Foliar Fertilizer Market Size & Outlook, 2026-2034

Foliar Fertilizer Market Overview

The global foliar fertilizer market size is estimated at USD 13.87 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 22.89 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period. Market growth is driven by the rising focus on balanced plant nutrition, increased adoption of bio-based and low-residue fertilizer formulations, and government-led initiatives promoting sustainable agriculture. Growing farmer awareness of the economic and agronomic benefits of foliar feeding, such as higher nutrient-use efficiency, reduced wastage, and enhanced tolerance to environmental stress, continues to support steady market expansion across major crop-producing regions.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• Asia Pacific dominated the global foliar fertilizer market in 2025, accounting for 35.54% of total revenue.
• North America held 21.23% of the market in 2025 and is projected to be the fastest-growing region during 2026–2034.
• Fruits and vegetables constituted the largest crop segment, representing 38.05% of total market revenue in 2025.
• Cereals and grains are expected to record the highest CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period.
• China dominated the regional foliar fertilizer market with a revenue estimate of USD 1.62 billion in 2025.

Figure: China Foliar Fertilizer Market Size (USD Million)

Source: Straits Research

Market Size & Forecast

• 2025 Market Size: USD 13.87 billion
• 2034 Projected Market Size: USD 22.89 billion
• CAGR (2025–2034): 7.4%
• Dominating Region: Asia Pacific
• Fastest-Growing Region: North America

Foliar fertilizers are plant nutrient formulations applied directly to plant leaves to enable rapid absorption and precise delivery of essential macro- and micronutrients. They are used to address mid-season nutrient deficiencies, enhance crop quality, and increase overall yield in high-value crops, particularly in horticulture, vegetable cultivation, and specialty crop production systems.

Latest Market Trends

Accelerating Adoption in Protected Cultivation

Foliar fertilisation is experiencing strong growth in high-value crops, greenhouse production, due to its ability to deliver nutrients directly to leaves for rapid absorption and effective correction of deficiencies. Countries such as China, India, and Japan lead in foliar application, driven by the demand for high-quality produce and export-oriented horticulture. This trend is gaining momentum because of farmers’ interest in precision nutrient management technologies, which enhance crop yield, quality, and input-use efficiency.

Expansion of Local Soluble and Foliar Production Plants

Producers are investing in domestic soluble fertilizer and foliar blending facilities to reduce lead times and strengthen supply security. North America and the Asia Pacific are witnessing significant plant expansions by industry players, including Yara, Nutrien, and Haifa. These localised facilities not only meet increasing local demand efficiently but also reduce import dependence, stabilise prices, and enable delivery of crop-specific nutrient blends.

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Market Driver

Innovation in Formulations and Advisory Services

Market growth is supported by the development of advanced foliar fertilizer formulations, including crop-specific blends and solutions that enhance nutrient uptake. In addition, digital advisory tools and farm-level nutrient guidance services enable farmers to apply foliar products more efficiently, improving overall productivity. The combination of product innovation and knowledge-driven application is accelerating adoption across major crop-producing regions. The global adoption of foliar nutrient solutions is projected to grow at a 6.2% CAGR from 2025 to 2034.

Restraint

Dependence on Import of Specialty Soluble Fertilizers

Many countries rely on imported water-soluble and micronutrient fertilizers for foliar application. Supply disruptions due to import controls, shipping delays, or changes in export policies can affect availability, increase prices, and impede market growth in dependent regions. Such supply interruptions affect not only short-term market availability but also pricing stability and the adoption of foliar fertilizers by farmers. Regions dependent on imports may experience slower market growth, lower crop productivity, and difficulties in implementing precision nutrient management practices. This reliance underscores the need for domestic production facilities and strategic inventory management to maintain a consistent and timely supply of essential foliar nutrients. Ensuring local availability also supports efficient crop nutrition and strengthens resilience against global supply fluctuations.

Opportunity

Precision Nutrition and Technologically Advanced Formulations

The shift toward precision farming and customised foliar nutrient products is a key growth driver. Advances in foliar formulations, including micronutrient diagnostics and chelated nutrient products, enable farmers to achieve desired yield and crop quality targets. Companies investing in region- and crop-specific R&D for foliar solutions are well-positioned to capture increasing market share.

