According to a research report published by MarketsandMarkets, the global agricultural micronutrients market was valued at USD 4.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 6.9 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 8.6% during the forecast period. This positive trajectory reflects a detailed agricultural micronutrients market outlook, shaped by rising food demand, soil health challenges, and the adoption of advanced farming practices.

Agricultural micronutrients are essential minerals required in small quantities for plant growth, yet they play a critical role in crop productivity, nutrient uptake, and overall plant health. Their importance continues to rise as agriculture moves toward efficiency-driven and sustainable production models.

Rising Focus on Yield Improvement and Crop Quality

One of the primary drivers of the market is the increasing emphasis on improving crop yield and quality. Farmers across regions are adopting micronutrient fertilizers to correct soil deficiencies that can otherwise limit productivity. Declining soil fertility, intensive cultivation practices, and imbalanced nutrient application have made micronutrient supplementation essential.

The growing global population and demand for nutritionally rich food further strengthen adoption, as growers seek to enhance both yield and crop nutritional value. Ongoing research activities and better awareness among farmers continue to support this agricultural micronutrients market analysis.

Boron Segment Leads Growth by Type

By type, the boron segment is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Boron plays a crucial role in plant development, including cell wall formation, pollen viability, and nutrient transport. Deficiency can significantly reduce crop yield and quality, especially in fruits and vegetables.

The rising cultivation of high-value crops and the widespread occurrence of soil imbalances caused by pH variations, temperature, and humidity have increased the need for boron-based micronutrients. As nutrient-efficient farming gains traction, boron continues to emerge as a key growth contributor.

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Fertigation Gains Momentum as a Preferred Application Method

By mode of application, the fertigation segment is anticipated to grow at a significant rate. Fertigation enables the precise application of micronutrients through irrigation systems, improving nutrient absorption while minimizing losses.

This method supports sustainable farming by conserving water, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing crop performance. Increasing adoption of controlled irrigation systems and precision agriculture practices highlights evolving agricultural micronutrients market trends, particularly in resource-efficient nutrient delivery.

Cereals and Grains Drive Demand by Crop Type

Cereals and grains are expected to grow at a significant CAGR due to their fundamental role in global food security. Staple crops such as wheat, rice, and corn are critical to feeding the expanding population, and micronutrients play an essential role in achieving optimal yields.

The shift toward nutrient-dense diets and advancements in precision farming technologies have further encouraged targeted micronutrient application in cereal and grain cultivation, supporting both yield improvement and nutritional enhancement.

South America Emerges as a High-Growth Region

South America is estimated to witness strong growth in the agricultural micronutrients market during the forecast period. Increasing population, rising food demand, and diverse soil and climatic conditions have created the need for customized micronutrient solutions.

The adoption of modern farming practices, growing farmer awareness, and government initiatives promoting sustainable agriculture have further accelerated regional market growth.

Competitive Landscape and Key Players

The market features a competitive landscape with global and regional players focusing on innovation, sustainability, and farmer-centric solutions. Key companies include BASF SE, Nouryon, Nufarm, Yara International ASA, and Coromandel International Ltd. These players continue to invest in product development and sustainable nutrient solutions. The agricultural micronutrients market is expected to maintain steady growth through 2028, driven by increasing food security concerns, soil nutrient challenges, and the shift toward precision and sustainable agriculture. As awareness and adoption rise globally, agricultural micronutrients will remain a critical component of modern crop nutrition strategies.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What are agricultural micronutrients?

Agricultural micronutrients are essential minerals required in small quantities for plant growth and development. They play a crucial role in processes such as enzyme activation, photosynthesis, nutrient transport, and overall crop health, directly influencing yield and quality.

• What is driving the growth of the agricultural micronutrients market?

Market growth is driven by the increasing focus on improving crop yield and quality, rising global food demand, widespread soil micronutrient deficiencies, and growing adoption of precision and sustainable farming practices.

• Why is boron an important micronutrient for crops?

Boron is essential for plant cell wall formation, pollen development, and nutrient movement within plants. Deficiency can lead to reduced yields and poor crop quality, particularly in fruits and vegetables, making boron a key contributor to market growth.

• What is fertigation and why is it gaining popularity?

Fertigation is the application of micronutrients through irrigation systems. It allows precise nutrient delivery directly to plant roots, improves nutrient uptake efficiency, reduces waste, conserves water, and supports sustainable agriculture practices.

• Which crop types are driving demand for agricultural micronutrients?

Cereals and grains are major drivers due to their importance in global food security. Rising demand for staple crops such as wheat, rice, and corn has increased the need for micronutrients to enhance both yield and nutritional value.

• Why is South America a high-growth region for agricultural micronutrients?

South America’s growth is supported by increasing food demand, diverse soil and climate conditions, adoption of modern farming techniques, and growing awareness among farmers about the benefits of micronutrient fertilizers.