세계의 농약 시장 규모는 2024년에 2,977억 달러에 달했습니다. 앞으로 IMARC Group은 이 시장이 2033년까지 3,948억 달러에 달하고, 2025년부터 2033년까지 3.2%의 연평균 복합 성장률(CAGR)을 보일 것으로 예측했습니다. 현재 아시아태평양이 시장을 독점하고 있으며 2024년 시장 점유율은 43.2%를 넘어섰습니다. 아시아태평양은 주로 농업 활동 증가, 식량 수요 증가, 생산성 향상을 위한 첨단 농업 기술 채택에 의해 견인되고 있습니다.
세계 인구 증가에 따라 식량 생산의 요구도 높아지고 있습니다. 비료와 살충제와 같은 농약은 작물의 수율을 향상시키고 음식 공급을 보장하는 데 중요한 역할을 합니다. 또한 바이오 농약과 개선된 비료 배합과 같은 농약 배합의 진보가 시장 성장에 기여하고 있습니다. 정밀농업의 기술 혁신도 농약의 효율적인 사용을 뒷받침하고 있습니다. 이 외에도 기후 변화로 인한 병해충의 출현이 증가하여 작물을 보호하기 위한 효율적인 솔루션이 필요하며 농약과 제초제에 대한 의존도가 높아지고 있습니다. 게다가 지속가능한 농업과 종합적 병해충 관리 시스템의 채택이 중요해지고 있으며, 친환경 농약에 대한 수요가 증가하고 있습니다.
미국은 농약 시장의 주요 지역이며, 연구 사업에 대한 투자 증가가 그 원동력이 되고 있습니다. 이러한 노력으로 해충 저항성 기술과 정밀 표적 화학 물질 등의 신규 제품이 도입되고 있습니다. 또한, 과일, 채소, 곡물 등의 작물에서 진균 감염 증가는 고품질의 수율을 확보하고 큰 손실을 방지하기 위해 살균제의 사용을 촉진하고 있습니다. 2024년, Sipcam Agro USA는 캘리포니아 주를 비롯한 16개 주에서 바이오 살균제 Mevalone을 출시했습니다. Mevalone은 천연 유래의 활성 성분으로 포도의 다발 부패와 백분병에 효과적으로 작용하고 저항성 위험도 낮기 때문에 종합적인 병해 관리 프로그램에 적합합니다. 독자적인 Sustaine 기술은 효율성과 환경 안전성을 향상시키고 포도원은 남은 걱정없이 수출할 수 있습니다.
식량 안보에 대한 관심 증가
2080년대 중반에는 세계 인구가 103억명에 달할 것으로 예측되고 있기 때문에 식량 안보 확보는 세계에 있어서 중요한 우선사항으로 부상하고 있습니다(뉴스 기사 'The Sun'에서). 비료와 살충제와 같은 농약은 작물 생산성을 크게 향상시키고 병해충으로부터 자신을 보호함으로써 이 문제를 해결하는 데 중요한 역할을합니다. 예를 들어, 한 산업 보고서의 데이터에 따르면 세계에서 농약을 사용함으로써 농업 생산성이 30-50% 향상되고 경지가 제한되어 있음에도 불구하고 농가는 증가하는 식량 수요를 충족할 수 있습니다. 도시화와 산업이 확대됨에 따라 농지의 가용 면적이 더욱 줄어들어 농약의 효율적인 이용이 필수적입니다. 정교한 비료와 살충제는 작물의 내구성을 높이고 자원 이용을 극대화하며 장기적인 식량 생산을 보장합니다. 지연 방출 비료 및 생물 농약과 같은 농약 제제의 진보는 작물 수율 증가를 촉진하는 동시에 환경 목표에도 부합하고 있습니다. 농산물에 대한 수요가 계속 증가하고 있는 가운데, 농약 시장은 전 세계적으로 지속가능한 농업을 장려하면서 안정적이고 풍부한 세계적인 식량 공급을 보장하는 데 필수적입니다.
