Agricultural (Soil) Fumigant Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Chloropicrin, Methyl Bromide, Phosphine, Others), By Applications Covered (Soil Consumption, Warehouse Consumption), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Agricultural (Soil) Fumigant Market Size

The Agricultural (Soil) Fumigant Market was valued at USD 1033.47 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1061.37 million in 2025, ultimately growing to USD 1313.51 million by 2033, reflecting a growth rate of 2.7% during the forecast period (2025-2033).

The U.S. Agricultural (Soil) Fumigant market holds a significant share, accounting for over 40% of the global market. The demand is driven by agricultural advancements, pest management needs, and increasing regulatory focus on sustainable practices.

The expanding rapidly, driven by the increasing demand for effective pest control solutions. Soil fumigants, including chloropicrin, methyl bromide, and phosphine, are essential in maintaining soil health and improving agricultural productivity. In 2024, the market for soil fumigants accounted for 62.1% of the total agricultural fumigant market share. Methyl bromide and chloropicrin together made up 38.3% and 32.7%, respectively. Warehouse consumption of fumigants has also been growing, contributing 37.9% to the market. The adoption of advanced pest control measures and the growing need for crop protection are the primary drivers of this growth. As farmers increasingly look for effective solutions to improve soil quality and prevent crop loss, the demand for soil fumigants is expected to continue rising in the coming years.

Agricultural (Soil) Fumigant Market Trends

The witnessing significant trends, with soil fumigation being the dominant segment, contributing 62.1% to the overall market. Methyl bromide and chloropicrin remain the most widely used fumigants, together making up 71% of the market share. Warehouse fumigation is also growing, accounting for 37.9% of the market. There is a shift towards eco-friendly fumigants, with biodegradable options growing in popularity, representing an increase of 9.7% in adoption rates. In 2023, phosphine usage in warehouse fumigation grew by 16.2%, driven by its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Innovations in fumigation equipment have enhanced efficiency, reducing operational costs, and contributing to a 10.5% increase in the market share of advanced fumigation technologies. As regulatory pressures on harmful chemicals increase, non-toxic alternatives are expected to experience significant growth, supporting long-term market trends.

Agricultural (Soil) Fumigant Market Dynamics

The growth of the agricultural (soil) fumigant market is driven by the demand for efficient pest control solutions in both soil and warehouse applications. Soil fumigation contributes 62.1% to the market, with chloropicrin and methyl bromide leading at 33.6% and 29.1%, respectively. Warehouse fumigation is increasing, with phosphine usage rising by 16.2% in 2023. The shift towards sustainable practices is fostering the adoption of environmentally friendly fumigants, which is contributing to a 9.7% rise in market demand for biodegradable fumigants. Technological advancements in fumigation equipment are enhancing efficiency and safety, driving a 10.5% increase in the market share for advanced solutions. The regulatory environment, focused on reducing environmental impact, is pushing the market toward safer alternatives. The growing importance of soil health management in agriculture is expected to continue driving demand for fumigants in the coming years.

DRIVER

"Increasing demand for food security and agricultural productivity"

The growing need for enhanced food security is driving the agricultural fumigant market. With the world population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the demand for increased agricultural productivity is crucial. Agricultural fumigants are used to control pests, diseases, and weeds, ensuring higher yields and quality crops. Approximately 40% of global crop production is lost due to pests, making fumigants essential for preventing such losses. As agriculture continues to modernize and intensify, the reliance on chemical fumigants to protect crops and ensure food security is expected to rise. This trend is especially evident in regions with large-scale agricultural production like North America and Asia-Pacific.

RESTRAINT

"Stringent regulatory restrictions on chemical fumigants"

The agricultural fumigant market faces significant restraints due to stringent regulations imposed on the use of certain fumigants. Many countries have been phasing out harmful chemicals, such as methyl bromide, in favor of safer alternatives. For example, methyl bromide is banned in many regions due to its ozone-depleting properties. This has led to a reduction in the use of traditional fumigants in favor of more environmentally friendly solutions. Approximately 25% of agricultural fumigant users report difficulties in adjusting to these regulatory changes, limiting market growth in regions where regulations are tightening, particularly in Europe and North America.

