Ammonia Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028

Ammonia Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028

Global Ammonia Market has valued at USD68.25 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 5.58% through 2028. Ammonia is a colorless gas with a strong and pungent odor. It is composed of three hydrogen atoms bonded to a single nitrogen atom, giving it the chemical formula NH3. This compound exhibits high solubility in water and readily forms ammonium ions (NH4+) when dissolved in aqueous solutions. Ammonia plays a vital role as a chemical compound in various industries and applications. One of its primary and crucial uses is in the production of fertilizers, where it serves as a key source of nitrogen necessary for optimal plant growth. Additionally, due to its exceptional ability to absorb significant amounts of heat when evaporating, ammonia is extensively utilized as a refrigerant, making it highly effective as a coolant agent. Furthermore, ammonia finds utility in the manufacturing of cleaning agents, explosives, and various other chemicals, contributing to a wide range of industrial applications.

With the rapid pace of urbanization, infrastructural development, and increasing construction activities across the globe, the demand for ammonia-based construction materials is witnessing significant escalation. For example, ammonia is widely employed in the manufacturing of construction materials such as adhesives, coatings, and resins. It is an essential component in the production of particleboards, plywood, laminates, and various synthetic materials extensively used in construction applications.

Moreover, ammonia finds extensive application in water treatment processes and wastewater management. It is commonly used in both industrial and municipal wastewater treatment plants to remove contaminants and pollutants through processes such as biological nutrient removal (BNR). In addition, the versatility of ammonia as a cleaning agent extends to industrial cleaning, where it is used for equipment maintenance, degreasing, and stain removal. The expanding cleaning industry, driven by rising cleanliness standards, is contributing to the growth of the ammonia market. Furthermore, the expanding cosmetics and personal care industry, propelled by changing consumer preferences and an increased focus on self-care, is fueling the demand for ammonia-based products in this sector.

Key Market Drivers

Growing Demand of Ammonia in Agriculture Industry

Ammonia, a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen, plays a pivotal role in the agriculture sector. It is primarily used in the production of fertilizers, which are essential for plant growth and yield improvement. The availability of nitrogen, a key component of ammonia, is crucial for photosynthesis, protein synthesis, and other physiological functions that contribute to plant growth and overall productivity.

Ammonia is utilized in the production of various types of fertilizers, including urea, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate. These fertilizers are widely used in crop production to enhance soil fertility, promote healthy plant development, and increase crop yields. The use of ammonia-based fertilizers has become even more significant with advancements in technology and the adoption of precision agriculture techniques.

Advancements in technology have led to more efficient and sustainable use of fertilizers. Precision agriculture techniques, for instance, enable farmers to apply fertilizers more accurately, reducing waste and environmental impact while maximizing crop yields. This promotes the use of ammonia-based fertilizers, further driving the global ammonia market.

In conclusion, the growing demand for ammonia in the agriculture industry is a major driver of the global ammonia market. As the need for food continues to rise with the growing global population, and as advancements in agricultural practices promote more efficient use of fertilizers, the demand for ammonia is expected to continue its upward trajectory. By understanding the vital role of ammonia in agriculture and its impact on crop productivity, stakeholders can make informed decisions to support sustainable farming practices and ensure food security for future generations.

Growing Demand of Ammonia in Pharmaceutical Industry

Ammonia, a compound consisting of nitrogen and hydrogen, possesses a wide array of applications within the pharmaceutical industry. It serves as a fundamental building block in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical products, including antibiotics, antimalarials, and vitamins.

The significance of ammonia extends to its pivotal role in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). APIs are the crucial substances in drugs responsible for producing the intended effects. Many of these APIs are synthesized through the utilization of ammonia or its derivatives.

Moreover, ammonia solutions find extensive usage in pharmaceutical manufacturing for pH regulation. The control of pH levels is of utmost importance in drug formulation to guarantee stability, shelf-life, and efficacy.

As global health concerns continue to escalate, the demand for pharmaceutical products is experiencing a substantial upsurge. This surge in demand is consequently driving the need for more APIs, further bolstering the demand for ammonia. The emergence of health threats, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, has underscored the criticality of a robust pharmaceutical industry, thereby fueling the growth of the ammonia market.

In conclusion, the escalating demand for ammonia within the pharmaceutical industry serves as a significant driving force behind the global ammonia market. As health concerns continue to rise on a global scale, and as the pharmaceutical industry actively responds to these challenges, the demand for ammonia is expected to keep pace. The crucial role of ammonia in drug synthesis and pH regulation, coupled with the escalating need for APIs, further emphasizes its indispensable nature within this critical industry.

Key Market Challenges

Lack in Availability of Raw Materials

The production of ammonia heavily relies on fossil fuels, particularly natural gas. Approximately 40% of the energy input in ammonia production is consumed as feedstock. Natural gas is the preferred raw material in newer ammonia plants due to its lower carbon footprint and cost-effectiveness. However, the availability and cost of these resources can significantly impact the ammonia market.

In recent times, the ammonia industry has experienced supply chain disruptions, leading to shortages. This has triggered a ripple effect across various sectors, particularly in agriculture, where ammonia-based fertilizers are crucial. The lack of raw materials for fertilizer production has led to an increase in prices.