고수량 품종 채용 증가
세계 농업 수요가 증가함에 따라 농부들은 수율을 극대화하는 방법을 모색하고 있습니다. 미국 과학건강평의회에 따르면 고수량 작물 품종(HYV)의 사용은 이 목적을 달성하기 위한 중요한 전략이며, 1965년부터 2010년까지 작물 생산량의 40% 증가를 차지하고 있습니다. 그러나 이러한 고수량 품종은 종종 병해충의 피해를 받기 쉽습니다. 최근에는 인도의 나렌드라 모디 총리가 뉴델리의 인도농업연구소에서 고수량으로 기후 변화에 강하고 바이오포티피케이션을 받은 작물 109 품종을 발표했습니다. 총리가 발표한 109개 품종 61개 작물에는 34개의 농작물과 27개의 원예 작물이 포함됩니다. 농작물에서는 잡곡을 포함한 다양한 곡물, 사료작물, 기름씨, 콩류, 사탕수수, 면화, 섬유 및 기타 가능한 작물 씨앗이 발표되었습니다. 원예 작물에서는 과일, 야채, 농장 작물, 괴경 작물, 향신료, 꽃, 약용 작물의 다양한 품종이 발표되었습니다. 농약은 살충제, 살균제, 제초제로 구성되지만, 이들이 없으면 이러한 작물은 생산성과 관련하여 실제 위협이나 잠재적인 위협에 직면할 수 있습니다. 50년 동안 세계적으로 사용되어 온 질소 비료는 HYV 재배가 농업의 효율화를 추진함에 따라 7배로 증가하고 있습니다. 농약 수요는 세계의 식량 안보를 해결하기 위해 농가가 보다 높은 생산성과 수익성을 추구하는 것에 대응한 고수량 작물 품종의 채용에 의해 더욱 증가할 것으로 보입니다.
지속 가능한 농법에 대한 요구 증가
지속가능성은 세계 농업에 필수적인 목표이며, 농약 솔루션의 발전은 이러한 전환을 뒷받침하는 것입니다. Corteva는 하이브리드 밀 기술은 더 이상 자원을 사용하지 않고 수율 잠재력을 10% 증가시켜 자원 생산성을 효율화할 수 있음을 보여줍니다. 이러한 하이브리드 씨앗은 엘리트 품종보다 가뭄 시 최대 20% 높은 수율을 생산하는 것으로 인정되어 기후 변화에 대한 내구성을 제공합니다. 세계에서 5억 5,000만 에이커를 커버하고 세계 칼로리의 20%를 공급하는 밀은 생태계의 균형을 적절히 유지하면서 식량 안보를 크게 향상시킬 가능성을 가지고 있습니다. 2023년 시장가치에서 75억 4,000만 달러 상당의 바이오 농약과 유기비료는 이러한 변화를 지원하고 지속가능한 농업 목표 달성을 지원합니다. 각국 정부는 특히 EU 그린딜과 같은 이니셔티브 중에서 2030년까지 농약 사용량을 반감시키는 목표를 설정하여 친환경 농약 대체품의 가능성을 세계에 확대하고 있습니다.
The global agrochemicals market size was valued at USD 297.7 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 394.8 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.2% from 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 43.2% in 2024. Asia pacific region is mainly driven by the increasing agricultural activities, rising food demand, and the adoption of advanced farming techniques to enhance productivity.
With the global population growing, the need for food production is also rising. Agrochemicals like fertilizer and pesticides serve as a crucial component in improving crop yield and ensuring food supply. Moreover, advancements in agrochemical formulations, such as bio-based pesticides and improved fertilizer mixes, are contributing to the market growth. Precision agriculture innovations also encourage the efficient usage of agrochemicals. Besides this, the growing emergence of pests and diseases due to climate change, requires efficient solutions to protect crops, thereby increasing the dependence on pesticides and herbicides. In addition, the growing emphasis on sustainable farming and adoption of integrated pest management systems is catalyzing the demand for environment-friendly agrochemicals.
