NPK Fertilizers (Feed-Grade and Food-Grade) Market Forecasts to 2032 – Global Analysis By Grade (Feed-grade and Food-grade), Nature (Organic and Synthetic), Nutrient Composition (Multi-Nutrient Blends and Custom/Specialty Blends), Form, Production Technol

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global NPK Fertilizers (feed-grade and food-grade) Market is accounted for $3.2 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach $4.5 billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period. NPK fertilizers are nutrient-rich formulations that comprise nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), which are required for plant growth. Feed-grade NPK fertilizers are used to improve forage crops and thereby increase the nutritional value of animal food. Food-grade NPK fertilizers are purified for use in edible crop production, adhering to high safety and purity criteria to prevent contamination. Both grades promote optimal plant growth, but food-grade fertilizers are further processed to fulfill human consumption standards.

According to the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, the total consumption of fertilizers (including NPK) in India during the financial year 2023-24 was approximately 61.26 million tonnes.

Market Dynamics:

Driver:

Growing global population and food demand

The rapid expansion of the global population, along with increasing food demand, is the main driver for the NPK fertilizers (feed-grade and food-grade) market. As populations grow, particularly in developing economies, the demand for increased agricultural output escalates. NPK fertilizers provide balanced nutrition via nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, allowing farmers to optimize crop yields and enhance food quality. Moreover, heightened consumption of meat, dairy, fruits, and vegetables, propelled by growing disposable incomes and evolving dietary tastes, intensifies the demand for effective fertilizers to guarantee food security and sustainable agricultural production.

Restraint:

Price volatility and market fluctuations

The expenses associated with raw materials, like natural gas, phosphate rock, and potash, are influenced by global supply chain interruptions, geopolitical conflicts, and variable energy prices. These factors may result in volatile fertilizer prices, affecting farmers' purchasing choices and profit margins. Moreover, storage and handling expenses, coupled with stringent governmental rules and erratic subsidy policies, exacerbate market instability. This volatility may dissuade investment in fertilizer application and impede the implementation of sophisticated fertilization techniques, ultimately impacting market growth.

Opportunity:

Precision agriculture and smart farming

The incorporation of data-driven technology, including soil testing, remote sensing, and variable rate applications, facilitates the customized administration of fertilizers, enhancing nutrient distribution and reducing waste. Additionally, the development of slow-release and controlled-release NPK fertilizers aligns with the goals of precision agriculture by helping plants absorb nutrients better and reducing harm to the environment. As farmers progressively implement these new approaches, the need for sophisticated NPK fertilizers is anticipated to escalate, propelling market growth and enhancing sustainable agricultural output.

Threat:

Climate change impacts on agriculture

Climate change is a substantial threat to the NPK fertilizers business by modifying weather patterns, elevating the incidence of extreme events, and impacting soil health. Erratic precipitation, drought conditions, and temperature variations can interfere with crop cycles and nutrient absorption, diminishing fertilizer efficacy and agricultural output. Moreover, climate-induced soil deterioration and nutrient leaching may require elevated fertilizer application rates, hence escalating expenses for farmers.

Covid-19 Impact:

The Covid-19 epidemic exerted a complex influence on the NPK fertilizers industry. Despite the rising demand for fertilizers driven by intensified food security concerns, the industry encountered substantial supply chain disruptions, labor difficulties, and transportation limitations. Manufacturing delays and shortages of raw materials resulted in transient price surges and restricted product supply. Moreover, limitations on travel and commerce hindered the prompt distribution of fertilizers to consumers. Notwithstanding these hurdles, the pandemic highlighted the crucial need for fertilizers to sustain food supply networks, thereby strengthening the market's long-term growth trajectory.

The granular segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The granular segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period owing to its simplicity of application, extended shelf life, and compatibility with various crops and soil types. Granular NPK fertilizers provide regulated nutrient release, minimizing the potential for nutrient loss by leaching or volatilization. Moreover, their compatibility with current agricultural technology and economic viability render them a favored option among farmers worldwide. The segment's supremacy is further reinforced by strong demand in extensive field crop production, especially in areas with intensive agricultural methods, guaranteeing its sustained market leadership.

