Africa Fertilizer Market Poised to Reach $22.16 Billion by 2033 Amid Rising Food Demand

According to Renub Research Latest Report Africa Fertilizer Market is experiencing steady growth, driven by the continent's expanding agricultural sector, rising population, and increasing demand for food. From USD 13.43 billion in 2024, the market is projected to reach USD 22.16 billion by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.72% between 2025 and 2033. Fertilizers—both organic and inorganic—are critical for boosting soil fertility, improving crop yields, and supporting sustainable agriculture across Africa.

Overview of the Africa Fertilizer Market

Fertilizers are natural or synthetic substances applied to crops and soils to supply essential nutrients, primarily nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These nutrients are crucial for enhancing plant growth, improving crop productivity, and sustaining soil health. Fertilizers in Africa can be broadly categorized as organic, derived from natural materials such as compost and manure, or synthetic/inorganic, produced through chemical processes for precise nutrient delivery.

Fertilizers play a vital role in addressing food security challenges across Africa. Soil erosion, nutrient depletion, and poor soil quality threaten crop production, especially in staple crops like maize, rice, and wheat. Fertilizer application not only enhances crop yields but also improves resistance to pests and diseases, ensuring higher-quality harvests. African governments and agricultural agencies encourage fertilizer adoption through subsidies, training, and awareness campaigns, helping farmers improve productivity while reducing dependency on food imports.

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Key Growth Drivers

1. Rising Demand for Food Security

Africa's rapidly growing population has intensified the focus on food security. Fertilizers are essential to increasing yields and sustaining farm productivity. Governments and international organizations are investing in programs that improve access to fertilizers, train farmers in best practices, and promote sustainable farming techniques.

According to the African Development Bank, Africa's food and agriculture market is expected to expand from $280 billion annually to $1 trillion by 2030. Currently, around 282 million people (20% of the population) are undernourished, and 30% of children experience stunted growth due to malnutrition. Fertilizer adoption is therefore crucial to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for nutrition and the Malabo Declaration goals for ending hunger by 2025.

2. Government Support and Subsidies

African governments are actively promoting fertilizer usage through subsidy programs, tax incentives, and distribution networks, making fertilizers more affordable for smallholder farmers. Public-private partnerships are facilitating the availability of fertilizers, helping farmers maximize yields and sustain agricultural growth.

The African Union has endorsed initiatives such as the 10-year Action Plan for Fertilizer and Soil Health and the Soil Initiative for Africa, aimed at improving access to fertilizers and soil management practices. These programs are overseen by the African Union Development Agency and are expected to drive long-term market expansion.

3. Technological Advancements and Soil Health Awareness

Innovations in fertilizer production, soil testing, and precision farming are enhancing both the efficiency and sustainability of fertilizer usage. Farmers are now able to customize fertilizer application based on soil needs, improving yields while minimizing environmental impact.

For example, in December 2023, Rwanda inaugurated a fertilizer blending plant with an annual production capacity of 100,000 tonnes, supported by a collaboration between OCP Africa and the Rwandan government. Such initiatives increase local fertilizer availability, reduce dependency on imports, and encourage modern farming techniques.

Challenges in the Africa Fertilizer Market

1. High Costs and Limited Accessibility

Despite increasing demand, the high price of fertilizers and weak distribution networks hinder adoption, particularly among smallholder farmers. Limited storage facilities and poor infrastructure in rural areas further reduce accessibility, slowing market growth.

2. Environmental and Soil Degradation Concerns

Overuse or misuse of chemical fertilizers can lead to soil degradation, water contamination, and long-term fertility issues. Promoting balanced fertilization, integrating organic alternatives, and providing education on sustainable practices are essential to minimize environmental impact.

Africa Fertilizer Market by Type

Nitrogen Fertilizers

Nitrogen-based fertilizers are widely used due to their effectiveness in enhancing crop yields and productivity. Key types include urea, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium phosphate, which provide essential nitrogen for plant growth. Rising food demand and government promotion are driving market expansion, though high costs and logistics challenges limit adoption in some regions.

Ammonium Nitrate (N) Fertilizers

Ammonium nitrate is particularly effective for cereal crops like maize and wheat, offering significant yield improvements. Regulatory concerns about its explosive nature pose challenges, but governments are implementing policies for safe handling and usage, ensuring its continued contribution to sustainable agriculture.