Regional Analysis

Asia Pacific led the global foliar fertilizer market with a 35.54% share in 2025, driven by extensive vegetable, horticultural, and high-value crop production in Japan, India, and China. The increased adoption of foliar methods supports the correction of micronutrient deficiencies, the enhancement of crop quality, and yield improvement to meet rising food security and export demand. Government policies promoting balanced fertilisation and soil health programs further support market development.

China is the largest producer and consumer of foliar fertilizers in the region. Market growth is supported by large-scale production of fruits, vegetables, and greenhouse crops, as well as government initiatives encouraging advanced nutrient management practices. Companies are investing in liquid foliar and micronutrient solutions to meet demand from high-value crops and improve national crop productivity. The adoption of precision agriculture tools, including nutrient sensors and automated spraying systems, is enhancing application efficiency and accuracy. Local manufacturers are expanding production capacities to reduce dependence on imports and stabilise regional supply. Ongoing research and development efforts are focused on creating crop-specific foliar formulations that optimise yield, enhance fruit and vegetable quality, and support long-term soil health.

North America Foliar Fertilizer Market Insights

North America is expected to be a growth leader with a CAGR of 6.0% during 2026–2034, supported by widespread adoption of precision farming, greenhouse cultivation, and high-value crop farming in the United States and Canada. Industry players are expanding local production of soluble foliar fertilizers to reduce reliance on imports and ensure timely supply for commercial farms.

In the U.S., foliar fertilizers are increasingly integrated into corn, soybean, and ornamental crop production. Investment in advanced micronutrient formulations and controlled-release foliar sprays aligns with sustainable agriculture practices and improves nutrient-use efficiency. Farmers are increasingly adopting precision application technologies, including drones and automated sprayers, to ensure uniform and efficient nutrient delivery. Research institutions and agritech companies are developing crop-specific foliar blends aimed at optimising yield, improving nutrient-use efficiency, and enhancing tolerance to environmental stress. Growing demand for high-quality, export-grade produce is driving adoption in ornamental and specialty crops. Extension programs, farmer training initiatives, and advisory services are raising awareness of the agronomic and economic benefits of foliar nutrient management. Ongoing innovation in formulation and delivery methods continues to support sustainable, long-term growth of the foliar fertilizer market in the U.S.

Figure: Regional Market Share (%), 2025

Source: Straits Research

Latin America Market Insights

Latin America is witnessing steady growth, driven by increasing adoption of foliar fertilizers in vegetable cultivation in Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico, as well as in soybean and sugarcane production. Expansion of modern agricultural practices, government-backed nutrient management schemes, and growing awareness of foliar application benefits are supporting market penetration.

Brazil dominates the regional market due to large-scale soybean and sugarcane production, where foliar sprays contribute to improved yield, correction of nutrient deficiencies, and optimised fertilizer efficiency. Regional manufacturers are introducing crop-specific formulations to accommodate diverse soil types and climatic conditions. Investment in modern application technologies, including mechanised sprayers and drone-based delivery systems, is enhancing adoption efficiency and precision. Government initiatives promoting balanced nutrient management and sustainable farming practices are supporting steady market growth. Increasing demand for export-quality crops is further encouraging farmers to incorporate foliar fertilizers into standard crop management practices.

Europe Market Insights

Europe a well-established foliar fertilizer industry, led by Germany, France, and Italy, with horticulture and high-value crop cultivation is witnessing consistent demand. Government initiatives promoting sustainable agriculture, nutrient-use efficiency programs, and the expansion of greenhouse vegetable production support steady foliar fertilizer use. Increasing adoption of precision agriculture and advanced foliar fertilizer formulations is improving crop yield and quality. Investments in research and development of region- and crop-specific nutrient solutions are supporting steady market growth across the continent.

