South Africa Agrochemicals Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

The South Africa Agrochemicals Market Report is Segmented by Type (Fertilizers, Pesticides, Adjuvants, and Plant Growth Regulators) and Application (Grains and Cereals, Oilseeds, Fruits and Vegetables, and Other Applications (Plantation, Turf, and Ornamentals and Grass)). The Report Offers Market Sizing in Terms of Values in USD.

South Africa Agrochemicals Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

South Africa Agrochemicals Market Size

View Global Report
South Africa Agrochemicals Market Summary
Study Period 2019 - 2030
Base Year For Estimation 2024
Forecast Data Period 2025 - 2030
Market Size (2025) USD 1.32 Billion
Market Size (2030) USD 1.60 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2030) 3.90 %
Market Concentration Low

Major Players

South Africa Agrochemicals Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Compare market size and growth of South Africa Agrochemicals Market with other markets in Agriculture Industry

Seeds

Crop Protection

Fertilizers

Agricultural Commodities

Agriculture Services

Agricultural Machinery and Technology

South Africa Agrochemicals Market Analysis

The South Africa Agrochemicals Market size is estimated at USD 1.32 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 1.60 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 3.9% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The South African agrochemicals market is characterized by significant import dependency, particularly in the fertilizer segment. The country's reliance on imports is evident as all potassic synthetic fertilizers are sourced internationally, while 60-70% of nitrogenous agricultural fertilizers are imported, with only a small portion being produced domestically. This heavy dependence on imports has created challenges in terms of price volatility and supply chain management, affecting both distributors and end-users. The situation has prompted industry stakeholders to explore opportunities for domestic production expansion and alternative sourcing strategies to reduce import dependency.


Agricultural productivity in South Africa faces considerable challenges, as demonstrated by lower crop yields compared to global averages. For instance, the country's maize yield stands at 49,013 hg/ha, significantly below the global average of 58,238 hg/ha. This productivity gap has led to increased focus on agricultural efficiency and optimization of farming practices. The agricultural sector has been witnessing a gradual shift towards precision farming techniques and integrated nutrient management systems, with farmers increasingly adopting scientific approaches to crop protection and nutrition, including the use of agricultural chemicals.


The fertilizer industry structure in South Africa has undergone significant transformation, with major players expanding their production capabilities and distribution networks. A notable development is that approximately 40% of domestically produced ammonia is directed towards agricultural applications, indicating the growing importance of local manufacturing in meeting agricultural demand. The industry has also seen increased investment in research and development, focusing on developing more efficient and environmentally sustainable agrochemical solutions tailored to local conditions.


The market is experiencing a shift towards sustainable and environmentally conscious farming practices. Agricultural nongovernmental organizations, such as the Fertilizer Association of Southern Africa (Fertasa), are actively promoting responsible fertilizer production and usage practices. The industry operates in a deregulated environment without import tariffs or government-sponsored schemes, allowing market forces to determine prices based on international prices, currency exchange rates, and shipping costs. This has fostered a competitive environment where success is driven through price incentives, product differentiation, and specialized services such as individual agronomic advice and custom nutrient blending, including the strategic use of farm chemicals and agricultural pesticides.

Segment Analysis: By Type

Fertilizers Segment in South Africa Agrochemicals Market

The agricultural fertilizers segment continues to dominate the South African agrochemicals market, holding approximately 81% of the market share in 2024. This substantial market presence can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing focus on improving soil fertility and crop yields in South Africa. The growers in the country are particularly focused on the long-term sustainability of high-quality grain production, where agricultural fertilizers play a crucial role. The fertilizer market in South Africa operates in a deregulated environment with no import tariffs or government-sponsored schemes, making it highly competitive with numerous national and regional operators. Competition in this segment is primarily driven through price incentives, product differentiation, and specialized services such as individual agronomic advice and custom blending of nutrients.

Market Analysis of South Africa Agrochemicals Market: Chart for By Type

Plant Growth Regulators Segment in South Africa Agrochemicals Market

The plant growth regulators segment is projected to exhibit the strongest growth rate of approximately 5% during the forecast period 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by the increasing awareness among farmers about the role of plant growth regulators in improving crop quality and productivity. The segment has gained particular significance in crops like cotton, where there is a higher need for maintenance in vegetative and reproductive growth balance. In citrus production, ethylene-based plant growth regulators are commonly used in post-harvest treatment to enhance peel color and increase marketability. The segment's growth is further supported by the rising consumer awareness regarding food safety and quality, leading to increased adoption of plant growth regulators in various agricultural applications.

Remaining Segments in South Africa Agrochemicals Market by Type

The agricultural pesticides and adjuvants segments also play vital roles in the South African agrochemicals market. The agricultural pesticides segment serves as a crucial component in crop protection, particularly in addressing challenges such as stem and leaf rust epidemics in wheat production in the Western and Eastern Cape regions. Meanwhile, the adjuvants segment, though smaller in market share, provides essential support in improving the effectiveness of other agrochemical applications. The majority of adjuvants launched in the South African market are primarily compatible with glyphosate, reflecting the widespread use of these agricultural herbicides in agricultural practices. Both segments continue to evolve with technological advancements and changing agricultural needs in the region.

