Study Period | 2017 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 214.5 Million |
Market Size (2030) | USD 304.8 Million |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 7.27 % |
Market Concentration | Medium |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market Analysis
The Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market size is estimated at 214.5 million USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 304.8 million USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.27% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The Asia-Pacific controlled release fertilizer industry operates within a crucial agricultural landscape, where approximately 70% of the population relies directly on agriculture for their livelihood. This significant agricultural dependency has prompted a shift toward more efficient farming practices, particularly in fertilizer technology application methods. The region faces substantial challenges in agricultural productivity, stemming from factors such as soil degradation, inefficient nutrient utilization, and environmental concerns. Traditional farming practices have led to excessive fertilizer usage, creating a pressing need for more sustainable fertilizer solutions that can maintain crop yields while minimizing environmental impact.
Technological advancements in fertilizer technology have emerged as a cornerstone of market development, with polymer-coated fertilizers demonstrating the potential to increase crop yields by 10-20%. These innovations have revolutionized nutrient delivery systems, allowing for precise control over release rates through adjustments in coating thickness and composition. The adoption of these advanced technologies has been particularly notable in high-value crops, where the benefits of controlled nutrient release directly translate to improved crop quality and yield optimization. The industry has witnessed significant improvements in coating materials and techniques, leading to more efficient and environmentally friendly fertilizer products.
Environmental sustainability has become a central focus of the industry, driven by growing concerns over soil health and water pollution. Studies have shown that coated controlled-release fertilizers can reduce nitrogen leaching by up to 69% compared to conventional fertilizers, representing a significant advancement in environmental protection. This reduction in nutrient leaching not only benefits the environment but also translates to improved nutrient use efficiency for farmers. The industry has responded by developing new formulations that balance agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship, particularly focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing soil pH alterations.
Government initiatives and policy frameworks across the region have played a pivotal role in shaping market dynamics. For instance, the International Plant Nutrition Institute's programs have demonstrated the effectiveness of controlled-release fertilizers in improving crop yields and profitability. These initiatives have been complemented by increasing awareness among farmers about the benefits of advanced fertilizer technologies. The industry has also witnessed a growing emphasis on research and development, particularly in developing new coating materials and improving existing technologies to enhance nutrient release efficiency while maintaining cost-effectiveness for farmers.
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market Trends
The significant expansion of cultivation of major growing crops is anticipated to boost the growth of the market
- Field crop cultivation dominates the region, accounting for more than 95% of the total crop area. Rice, wheat, and corn are the major field crops produced in the region, together accounting for about 38% of the total crop area in 2022. The rising area under cultivation is expected to increase the demand for fertilizer usage in the country.
- The Asia-Pacific region, which includes China, India, Pakistan, and Australia, is among the world's largest wheat producers. China and India are also the world's largest wheat producers and consumers. The increase in demand and consumption of wheat is due to wheat being one of the major staple foods of this region, and the area increased by a percentage point during the study period. In 2022, China accounted for the production of 138 million metric tons of wheat, making it the largest wheat producer in the world, and India had a wheat production of 103 million metric tons.
- Rice is the largest cultivated field crop in the region. Its cultivation alone accounted for about 16.44% of the total agricultural land in 2022. Rice is the staple food of Asia and most parts of the Pacific region. China was projected to produce 147 million tons of rice, and India was expected to harvest 124 million tons of rice in 2022. India was expected to consume 109 million tons while exporting a world-leading 19.5 million tons.
- The surge in both domestic and international demand for field crops has prompted an expansion in the cultivation area dedicated to these crops. This significant increase in cultivated land is expected to have a direct and positive impact on the Asia-Pacific CRF market from 2023 to 2030.
About 28% of nitrous oxide emissions from croplands in the world are from China's agricultural lands
- In field crops, the average primary nutrient (nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus) application rate in the country was 129.1 kg/ha in 2022. Nitrogen accounted for 58.5%, potassium for 25.3%, and phosphorus for 16.1% of the average primary nutrient application for field crops. Most primary nutrients were applied through the soil application method. Conventional soil-based primary macronutrient fertilizers accounted for 69.2% of the total primary macronutrient fertilizer market in 2022.