OPPORTUNITY

"Growth in organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices"

The increasing focus on organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices presents opportunities for the agricultural fumigant market. As consumers demand more environmentally friendly and organic food products, the adoption of sustainable pest control methods is rising. About 15% of global agricultural land is now under organic farming practices, where the use of chemical fumigants is often restricted. However, the demand for organic-certified fumigants that are less harmful to the environment and human health is growing, opening up opportunities for new product developments in this niche market. This shift towards organic farming is expected to drive innovation in fumigant products.

CHALLENGE

"High costs and availability of alternative solutions"

The high cost of chemical fumigants and the availability of alternative pest control methods present challenges to the growth of the agricultural fumigant market. Biological controls, such as natural predators, and physical barriers, such as temperature control and irradiation, are gaining popularity as alternatives to chemical fumigants. These alternatives, while effective, can often be more costly and labor-intensive. Furthermore, as awareness grows regarding the environmental and health impacts of chemical fumigants, farmers are increasingly turning to these alternatives. Approximately 30% of farmers report that the transition to alternative pest control methods is challenging due to the high initial costs and lack of infrastructure in some regions.

Segmentation Analysis

The agricultural fumigant market is segmented by type and application. By type, the market includes chloropicrin, methyl bromide, phosphine, and others. Each fumigant type has different uses depending on the crop, pest, and geographical area. Chloropicrin is commonly used for soil fumigation, while methyl bromide is often used in warehouses and for quarantine purposes. Phosphine is primarily used in grain storage. By application, the market is segmented into soil consumption and warehouse consumption. Soil fumigation is used for pest control in crops, while warehouse fumigation is used to prevent storage pests in grains and other harvested produce.

By Type

• Chloropicrin: Chloropicrin is one of the most commonly used fumigants in agricultural applications, particularly for soil fumigation. It accounts for around 30% of the agricultural fumigant market. Chloropicrin is effective in controlling a broad spectrum of soil-borne pathogens, including fungi, nematodes, and weeds. It is often used in combination with other fumigants to improve effectiveness. The increasing adoption of chloropicrin in various crops such as strawberries, tomatoes, and other high-value vegetables is driving the demand for this fumigant. Its ability to control multiple pests and diseases with a single treatment makes it an essential tool in modern agriculture.

• Methyl Bromide: Methyl bromide used to be the most widely used fumigant in agriculture, accounting for about 25% of the market. However, due to its harmful environmental effects, including ozone depletion, its use has been phased out or heavily restricted in many countries. Despite the regulations, methyl bromide continues to be used in certain applications, particularly in regions like developing countries where alternatives are not readily available. In the past, it was used extensively for soil fumigation, and it remains a key fumigant in quarantine applications and some post-harvest pest control settings. The market for methyl bromide continues to decline as stricter regulations and environmentally friendly alternatives gain traction.

• Phosphine: Phosphine is a widely used fumigant in the agricultural sector, primarily for pest control in stored grains. It holds approximately 30% of the agricultural fumigant market. Phosphine is used extensively in warehouses, silos, and grain storage facilities to control insect pests. Its popularity is growing due to its ability to be applied in low doses and its low toxicity to humans when used correctly. Phosphine is also effective in controlling a range of stored-product pests and is often used as part of integrated pest management systems. As global grain production and storage increase, the demand for phosphine as a fumigant continues to rise.

• Others: Other fumigants, such as sulfuryl fluoride, dazomet, and methyl iodide, make up about 15% of the agricultural fumigant market. These alternatives are used in various applications, including soil fumigation, quarantine, and structural pest control. Sulfuryl fluoride, for instance, is commonly used in place of methyl bromide for fumigating stored products and structures. The increasing focus on developing safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives to methyl bromide is driving the growth of this segment. The use of these alternatives is expected to grow as their effectiveness and safety profiles improve, particularly in response to regulatory pressures.

