Agricultural Chelates Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, Types (EDTA, EDDHA, DTPA, IDHA), Applications (Fruits & Vegetables, Oilseeds & Pulses, Cereals & Grains, Turfs & Ornamentals), and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2035

Agricultural Chelates Market Size

The Global Agricultural Chelates Market continues to expand as growers seek efficient solutions to address micronutrient deficiencies. In 2025, the Global Agricultural Chelates Market size was USD 816.63 Million and is projected to touch USD 896.41 Million in 2026, rise further to USD 983.99 Million in 2027, and reach USD 2.07 Billion by 2035, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.77% during the forecast period [2026–2035]. Approximately 44% of demand originates from fruits and vegetables, reflecting the importance of micronutrients in high-value crop production.

The US Agricultural Chelates Market shows steady growth supported by precision farming and widespread soil testing adoption. Nearly 62% of growers adjust micronutrient programs based on soil analysis, while fertigation-based chelate use influences about 45% of applications. Focus on yield consistency and soil sustainability continues to support domestic demand.

Key Findings

• Market Size: Valued at $816.63Mn in 2025, projected to touch $896.41Mn in 2026 and $2.07Bn by 2035 at a CAGR of 9.77%.
• Growth Drivers: Micronutrient deficiency 61%, yield improvement 42%, precision farming 41%.
• Trends: High-value crops 46%, fertigation use 41%, sustainable inputs 34%.
• Key Players: BASF SE, Yara International, Nouryon, ICL, Syngenta & more.
• Regional Insights: North America 34%, Europe 28%, Asia-Pacific 26%, Middle East & Africa 12%.
• Challenges: Cost sensitivity 33%, application knowledge gaps 31%.
• Industry Impact: Nutrient efficiency gains 35%, soil health focus 38%.
• Recent Developments: Stable chelates 41%, eco-compatible products 29%.

A unique aspect of the agricultural chelates market is its close alignment with soil science advancements. Nearly 47% of chelate usage decisions are now guided by laboratory soil analysis, highlighting a shift toward data-driven nutrient management.

Agricultural Chelates Market Trends

The agricultural chelates market is evolving as growers focus more on nutrient efficiency and soil health rather than sheer fertilizer volume. Around 57% of farmers now recognize micronutrient deficiency as a primary cause of yield loss, pushing demand for chelated nutrients that improve absorption. Chelated micronutrients show nearly 30% higher uptake efficiency compared to non-chelated forms, especially in alkaline soils. Usage is particularly strong in high-value crops, with close to 46% of fruit and vegetable growers incorporating chelates into regular nutrient programs. Precision farming practices also influence adoption, as about 41% of growers apply chelates through drip irrigation or foliar sprays for targeted delivery. Soil degradation concerns are another factor, with nearly 38% of cultivated land showing micronutrient imbalance. Additionally, sustainable farming trends matter, as approximately 34% of users prefer chelates that minimize nutrient runoff and soil fixation. These trends reflect a shift toward smarter, efficiency-driven nutrient management rather than traditional blanket fertilization.

Agricultural Chelates Market Dynamics

OPPORTUNITY

"Growth in high-value crop cultivation"

Expansion of high-value crop cultivation presents a strong opportunity for the agricultural chelates market. Nearly 49% of commercial growers prioritize micronutrient efficiency in fruits and vegetables to improve quality and shelf life. Chelates help reduce nutrient lock-up by about 35%, making them suitable for intensive farming systems. Demand is particularly strong where crop appearance and uniformity directly impact pricing.

DRIVERS

"Rising awareness of micronutrient deficiencies"

Awareness of micronutrient deficiencies is a major driver of chelate adoption. Around 61% of soil tests reveal deficiencies in iron, zinc, or manganese. Farmers using chelates report yield improvement in nearly 42% of cases. Extension programs and agronomic advisory services influence about 37% of adoption decisions, reinforcing demand for chelated solutions.

RESTRAINTS

"Higher cost compared to conventional micronutrients"

Cost remains a restraint in the agricultural chelates market, particularly among small-scale farmers. Nearly 33% of growers consider chelates expensive compared to traditional salts. Budget sensitivity leads about 28% of users to limit chelate usage to specific growth stages rather than full-season application. This restricts broader penetration in price-sensitive regions.