Germany’s market growth is supported by precision farming practices, subsidised nutrient management programs, and rising applications of micronutrient foliar sprays for vegetables, fruits, and cereals. Investments in specialty liquid foliar products improve crop yields and quality while aligning with EU agricultural sustainability targets. The country is experiencing growing adoption of greenhouse cultivation and high-value crops, driving sustained demand for foliar fertilizers. Partnerships between agritech companies and research institutions are promoting innovation in crop-specific foliar solutions.

Middle East & Africa (MEA) Market Insights

MEA is a growing market driven by greenhouse cultivation and high-value crop production in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and South Africa. Limited arable land and intensive farming practices necessitate foliar applications to maximise nutrient efficiency and yields. Adoption of modern mechanised application technologies and precision nutrient management is driving market expansion. Regional governments are promoting sustainable agriculture practices to improve crop productivity and strengthen food security.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are investing in precision farming techniques and high-quality foliar fertilizers for horticultural fruits, vegetables, and greenhouse crops. Water-efficient farming, nutrient optimisation, and reliance on imported foliar formulations are key drivers of market growth in the region. Governments are promoting adoption through incentives and farmer training programs to enhance crop productivity. Increasing demand for premium-quality produce for domestic and export markets is further supporting foliar fertilizer use.

Type of Nutrient

Micronutrient foliar fertilizers accounted for the highest revenue share of 48.53% in 2025 due to their critical role in correcting nutrient deficiencies in high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables, and horticulture crops. China, India, and Japan recorded high adoption rates, driven by precision agriculture practices and increased awareness of the importance of micronutrients.

Macronutrient foliar fertilizers are projected to achieve the highest CAGR of 6.8% between 2026–2034. Growth is driven by expansion in large-scale cereal and grain cultivation in Latin America and the Asia Pacific, where foliar macronutrient sprays optimise yield and crop quality efficiently. Specialty/Compound fertilizers, consisting of chelated micronutrients and multi-nutrient blends tailored to specific crops or soils, are gaining adoption in horticulture and greenhouse production because of their effectiveness in precision nutrient management and crop quality enhancement.

Figure: Share by Type of Nutrient, 2025

Source: Straits Research

Crop Type Insights

Fruits & vegetables dominated the market in 2025 with a 38.05% revenue share. High-value crop cultivation in China, India, and Southeast Asia supports strong uptake of foliar sprays that improve yield, fruit size, and colour uniformity. The rising demand for premium-quality produce and export-oriented cultivation is further driving foliar fertilizer adoption in this segment. Government programs promoting balanced nutrient application and sustainable farming practices are also supporting uptake. Advancements in foliar formulations, including chelated micronutrients and multi-nutrient blends, enable precise nutrient delivery, improve crop quality, and minimize wastage. Smallholder and family farmers are increasingly adopting these solutions as awareness of nutrient management benefits grows, contributing to steady market expansion in rural and semi-urban regions.

Cereals & grains are expected to register the fastest growth at 6.5% CAGR between 2026–2034, primarily due to high-volume adoption in Asia Pacific and North America for optimal nutrient management and improved grain quality. Oilseeds & pulses and other crops are experiencing gradual growth, supported by government initiatives promoting balanced nutrient use and soil health improvement programs.

Formulation Insights

Liquid foliar fertilizers dominated the market in 2025 with a large percentage of market share, preferred for their ease of application, rapid absorption, and suitability for high-density cropping systems. Their adoption is supported by compatibility with mechanized spraying equipment and greenhouse setups, enabling uniform nutrient distribution. These formulations are primarily applied in horticulture, vegetables, and high-value crops where rapid correction of nutrient deficiencies is critical. Liquid foliar products also allow integration with other crop inputs, reducing application time and operational requirements. Furthermore, they enhance precision nutrient management, improving crop quality, yield consistency, and adoption in regions with intensive agricultural practices.

Powder/Soluble granules are projected to record the highest CAGR during 2026–2034, due to stable storage, efficient transportation, and suitability for crop-specific custom formulations. Their use is increasing in regions with logistical challenges or remote farming operations, as they minimise transport costs while preserving nutrient stability. Soluble granules can be tailored to the specific nutrient requirements of cereals, grains, and oilseeds, supporting precision application. They are compatible with fertigation and large-scale irrigation systems, enhancing nutrient-use efficiency. The expansion of high-value crop production, export-oriented agriculture, and site-specific nutrient management practices further supports the adoption of powder/soluble foliar formulations.