- In Asia, the primary nutrient input is high, particularly for nitrogenous and potassic fertilizers, because most soils in the region are deficient in nitrogen and potassic nutrients. However, Asia-Pacific, which is the largest region in the world in terms of land area and population, is also the largest producer and consumer of agrochemicals among all the regions worldwide. About 28% of nitrous oxide emissions from croplands worldwide are from China's agricultural lands.
- In field crops, wheat had an average primary nutrient application rate of 214.9 kg/ha, the highest among field crops in 2022. In primary nutrients, nitrogen occupies the first place with an average application rate of 448.5 kg/ha, as nitrogen is required in large amounts for plant metabolism. It is also a major component of chlorophyll and amino acids.
- The contamination of surface and groundwater with nitrogen and phosphorus has been considered a result of inadequate advice given to farmers regarding fertilizer application rates and a possible larger crop. However, the trend is shifting toward highly efficient fertilizers.
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- The growing demand for fruits and vegetables is driving the expansion of horticulture cultivation in the Asia-Pacific region
- The average primary macronutrient application rate in vegetable crops in China and Bangladesh is 1.60% higher than the average primary macronutrient application in Asia-Pacific
Segment Analysis: Coating Type
Polymer Coated Segment in Asia-Pacific CRF Market
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. The coating's thickness and composition can be fine-tuned to align with specific crop nutrient requirements, making them particularly effective for major crops like rice, corn, and wheat. China and India are the primary consumers of polymer-coated CRFs in the region, with nitrogenous straight fertilizers, particularly urea coating, emerging as the preferred choice for basal fertilization. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by its superior performance in enhancing nitrogen use efficiency and minimizing nutrient leaching compared to conventional fertilizers.

Polymer-Sulfur Coated Segment in Asia-Pacific CRF Market
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. Field crops are the leading consumers of polymer-sulfur-coated fertilizers, driven by the increasing cultivation of crops with high fertilizer requirements such as wheat, corn, and soybeans. The growing adoption in China and India, particularly in the cultivation of cereals and oilseeds, is propelling the market forward, as these countries seek solutions to address soil depletion caused by conventional urea overuse.
Remaining Segments in Coating Type
The remaining segments in the coated fertilizer type category include polyolefin-coated, epoxy-resin-coated, polyurethane, and thermoplastic resins. These alternative coating technologies play a crucial role in mitigating nutrient loss through nitrate leaching and volatilization, thereby reducing environmental pollution. Novel biobased composite coatings, such as biobased polyurethane (BPU), epoxy resin (ER), and polyolefin wax (PW), have demonstrated efficient nutrient release over extended durations. These innovative coating technologies continue to evolve, offering farmers additional options for optimizing their fertilizer application strategies while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Segment Analysis: Crop Type
Field Crops Segment in Asia-Pacific CRF Market
Field crops dominate the Asia-Pacific 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. These crops' higher nutrient requirements and the pressing need to address environmental concerns related to conventional fertilizer application have made controlled-release fertilizers an attractive solution for farmers. The segment's dominance is further reinforced by the effectiveness of CRFs in reducing fertilizer application quantity by 20-25% while maintaining optimal nutrient delivery to crops.
Horticultural Crops Segment in Asia-Pacific CRF Market
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. The rising demand for high-quality produce, coupled with the need for improved nitrogen use efficiency in intensive horticultural production systems, is fueling the adoption of controlled-release fertilizers in this segment. Additionally, the growing trend toward protected cultivation and the emphasis on reducing nutrient leaching in high-value horticultural crops is contributing to the segment's rapid expansion.
Remaining Segments in Crop Type Segmentation
The turf and ornamental segment, while smaller in market share, plays a crucial role in the Asia-Pacific controlled-release fertilizer market. This segment primarily serves the growing landscaping and recreational sectors, including golf courses, public parks, and ornamental plant cultivation. The segment's importance is particularly evident in developed economies within the region, where there is increasing emphasis on urban greenspaces and recreational facilities. The controlled-release fertilizers used in this segment are specifically formulated to meet the unique nutritional requirements of turf grass and ornamental plants, providing sustained nutrient release that helps maintain aesthetic appeal while minimizing environmental impact.