CHALLENGE

"Correct product selection and application knowledge"

Selecting the right chelating agent is a challenge for many growers. Around 31% of farmers struggle to match chelate type with soil pH and crop needs. Misapplication reduces effectiveness in nearly 22% of cases. Limited technical guidance in rural areas further complicates optimal usage and slows consistent adoption.

Segmentation Analysis

The Global Agricultural Chelates Market size was USD 816.63 Million in 2025 and is projected to touch USD 896.41 Million in 2026, rise further to USD 983.99 Million in 2027, and reach USD 2.07 Billion by 2035, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.77% during the forecast period [2026-2035]. Segmentation analysis shows that both chelate chemistry and crop type play a critical role in adoption. Different chelating agents perform better under specific soil conditions, while crop categories influence application frequency and nutrient intensity.

By Type

EDTA

EDTA-based chelates are widely used due to versatility and compatibility with multiple micronutrients. Around 36% of chelate users rely on EDTA formulations for neutral soil conditions. These chelates improve nutrient availability by nearly 29% and are commonly applied through fertigation systems.

EDTA held a significant share in the Agricultural Chelates Market, accounting for USD 322.71 Million in 2026, representing approximately 36% of the total market. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.42% from 2026 to 2035, supported by broad crop applicability.

EDDHA

EDDHA chelates are preferred for high-pH and calcareous soils. Nearly 27% of users choose EDDHA for iron deficiency correction. These chelates maintain stability under alkaline conditions and improve iron uptake efficiency by about 41%.

EDDHA accounted for USD 242.03 Million in 2026, representing close to 27% of the market. This segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.11% during the forecast period due to rising alkaline soil challenges.

DTPA

DTPA chelates are commonly used in slightly alkaline to neutral soils. Around 21% of growers apply DTPA for zinc and manganese supplementation. These chelates balance cost and effectiveness for broad-acre farming systems.

DTPA generated USD 188.25 Million in 2026, accounting for approximately 21% of the market, with a CAGR of 9.63% through 2035.

IDHA

IDHA chelates are gaining attention for biodegradability and environmental compatibility. About 16% of users prefer IDHA for sustainable farming practices. These chelates reduce residual buildup while maintaining nutrient availability.

IDHA accounted for USD 143.42 Million in 2026, representing around 16% of the total market. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.28% during the forecast period.

By Application

Fruits & Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables form the largest application segment due to high micronutrient demand. Nearly 44% of chelate usage is linked to horticultural crops. Chelates improve color, size uniformity, and shelf life, directly influencing marketable yield.

Fruits & Vegetables accounted for USD 394.42 Million in 2026, representing approximately 44% of the Agricultural Chelates Market. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.02% from 2026 to 2035.

Oilseeds & Pulses

Oilseeds and pulses use chelates to address zinc and iron deficiencies. Around 23% of applications fall in this segment. Improved nutrient balance supports better seed development and oil content.

Oilseeds & Pulses generated USD 206.17 Million in 2026, accounting for nearly 23% of the market, with a CAGR of 9.54% during the forecast period.

Cereals & Grains

Cereals and grains apply chelates mainly to correct soil-related micronutrient stress. About 21% of total usage comes from this segment. Chelates help improve root development and grain filling.

Cereals & Grains accounted for USD 188.25 Million in 2026, representing around 21% of the market. This segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.21% through 2035.

Turfs & Ornamentals

Turfs and ornamentals use chelates to enhance visual quality and color intensity. Nearly 12% of demand comes from landscaping and ornamental applications. Aesthetic consistency drives regular application cycles.

Turfs & Ornamentals generated USD 107.57 Million in 2026, accounting for approximately 12% of the total market, with a CAGR of 9.89% during the forecast period.

Agricultural Chelates Market Regional Outlook

According to industry assessment, the Global Agricultural Chelates Market size was USD 816.63 Million in 2025 and is projected to touch USD 896.41 Million in 2026, rise further to USD 983.99 Million in 2027, and reach USD 2.07 Billion by 2035, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.77% during the forecast period [2026–2035]. Regional performance of the agricultural chelates market is closely linked to soil quality, crop intensity, and adoption of precision nutrient management. Mature agricultural economies emphasize yield optimization and micronutrient efficiency, while developing regions focus on correcting long-standing soil deficiencies. Combined regional shares across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa together account for 100% of global demand.

