Have you ever thought about what goes into the food on your plate? Believe it or not, about 50% of the produce we consume is cultivated with the help of fertilizers. Behind every meal and every orchard, stands a manufacturer, quietly shaping our world.
A select group of major fertilizer companies dominate the market, providing growers with this essential component of modern farming. These businesses are known for their extensive product portfolios, large-scale operations, and significant technological advancements.
Below we examine the top industry players, their market footprint, and their contribution to global agricultural output.
Let’s get into it.
The Largest Fertilizer Companies in the World 2024 [Key Takeaways]
- The Australian giant Wesfarmers is the biggest fertilizer company in the world as of January 2024 with a market capitalization of $42.49 billion.
- Canada-based Nutrien is the second-largest provider on the market with thousands of retail selling locations in several countries.
- The United States market tops the fertilizer manufacturing industry with 54.4 metric tons (MT) of product produced, closely followed by India and Russia with 52.6MT and 51.9MT, respectively.
- CF Industries and Yara International are the two biggest manufacturers of nitrogen-based products.
- Leading fertilizer companies prioritize sustainability and develop eco-friendly products and initiatives to reduce their environmental impact.
The Role of Fertilizer Companies in the Agricultural Sector
Nutrient deficiency in soils is a pervasive challenge plaguing modern farming operations. Invasive practices and natural processes, such as erosion and climate change are only a handful of the contributing factors to this overarching issue. A significant portion of agricultural land suffers from depleted levels of the top three essential elements for plant development: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK).
Fertilizer manufacturers are responsible for addressing this challenge by producing and distributing these crucial nutrients worldwide. A handful of these suppliers have established a strong industry foothold due to their large-scale operations and strategic initiatives.
What you might notice about most companies listed below is that fertilizer manufacturing is only one segment of their business activities. The majority of these manufacturers occupy a large portion of several other industrial sectors, most commonly mining and logistics.
Furthermore, this is the most notable selection of the top 100 fertilizer companies in the world devoted to championing responsible farming practices. Striving to balance productivity and stewardship has prompted these businesses to develop revolutionary eco-friendly solutions.
In recent years, the biggest fertilizer-producing countries worldwide are the United States, closely followed by India and Russia. Don’t get too used to this top-three positioning, however. Despite recent fertilizer trends projecting steady growth in the sector, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict is reshaping the market share for some of these major players.
Top 15 Fertilizer Companies in the World
1. Wesfarmers
Headquarters: Perth, Australia
Market capitalization: $42.49 billion
2023 revenue: $28.74 billion
Wesfarmers has evolved into the largest fertilizer company in the world after rising from humble beginnings as a Western Australian farmers’ cooperative in 1914. Its retail arm includes leading brands like Bunnings Warehouse, Australia’s largest home improvement retailer, and Kmart Group, known for its value-driven offerings.
Wesfarmers’ industrial division focuses on chemicals, energy, and fertilizer production. The company’s dedication to sustainability is evident in its contributions to carbon emission reductions, diversity promotion, and community support initiatives.
With a track record of resilience and innovation, Wesfarmers continues to drive growth and create long-term value. One of Wesfarmers’ key strengths lies in its robust distribution network, which enables the efficient supply of fertilizers to agricultural markets both domestically and internationally.
2. Nutrien Ltd.
Headquarters: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
Market capitalization: $27.43 billion
2023 revenue: $29 billion
A powerhouse born from the 2018 merger of PotashCorp and Agrium, Nutrien Ltd. is a behemoth in agricultural solutions. Its global footprint blankets over 100 countries thanks to a diverse portfolio spanning fertilizers, crop protection products, and digital farming technologies.
As the world’s largest soft rock miner and potash producer, Nutrien maintains over 20 million tons of potash capacity across six mines in Saskatchewan. Operating under the tagline “feeding the future”, the company shows an unwavering commitment to innovation and resilience in the face of market uncertainties.
3. CF Industries Holdings
Headquarters: Deerfield, Illinois, United States
Market capitalization: $15.18 billion
2023 revenue: $6.63 billion
CF Industries Holdings, Inc. boasts the largest ammonia plant capacity in the United States and globally. The company’s operations are instrumental in supporting agricultural productivity in North America.
Over the past few years, the company has continued to invest in improving its production facilities. CF Industries’ advanced farming solutions and customer-centric approach have positioned it as a trusted partner for growers seeking high-quality nitrogen fertilizers. Moreover, their contributions to a clean energy economy include green ammonia projects and carbon abatement initiatives.
4. Sociedad Quimica y Minera
Headquarters: Santiago, Chile
Market capitalization: $14.19 billion
2023 revenue: $7.46 billion
Sociedad Química y Minera (SQM) is a Chilean chemical leader, specializing in plant nutrition, iodine, lithium, and industrial chemicals. Established in 1968 and headquartered in Santiago, it’s also one of the world’s largest lithium producers on the planet.
SQM’s operations focus on mining and processing in Chile’s Atacama Desert. Their market presence serves customers in 110 nations worldwide from 20 office locations.