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market Geography Segment Analysis
Controlled Release Fertilizer Market in China
China maintains its dominant position in the Asia-Pacific controlled release fertilizer market, commanding approximately 42% of the total market value in 2024. The country's leadership stems from its proactive approach to adopting advanced fertilizer technologies aimed at boosting agricultural output while simultaneously curbing overall fertilizer consumption. The government's commitment to sustainable agriculture is evident through various awareness programs, including organized farmer meetings and field trials to promote controlled release fertilizer adoption. The market is particularly driven by the widespread use of polymer-coated fertilizers, which have shown remarkable success in improving nitrogen use efficiency across major crops like rice, corn, and wheat. Chinese farmers are increasingly recognizing the benefits of controlled-release fertilizers in reducing environmental impact and improving crop yields, particularly in regions with intensive farming practices. The country's agricultural modernization initiatives and emphasis on environmental protection continue to create favorable conditions for market expansion, with a particular focus on developing innovative coating technologies and improving product efficiency.
Controlled Release Fertilizer Market in Australia
Australia's controlled release fertilizer market is experiencing remarkable growth, projected to expand at approximately 9% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. The country's agricultural sector is increasingly embracing controlled-release fertilizers as a solution to optimize nutrient management and reduce environmental impact. Australian farmers are particularly drawn to controlled-release urea, which has demonstrated significant improvements in nitrogen uptake and grain yields through extensive field trials. The adoption is further supported by the country's strong focus on sustainable farming practices and the growing awareness of environmental concerns related to conventional fertilizer use. The Australian government's encouragement of best fertilizer management practices has created a conducive environment for market growth, particularly in regions with intensive agricultural activities. The market is seeing increased innovation in coating technologies and application methods, tailored to suit the unique agricultural conditions of different regions. The combination of supportive regulatory frameworks, advanced agricultural practices, and increasing environmental consciousness among farmers continues to drive the market's expansion.
Controlled Release Fertilizer Market in India
India's controlled release fertilizer market demonstrates robust growth, driven by the government's mandate for domestic urea producers to manufacture neem-coated urea, which is distributed to farmers at subsidized rates. The country's agricultural sector is witnessing a significant transformation in fertilizer application practices, with controlled-release fertilizers gaining prominence in both field and horticultural crops. Field crops, particularly rice, wheat, and maize, represent the primary application segments, benefiting from the enhanced nitrogen utilization efficiency offered by these advanced fertilizers. The market is characterized by strong domestic production capabilities and an expanding distribution network, ensuring widespread availability across farming regions. Indian farmers are increasingly recognizing the benefits of controlled-release fertilizers in reducing nutrient losses and improving crop yields, particularly in regions with intensive farming practices. The government's focus on sustainable agriculture and environmental protection continues to create favorable conditions for market expansion, supported by various agricultural development programs and subsidies.
Controlled Release Fertilizer Market in Japan
Japan's controlled release fertilizer market showcases sophisticated development, characterized by advanced technological innovations and high adoption rates among farmers. The country has developed significant expertise in polymer-coated fertilizer technology, known for its precise nutrient release capabilities tied to temperature conditions. Japanese farmers' preference for practices that optimize fertilizer usage while minimizing labor requirements has been a key driver, particularly given the country's smaller farm sizes and agricultural diversification trends. The market benefits from strong research and development activities, leading to continuous improvements in coating technologies and application methods. The high adoption rate of controlled-release fertilizers in paddy fields, especially with the rise of fertilizer drill rice transplanters, demonstrates the market's technological maturity. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries' initiatives continue to support market growth through various programs aimed at promoting efficient fertilizer use.
Controlled Release Fertilizer Market in Other Countries
The controlled release fertilizer market in other Asia-Pacific countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, shows varying degrees of development and adoption patterns. These markets are characterized by increasing awareness of sustainable agricultural practices and growing recognition of the benefits of controlled-release fertilizers. Each country presents unique opportunities and challenges, influenced by factors such as government policies, agricultural practices, and economic conditions. Vietnam's market is driven by its strong agricultural sector and government support for modern farming practices, while Thailand benefits from its well-developed horticultural sector. The Philippines and Indonesia show promising growth potential due to their large agricultural bases and increasing focus on productivity improvement. Bangladesh and Pakistan are witnessing gradual market development, supported by various agricultural modernization initiatives and growing awareness among farmers about the benefits of controlled-release fertilizers. These markets collectively represent significant growth potential as awareness increases and agricultural practices continue to modernize.