The United States is a key region in the agrochemical market, driven by rising investments in research operations. These efforts lead to the introduction of novel products, including pest-resistant technologies and precision-targeted chemicals. Furthermore, the rising occurrence of fungal infections in crops like fruits, vegetables, and grains is encouraging the use of fungicides to ensure high-quality yields and prevent significant losses. In 2024, Sipcam Agro USA launched Mevalone biofungicide in California and 16 other states. Mevalone effectively manages bunch rot and powdery mildew in grapes with naturally derived active ingredients and a low resistance risk, fitting well into integrated disease management programs. Its unique Sustaine Technology improves efficacy and environmental safety, allowing vineyards to export without residue concerns.
Increasing Concerns About Food Security
Ensuring food security is emerging as a critical priority for the world, given the projection that the global population will reach 10.3 billion by the mid-2080s (as per a news article- The Sun). Agrochemicals, such as fertilizers and pesticides, play a crucial role in tackling this issue by greatly increasing crop productivity and providing protection from pests and diseases. For example, as per data in an industrial report, the worldwide usage of agrochemicals results in a 30-50% rise in agricultural productivity, enabling farmers to meet the increasing food requirements despite limited arable land. Urbanization and industrial expansion are further reducing farmland availability, and therefore, the efficient use of agrochemicals is becoming indispensable. Sophisticated fertilizers and pesticides enhance crop durability and maximize resource usage, guaranteeing long-term food production. Advancements in agrochemical formulations, such as delayed-release fertilizers and biological pesticides, align with environmental objectives while promoting increased crop yields. As the demand for agricultural products continues to grow, the agrochemical market is critical to ensuring a stable and abundant global food supply while encouraging sustainable farming practices around the world.
Rise in Adoption of High-yielding Crop Varieties
As global agricultural demands are on the rise, farmers are looking for ways to maximize their yields. According to the American Council on Science and Health, the use of high-yielding crop varieties (HYVs) has been an important strategy to meet this end and has accounted for a 40% increase in crop production from 1965 to 2010. However, these high-yielding crop varieties are often more prone to pests and diseases. Most recently, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi released 109 high yielding, climate resilient and biofortified varieties of crops at India Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. The 109 varieties of 61 crops released by the Prime Minister included 34 field crops and 27 horticultural crops. Among the field crops, seeds of various cereals including millets, forage crops, oilseeds, pulses, sugarcane, cotton, fiber and other potential crops were released. Among the horticultural crops, different varieties of fruits, vegetable crops, plantation crops, tuber crops, spices, flowers and medicinal crops were released. Agrochemicals comprise insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides, but without them, these crops may face threats, either actual or potential, as far as their productivity is concerned. Nitrogen fertilizers that have been used globally across five decades have increased seven-fold with HYV cultivation driving the efficiency of agriculture. Demand for agrochemicals will increase further with the adoption of high-yielding crop varieties in response to the pursuit of higher production and profitability by farmers in order to solve the world's food security.
Growing Need for Sustainable Farming Practices
Sustainability is an essential goal for global agriculture, and advances in agrochemical solutions support such a shift. Corteva indicates that hybrid wheat technology increases yield potential by 10% without using any more resources, making the productivity of resources efficient. These hybrid seeds are recognized for producing up to 20% greater yields in drought situations than elite varieties, providing durability against climate change. Covering 550 million acres worldwide and providing 20% of the world's calories, wheat has the potential to significantly enhance food security while maintaining a proper ecological balance. Biopesticides and organic fertilizers, which were worth USD 7.54 Billion in 2023 market value, support this change and help achieve sustainable farming objectives. Governments, particularly within initiatives like the EU Green Deal, have established goals to cut down pesticide usage by half by 2030, opening up possibilities for environmentally friendly agricultural chemical alternatives worldwide.
Nitrogen fertilizer dominates the market due to its critical role in enhancing crop productivity and ensuring high yields. Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for plant growth, playing a fundamental role in photosynthesis and protein synthesis. The widespread cultivation of cereals such as wheat, maize, and rice, which require substantial nitrogen inputs, contributes to the segment's prominence. Additionally, nitrogen fertilizers, including urea, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate, are cost-effective and readily available, further encouraging their adoption. Farmers prioritize these fertilizers to address soil nitrogen deficiencies, particularly in intensive agricultural systems. Innovations in nitrogen-based fertilizers, such as slow-release formulations, are enhancing their efficiency and reduced environmental impacts, encouraging their use. The dominance of the segment is also supported by government subsidies and initiatives aimed at ensuring food security.