Achieving carbon neutrality in manufacturing by 2030 is one of SQM’s primary commitments. Additionally, the company is focused on strengthening the development of neighboring communities and has established a high standard for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting.
5. SABIC Agri-Nutrients
Headquarters: Jubail, Saudi Arabia
Market capitalization: $15.06 billion
2023 revenue: $2.94 billion
“Chemistry that matters” is the tagline of SABIC Agri-Nutrients, the most prominent fertilizer supplier in the Middle East. Formerly known as Saudi Arabian Fertilizer Company or SAFCO, SABIC is recognized for its reputation as the first petrochemical business in Saudi Arabia. The company specializes in ammonia and urea fertilizer production.
SABIC boldly aims to exceed the expectations of its customers, shareholders, and employees and does so with unwavering integrity. The organization also owns stakes in other businesses, including 3.87% in Arabian Industrial Fibers Company and 1.69% in Yanbu National Petrochemical Company.
6. The Mosaic Company
Headquarters: Tampa, Florida, United States
Market capitalization: $10.51 billion
2023 revenue: $13.7 billion
The Mosaic Company has cultivated a legacy as a premier producer and marketer of concentrated phosphate and potash. The organization was formed in 2004 through the merger of IMC Global and Cargill’s crop nutrition division.
In 2023 the company branched into agricultural biologics through its Mosaic Biosciences initiative. Despite anticipating a $30 billion market by 2029, the fertilizer giant remains cautious of its investments until the efficacy of biologics is proven.
7. Yara International
Headquarters: Oslo, Norway
Market capitalization: $7.90 billion
2023 revenue: $15.5 billion
Yara International’s mission statement is to create a nature-positive food future and it shows in all of their operations. This Norwegian-based global leader is known for promoting sustainable agriculture and efficient supply chains. Its primary operational focus is the production and distribution of hydrogen fertilizers. Yara is also a pioneer in precision farming solutions with a wide selection of crop nutrition products and digital farming tools.
With operations in over 60 countries, Yara empowers growers worldwide to reduce their environmental impact while maximizing crop yields. The company’s groundbreaking emission reduction technologies help mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and promote water conservation in agriculture.
8. Vaki Chim (GrowPlant)
Headquarters: Markovo, Bulgaria
Bulgarian manufacturer Vaki Chim trades under the brand name GrowPlant and has more than 20 years of presence in the market. What sets this brand apart is its commitment to customer satisfaction, promptly providing both distributors and growers the products they need.
One of Vaki Chim’s key strengths lies in its ability to provide top-tier fertilizers at bargain costs. In a market with turbulent prices, they rival even their biggest competitors thanks to their products made with premium-quality raw materials.
Most uniquely, Vaki Chim is one of the few fertilizer companies that specializes in the production of gel fertilizers. Grow Plant’s Gel Max and Black Energy ranges are formulated using advanced technologies and come in a concentrated water-soluble composition. Both product lines are the superior choice for those looking to achieve the perfect nutrient balance in their plants.
As a customer-focused company, Vaki Chim is dedicated to catering to the diverse needs and requirements of all farmers. With a range of products tailored to different crop types and growing conditions, Vaki Chim supports maximizing agricultural output and sustainability.
9. ICL Group Ltd.
Headquarters: Tel Aviv, Israel
Market capitalization: $6.09 billion
2023 Revenue: $7.48 billion
Boasting a dedicated team of 12,000 full-time employees worldwide is only one aspect of ICL Group’s unparalleled market footprint. Since its establishment in 1968, the company has become a cornerstone agricultural fertilizer manufacturer with 38 production sites spanning 13 countries.
ICL operates across three key markets: agriculture, food, and engineered materials. Their extensive product selection includes controlled-release fertilizers, fertigation solutions, liquid fertilizers, and essential agricultural products. This diverse range of offerings solidifies ICL’s position as a pioneer in next-generation farming solutions.
10. OCI N.V.
Headquarters: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Market capitalization: $5.72 billion
2023 revenue: $5.021 billion
Netherlands-based OCI is a prolific producer of natural gas-based fertilizers and chemicals with operations spanning multiple continents. Home to a diverse workforce of approximately 4,100 employees, the company is strategically positioned with unrivaled global capabilities and assets. The business actively contributes to a green shift in fertilizer manufacturing by aiming to deliver ammonia with significantly lower emissions.
But how did they get to the top? OCI has a rich history of strategic mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships. In December 2023, they closed a sale of their entire stake in Iowa Fertilizer Company to Koch AG & Energy Solutions for $3.6 billion.
In April 2024 OCI announced a joint effort with Compo Expert, a collaboration that aims to reduce the carbon footprint of fertilizers. But OCI’s mission extends beyond business operations. The company regularly contributes to community development for educational programs and infrastructure projects in its operational regions.
11. Coromandel International Limited
Headquarters: Hyderabad, India
Market capitalization: $4.11 billion
2023 revenue: 297.84 billion Indian rupees (approx. $3.57 billion)
Coromandel International Ltd. has been a trailblazer in India’s agricultural sector since its parent company was founded in 1906. It is India’s largest private-sector phosphatic fertilizer producer and the world’s biggest supplier of neem-based bio-pesticides.
