Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By Application (Crop Production, Horticulture, Soil Improvement, Landscaping), By Type (Natural Mineral Fertilizers, Rock Phosphate, Potassium Minerals, Trace Minerals), By Form (Granular, Powder, Liquid), By End Use (Agriculture, Gardening, Commercial Landscaping), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market is projected to grow from USD 28.7 Billion in 2025 to USD 43.5 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.2% from 2026 through 2035. This market encompasses naturally occurring mineral deposits processed and utilized to provide essential nutrients to soil and crops, enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. Rock mineral fertilizers, including phosphate rock, potash, gypsum, and various trace element minerals, are crucial for replenishing soil fertility, improving crop yields, and fostering resilient agricultural systems. A primary driver for market expansion is the escalating global demand for food, propelled by a continuously growing population and rising disposable incomes, particularly in developing economies. This demand places immense pressure on agricultural lands to produce more efficiently, thus increasing the adoption of nutrient rich fertilizers. Furthermore, the growing awareness among farmers about the long term benefits of sustainable agricultural practices, including soil health improvement and reduced environmental impact, is fueling the demand for natural and less processed fertilizer alternatives. Conversely, market growth faces restraints such as the volatility of raw material prices, which can significantly impact production costs and final product pricing. The high capital investment required for mining and processing operations also acts as a barrier to entry for new players, consolidating market power among established entities. Additionally, stringent environmental regulations regarding mining activities and the potential for heavy metal contamination in certain rock phosphate sources pose challenges for market participants. The Crop Production segment currently holds the largest share, highlighting its foundational role in agricultural output.
Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035
2025 - 2035
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A significant trend shaping the market is the increasing focus on precision agriculture and nutrient management, which seeks to optimize fertilizer application for maximum efficacy and minimal waste. This trend is driven by technological advancements in soil testing, remote sensing, and data analytics, allowing farmers to tailor fertilizer application based on specific crop needs and soil conditions. Another emerging trend is the growing interest in organic farming and sustainable agriculture, which often favors naturally derived inputs over synthetic chemicals. This shift encourages the development and adoption of rock mineral fertilizers that align with organic certification standards. Opportunities abound in the development of enhanced efficiency rock mineral fertilizers, which release nutrients more slowly and precisely, minimizing nutrient losses and improving uptake by plants. Investment in research and development to discover new mineral deposits and optimize existing processing techniques can also unlock significant market potential. Moreover, expanding into underserved agricultural regions, particularly in parts of Africa and Latin America, where soil degradation is prevalent and agricultural productivity can be significantly boosted, represents a lucrative avenue for growth.
Asia Pacific emerges as the dominant region in the global market, driven by its vast agricultural lands, large farming population, and the continuous need to boost food production for its substantial and expanding population. Government initiatives in countries within the region to support agricultural development, coupled with increasing investments in modern farming techniques, further solidify its leading position. The region is also the fastest growing, underpinned by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and a subsequent reduction in arable land, which necessitates more intensive and efficient use of existing agricultural resources. Key players like K+S AG, Vale Fertilizantes, OCP Group, The Mosaic Company, and ICL Group are actively pursuing strategies such as mergers and acquisitions to consolidate market share, expand their product portfolios, and enhance their global distribution networks. These companies are also investing heavily in R&D to develop innovative products and improve processing efficiency, ensuring they remain competitive in a dynamic market. Strategic partnerships and collaborations with local distributors and agricultural cooperatives are also common tactics to penetrate new markets and strengthen regional presence.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 28.7 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 43.5 BillionLeading Segment:
Crop Production (62.8% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
Asia Pacific (45.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
6.2%
Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Emerging Trends and Insights
Bioenhanced Rock Fertilizers The Next Frontier
Bioenhanced rock fertilizers represent a significant shift in the global fertilizer market, moving beyond traditional processed minerals. This trend highlights the integration of biological components, such as beneficial microbes or organic matter, with natural rock phosphate or other mineral sources. The aim is to improve the nutrient release kinetics and bioavailability of these raw materials directly in the soil. Instead of relying solely on energy intensive chemical processing, this approach leverages microbial activity to solubilize and mineralize nutrients more efficiently for plant uptake. This reduces the environmental impact associated with conventional synthetic fertilizers and offers a sustainable alternative, particularly appealing as global agriculture seeks greener solutions. It’s about making natural mineral resources more effective through biological enhancement.
