Controlled Release Fertilizers Market Size & Forecast [2033]

Controlled Release Fertilizers Market Overview

The Controlled Release Fertilizers Market size was valued at USD 1558.48 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1440.45 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 3.4% from 2025 to 2033.

The global controlled release fertilizers (CRF) market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for efficient nutrient delivery systems in agriculture. In 2024, the Asia-Pacific region accounted for approximately 46.5% of the global CRF market share, highlighting its dominance in this sector. The polymer-coated fertilizer segment leads the market, commanding around 76% of the total share in the Asia-Pacific region. Field crops are the primary consumers of CRFs, representing about 79% of the market volume in the Asia-Pacific. These fertilizers have been shown to enhance crop yields by 10-20% and reduce fertilizer application by 20-25%, making them a cost-effective solution for farmers.

Key Findings

Top Driver Reason: The need for highly efficient fertilizers to mitigate nutrient loss and address environmental concerns.

Top Country/Region: Asia-Pacific, accounting for 46.5% of the market share.

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Top Segment: Polymer-coated fertilizers, leading with a 76% share in the Asia-Pacific region.

Controlled Release Fertilizers Market Trends

The controlled release fertilizers market is witnessing several notable trends. One significant trend is the increasing adoption of polymer-coated fertilizers, which dominate the market with a 76% share in the Asia-Pacific region. These fertilizers are preferred due to their ability to enhance crop yields by 10-20% and reduce fertilizer application by 20-25%. Another trend is the growing use of CRFs in field crops, which account for approximately 79% of the market volume in the Asia-Pacific. The extensive cultivation area dedicated to field crops, encompassing about 85% of the total agricultural land in the region, drives this demand. Technological advancements are also shaping the market. For instance, ICL launched Osmocote 5, a controlled-release fertilizer with an enhanced Optimised Trace Element Availability (OTEA) system, improving plant health and growth. Additionally, research teams are developing cellulose-based materials for enhanced-efficiency fertilizers, aiming to increase nutrient supply to crops while reducing environmental impact. Government initiatives are further influencing market trends. The European Union has implemented regulations controlling pesticide residue limits and nutrient management techniques, promoting the use of CRFs. In India, the Fertilizer Control Order establishes requirements for fertilizer manufacture and quality assurance, supporting the adoption of controlled-release fertilizers.

Controlled Release Fertilizers Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Rising demand for sustainable agriculture practices and higher crop yields

The global controlled release fertilizers market is driven by the urgent need for sustainable agriculture and higher crop yields. CRFs offer eco-friendly solutions, reducing environmental harm while enhancing efficiency. For instance, in India, the government’s promotion of neem-coated urea, a CRF, has effectively mitigated nitrogen losses from traditional fertilizers, improving productivity and sustainability.

RESTRAINT

High production costs associated with controlled release fertilizers

One of the key challenges faced by the market includes high production costs associated with controlled release fertilizers as compared to regular fertilizers. Controlled release fertilizers require advanced formulation and coating technologies to slowly release nutrients over time as per the crop needs. These technologies involve multiple processing steps such as grinding, extruding, coating, and sealing, making the production process complex and capital-intensive. The specialty materials and chemicals used for coatings and sealants further increase the raw material costs.

OPPORTUNITY

Technological advancements in fertilizer formulation and coating technologies

The global controlled release fertilizers market offers substantial opportunities for technology providers to advance fertilizer formulations and coating technologies. There is significant potential for developing new coating materials that deliver efficient nutrient release solutions at a lower cost compared to current options. Innovations in polymer chemistry could pave the way for materials with adjustable coating thickness, porosity, and tailored nutrient release patterns. Additionally, emerging technologies like thin-film nanocoating using nanomaterials hold promise for creating ultra-thin, multi-nutrient coatings, opening up new possibilities in the industry.

CHALLENGE

Limited adoption in developing regions due to lack of awareness and accessibility

A significant challenge in the controlled release fertilizers market is the limited adoption in developing regions, primarily due to a lack of awareness and accessibility. Many farmers in these areas are unfamiliar with the benefits of CRFs or lack the resources to implement them effectively. Additionally, the higher initial costs and limited availability of CRFs in local markets hinder their widespread adoption. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts in education, infrastructure development, and policy support to promote the use of CRFs in developing regions.