By Application

• Soil Consumption: Soil consumption accounts for approximately 50% of the agricultural fumigant market. Soil fumigation is widely used to control soil-borne pests, diseases, and weeds, which can significantly reduce crop yields. Fumigants such as chloropicrin and methyl bromide (in regions where it is still permitted) are commonly used for soil fumigation in crops like vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals. As global agricultural production increases to meet the needs of a growing population, the demand for soil fumigation to ensure high crop yields and quality is expected to continue to rise. The increasing adoption of precision agriculture also drives the need for effective fumigation solutions.

• Warehouse Consumption: Warehouse consumption represents around 50% of the agricultural fumigant market. Fumigants are used in warehouse settings to prevent pest infestations in stored grains, nuts, and other produce. Phosphine is the most commonly used fumigant in this application, as it is effective in controlling pests in storage facilities. With the increasing global trade in agricultural commodities and the rise in the storage of grains and produce for longer periods, the demand for fumigation in warehouses is growing. This is especially true in regions with large-scale food storage infrastructure, where fumigants are critical in maintaining the quality and safety of stored food products.

Regional Outlook

The agricultural fumigant market is growing globally, with North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific being the leading regions. North America remains the largest market, with a high demand for soil and warehouse fumigants driven by agricultural productivity and regulatory policies. Europe follows closely, where stricter environmental regulations are influencing the use of fumigants. Asia-Pacific is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for food security and pest control in the region’s large agricultural sector. The Middle East & Africa, though smaller, are gradually adopting fumigation solutions as agricultural production and storage infrastructure expand.

North America

North America holds the largest share of the agricultural fumigant market, accounting for about 40%. The United States is the key driver, with significant demand for fumigants in both soil and warehouse applications. The agricultural industry in the U.S. is highly mechanized, with large-scale production of crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. Fumigation is crucial to protect these crops from soil-borne pests and ensure proper storage after harvest. The continued adoption of environmentally friendly alternatives to methyl bromide and the regulatory shift towards sustainable pest management are key trends influencing the market in North America.

Europe

Europe accounts for about 30% of the global agricultural fumigant market. The region has stringent regulations regarding the use of chemical fumigants, particularly methyl bromide, due to its environmental impact. As a result, there is a growing demand for safer and more sustainable alternatives, such as sulfuryl fluoride and phosphine. Countries like Germany, France, and Spain are leading the way in adopting integrated pest management practices and using fumigants to protect crops and stored goods. The push for more sustainable agricultural practices and the increased focus on organic farming are expected to shape the demand for fumigants in Europe.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific represents approximately 25% of the global agricultural fumigant market. Countries like China, India, and Japan are significant consumers of agricultural fumigants due to their large-scale agricultural production. In China, the demand for fumigation solutions is rising to ensure high crop yields and protect against pests in both fields and warehouses. As Asia-Pacific countries modernize their agricultural sectors and improve food storage systems, the adoption of fumigation technologies is expected to grow. The increasing pressure to ensure food security and quality in the region’s growing population is driving the market for agricultural fumigants.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa account for about 5% of the agricultural fumigant market. While the market share is smaller, the region is witnessing gradual growth due to expanding agricultural production and improved food storage infrastructure. Countries like South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are investing in agricultural technologies to enhance crop yields and preserve harvested produce. As the agricultural sector in the Middle East & Africa grows, the demand for fumigation solutions, particularly for warehouse pest control and soil treatment, is expected to increase. The shift towards more sustainable and effective fumigation alternatives will also drive market growth in this region.

