Indian Fertilizer Industry to Reach Rs 1.38 Lakh Crore by 2032

The Indian fertilizer industry is set for significant growth, expected to reach a market size of Rs 1.38 lakh crore by 2032, with a CAGR of 4.2% from 2024 to 2032, as per the latest IMARC Group report. This anticipated growth highlights the sector’s crucial role in bolstering India’s agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.

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The Indian fertilizer industry is on a robust growth trajectory, poised to reach a market size of Rs 1.38 lakh crore by 2032, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2024 to 2032, according to the latest report by IMARC Group. This growth underscores the sector’s vital role in supporting India’s agricultural productivity and food security.

In 2023, the Indian fertilizer market was valued at Rs 94,210 crore, propelled by increased agricultural demands and strategic governmental interventions. Fertilizer production in FY24 recorded 45.2 million tonnes, reflecting the success of policies enacted by the Ministry of Fertilizers. India’s position as the world’s second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables, second only to China, significantly contributes to the fertilizer industry’s growth.

Government initiatives like direct income support schemes from both central and state governments have bolstered farmer liquidity, enhancing their ability to invest in fertilizers. Programs such as PM-KISAN and PM-Garib Kalyan Yojana have received endorsements from the United Nations Development Programme for their contributions to food security.

The geopolitical landscape has also influenced India’s fertilizer market. To stabilize fertilizer prices, the government has emphasized producing nano liquid urea domestically. Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced plans to increase the number of nano liquid urea production plants from nine to thirteen by 2025. These plants are projected to produce 44 crore bottles of 500 ml nano urea and di-ammonium phosphate (DAP).

Aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, India’s dependency on fertilizer imports has decreased markedly. In FY24, urea imports declined by 7%, DAP by 22%, and NPKs by 21%. This reduction marks a significant step towards self-sufficiency and economic resilience. The government has mandated 100% Neem coating on all subsidized agricultural grade urea to enhance nutrient efficiency, improve crop yield, and maintain soil health while preventing the diversion of urea for non-agricultural purposes.

India has established itself as a global leader in nano agricultural inputs, including nano fertilizers and micro-nutrients, promoting environmental sustainability without compromising crop yields. The Indian government aims to achieve self-sufficiency in urea production by 2025-26 through increased local production of nano urea.

Additionally, the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) promotes organic farming, offering Rs 50,000 per hectare for three years, with INR 31,000 directly allocated to farmers for organic inputs. The potential market for organic and bio-fertilizers is poised for expansion, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable agriculture.

Climate change poses a significant challenge, with projections suggesting a potential 19.3% reduction in wheat yields by 2050 and 40% by 2080. To address this, the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) is implementing strategies to make Indian agriculture more resilient to climate change.

The government is also focused on reviving closed fertilizer plants in Talcher, Ramagundam, Gorakhpur, Sindri, and Barauni, and on educating farmers about balanced fertilizer use, crop productivity, and the benefits of cost-effective subsidized fertilizers. Continuous research and innovation are essential for developing new types of fertilizers and improving existing ones.

The Indian fertilizer industry’s projected growth is a testament to its critical role in enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security. Through strategic government interventions, technological advancements, and a focus on sustainability, the sector is well-positioned to meet future challenges and continue its robust growth trajectory.