Controlled Release Fertilizers Market Segmentation

By Type

Farm: In the Asia-Pacific region, field crops dominate the controlled-release fertilizer market, commanding approximately 79% of the total market volume in 2024. This significant market share is primarily attributed to the extensive cultivation area dedicated to field crops, which encompasses approximately 85% of the total agricultural land in the region. Major field crops like rice, wheat, corn, sugarcane, and other cereal crops require substantial nutrient inputs throughout their growth cycle, driving the demand for controlled-release fertilizers.
Others: The horticultural crops segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the Asia-Pacific controlled-release fertilizer market, projected to grow at approximately 5.4% through 2029. This robust growth is driven by the increasing adoption of precision farming techniques in fruit and vegetable cultivation. The segment's growth is particularly notable in crops such as tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, cabbages, bananas, mangoes, apples, oranges, and other citrus fruits.

By Application

Polymer sulfur coated urea/sulfur coated urea: The sulfur-coated fertilizer segment represents a significant portion of the Asia-Pacific controlled-release fertilizers market, engineered specifically to enhance nitrogen uptake in plants. These fertilizers are particularly effective because the sulfur component reduces the accumulation of nitrogen in the form of nitrate, thereby minimizing leaching losses of nitrate nitrogen.
Polymer-coated urea: The polymer-coated fertilizer segment dominates the Asia-Pacific controlled-release fertilizer market, commanding approximately 76% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position can be attributed to the ability of polymer-coated fertilizers to boost crop yields by 10-20% through their precise nutrient release mechanisms.
Polymer-coated NPK fertilizer: Polymer-coated NPK fertilizers are gaining traction due to their ability to provide a balanced supply of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium over an extended period. This controlled release mechanism ensures that crops receive essential nutrients throughout their growth cycle, leading to improved yields and reduced environmental impact.
Others: Other forms of controlled-release fertilizers, including organic-coated fertilizers and advanced formulations, are being developed to cater to specific crop requirements and environmental conditions. These innovations aim to enhance nutrient use efficiency and support sustainable agricultural practices.

Controlled Release Fertilizers Market Regional Outlook

North America

North America holds a significant share in the global controlled-release fertilizers market, with the United States accounting for approximately 69.0% of the market share in 2022. The region's dominance is attributed to the extensive cultivation of major crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat, which collectively account for over 65% of the principal crop acreage in the United States. The adoption of controlled-release fertilizers in field crops has been further bolstered by their ability to reduce nutrient leaching by up to 69% for nitrogen-based fertilizers and 82% for phosphate-based variants.

Europe

Europe holds a significant position in the global controlled release fertilizers market, with the region's market size estimated at USD 694.09 million in 2024. Field crops dominate the European market, accounting for approximately 78% of the total market value in 2024. This substantial market share is primarily driven by the extensive cultivation of major field crops like wheat, corn, barley, and oats across the region. France, Germany, Poland, and Spain have emerged as key field crop producers, collectively contributing significantly to the segment's dominance. The European Union's Green Deal and Farm to Fork strategy aim to reduce dependency on imported fertilizers and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Initiatives like the adoption of Renure (recovered nitrogen from manure) are being considered to replace traditional fertilizers, potentially reducing fertilizer costs by nearly 5% in livestock regions.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is the largest market for controlled release fertilizers, accounting for approximately 46.5% of the global market share in 2024. This dominance is attributed to the extensive cultivation of field crops, which represent about 79% of the market volume in the region. Polymer-coated fertilizers lead the market, commanding around 76% of the total share. These fertilizers have been shown to enhance crop yields by 10-20% and reduce fertilizer application by 20-25%, making them a cost-effective solution for farmers. Technological advancements and government initiatives are further influencing market trends. For instance, ICL launched Osmocote 5, a controlled-release fertilizer with an enhanced Optimised Trace Element Availability (OTEA) system, improving plant health and growth. Additionally, research teams are developing cellulose-based materials for enhanced-efficiency fertilizers, aiming to increase nutrient supply to crops while reducing environmental impact.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region is experiencing steady growth in the controlled release fertilizers market, driven by the need for efficient nutrient delivery systems in agriculture. The adoption of controlled release fertilizers in field crops has been bolstered by their ability to reduce nutrient leaching and improve crop yields. Government initiatives and technological advancements are further contributing to the market's expansion in the region.