The business is part of the Murugappa Group and has received recognition for its contributions to the agricultural sector. Most notably, Coromandel was awarded the annual Borlaug Award for outstanding Indian science in agriculture and environment.
Coromandel’s expansive network encompasses 750+ rural retail outlets. Guided by its “farmer first” ethos, the company strives to enhance prosperity for all stakeholders and clients while delivering superior value and sustainable growth.
12. K+S AG
Headquarters: Kassel, Germany
Market capitalization: $2.68 billion
2023 revenue: €3.87 billion (approx. $4.13 billion)
Over 50 production and distribution sites on five continents make K+S AG (K+S) Europe’s largest supplier of potash for fertilizer use. The company’s flagship product range, KALISOP, offers premium potash blends known for their high purity and effectiveness.
Beyond agriculture, K+S’s impact reverberates across diverse sectors, including oil and gas drilling, pharmaceuticals, and water treatment, among others. Complementing its product lineup, K+S extends its services to include granulation and logistics solutions as well.
K+S was the biggest salt producer in Europe until 2021 when it sold that branch of its business for $3.2 billion.
13. Chambal Fertilisers
Headquarters: District Kota, Rajasthan, India
Market capitalization: $2.04 billion
2023 revenue: $2.29 billion
Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals Limited is a private-sector fertilizer producer in India that contributes nearly 13% to the nation’s total urea production. Its three modern urea plants in Gadepan, Rajasthan, have a combined annual capacity exceeding 3.4 million metric tons.
Noteworthy for its sustainability strategies, Chambal Fertilisers minimizes environmental impact through best practices in production and distribution. Moreover, the company supports farmer education and empowerment initiatives, positively impacting growth and prosperity in India.
14. CVR Partners
Headquarters: Sugar Land, Texas, United States
Market capitalization: $0.84 billion
2023 revenue: $681.48 million
CVR Partners is a growth-oriented limited partnership formed by CVR Energy, Inc. to own, operate, and grow its nitrogen fertilizer business. The company runs two major facilities, one located in Coffeyville, Kansas, and another in East Dubuque, Illinois. These sites produce ammonia and convert it into other nitrogen-based products, primarily urea ammonium nitrate (UAN).
In recent years, CVR Energy has shown interest in exploring strategic options for a potential sale of its fertilizer business. This would create a separate public company, while CVR Energy would concentrate entirely on refining and renewables. Pricing fluctuations due to the war in Ukraine and natural gas shortages in Europe are the primary reasons for this decision.
15. Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd.
Headquarters: Mumbai, India
Market capitalization: $1 billion
2023 Revenue: $0.49 billion
Established in 1978 and headquartered in Mumbai, Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd. (RCF) operates through three segments: fertilizers, industrial chemicals, and trading. It produces various products, including urea, complex fertilizers, micro-nutrients, and industrial chemicals such as ammonia, formic acid, and carbon dioxide.
With a workforce of over 3,000 employees, RCF has a strong presence in international and local communities. The company is predominantly government-owned, with 75% equity held by the Indian Government. RCF’s devotion to quality, innovation, and sustainability significantly contributes to the country’s economic development.
Future Outlook for Fertilizer Companies
Based on industry projections, organic fertilizer companies are expected to see a significant growth rate of 9.29% annually from 2024 to 2030. Regardless, anyone looking into buying fertilizer stocks needs to be prepared for market volatility. Investors looking to capitalize on any of the above companies need to consider:
- Economic factors such as the cost of living crisis and inflation heavily influence fertilizer costs.
- Government policies, subsidies, and trade agreements can significantly impact manufacturers. Regulatory changes or geopolitical tensions directly impact supply chains. This can result in a complete crash in the stock prices of companies, even if they were previously successful.
- Climate change is a prevailing problem that dictates the business moves of most manufacturers nowadays. Drought, changing rainfall patterns, and environmental concerns all prompt new fertilizer requirements.
- Buyers’ preferences for eco-friendly products underscore the demand for more sustainable farming solutions. Organic fertilizer manufacturers may have a competitive edge due to their climate-resilient practices.
So which is the best fertilizer company to invest in?
It depends on whether you are a day trader or a long-term investor. Nutrien Ltd. and CF Industries, for instance, usually maintain a share price over $50, which makes them two of the safest investment options. Both are solid businesses with a positive outlook and consistent financial performance over the years.
Just remember, like all investments, there is no guarantee you will turn a profit. Research each company thoroughly if you’re new to investing or are new to the industry. Comparing brokers before finalizing a deal is another way to ensure you’re maximizing your trading account’s features.
Conclusion
What would happen if the fertilizer industry halted operations for a year? Most of us rarely think about it, but fertilizer companies are the backbone of our daily sustenance.
All of the businesses listed above share one thing in common: their operations are about far more than just market dominance or revenue figures. They pull the strings in an industry where agriculture thrives sustainably, feeding the world for generations to come.
For any investors weighing their options in this dynamic market, one question remains: which company will lead the charge toward a more resilient, sustainable agricultural future?
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