End-User Trends

Horticulture & greenhouse operations led the market in 2025 with a large percentage of total revenue, driven by precise use of foliar fertilizers in high-value crops that ensure quality, uniformity, and faster nutrient uptake. Controlled environments in greenhouses optimise the efficiency of foliar application, allowing repeated and targeted nutrient delivery to maintain consistent crop performance. Advanced irrigation and fertigation systems complement foliar sprays, improving nutrient absorption and crop uniformity. Export-oriented horticultural producers increasingly adopt foliar fertilizers to comply with stringent international quality standards. Rising demand for premium vegetables and fruits in urban and export markets continues to reinforce market dominance in this segment.

Commercial/industrial farms are expected to grow at a 6.4% CAGR, supported by mechanised foliar application technologies and large-scale farming practices in North America and Europe. Mechanisation enables uniform application over extensive acreage, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing labour dependency. Investment in drone-based spraying and automated equipment is facilitating wider adoption of foliar fertilizers in high-value crops. Integration of precision agriculture tools, including nutrient monitoring sensors, ensures optimized nutrient delivery and maximised yield per hectare. Smallholder/family farms continue to form a strong base in the Asia Pacific and Africa, with gradual adoption supported by government extension programs and awareness initiatives. Training programs, demonstration plots, and localized advisory services enable farmers to recognise the benefits of foliar feeding for improved crop quality and productivity.

Competitive Landscape

The global Foliar Fertilizer market is highly concentrated, with major players such as Yara International ASA, Haifa Chemicals, Nutrien Ltd., Coromandel International Ltd., and SQM S.A. controlling a significant share of the market. These companies focus on expanding their market presence through strategic initiatives, including capacity expansion, R&D of next-generation foliar products, distributorship alliances, and regional market penetration.

Emerging Player: Tata Chemicals Ltd

Tata Chemicals Ltd, a part of the Tata Group, is a prominent agri-solutions provider in India, offering a comprehensive portfolio of products across the agricultural value chain. Established in 1939, the company has continuously evolved to deliver advanced crop nutrition solutions, including foliar fertilizers, aimed at enhancing crop yield and quality.

The trust built over decades has established Tata Chemicals as a key player in the Indian fertilizers market, with a strong focus on sustainable practices, R&D-driven product innovation, and farmer-focused advisory services. The company’s foliar fertilizer portfolio features micronutrient-enriched solutions for cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, and oilseeds, supporting both soil and foliar nutrient management.

• March 12, 2025: Tata Chemicals Ltd introduced a new range of foliar fertilizers under the Aquafert and Tata Tracel brands, designed to enhance nutrient absorption and crop performance across major Indian crops.

List of key players in Foliar Fertilizer Market

1. Yara International ASA
2. ICL Group
3. Nutrien Ltd
4. OCP Group
5. K+S AG
6. EuroChem Group
7. SQM
8. Tata Chemicals Ltd
9. Coromandel International Ltd
10. FMC Corporation
11. R. Simplot Company
12. Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC
13. AgroLiquid, Inc.
14. Kingenta Group
15. OMEX Agrifluids Ltd
16. Koch Industries
17. BASF SE
18. Aries Agro Ltd
19. Hydrite Chemical Company
20. Haifa Chemicals Ltd
21. Others

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Strategic Initiatives

• October 8, 2025: Petrobras announced an investment of approximately 2.6 billion reais (USD 486 million) in Bahia, a northeastern state of Brazil. The investment will be directed towards resuming operations at a fertilizer production facility and commissioning six support vessels to be constructed at the Enseada shipyard. This initiative represents a significant step to revitalise the naval and fertilizer sectors in the region.
• July 11, 2025: The International Fertilizer Association (IFA) emphasised the rapid growth of specialty and value-added fertilizers (VAFs), increasingly applied through fertigation and foliar techniques. These products integrate essential nutrients with functional components to improve crop yield and quality, reflecting a strategic move towards efficient and sustainable nutrient management practices.