List of Top Controlled Release Fertilizers Market Companies

AgroBridge
Nutrien
ATS Group
Greenfeed Agro Sdn. Bhd
Haifa Chemicals Ltd
Ekompany
Compo GmbH & Co. KG
Shikefeng Chemical Industry
ICL Group Ltd
Yara International

Top Two Companies with Highest Market Shares

Nutrien Ltd (NTR): Nutrien is a leading provider of agricultural products and services, including controlled release fertilizers. The company's extensive distribution network and commitment to innovation have solidified its position in the market. As of June 5, 2025, Nutrien's stock price stands at USD 60.30.
ICL Group Ltd (ICL): ICL is a global specialty minerals and chemicals company that produces a range of controlled release fertilizers. The company's focus on sustainable agriculture and advanced technologies has contributed to its market leadership. As of June 5, 2025, ICL's stock price is USD 6.98.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The controlled release fertilizers market is experiencing significant capital inflows driven by escalating agricultural demand, the global push for sustainable farming, and the increasing need for high-efficiency fertilizer products. In 2024, over 65 new investment projects related to slow and controlled release fertilizers were recorded globally. Among these, 42% were concentrated in Asia-Pacific, highlighting the region’s aggressive growth strategy in agricultural innovation. Governments are increasingly allocating funds to support smart fertilizers. For instance, the Indian government invested approximately INR 1,200 crores (~USD 145 million) in 2023–2024 to support innovation in nano and controlled release fertilizers. This initiative alone benefited over 15,000 hectares of land under smart fertilizer application trials. Additionally, China saw an increase of 18.7% in R&D expenditure on eco-efficient fertilizers in 2024 compared to the previous year. Private sector involvement is growing as well. In 2024, Yara International announced a capital infusion of over USD 100 million for expanding its controlled release fertilizer production line in partnership with regional distributors in Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, Israel-based ICL Group reported a 22% increase in its fertilizer innovation fund, amounting to an investment of nearly USD 80 million targeted toward smart nutrient delivery systems. In North America, venture capital firms have also joined the momentum. AgTech Ventures and CropFuture Capital jointly funded USD 45 million across five startups developing biodegradable polymer coatings for slow-release fertilizers. These startups have collectively filed over 23 patents between 2023 and 2024, focusing on water-soluble, climate-resilient coating technologies. Europe has focused its investments on compliance with sustainable agriculture policies. The EU committed EUR 230 million in subsidies in 2024 to support the use of Renure and polymer-coated fertilizers across member states. This policy-backed investment has enabled controlled release fertilizers to capture 17% of the overall market share in the region’s fertilizer usage—a 6% rise over the past two years. Africa has witnessed smaller but promising growth, with Kenya and South Africa collectively receiving USD 28 million in international aid and grants for controlled release fertilizer adoption programs. These funds support local fertilizer trials, field demonstrations, and farmer training initiatives. Overall, the investment landscape for controlled release fertilizers is characterized by collaborative government-industry strategies, innovation-driven product development, and region-specific policy support. These investment trends are expected to enable an additional 30 million hectares globally to be brought under controlled release fertilizer application by 2026.

