Agricultural Chelates

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Agricultural Chelates Market is accounted for $1.43 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $2.49 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 9.7% during the forecast period. Essential substances used in farming to improve nutrient availability and plant uptake are called agricultural chelates. These organic compounds, known as chelates, attach to metal ions to form stable complexes that keep nutrients from precipitating out of solution or becoming inaccessible as a result of pH changes in the soil or other chemical reactions. Moreover, chelates help plants absorb essential micronutrients like iron, zinc, manganese, and copper more effectively through their roots by maintaining these elements in a soluble and bioavailable form.

According to the American Society of Agronomy, the use of chelates in agriculture plays a vital role in addressing micronutrient deficiencies in crops, thereby supporting sustainable farming practices and enhancing food security.

Market Dynamics: 

Driver: 

Growing need for better quality and higher crop yields

The increasing number of people on the planet is driving up food demand. Increased crop yields and improved produce quality are the two main goals for farmers and agricultural producers. By guaranteeing that plants receive vital micronutrients in a form that is bioavailable, agricultural chelates are extremely important in this regard. Higher crop productivity, improved plant growth, and increased disease resistance result from this. Furthermore, the adoption of agricultural chelates is being driven by the need for effective nutrient management solutions.

Restraint:

Exorbitant prices for chelate products

The high cost of chelate products in comparison to conventional fertilizers and soil amendments is one of the main barriers to the agricultural chelate market and its growth. Their higher cost is a result of their intricate manufacturing procedures and the application of cutting-edge technologies in the chelate production process. The cost may be too high for small-scale and resource-constrained farmers, which would prevent chelates from being widely used. Additionally, this financial barrier has the potential to impede market expansion, particularly in developing nations where financial constraints are severe.

Opportunity:

Creation of innovative chelate combinations

New and improved chelate formulations are being made possible by ongoing research and development in the field of chelation chemistry. New developments that can overcome existing constraints and increase their application include chelates with improved stability, increased nutrient release efficiency, and compatibility with different types of soil. Moreover, the expanding organic farming industry can be served by the creation of organic and biodegradable chelates. These developments give businesses the chance to set themselves apart from the competition and increase their market share.

Threat:

Threat of alternative products

Different alternative nutrient management strategies, including conventional fertilizers, biofertilizers, and other soil amendments, pose a serious threat to agricultural chelates. Farmers may find these alternatives more appealing because they are simpler to implement or more affordable. Novel rivals are also introduced by developments in nutrient delivery systems and biotechnology. Additionally, the existence of these substitutes may restrict chelates' market share and hinder their uptake.

Covid-19 Impact: 

The market for agricultural chelates was somewhat affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. On the one hand, the production and distribution of chelates were hampered by supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and logistical difficulties, which resulted in short-term shortages and higher costs. Conversely, the pandemic brought to light the significance of sustainable agriculture and food security, increasing the need for effective nutrient management strategies. Furthermore, there was a surge in interest in agricultural chelates to guarantee crop health and productivity, particularly as farmers aimed to optimize yields in response to elevated food demand and uncertainties in the supply chain. 

The Fruit and Vegetables segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

In the agricultural chelates market, the fruit and vegetable segment has the largest market share. The market for nutrient-dense, premium produce is growing because fruits and vegetables are essential parts of a balanced diet. Chelates are essential for providing these crops with the micronutrients they need to grow, yield, and maintain quality. Growing consumer demand for nutrient-dense, organic, and fresh produce has increased the focus on optimal nutrient management in fruit and vegetable production. Moreover, the dominance of this market segment for agricultural chelates is further supported by the global trend toward healthier eating and the growth of the organic farming industry.

The Iron segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

In the agricultural chelates market, the iron segment is anticipated to have the highest CAGR. For the synthesis of chlorophyll and general plant health, iron is an essential micronutrient. A common problem in many crops is iron deficiency, which can result in reduced yields and chlorosis. Chelated iron compounds ensure that the nutrient stays in a soluble and bioavailable form even in difficult soil conditions, which helps to effectively address this deficiency. Additionally, the growing demand for high-yield, high-quality crops and the growing understanding of the role iron plays in plant nutrition are what propel this market's expansion. 

Region with largest share:

Due to its advanced agricultural infrastructure and widespread use of technology in farming practices, North America holds the largest share of the global agricultural chemicals market. The area gains from a strong network of agronomic research institutes and substantial funding for agricultural innovation, which fuels the need for cutting-edge products like chelated fertilizers. Furthermore, the noteworthy market share can be attributed to the focus on environmentally friendly farming methods and effective control of nutrients. Chelated nutrients are being used by farmers in North America more and more to improve crop productivity and correct soil deficiencies, which are helping to maintain the region's leading position in the world market.

Region with highest CAGR:

The agricultural chelates market is growing at the highest CAGR in the Asia-Pacific region. The adoption of contemporary farming practices in nations like China and India, along with an increase in agricultural activities and the need for food security, are the main causes of this rapid growth. The rise in arable land and the increasing knowledge of the advantages of chelated nutrients in enhancing crop yields and soil health drive this region's market's rapid expansion. Moreover, the Asia-Pacific region's strong growth is also a result of government investments in agricultural technology and programs supporting sustainable agriculture.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players in Agricultural Chelates market include Syngenta AG, Eastman Chemical Company, AkzoNobel N.V., FMC Corporation, BASF SE, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Nufarm Limited, Dow Chemical Company, Nouryon, Protex International SA, Aries Agro Limited, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, Solvay S.A., Yara International, Arysta LifeScience Corporation, Van Iperen International B.V. and Andersons Inc.

Key Developments:

In July 2024, FMC Corporation, a leading global agricultural sciences company, announced it has signed a definitive agreement to sell its Global Specialty Solutions (GSS) business to Environmental Science US, LLC, known as Envu, an environmental science company providing innovations that protect and enhance the health of environments around the world.

In February 2024, Eastman has signed a plastic waste feedstock agreement with US-based recycler Rumpke Waste & Recycling for its Kingsport, Tennessee, depolymerisation plant. The facility is nearing start-up and is set to begin shipping its first products in the coming weeks’, Eastman said in a statement.
 
In February 2024, Syngenta Crop Protection, a leader in agricultural innovation, and Lavie Bio Ltd., a subsidiary of Evogene Ltd., and a leading ag-biologicals company, announced an agreement for the discovery and development of new biological insecticidal solutions. The collaboration will leverage Lavie Bio's unique technology platform to rapidly identify and optimize bio-insecticide candidates, as well as Syngenta’s extensive global research, development and commercialization capabilities.

Types Covered:
• Synthetic
• Organic
• Other Types 
 
Crop Types Covered:
• Cereal and Grains
• Fruit and Vegetables
• Oilseeds and Pulses
• Commercial Crops
• Turf and Ornamentals
• Other Crop Types 

Micronutrient Types Covered:
• Iron
• Manganese
• Zinc
• Copper
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Other Micronutrient Types 

Applications Covered:
• Foliar Spray
• Soil Treatment
• Fertigation
• Seed Treatment
• Other Applications 

End Users Covered:
• Agriculture
• Horticulture
• Floriculture
• Other End Users

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

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- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
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