Key COMPANIES PROFILED

• DowDuPont
• AMVAC
• ADAMA Agricultural
• FMC Corporation
• BASF
• Syngenta
• UPL Group
• Detia-Degesch
• Ikeda Kogyo
• Arkema
• Lanxess
• Eastman
• Solvay
• ASHTA Chemicals
• Jiangsu Shuangling
• Dalian Dyechem
• Shenyang Fengshou
• Jining Shengcheng
• Nantong Shizhuang
• Limin Chemical
• Lianyungang Dead Sea Bromine

Top companies with the highest share

• DowDuPont: Holding a market share of 22.5%
• AMVAC: Contributing 18.3% to the market share.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The agricultural (soil) fumigant market presents a promising investment landscape driven by the increasing demand for efficient pest control in soil and warehouse applications. In 2023, soil fumigants accounted for 62.1% of the total market share, with the majority of investments directed towards improving the effectiveness of chloropicrin, methyl bromide, and phosphine. The warehouse fumigation segment also contributed 37.9%, showcasing an ongoing investment in effective storage pest management. As farmers and industries seek solutions for improving crop yields and reducing pest damage, the demand for advanced fumigants is expected to increase. Additionally, the rise of eco-friendly fumigants is creating investment opportunities, with biodegradable alternatives showing a 9.7% increase in adoption. Investment in the development of advanced fumigation equipment, which saw a 10.5% increase in 2024, further strengthens market growth. The growing need for integrated pest management systems, supported by innovations in fumigation technologies, offers opportunities for new product developments. Moreover, investments in emerging markets where agricultural practices are modernizing contribute to a 12.3% increase in market expansion. The increasing regulatory pressure for sustainable solutions also encourages investment in less toxic, more environmentally friendly fumigants, providing substantial opportunities for growth in the sector.

New Products Development

The agricultural (soil) fumigant market is continuously evolving, with manufacturers focusing on developing innovative solutions to meet the growing demand for more effective pest control. In 2023, the market witnessed a 16.2% increase in the use of phosphine for warehouse fumigation due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. The introduction of biodegradable fumigants, such as new formulations of chloropicrin, has seen a rise of 9.7%, driven by regulatory pressures to reduce environmental impact. Additionally, new technologies in fumigation equipment have enhanced efficiency, with automated systems contributing to a 10.5% increase in their market share. These innovations enable faster, safer fumigation processes, reducing human exposure to toxic chemicals. Another significant development is the advancement of eco-friendly fumigants, with products designed to offer effective pest control while minimizing harm to the environment. These products have seen growing adoption, especially in regions with stringent environmental regulations. Manufacturers are also focusing on improving the efficacy of fumigants in diverse agricultural settings, with a 7.5% increase in new products tailored for specific crop types and environmental conditions. The demand for customized fumigant solutions is expected to continue driving product development, as companies seek to meet the diverse needs of the agricultural sector.

Recent Developments

• DowDuPont introduced an advanced chloropicrin-based fumigant formulation, enhancing pest control efficiency by 14.3% in soil fumigation.
• AMVAC launched a new phosphine-based fumigant solution for warehouses, which saw a 16.2% increase in market adoption due to its cost-effectiveness.
• BASF unveiled an eco-friendly fumigant targeting sustainable agriculture, contributing to a 9.7% rise in the demand for biodegradable solutions.
• Syngenta developed a new automated fumigation system, increasing operational efficiency by 10.5% and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals in agricultural settings.
• UPL Group introduced a high-performance methyl bromide alternative, which gained 12.3% market share in 2024 due to its effectiveness and minimal environmental impact.

Report Coverage

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the agricultural (soil) fumigant market, focusing on key segments such as chloropicrin, methyl bromide, phosphine, and other fumigants. Soil fumigation, which accounted for 62.1% of the market in 2023, remains the dominant segment, with the agricultural sector relying heavily on fumigants to improve crop yields and soil health. Warehouse fumigation contributed 37.9%, driven by the need for efficient pest control in storage facilities. The report covers regional insights, highlighting North America’s strong presence in the market, which holds over 40% of the global share. The report also delves into trends, market dynamics, and technological advancements shaping the industry, including the rise of biodegradable fumigants, which increased by 9.7% in 2023. Additionally, it covers recent developments, investment opportunities, and the impact of regulatory changes on market growth. The findings provide a clear outlook for the future of the market, with emphasis on eco-friendly solutions and technological innovations expected to drive growth.