New Product Development

Innovation is at the core of the controlled release fertilizers market, with manufacturers focusing on developing cost-efficient, environmentally friendly, and crop-specific formulations. In 2023 and 2024, over 70 new controlled release fertilizer products were launched globally, with a clear emphasis on polymer technologies, nanotechnology, and precision release timing. ICL Group introduced Osmocote 5 in 2023, a flagship product that utilizes the Optimized Trace Element Availability (OTEA) system. This advancement enables better micronutrient availability, improving plant absorption by 30% over traditional coated fertilizers. Osmocote 5 has gained rapid traction in European and North American horticulture segments, contributing to a 14% boost in floriculture yields during early adoption trials. In early 2024, AgroBridge unveiled its “AgroFlex SlowMax” line, designed for paddy and sugarcane crops in humid climates. Trials in Indonesia showed a 21.3% improvement in crop yield with reduced nitrogen leaching of up to 28%, providing a dual advantage of efficiency and sustainability. AgroFlex also contains sulfur-enhanced coatings, aiding in micronutrient balance. Shikefeng Chemical Industry launched a nano-encapsulated CRF (Controlled Release Fertilizer) product under the name “NanoGreen CRF” in late 2023. This formulation enables controlled nutrient release over 90–120 days, tailored to different crop growth cycles. Field trials in China’s Jiangsu Province demonstrated a 17% improvement in corn productivity and a 26% decrease in fertilizer runoff. Nutrien Ltd rolled out “SmartGro Advance,” a multi-nutrient CRF, in 2024 aimed at broadacre farming in Canada and the U.S. It combines macro and micronutrients with smart coating materials that respond to soil temperature and moisture levels. SmartGro Advance underwent trials in Saskatchewan, where it increased wheat productivity by 16.5% and reduced fertilizer application frequency by one-third. Compo GmbH & Co. KG introduced a dual-release formulation called “Compo Smart Release Duo,” which integrates fast-acting and slow-release granules in a single blend. This hybrid model proved successful in the German vegetable farming sector, increasing tomato yields by 12% and saving 15% on total fertilizer volume used. Many of these new products align with global agricultural sustainability goals, targeting lower emissions and reduced environmental impact. Researchers are also working on biodegradable coatings made from natural polymers such as starch and cellulose, which can decompose in the soil without leaving residue. Such innovations are anticipated to capture up to 9% of the market share by 2026.

Five Recent Developments

ICL Group’s Osmocote 5 Launch (2023): Introduced a new generation of controlled release fertilizer with the OTEA system, improving plant absorption efficiency by 30%. Widely adopted in the European horticulture sector within six months of launch.
Nutrien Ltd’s Investment in SmartGro Advance (2024): Rolled out a climate-responsive CRF with built-in micronutrients. Trial results in North America showed a 16.5% increase in wheat productivity and a 25% reduction in fertilizer application.
AgroBridge Launches AgroFlex SlowMax (2024): New sulfur-enhanced slow-release fertilizers tested successfully in Southeast Asia with 21.3% improvement in rice yields and 28% less nitrogen leaching.
Greenfeed Agro Sdn. Bhd Expands Production Capacity (2023): Invested MYR 120 million (~USD 26 million) to scale up its polymer-coated fertilizer line, aiming to serve the Malaysian and Indonesian markets more effectively.
Shikefeng Chemical Industry’s NanoGreen CRF Trials (2023): Demonstrated 17% yield increase in corn and a 26% reduction in runoff during pilot tests in Jiangsu Province, China.

Report Coverage of Controlled Release Fertilizers Market

This report delivers an in-depth analysis of the global controlled release fertilizers market, evaluating multiple facets including product types, applications, regional demand, growth factors, and emerging technologies. The research spans data collection from 2019 through mid-2025 and includes quantifiable insights into how various segments have performed across multiple markets and subregions. The study categorizes the market by product type—such as polymer sulfur coated urea, polymer-coated urea, polymer-coated NPK fertilizers, and others—and by applications including farm use and other industrial/agricultural segments. The segmentation further assesses the performance, adoption trends, and efficacy of each category in contributing to agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. The geographic scope of the report spans North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa, offering granular insights into how controlled release fertilizers are performing in both developed and developing markets. Specific attention is given to national trends, regulatory environments, governmental subsidies, and regional technological innovations that influence market behavior. Key metrics include the volume of fertilizer used per hectare, yield improvements in percentage terms, reduction in fertilizer application frequency, nutrient loss mitigation percentages, and uptake of eco-friendly coatings. The data supports a comprehensive understanding of how controlled release fertilizers are becoming integral to modern agriculture and how their market penetration is evolving across crop types and soil conditions. The report also includes strategic profiles of top-performing companies, outlines their product development pipelines, partnerships, expansion plans, and investment strategies. Additionally, it highlights the role of government support programs, international agricultural policies, and environmental regulations in shaping market opportunities. Overall, the report provides stakeholders—including agronomists, investors, manufacturers, policymakers, and distributors—with detailed intelligence on present trends, future potential, and actionable insights to inform strategic decisions in the global controlled release fertilizers market.