Herbicides represent the largest segment, primarily driven by their critical role in managing weed growth and enhancing crop yields. Herbicides are widely used across various crops, including cereals, oilseeds, and fruits, to control invasive weeds that compete for nutrients, water, and sunlight. The segment's dominance is further supported by the adoption of herbicide-tolerant genetically modified (GM) crops. Farmers prefer herbicides for their efficiency in reducing manual labor and operational costs, especially in large-scale farming. The availability of diverse herbicide formulations tailored for specific weed types and climatic conditions also contributes to their widespread adoption. Technological advancements, including precision spraying techniques, are improving herbicide application efficiency, minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, government programs promoting sustainable agricultural practices emphasize integrated weed management solutions, reinforcing the herbicides growth trajectory. This segment remains pivotal to global agricultural productivity.
Cereals and grains accounts for the majority of share market in 2024, accounting 47.02%. This is attributed to their central role in global food security and agricultural economies. Staples like wheat, rice, and maize dominate cultivation, driven by high consumption rates and demand for both human food and animal feed. These crops are particularly vulnerable to pests, diseases, and weeds, necessitating extensive use of fertilizers and pesticides to ensure optimal yields. The segment benefits from significant technological advancements, including high-yield seed varieties and targeted agrochemical solutions tailored to protect cereals and grains from biotic and abiotic stressors. Furthermore, government actions to improve food production, especially in areas with increasing populations, also contribute to the segment's dominance. The growing use of contemporary farming techniques like precision farming and integrated pest control highlights the importance of crop protection methods in maintaining consistent productivity in cereal and grain production.
In 2024, Asia-Pacific holds the largest market share of 43.2%. The Asia Pacific leads the market due to its extensive arable land, high population density, and dependence on agriculture for economic sustenance and food security. Nations like China, India, and Indonesia are making substantial investments in updating agricultural methods to keep up with the increasing need for food. The consumption of fertilizers, pesticides, and advanced agrochemical solutions is driven by the region's varied climate and assortment of crops. Rapid urbanization and shrinking arable land further encourage intensive farming practices, driving the need for yield-enhancing inputs. Government policies promoting sustainable agriculture and providing subsidies for agrochemicals also fuel market growth. Additionally, the growing focus on enhancing local production is offering a favorable market outlook in the region. For instance, in 2024, Ratnakar India Ltd. opened an advanced technical manufacturing facility in Dahej, Ankleshwar, to enhance agrochemical production and decrease reliance on imports. With an initial ₹60 crore investment in Phase 1 and intentions for Phase 2 by 2025, the site will serve both local and global markets, improving India's agrochemical distribution network.
United States Agrochemicals Market Analysis
In 2024, the US accounted for 74.6% of the total North America agrochemicals market. The United States agrochemicals market flourishes due to sophisticated farming technologies and increasing demand for greater crop productivity. According to Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in 2023, the total output of agriculture in the United States reached USD 448 Billion, of which agrochemical inputs were 15% of the total. A change toward bio-based fertilizers and pesticides is also becoming more prominent due to environmental sustainability objectives and consumer preferences for organic products. Precision farming is being adopted by 60% of large farms and increasing the demand for tailored agrochemical solutions like site-specific herbicides. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations are also promoting the industry towards safe and eco-friendly chemicals. Investment in R&D is quite high; for example, Corteva Agriscience committed USD 1.2 Billion to new agrochemical formulation innovation in 2023 aligned to environmental norms. Moreover, the growing incidences of extreme climatic conditions make it imperative for climate-resilient crop solutions, thus bringing a forward position of the US as a driver of advancement in the global agrochemicals market.