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Industry Overview
Top Companies in Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market
Leading companies in the market are focusing on continuous product innovation, particularly in polymer coating technologies and nutrient release mechanisms. There is a strong emphasis on developing environmentally sustainable solutions while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Companies are strengthening their distribution networks through strategic partnerships with local agricultural input providers and expanding their manufacturing capabilities across key agricultural regions. Research and development investments are primarily directed towards improving coating technologies and developing region-specific formulations suited to local crop requirements. Market leaders are also actively engaging in farmer education programs and field demonstrations to showcase the benefits of controlled release fertilizers, while simultaneously working on digital platforms for providing technical support and application guidance.
Market Dominated by Global Chemical Conglomerates
The Asia-Pacific controlled release fertilizer market exhibits a consolidated structure dominated by established global chemical conglomerates with strong research and development capabilities. These major players leverage their extensive distribution networks and technical expertise to maintain their market positions, while regional players focus on serving specific geographic markets with customized solutions. The market demonstrates high entry barriers due to the technical complexity of coating technologies and the need for significant capital investments in manufacturing facilities.
The competitive landscape is characterized by strategic alliances between global manufacturers and local distributors to enhance market penetration. Merger and acquisition activities are primarily focused on acquiring regional players with established distribution networks or innovative coating technologies. Companies are also investing in vertical integration strategies to secure raw material supplies and control production costs, while simultaneously expanding their presence in high-growth agricultural markets through joint ventures and partnerships.
Innovation and Distribution Key to Growth
Success in the market increasingly depends on developing cost-effective solutions that maintain efficacy while addressing environmental concerns. Companies need to focus on building strong relationships with agricultural cooperatives and large-scale farming operations while investing in localized production facilities to reduce transportation costs and improve supply chain efficiency. The ability to provide comprehensive agronomic support services, including soil testing and application recommendations, is becoming crucial for market success. Companies must also develop products tailored to specific crops and regional growing conditions while maintaining price competitiveness against traditional fertilizers.
Future market leadership will require companies to invest in sustainable coating technologies and bio-based materials while expanding their digital capabilities for precision fertilizers applications. Building strong relationships with government agricultural agencies and research institutions will be crucial for product development and market acceptance. Companies must also focus on developing integrated nutrient management solutions that combine smart fertilizers with other agricultural inputs. The ability to demonstrate clear economic benefits to farmers while meeting increasingly stringent environmental regulations will be critical for long-term success in the market.
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market Leaders
-
Grupa Azoty S.A. (Compo Expert)
-
Hebei Sanyuanjiuqi Fertilizer Co., Ltd.
-
ICL Group Ltd
-
National Fertilizers Ltd
-
New Mountain Capital (Florikan)
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market News
- February 2019: Haifa Group announced the opening of a new trading company in China. The establishment of the new Haifa subsidiary in China will enable the group to significantly expand its offerings to China agriculture sector.
- July 2018: Haifa Group introduces a novel a range of coated micronutrients, enabling an all-season complete nutrition. Based on Multicote™ technology, the coated micronutrients provide your crops with all the benefits of controlled release nutrition.