North America

North America shows strong adoption of agricultural chelates due to advanced soil testing practices and high awareness of micronutrient deficiencies. Nearly 64% of commercial growers routinely monitor soil micronutrient levels, and around 46% apply chelates as part of integrated nutrient programs. Fruit, vegetable, and turf applications dominate regional usage, while fertigation-based delivery influences close to 41% of application methods.

North America held the largest share of the Agricultural Chelates Market, accounting for approximately 34% of global demand in 2026. The region benefits from high-value crop production, precision farming adoption, and consistent investment in soil health management.

Europe

Europe demonstrates stable demand driven by regulatory focus on nutrient efficiency and environmental sustainability. Around 58% of farmers emphasize controlled micronutrient application to reduce leaching losses. Chelates are widely used in horticulture, accounting for nearly 44% of regional consumption. Adoption is further supported by greenhouse cultivation and intensive crop management systems.

Europe accounted for roughly 28% of the global Agricultural Chelates Market share in 2026. Strong agronomic advisory networks and sustainable farming incentives continue to support steady regional usage.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is emerging as a high-growth region due to widespread micronutrient-deficient soils and expanding commercial agriculture. Nearly 52% of cultivated land shows zinc or iron deficiency, increasing reliance on chelated nutrients. Smallholder farmers contribute significantly, with about 39% of demand driven by government-supported soil improvement initiatives.

Asia-Pacific represented approximately 26% of the Agricultural Chelates Market in 2026. Rapid adoption in horticulture and cash crops supports ongoing regional expansion.

Middle East & Africa

Middle East & Africa shows gradual but consistent adoption of agricultural chelates as arid soils limit micronutrient availability. Around 47% of intensive farms rely on chelates to improve nutrient uptake efficiency. Greenhouse and irrigation-based agriculture play a central role in demand generation.

Middle East & Africa held close to 12% of the global market share in 2026, completing the regional distribution to 100%.

List of Key Agricultural Chelates Market Companies Profiled

Investment Analysis and Opportunities in Agricultural Chelates Market

Investment activity in the agricultural chelates market centers on product innovation, regional expansion, and farmer education. Nearly 42% of investments focus on developing more stable chelating agents for challenging soil conditions. Around 31% of capital allocation targets emerging markets where micronutrient deficiencies remain under-addressed. Precision agriculture integration attracts close to 27% of investment interest, as chelates align well with drip irrigation and variable-rate application. Sustainability-oriented products influence approximately 22% of new investment decisions, reflecting demand for environmentally compatible nutrient solutions.

New Products Development

New product development in the agricultural chelates market emphasizes higher stability, crop specificity, and environmental safety. About 46% of new launches focus on enhanced chelation performance in alkaline soils. Multi-micronutrient chelate blends appear in nearly 39% of new products, reducing application complexity for farmers. Biodegradable chelating agents influence around 28% of innovations, while liquid formulations improve ease of use for nearly 34% of end users.

Recent Developments

• High-stability iron chelates: New formulations improved nutrient uptake efficiency for nearly 41% of alkaline-soil applications.
• Multi-micronutrient blends: Product introductions reduced application steps for about 36% of users.
• Liquid chelate solutions: Adoption increased ease of fertigation for approximately 33% of growers.
• Eco-compatible chelates: New options supported sustainability goals for nearly 29% of farms.
• Crop-specific formulations: Targeted products improved yield consistency for around 38% of high-value crops.

Report Coverage

This report provides comprehensive coverage of the agricultural chelates market, analyzing trends, segmentation, regional dynamics, and competitive landscape. It evaluates nutrient management practices influencing nearly 69% of chelate adoption decisions and examines how soil conditions, crop types, and application methods shape demand. The report reviews chelating agent chemistry, crop-specific usage, and delivery techniques such as fertigation and foliar spraying. Regional analysis highlights mature markets driven by efficiency optimization and emerging regions focused on correcting soil deficiencies. Company profiling emphasizes product portfolios, geographic reach, and strategic positioning. Overall, the coverage offers a clear view of the factors driving growth, limiting adoption, and shaping future opportunities in the agricultural chelates market.