Europe Agrochemicals Market Analysis
Europe's agrochemical market is highly driven by stringent environmental policies, such as the European Union's Green Deal, which targets a 50% reduction in pesticide usage by 2030. The adoption of biopesticides and biofertilizers is witnessing rapid growth as farmers take cues from the EU drive for sustainable agriculture. For example, Horizon Europe committed USD 1 Billion to innovation in farming practices in 2023. That money is what kick-started the development of greener agrochemicals. The growth in organic farming, which increased by 20% in cultivated acres last year, is also giving more traction to natural agrochemicals. The leaders of the market, BASF and Syngenta, innovate. BASF recently launched two biopesticides for wheat and corn in 2024, which marks the beginning of a sustainable farm future for this region. All these developments are making Europe a world leader in sustainable agricultural practices.
Asia Pacific Agrochemicals Market Analysis
The two big players in agrochemicals industry are China and India, driving growth through large-scale agricultural activities and increasing food demands. As per the industry reports, agricultural exports from India touched USD 50 billion in 2023, a significant contribution to the global food supply. Asia's governing bodies are focusing on effective agrochemical use to increase yields, with the Indian USD 2 Billion fertilizer efficiency fund and China's "Zero Growth of Fertilizer Use by 2025" initiative setting the pace. Urbanization and shrinking arable land are driving the need for agrochemicals to ensure maximum productivity. The region is also experiencing rapid technology adoption in farming, such as smart irrigation and crop monitoring, which is further catalyzing the demand for agrochemicals. Major companies like UPL have reported a 15% revenue increase in 2023, with herbicides and insecticides driving the revenue. Local collaborations and innovations will continue to shape the future of Asia Pacific's agrochemical landscape.
Latin America Agrochemicals Market Analysis
Latin America has been the major driver for the global agrochemical market in 2023. As per industry reports, Brazil and Argentina are leading the race with their vast agricultural landscapes, producing record outputs, such as Brazil's 310 million tons of grains in 2023. There are specific challenges that only the region can face; for example, tropical pests and climate variability, driving the demand for agrochemicals such as pest-resistant fertilizers and herbicides. Government initiatives are important, such as Brazil's approval of 35 new agrochemical formulations in 2024 for combating soybean pests. Furthermore, agricultural tax incentives and subsidies help to decrease the cost burden on local farmers, leading to higher adoption rates of new products. The region's medical tourism push also drives sustainable farming to meet international safety standards. For example, companies like Bayer are expanding operations; one example is the USD 100 Million production facility they have set up in Sao Paulo. Agrochemical innovation and adoption now present a Latin American opportunity amid rising private sector investments into the region.
Middle East and Africa Agrochemicals Market Analysis
The Middle East and Africa agrochemical market is growing due to the increasing investment in agriculture and food security initiatives. The governing bodies are heavily investing in agricultural development; Saudi Arabia has allocated USD 500 Million under Vision 2030 for modernizing agriculture, while African Development Bank has pledged USD 10 Billion in 2023 to transform the sector. Increasing investments in countries such as Kenya, such as the establishment of Yara International's USD 20 million fertilizer plant in 2024. Higher adoption of eco-friendly pesticides and fertilizers also results from greater awareness about sustainable farming. The focus of the region on modernizing agriculture along with meeting food security demands makes the MEA a growing market for agrochemical innovations.
Key players in the market are investing in research operations to create innovative products that address challenges like pest resistance and environmental concerns. They are adopting digital technologies, including AI, to enhance product discovery and optimize supply chains. Strategic acquisitions and partnerships are pursued to expand market presence and diversify product portfolios. Companies are also focusing on sustainable solutions, such as bio-based agrochemicals, to meet regulatory requirements and consumer demand for environmentally friendly products. Additionally, they are strengthening distribution networks and providing comprehensive support services to farmers to ensure effective product utilization and client loyalty. In July 2024, Ingevity Corporation has expanded its Capa caprolactone distribution network by forming a partnership with Ultrapolymers Group as the distributor for Capa Bioplastics in Europe. This will increase the sales of Ingevity's biodegradable thermoplastics products throughout the region, in keeping with the company's strategic growth plans. Ultrapolymers Group, being experienced in sales and possessing technical expertise, will rely on its compounders and converters network to serve clients appropriately. This expansion reflects the commitment by Ingevity toward offering innovative and sustainable materials, including those products in various industries like agrochemicals, adhesives, and coatings.