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market Report - Table of Contents
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS
2. REPORT OFFERS
3. INTRODUCTION
- 3.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
- 3.2 Scope of the Study
- 3.3 Research Methodology
4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS
-
4.1 Acreage Of Major Crop Types
- 4.1.1 Field Crops
- 4.1.2 Horticultural Crops
-
4.2 Average Nutrient Application Rates
- 4.2.1 Primary Nutrients
- 4.2.1.1 Field Crops
- 4.2.1.2 Horticultural Crops
- 4.3 Regulatory Framework
- 4.4 Value Chain & Distribution Channel Analysis
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes market size in Value in USD and Volume, Forecasts up to 2030 and analysis of growth prospects)
-
5.1 Coating Type
- 5.1.1 Polymer Coated
- 5.1.2 Polymer-Sulfur Coated
- 5.1.3 Others
-
5.2 Crop Type
- 5.2.1 Field Crops
- 5.2.2 Horticultural Crops
- 5.2.3 Turf & Ornamental
-
5.3 Country
- 5.3.1 Australia
- 5.3.2 Bangladesh
- 5.3.3 China
- 5.3.4 India
- 5.3.5 Indonesia
- 5.3.6 Japan
- 5.3.7 Pakistan
- 5.3.8 Philippines
- 5.3.9 Thailand
- 5.3.10 Vietnam
- 5.3.11 Rest of Asia-Pacific
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Key Strategic Moves
- 6.2 Market Share Analysis
- 6.3 Company Landscape
-
6.4 Company Profiles
- 6.4.1 Grupa Azoty S.A. (Compo Expert)
- 6.4.2 Haifa Group
- 6.4.3 Hebei Sanyuanjiuqi Fertilizer Co., Ltd.
- 6.4.4 Hebei Woze Wufeng Biological Technology Co., Ltd
- 6.4.5 ICL Group Ltd
- 6.4.6 National Fertilizers Ltd
- 6.4.7 New Mountain Capital (Florikan)
- 6.4.8 Zhongchuang xingyuan chemical technology co.ltd
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR FERTILIZER CEOS
8. APPENDIX
-
8.1 Global Overview
- 8.1.1 Overview
- 8.1.2 Porter’s Five Forces Framework
- 8.1.3 Global Value Chain Analysis
- 8.1.4 Market Dynamics (DROs)
- 8.2 Sources & References
- 8.3 List of Tables & Figures
- 8.4 Primary Insights
- 8.5 Data Pack
- 8.6 Glossary of Terms
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Industry Segmentation
Polymer Coated, Polymer-Sulfur Coated, Others are covered as segments by Coating Type. Field Crops, Horticultural Crops, Turf & Ornamental are covered as segments by Crop Type. Australia, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam are covered as segments by Country.Coating Type | Polymer Coated |
Polymer-Sulfur Coated | |
Others | |
Crop Type | Field Crops |
Horticultural Crops | |
Turf & Ornamental | |
Country | Australia |
Bangladesh | |
China | |
India | |
Indonesia | |
Japan | |
Pakistan | |
Philippines | |
Thailand | |
Vietnam | |
Rest of Asia-Pacific |
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market Research FAQs
How big is the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market?
The Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market size is expected to reach USD 214.54 million in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 7.27% to reach USD 304.75 million by 2030.
What is the current Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market size?
In 2025, the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market size is expected to reach USD 214.54 million.
Who are the key players in Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market?
Grupa Azoty S.A. (Compo Expert), Hebei Sanyuanjiuqi Fertilizer Co., Ltd., ICL Group Ltd, National Fertilizers Ltd and New Mountain Capital (Florikan) are the major companies operating in the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market.
Which segment has the biggest share in the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market?
In the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market, the Polymer Coated segment accounts for the largest share by coating type.
Which country has the biggest share in the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market?
In 2025, China accounts for the largest share by country in the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market.
What years does this Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market cover, and what was the market size in 2025?
In 2025, the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market size was estimated at 214.54 million. The report covers the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market historical market size for years: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
Our Best Selling Reports
Asia-Pacific Controlled Release Fertilizer Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the Asia Pacific controlled release fertilizer market. We leverage our extensive expertise in fertilizer technology research to deliver this detailed report. It examines the transition from traditional to enhanced efficiency fertilizer solutions, including polymer coated fertilizer, sulfur coated fertilizer, and advanced urea coating technologies. The analysis also covers smart fertilizer innovations, nitrogen stabilizer developments, and emerging precision fertilizer applications. This information is available in an easy-to-download report PDF.
Stakeholders gain valuable insights into sustainable fertilizer trends, specialty fertilizer segments, and environmentally friendly fertilizer developments across the region. The report explores timed release fertilizer and delayed release fertilizer technologies, alongside encapsulated fertilizer innovations and smart release fertilizer solutions. Our analysis benefits manufacturers, distributors, and end-users by providing a detailed examination of coated fertilizer advancements and advanced fertilizer applications. This supports informed decision-making in this rapidly evolving market landscape.