Segment Analysis: By Application

Crop-Based Segment in South Africa Agrochemicals Market

The crop-based segment continues to dominate the South African agrochemicals market, accounting for approximately 77% of the total market share in 2024. This segment's prominence is primarily driven by the extensive application of crop protection chemicals in major crops like grains, cereals, fruits, and vegetables. The segment's strong performance is attributed to the increasing need for crop protection against various diseases and pests, particularly in key agricultural regions of South Africa. Among different crop-based applications, grains and cereals represent the largest sub-segment, while the fruits and vegetables category shows significant growth potential. The rising adoption of modern farming practices, coupled with the growing awareness about crop protection methods among farmers, has further strengthened this segment's market position. Additionally, the segment's growth is supported by the expanding commercial farming sector and the increasing focus on improving crop yields to meet the growing food demand in the region.

Non-Crop Based Segment in South Africa Agrochemicals Market

The non-crop based segment, primarily comprising turf and ornamental grass applications, represents a specialized niche in the South African agrochemicals market. This segment serves the growing landscaping and recreational facilities sector, including golf courses, sports fields, and public parks. The demand is driven by the increasing focus on maintaining the aesthetic appeal and functionality of commercial and recreational spaces. The segment's growth is supported by urbanization trends and the development of new recreational facilities across the country. Professional turf management practices and the need for specialized agrochemical solutions for ornamental grass maintenance continue to drive innovation in this segment. The segment also benefits from the growing hospitality sector and increasing investments in commercial property development, which require high-quality turf maintenance solutions.

Remaining Segments in Application Market

The other major crops segment plays a vital role in the South African agrochemicals market, serving specialized agricultural sectors such as sugarcane, cotton, tobacco, and coffee production. This segment addresses the unique agrochemical requirements of these high-value commercial crops, each demanding specific nutrient management and pest control solutions. The segment's importance is particularly evident in regions where these crops are predominantly cultivated, such as KwaZulu-Natal for sugarcane and Mpumalanga for tobacco. The diverse nature of these crops necessitates a wide range of specialized agrochemical products, from specific fertilizer blends to targeted pest control solutions, making this segment crucial for the overall agricultural sector's sustainability and productivity.

South Africa Agrochemicals Industry Overview

Top Companies in South Africa Agrochemicals Market

The South African agrochemicals market features prominent global players like Sasol Limited, Yara International, OCP, and K+S AG leading the industry alongside established pesticide manufacturers such as Bayer CropScience and BASF SE. Companies are increasingly focusing on developing innovative bio-based and sustainable agricultural chemicals solutions to meet growing environmental concerns and regulatory requirements. Strategic partnerships and collaborations have become key growth drivers, with firms joining forces to enhance research capabilities and expand distribution networks. Market leaders are investing heavily in digital farming technologies and precision agriculture solutions while expanding their manufacturing footprint through new plant establishments and capacity expansions. The industry has witnessed a strong trend toward developing specialized plant protection chemicals for specific crop segments and regional growing conditions, supported by extensive research and development initiatives.

Consolidated Market with Strong Global Presence

The South African agrochemicals market demonstrates a relatively consolidated structure, with major international conglomerates holding significant market share alongside a limited number of domestic players. Global agricultural inputs companies leverage their extensive research capabilities and technological expertise to maintain competitive advantages, while local players capitalize on their deep understanding of regional farming practices and established distribution networks. The market has witnessed several strategic mergers and acquisitions aimed at portfolio expansion and geographical reach enhancement, particularly in the specialty fertilizers and crop protection products segments.


The competitive dynamics are characterized by intense rivalry among established players, with competition primarily driven through price incentives, product differentiation, and specialized services such as agronomic advice and custom nutrient blending. Market participants are increasingly focusing on developing integrated solutions that combine traditional agrochemicals with digital farming technologies and precision agriculture tools. The industry structure favors companies with strong backward integration into raw material supply chains and forward integration into distribution networks, creating high barriers to entry for new market entrants.

Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success

Success in the South African agrochemicals market increasingly depends on companies' ability to develop sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions while maintaining product efficacy. Market leaders are investing in research and development to create bio-based alternatives and precision application technologies that reduce environmental impact while improving crop yields. Companies are also focusing on building strong relationships with farming communities through educational initiatives and technical support programs, while developing integrated product portfolios that address specific regional challenges and crop requirements.


Future market success will require companies to navigate complex regulatory environments while meeting growing demand for sustainable agriculture solutions. Players must balance pricing pressures with the need for continued innovation and product development, particularly in specialized crop segments. Building robust distribution networks and establishing strong partnerships with local agricultural stakeholders will become increasingly important for maintaining market position. Companies that can effectively combine traditional agrochemical expertise with digital farming solutions and sustainable practices will be best positioned for long-term success in the market.