Ammonium Phosphate (N) Fertilizers

Ammonium phosphate is critical for root development and early plant growth, particularly in phosphorus-deficient soils. Government initiatives promoting balanced fertilization and crop productivity are fueling demand, although raw material price fluctuations and supply chain inefficiencies remain challenges.

Organic Fertilizers

The organic fertilizer segment is gaining traction as African farmers increasingly adopt sustainable farming practices. Organic fertilizers, derived from compost and manure, enhance soil fertility and reduce chemical dependency. Government incentives and growth in organic farming programs are further driving market adoption.

Fertilizer Market by Form

Dry Fertilizers

Dry fertilizers, such as granules and powders, are widely used due to long shelf life and ease of application. These products are preferred for large-scale agriculture and staple crops. Market growth is supported by farmers seeking cost-effective and long-lasting solutions, although distribution and storage challenges remain.

Liquid Fertilizers

Liquid fertilizers are increasingly used in precision agriculture and horticulture, offering targeted nutrient delivery and rapid absorption. They complement dry fertilizers by enabling efficient nutrient management and improved crop productivity.

Fertilizer Market by Application

Agriculture

The agricultural sector is the primary consumer of fertilizers, using both chemical and organic options to enhance yields and sustain farm productivity. Government support, partnerships with international agencies, and improved distribution networks are key drivers.

Horticulture and Gardening

Fertilizer demand in horticulture and gardening is growing as urbanization and income levels rise. High-value crops and landscaping projects increasingly rely on specialized fertilizers to improve quality and aesthetics.

Other Applications

Fertilizers are also used in forestry, turf management, and plantations, further contributing to market expansion across the continent.

Fertilizer Market by Crop

Grassland – Fertilizers improve forage quality for livestock.

Vegetables – Increasing urban demand for fresh produce drives fertilizer use.

Fruits/Treenuts – Fertilizers enhance fruit quality and yield in commercial orchards.

Roots/Tubers, Sugar Crops, Fibre Crops, Oil Crops – Fertilizer application boosts productivity for staple and cash crops.

Soybeans – Nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium fertilizers enhance yield and support oil and animal feed production.

Cereals (Maize, Rice, Wheat) – Fertilizers are essential for meeting rising consumption and food security needs.

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Key Regional Markets

South Africa

A mature fertilizer market driven by commercial farming and modern agricultural practices. Both local production and imports meet demand, supported by government programs and technology adoption. Challenges include fertilizer affordability and environmental impact.

Morocco

Morocco is a leading global phosphate producer and plays a critical role in supplying fertilizers to other African countries. Government initiatives encourage domestic fertilizer use to ensure food security. Programs like OCP Group’s Mzinda-Meskala Strategic Program aim to expand fertilizer production significantly.

Other key markets include Egypt, Algeria, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Ghana, and Libya, each benefiting from population growth, agricultural expansion, and government interventions.

Leading Companies in the Africa Fertilizer Market

Foskor – Engaged in phosphate mining and fertilizer production.

Gavilon South Africa (MacroSource, LLC) – Provides agricultural inputs and logistics solutions.

Haifa Group – Specializes in specialty fertilizers and crop nutrition solutions.

ICL Group Ltd – Offers a broad fertilizer portfolio across Africa.

K+S Aktiengesellschaft – Focuses on potassium-based fertilizers.

Kynoch Fertilizer – Supplies chemical fertilizers and agricultural solutions.

UPL Limited – Provides integrated crop nutrition solutions.

Yara International ASA – Global leader in crop nutrition and fertilizer innovations.

These companies focus on expanding production, enhancing distribution networks, and developing eco-friendly fertilizers to meet the growing demand across Africa.

Market Outlook

The Africa Fertilizer Market is expected to continue its steady growth trajectory, driven by population growth, rising food demand, sustainable farming practices, and government support. Advancements in organic fertilizers, precision agriculture, and soil health awareness will further enhance market potential.

Key growth areas include mid-sized farms adopting modern techniques, commercial agriculture for staple and cash crops, and urban vegetable and horticulture markets. While challenges such as high costs, limited accessibility, and environmental concerns remain, ongoing investment in infrastructure, education, and technological advancements will strengthen the market.

By 2033, the African fertilizer market is set to reach USD 22.16 billion, underpinning the continent’s agricultural productivity, food security, and economic development, and reinforcing Africa’s position in global agriculture.

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