Precision Mined Nutrients for Sustainable Agriculture
The global rock mineral fertilizer market is embracing precision mined nutrients as a key sustainable agriculture trend. This involves extracting specific minerals like phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients with enhanced accuracy and minimal waste. Instead of broad application of crushed rock, the focus shifts to carefully characterized mineral sources and targeted extraction methods. This reduces the energy footprint associated with mining and processing. Furthermore, it allows for the development of fertilizers with precise nutrient ratios tailored to specific crop needs and soil types. This optimizes nutrient delivery, prevents over fertilization, and minimizes nutrient runoff, thereby reducing environmental pollution and enhancing agricultural efficiency. The ultimate goal is to provide crops with exactly what they need, exactly when they need it, fostering healthier soils and more productive, sustainable farming systems globally.
Circular Economy Innovations in Mineral Fertilizers
The global rock mineral fertilizer market is witnessing a significant trend in circular economy innovations, particularly in how mineral resources are managed. Instead of a linear take make dispose model, companies are increasingly focusing on reducing waste and maximizing resource utility throughout the fertilizer lifecycle. This involves recovering nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium from various organic waste streams such as wastewater, agricultural residues, and industrial byproducts. New technologies are emerging for nutrient extraction and valorization, transforming these waste materials into high quality, sustainable fertilizers. This approach lessens reliance on finite virgin rock phosphate and potash deposits, mitigates environmental impacts associated with conventional mining and processing, and offers farmers more sustainable and locally sourced nutrient solutions. The trend is driven by regulatory pressures, consumer demand for eco friendly products, and the economic benefits of resource efficiency.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market
Growing Demand for Sustainable Agriculture and Bio-Fertilizers
Growing consumer environmental consciousness and regulatory pressures are fueling a significant shift towards sustainable agriculture. This paradigm emphasizes reduced chemical inputs, soil health improvement, and climate change mitigation. Bio fertilizers, derived from natural sources, offer an effective alternative to conventional synthetic fertilizers by enhancing nutrient availability and plant growth while minimizing environmental impact. Farmers are increasingly adopting these sustainable practices and products to meet the rising demand for organic and sustainably produced food. This trend directly drives the demand for rock mineral fertilizers, which are vital components in organic and biological farming systems. Their natural composition aligns perfectly with the principles of sustainable agriculture, making them indispensable for farmers seeking to improve soil fertility and crop yield naturally.
Expansion of Organic Farming Practices and Premium Crop Production
The expansion of organic farming practices is a significant driver in the global rock mineral fertilizer market. Consumers increasingly prioritize healthy, sustainably produced food, fueling demand for organic fruits, vegetables, and grains. This shift necessitates fertilizers that meet organic certification standards, which conventional synthetic options often do not. Rock mineral fertilizers, derived from natural sources, are ideal for these operations.
Furthermore, a growing segment of consumers is willing to pay a premium for crops perceived as superior in quality, nutrition, or environmental impact. Organic produce often falls into this premium category. Farmers adopting these practices rely on rock minerals to enhance soil health, nutrient availability, and ultimately, crop yield and quality. This dual trend of increasing organic acreage and the pursuit of premium crop production directly boosts the adoption of rock mineral fertilizers globally.
Increasing Awareness of Soil Health and Nutrient Management
Growing understanding among farmers and agricultural organizations about the vital role of healthy soil for sustainable and productive farming drives demand for rock mineral fertilizers. As knowledge spreads regarding the depletion of essential nutrients and the long term benefits of soil amendment, there's a greater emphasis on restoring and maintaining soil vitality. This heightened awareness underscores the importance of balanced nutrient management beyond NPK, recognizing the micronutrient contributions and slow release benefits of rock minerals. Consequently, farmers are increasingly adopting these fertilizers to improve soil structure, enhance microbial activity, and boost crop resilience, directly translating into increased adoption within the global agricultural sector seeking sustainable solutions for their land.
Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Restraints
Geopolitical Instability and Trade Barriers for Global Fertilizer Supply
Geopolitical instability significantly constrains the global rock mineral fertilizer market. Disruptions such as wars, sanctions, and trade disputes between major producing and consuming nations severely impact supply chains. These events lead to fluctuating prices, making long term planning challenging for farmers and distributors. Key exporters, like those in Eastern Europe and North Africa, face interrupted production and export routes due to regional conflicts or political tensions. Additionally, governments increasingly impose trade barriers, including export restrictions, import tariffs, and quotas, often in response to domestic food security concerns or strategic interests. These barriers artificially inflate prices, limit market access, and create uncertainty, hindering the efficient flow of essential fertilizers to agricultural regions worldwide, ultimately impacting food production and affordability.
Volatile Raw Material Prices and Supply Chain Disruptions for Rock Mineral Fertilizers
The rock mineral fertilizer market faces significant headwinds from volatile raw material prices. Key inputs like phosphate rock and potash ore experience unpredictable price fluctuations due to varying supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical events, and energy costs. This instability makes production planning difficult and can squeeze profit margins for manufacturers. Simultaneously, the industry grapples with persistent supply chain disruptions. Issues such as port congestion, labor shortages, transportation bottlenecks, and trade restrictions impede the timely and cost effective delivery of raw materials to processing plants and finished fertilizers to farmers. These disruptions lead to increased lead times, higher logistics costs, and potential shortages, ultimately impacting the market's stability and growth potential.
Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Opportunities
Sustainable Agriculture & Soil Health: Driving Global Adoption of Rock Mineral Fertilizers
The global agricultural sector faces immense pressure to adopt sustainable practices and restore soil health. This presents a significant opportunity for rock mineral fertilizers. These natural amendments offer a solution by providing essential nutrients in a slow release form, fostering beneficial microbial activity, and improving soil structure. Unlike synthetics, they enrich the soil web, reduce nutrient runoff, and enhance long term fertility.
Driving their global adoption means capitalizing on the escalating demand for environmentally friendly inputs and regenerative farming methods. Farmers worldwide, especially in rapidly developing agricultural hubs like Asia Pacific, are increasingly recognizing the economic and ecological benefits of investing in natural soil building approaches. This shift towards ecological resilience positions rock minerals as a cornerstone for future food security, offering a pathway to reduce chemical reliance while boosting crop vitality and overall farm sustainability. This is about transforming agriculture for a healthier planet.
Organic & Natural Input Demand: Fueling the Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Expansion
The burgeoning global demand for organic and natural agricultural inputs presents a significant opportunity for the rock mineral fertilizer market. As consumers increasingly prioritize sustainably produced food, farmers are shifting towards practices that minimize synthetic chemical use. This paradigm change elevates the importance of naturally derived soil amendments and nutrient sources. Rock mineral fertilizers, originating from geological deposits, are inherently natural and often permissible in certified organic and sustainable farming systems. They offer essential macro and micronutrients in a form that supports long term soil health and aligns with eco conscious cultivation methods. The expanding base of organic farms and a broader movement towards regenerative agriculture directly translate into greater adoption of these naturally sourced fertilizers. This powerful trend fuels market growth by positioning rock mineral fertilizers as indispensable inputs for environmentally responsible food production, particularly in rapidly developing agricultural regions worldwide. Their crucial role in bridging the gap between natural resource availability and sustainable farming imperatives underscores a robust market expansion pathway.
Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Application
- •Crop Production
- •Horticulture
- •Soil Improvement
- •Landscaping
By Type
- •Natural Mineral Fertilizers
- •Rock Phosphate
- •Potassium Minerals
- •Trace Minerals
By Form
- •Granular
- •Powder
- •Liquid
By End Use
- •Agriculture
- •Gardening
- •Commercial Landscaping
Segment Share By Application
Share, By Application, 2025 (%)
- Crop Production
- Horticulture
- Soil Improvement
- Landscaping
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Why is Crop Production dominating the Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market?
Crop Production holds the largest share due to the immense global demand for food security and high agricultural yields. Rock mineral fertilizers are essential for replenishing vital nutrients like phosphorus and potassium in farm soils, supporting the cultivation of staple crops, fruits, and vegetables on a vast scale. Their natural origin and slow release properties make them a preferred choice for sustainable and long term soil health in large scale farming operations, directly impacting food supply chains worldwide.
How do different types of rock mineral fertilizers cater to diverse plant nutrient requirements?
The market's segmentation by type highlights the specific nutritional roles various minerals play. Rock Phosphate is crucial for providing phosphorus, vital for root development and flowering in plants. Potassium Minerals are indispensable for overall plant health, water regulation, and disease resistance. Trace Minerals, while needed in smaller quantities, address specific micronutrient deficiencies essential for optimal growth and yield. This tailored approach allows growers to select the precise mineral blend required for their specific crop and soil conditions.
What factors influence the preferred form and end use of rock mineral fertilizers across various applications?
The choice of form, whether granular, powder, or liquid, often depends on the application method and desired nutrient release profile. Granular forms are favored for their slow and sustained nutrient release, ideal for broad acre agriculture. Powder forms offer quick nutrient availability and are easily blended, while liquid forms provide convenient application through irrigation systems, particularly beneficial for horticulture and specialized gardening. End uses span from large scale agriculture to smaller gardening projects and commercial landscaping, each demanding specific product characteristics for efficient nutrient delivery and optimal plant health.
Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Regulatory and Policy Environment Analysis
The global rock mineral fertilizer market navigates a multifaceted regulatory landscape shaped by environmental protection and agricultural sustainability goals. National and international policies stringently govern mineral extraction, particularly for phosphate rock and potash, emphasizing land rehabilitation, waste reduction, and biodiversity conservation. Environmental impact assessments are increasingly mandatory, influencing mining permits and operational practices worldwide.
Product quality and safety standards are critical, with regulations addressing nutrient content, heavy metal contamination, and accurate labeling to ensure agricultural efficacy and consumer safety. Trade policies, including tariffs and import restrictions, significantly impact the global flow of raw materials and finished fertilizers, fostering both protectionism and market liberalization. Government subsidies often distort market dynamics, aiming to support food security or specific agricultural sectors. Growing emphasis on sustainable agriculture promotes efficient fertilizer use and soil health initiatives, driving innovation in production and application methods. These evolving frameworks significantly influence supply chains, production costs, and market access.
Which Emerging Technologies Are Driving New Trends in the Market?
The global rock mineral fertilizer market is undergoing significant transformation driven by pioneering innovations. Precision agriculture stands out, utilizing advanced sensors, IoT devices, and artificial intelligence for granular soil analysis and variable rate application. This ensures optimal nutrient delivery, minimizing waste and enhancing crop yield efficiency. Emerging nanotechnologies are developing mineral fertilizers with improved solubility and controlled release mechanisms, boosting nutrient uptake and reducing environmental impact.
Furthermore, advancements in microbial inoculants are increasingly integrated with rock minerals, fostering enhanced nutrient availability through biological processes. Sustainable processing techniques are emerging, focusing on energy efficiency and reduced environmental footprint during extraction and production. Innovations in fertilizer blending and formulation, often AI driven, allow for customized nutrient profiles addressing specific crop requirements and soil deficiencies globally. These technological shifts are pivotal in fostering a more efficient, sustainable, and responsive fertilizer market, supporting agricultural productivity worldwide.
Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Regional Analysis
Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market
Trends, by Region
Asia-Pacific Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
Asia Pacific · 45.2% share
Asia Pacific asserts its dominance in the Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market with a commanding 45.2% market share. This significant proportion underscores the region's pivotal role in the global fertilizer industry. The sustained growth in population and increasing food demand within countries like China and India are primary drivers for this dominance. Extensive agricultural practices across the region, coupled with government initiatives promoting fertilizer usage to boost crop yields, further solidify Asia Pacific's leading position. The presence of major agricultural economies and the continuous need for enhanced food security necessitate high demand for rock mineral fertilizers, firmly establishing Asia Pacific as the most influential region in this market.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 7.9% CAGR
The Asia Pacific region is poised for significant growth in the global rock mineral fertilizer market, projected to be the fastest expanding region with a compelling CAGR of 7.9% from 2026 to 2035. This robust expansion is primarily driven by the escalating demand for food security in densely populated nations like China and India. Intensive agricultural practices to maximize crop yields necessitate increased fertilizer application. Furthermore, a growing awareness among farmers regarding soil health and sustainable agricultural practices fuels the adoption of rock mineral fertilizers. Government initiatives promoting efficient resource utilization and the expanding cultivation of high value crops further amplify this growth trajectory, establishing Asia Pacific as a key market.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical tensions, particularly in Eastern Europe, disrupt global fertilizer supply chains, impacting rock mineral markets. Russia’s role as a major exporter of fertilizer intermediates and energy directly affects production costs and availability. Sanctions and trade restrictions compel importing nations to diversify sourcing, leading to price volatility and regional supply imbalances. Food security concerns in developing nations amplify demand for affordable fertilizers, driving competition and potentially altering trade routes as countries prioritize domestic agricultural output. Climate change related weather events also affect agricultural yields and demand for fertilizers.
Macroeconomic factors, including high energy prices, significantly elevate production costs for rock mineral fertilizers, impacting profitability and consumer prices. Inflationary pressures globally reduce farmer purchasing power, potentially curbing demand, especially for higher value products. Currency fluctuations also influence import costs for countries reliant on foreign supplies. Government subsidies and agricultural policies in key markets play a crucial role in shaping demand and market competitiveness, with some nations investing heavily in domestic production capacity to mitigate supply chain risks. Interest rate hikes impact investment into new mining projects.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
OCP Group announced a strategic partnership with a leading agricultural technology firm to develop and pilot precision fertilizer application solutions. This initiative aims to optimize nutrient delivery for various crops, enhancing yield efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
- June 2025
The Mosaic Company completed the acquisition of a significant phosphate mining operation in South America. This acquisition is expected to bolster Mosaic's raw material supply chain and expand its market reach in a key agricultural region.
- September 2024
K+S AG launched a new line of enhanced-efficiency potassium fertilizers designed for specific soil conditions and crop types. These innovative products offer improved nutrient uptake, contributing to sustainable farming practices and higher agricultural productivity.
- December 2024
Vale Fertilizantes announced a major investment in upgrading its production facilities to incorporate advanced beneficiation technologies for rock phosphate. This strategic initiative aims to increase the purity and quality of its fertilizer products, meeting evolving market demands.
Key Players Analysis
Key players like K+S AG and OCP Group dominate the global rock mineral fertilizer market, leveraging their extensive mining operations and advanced processing technologies. Their strategic initiatives include expanding product portfolios with value added solutions and optimizing supply chains. Vale Fertilizantes and The Mosaic Company also play significant roles, focusing on sustainable practices and precision agriculture solutions. Market growth is driven by increasing food demand and the need for efficient nutrient delivery to crops.
List of Key Companies:
- K+S AG
- Vale Fertilizantes
- OCP Group
- The Mosaic Company
- Kuwait Petroleum Corporation
- ICL Group
- Shandong Hualu Hengsheng Chemical
- Uralchem
- Sinofert Holdings
- EuroChem Group
- Agnico Eagle Mines Limited
- Tata Chemicals
- Nutrien
- CF Industries
- Yara International
- J.R. Simplot Company
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 28.7 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 43.5 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 6.2% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Form, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Rock Mineral Fertilizer Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035