South Africa Agrochemicals Market Leaders

  1. Sasol Limited

  2. OCP Group

  3. Yara International ASA

  4. Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile (SQM)

  5. K+S AG

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
South Africa Agrochemicals Market Concentration
Need More Details on Market Players and Competiters?
Download PDF

South Africa Agrochemicals Market News

  • May 2024: The African Union Commission was dedicated to strengthening the Africa Fertilizer Financing Mechanism to enhance food production. This commitment will enable the mechanism to invest in technologies that improve crop yields, initiatives that promote soil health, and infrastructure improvements. Such investments ensure better fertilizer availability and market access for farmers throughout Africa.
  • December 2023: Bayer unveiled its new fungicide seed treatment, EverGol Energy, in South Africa, with availability set for farmers in 2024. This treatment targets both Fusarium spp. and Pythium spp. in maize and soybean crops.
  • January 2023: K+S agreed to acquire a 75% stake in the fertilizer division of Industrial Commodities Holdings (Pty) Ltd (ICH), a trading firm based in South Africa. Following the signing of the agreement, the newly acquired entity will function under the name Fertiva (Pty) Ltd. This strategic move aims to bolster and broaden K+S's distribution reach in South Africa and East Africa.

South Africa Agrochemical Market Report - Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4. MARKET DYNAMICS

  • 4.1 Market Overview
  • 4.2 Market Drivers
  • 4.3 Market Restraints
  • 4.4 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
    • 4.4.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • 4.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
    • 4.4.3 Threat of New Entrants
    • 4.4.4 Threat of Substitute Products
    • 4.4.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5. MARKET SEGMENTATION

  • 5.1 Type
    • 5.1.1 Fertilizers
    • 5.1.2 Pesticides
    • 5.1.3 Adjuvants
    • 5.1.4 Plant Growth Regulators
  • 5.2 Application
    • 5.2.1 Grains and Cereals
    • 5.2.2 Oil seeds
    • 5.2.3 Fruits and Vegetables
    • 5.2.4 Fruits and Vegetables
    • 5.2.5 Other Applications (Plantation, Turf, and Ornamentals and Grass)

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Most Adopted Strategies
  • 6.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 6.3 Company Profiles
    • 6.3.1 Bayer CropScience AG
    • 6.3.2 BASF SE
    • 6.3.3 Nutrien Ltd
    • 6.3.4 Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile (SQM)
    • 6.3.5 Yara International ASA
    • 6.3.6 OCP Group
    • 6.3.7 FMC Corporation
    • 6.3.8 Sasol Limited
    • 6.3.9 Corteva Agriscience
    • 6.3.10 Sumitomo Corporation (Philagro SA)
    • 6.3.11 Syngenta AG
    • 6.3.12 K+S AG
  • *List Not Exhaustive

7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS

You Can Purchase Parts Of This Report. Check Out Prices For Specific Sections
Get Price Break-up Now

South Africa Agrochemicals Industry Segmentation

Agrochemicals are commercially produced chemicals or organic compounds used in farming for crop protection and nutrition. The South African agrochemicals market is segmented by type (fertilizers, pesticides, adjuvants, and plant growth regulators) and application (grains and cereals, oilseeds, fruits and vegetables, and other applications (plantation, turf, and ornamentals and grass)). The report offers market sizing in terms of values in USD.

Type Fertilizers
Pesticides
Adjuvants
Plant Growth Regulators
Application Grains and Cereals
Oil seeds
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and Vegetables
Other Applications (Plantation, Turf, and Ornamentals and Grass)
Need A Different Region or Segment?
Customize Now

South Africa Agrochemical Market Research FAQs

How big is the South Africa Agrochemicals Market?

The South Africa Agrochemicals Market size is expected to reach USD 1.32 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 3.9% to reach USD 1.60 billion by 2030.

What is the current South Africa Agrochemicals Market size?

In 2025, the South Africa Agrochemicals Market size is expected to reach USD 1.32 billion.

Who are the key players in South Africa Agrochemicals Market?

Sasol Limited, OCP Group, Yara International ASA, Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile (SQM) and K+S AG are the major companies operating in the South Africa Agrochemicals Market.

What years does this South Africa Agrochemicals Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?

In 2024, the South Africa Agrochemicals Market size was estimated at USD 1.27 billion. The report covers the South Africa Agrochemicals Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the South Africa Agrochemicals Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

South Africa Agrochemicals Market Research

Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the agrochemicals industry. We leverage extensive expertise in agricultural chemicals research and consulting. Our detailed examination covers the full range of agricultural inputs, including agricultural pesticides, agricultural fertilizers, and plant growth regulators. The report offers in-depth insights into agricultural biologicals and agricultural biotechnology. Alongside traditional farm chemicals and synthetic fertilizers, it provides stakeholders with a complete understanding of crop nutrition dynamics in South Africa.

Our expertly crafted analysis, available as an easy-to-download report PDF, examines crucial segments. These include agricultural insecticides, agricultural herbicides, and agricultural fungicides. The research also encompasses crop protection products, agricultural fumigants, and soil treatment chemicals, offering valuable insights for industry participants. Stakeholders gain a comprehensive understanding of plant protection chemicals and crop care chemicals. Additionally, the analysis of agricultural additives ensures thorough coverage of market dynamics. The report's detailed examination of crop protection chemicals supports informed decision-making for businesses operating in South Africa's agricultural sector.

Agrochemicals Industry in South Africa Report Snapshots