The controlled-release segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Over the forecast period, the controlled-release segment is predicted to witness the highest growth rate, propelled by heightened awareness of sustainable agriculture and the necessity for effective nutrient management. Controlled-release NPK fertilizers deliver a consistent supply of nutrients over a longer duration, improving crop output and minimizing environmental effects. Furthermore, progress in polymer-coating technology and legislative endorsement for environmentally sustainable agricultural inputs are expediting implementation. The segment's swift expansion is credited to its efficacy in high-value and industrial crops, alongside its congruence with precision agriculture trends, establishing it as the market's fastest-growing section.

Region with largest share:

During the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is expected to hold the largest market share, supported by its extensive agricultural foundation, significant population density, and rising food demand. Countries such as China and India, characterized by their vast arable territory and governmental programs advocating for balanced fertilization, significantly contribute to regional supremacy. Moreover, swift urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and changing dietary habits are propelling the utilization of NPK fertilizers to enhance agricultural production. The region's leadership is bolstered by substantial expenditures in agricultural infrastructure and the presence of prominent fertilizer manufacturers, assuring continuous market expansion.

Region with highest CAGR:

Over the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR, driven by the rapid implementation of sophisticated agricultural technologies and precision farming methodologies. The region's vibrant market is marked by heightened knowledge of soil health, governmental backing for sustainable agriculture, and a transition toward specialty and controlled-release fertilizers. Moreover, the expansion of cultivated areas and the increasing demand for high-value crops are driving fertilizer usage. The region's vigorous economic expansion, along with significant investments in local production and distribution systems, establishes Asia Pacific as the fastest-growing market for NPK fertilizers worldwide.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players in NPK Fertilizers (feed-grade and food-grade) Market include Yara International ASA, The Mosaic Company, Nutrien Ltd., EuroChem Group AG, CF Industries Holdings, Inc., PhosAgro Group, ICL Group Ltd., K+S Aktiengesellschaft (K+S AG), Haifa Chemicals Ltd., Kingenta Ecological Engineering Group Co., Ltd., Stanley Fertilizer Co., Ltd., Xinyangfeng Fertilizer Co., Ltd., Uralchem Group, Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc., Borealis AG, OCI Nitrogen (OCI N.V.), Sinofert Holdings Ltd., and Coromandel International Ltd.

Key Developments:

In April 2025, CF Industries has formed a joint venture with JERA and Mitsui to build the world's largest low-carbon ammonia plant in Louisiana. The facility will have an annual capacity of 1.4 million metric tons, with production expected to begin in 2029.

In May 2024, BioPrime AgriSolutions, a leading ag-biotech startup harnessing the power of agricultural biotechnology for sustainable and resilient farming practices, is delighted to announce a strategic partnership with Yara India, a subsidiary of Yara International, the world’s leading crop Nutrition Company. Bringing together BioPrime's cutting-edge SNIPR technology-based “Chiron” with Yara India’s expertise & leadership in crop nutrition, this collaboration marks a noteworthy milestone in serving farmers with sustainable solutions mitigating the risk of crop failures due to weather uncertainties & boosting the crop yields.

In March 2024, EuroChem announces new R&D program to improve fertilizers. The Company announced the launch of a new research program aimed at developing technology for processing comple­­x ores and increasing the recovery of valuable components from phosphate rock. This initiative will increase recovery by 10% and help the Company broaden its resource base.

Grades Covered:
• Feed-grade
• Food-grade

Natures Covered:
• Organic
• Synthetic

Nutrient Compositions Covered:
• Multi-Nutrient Blends
• Custom/Specialty Blends

Forms Covered:
• Liquid
• Granular
• Powdered

Production Technologies Covered:
• Conventional
• Controlled-release
• Water-soluble
• Stabilized

Distribution Channels Covered:
• Direct Sales
• Distributors & Wholesalers
• Online Retail
• Agrochemical Stores

Applications Covered:
• Feed-grade Applications
• Food-grade Applications

End Users Covered:
• Commercial Farms
• Agricultural Co-operatives
• Feed Producers
• Specialty Nutrition Companies
• Other End Users

Regions Covered:
• North America
US
Canada
Mexico
• Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
France
Spain
Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
Australia
New Zealand
South Korea
Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Qatar
South Africa
Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2024, 2025, 2026, 2028, and 2032
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements