, by country, 2024-2035
- Chapter 7. Global Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market Size & Forecasts by Region 2024–2035
- 7.1. Regional Overview 2024-2035
- 7.2. Top Leading and Emerging Nations
- 7.3. North America Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.3.1. U.S. Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.3.1.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.1.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.2. Canada Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.3.2.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.2.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.3. Mexico Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.3.3.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.3.3.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4. Europe Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.4.1. UK Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.4.1.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.1.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.2. Germany Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.4.2.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.2.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.3. France Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.4.3.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.3.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.4. Spain Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.4.4.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.4.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.5. Italy Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.4.5.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.5.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.6. Rest of Europe Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.4.6.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.4.6.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5. Asia Pacific Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.5.1. China Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.5.1.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.1.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.2. India Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.5.2.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.2.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.3. Japan Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.5.3.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.3.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.4. Australia Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.5.4.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.4.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.5. South Korea Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.5.5.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.5.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.6. Rest of APAC Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.5.6.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.5.6.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6. LAMEA Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.6.1. Brazil Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.6.1.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.1.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.2. Argentina Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.6.2.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.2.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.3. UAE Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.6.3.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.3.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.4. Saudi Arabia (KSA Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.6.4.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.4.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.5. Africa Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.6.5.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.5.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.6. Rest of LAMEA Water-Soluble Fertilizers Market
- 7.6.6.1. Type breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- 7.6.6.2. Application breakdown size & forecasts, 2024-2035
- Chapter 8. Company Profiles
- 8.1. Top Market Strategies
- 8.2. Company Profiles
- 8.2.1. Haifa Group
- 8.2.1.1. Company Overview
- 8.2.1.2. Key Executives
- 8.2.1.3. Company Snapshot
- 8.2.1.4. Financial Performance (Subject to Data Availability)
- 8.2.1.5. Product/Services Port
- 8.2.1.6. Recent Development
- 8.2.1.7. Market Strategies
- 8.2.1.8. SWOT Analysis
- 8.2.2. Yara International ASA
- 8.2.3. ICL Group Ltd.
- 8.2.4. Nutrien Ltd.
- 8.2.5. Coromandel International Ltd.
- 8.2.6. The Mosaic Company
- 8.2.7. Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd. (GSFC)
- 8.2.8. K+S Aktiengesellschaft
- 8.2.9. EuroChem Group
- 8.2.10. SQM (Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile)
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