Raw material prices have a direct impact on the cost of producing ammonia. While there have been instances of declining prices, the general trend shows an increase. This fluctuation adds a layer of uncertainty to the market and poses a challenge for manufacturers. Furthermore, variations in geopolitical factors and trade policies can further affect the availability and pricing of raw materials, adding complexity to the situation.

The lack of availability of raw materials and their fluctuating prices poses significant challenges for the global ammonia market. These factors contribute to increased production costs, which can lead to higher prices for end-users. They also add uncertainty to the market, making it difficult for manufacturers to plan and make strategic decisions.

While the demand for ammonia continues to rise, driven by its applications in various industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing, the lack of availability of raw materials presents a significant challenge. Addressing this issue will require concerted efforts from industry players, policymakers, and researchers. This might include exploring alternative raw materials, improving supply chain resilience, and investing in technologies that can make ammonia production more efficient and sustainable. Furthermore, collaboration between different stakeholders in the ammonia industry is crucial to ensure long-term stability and growth.

By addressing the challenges related to raw material availability and pricing, the ammonia industry can pave the way for a more sustainable and secure future. This will not only benefit manufacturers and end-users but also contribute to a greener and more resilient global economy.

Key Market Trends

Growing Interest in Green Ammonia

One of the key factors driving the growing interest in green ammonia is its immense potential to decarbonize the power and shipping industries. As these sectors grapple with the monumental challenge of reducing their greenhouse gas emissions, green ammonia emerges as a highly promising and viable solution. It has the remarkable capability to be utilized as a carbon-free fuel in power generation, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable energy source. Moreover, green ammonia can also serve as a clean-burning fuel in shipping, significantly reducing the environmental impact of maritime transportation.

In addition to its impressive potential in power and shipping, green ammonia holds great promise in the agriculture sector. Traditional ammonia production, primarily used for fertilizer manufacturing, has long been a significant contributor to global CO2 emissions. However, the industry is now shifting towards more sustainable practices, and green ammonia emerges as an environmentally friendly alternative for fertilizer production. By substituting traditional ammonia with green ammonia, the agriculture sector can make substantial progress in reducing its carbon footprint and moving towards more sustainable and eco-friendly agriculture practices.

The United States, with its strong commitment to sustainability, has witnessed robust growth in both the consumption and production of green ammonia. The country's increasing investments in green ammonia facilities further support its position as a leader in the green ammonia market. This positive momentum is expected to continue, driving the growth of green ammonia, and further solidifying the United States' role in promoting a sustainable future.

In conclusion, the surging interest in green ammonia reflects a broader and commendable trend towards sustainability in the global economy. As industries across various sectors strive to find effective solutions to reduce their environmental impact, the demand for green ammonia is poised to rise significantly. This not only presents a significant opportunity for the global ammonia market but also signifies a critical step towards a more sustainable and greener future for all.

Segmental Insights

Form Insights

Based on the category of form, the liquid segment emerged as the dominant player in the global market for Ammonia in 2022. Throughout the projected timeframe, the ammonia market is anticipated to experience significant growth. This can be attributed to the increasing demand for ammonia in various end-use applications. Ammonia, in its purest form known as dehydrated ammonia, is completely free from any water molecules. It exists as a noxious gas that emits choke-inducing vapors and is primarily used as a fertilizer. However, when used as a food ingredient, it is transformed into a colorless, clear liquid. The process of making ammonia involves combining three sections of hydrogen with a component of nitrogen.

In addition to its role as a fertilizer, ammonia also finds extensive use in commercial cleaning tasks and the production of specific compounds. In its diluted state, it is easily utilized for various cleaning purposes in commercial settings. Moreover, ammonia in its liquid form is commonly employed in residential and commercial cleaning applications. It is condensed into a fluid and combined with various plant stimulants to create effective fertilizers. Interestingly, when ammonia reacts with moisture content in the gas phase, it contributes to the production of ammonia-rich soil, which is highly beneficial for fertilizing plants.

The versatility and wide range of applications of ammonia make it a valuable substance in various industries. Its significance in agriculture, cleaning, and chemical production highlights its importance in today's world.

End User Insights

The agriculture segment is projected to experience rapid growth during the forecast period. Ammonia is not only regarded as a significant supply of nitrogen, which is crucial for plant growth, but it also plays a vital role in the production of various liquid fertilizer mixtures. These mixtures often include urea, aquatic ammonia, and ammonium salts. Due to its rapid reactions with soil moisture, free hydrogen ions, organic matter, and silty clay, ammonia finds extensive use in agricultural applications. Its utilization in the industry is further enhanced by characteristics such as infiltration rate, land quality and architecture, and application method.

Beyond agriculture, ammonia has found its applications in a wide range of sectors. It is utilized in textiles, pharmaceuticals, domestic and industrial cleaning, food and drink industries, metallurgical operations, wastewater and water treatment, polymers, pulp, and paper production, as well as leather processing. This versatile compound has gained popularity due to its efficiency, environmental friendliness, cost-effectiveness, lower pipe size requirements, and superior heat transfer capabilities. Interestingly, ammonia is even used as a refrigerant due to its excellent cooling properties.

With its diverse applications and remarkable properties, ammonia continues to be an indispensable compound in various industries, contributing to their growth and development

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific emerged as the dominant player in the Global Ammonia Market in 2022, holding the largest market share in terms of both value and volume. The expansion of the ammonia market in the Asia Pacific region can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, the presence of numerous international companies has contributed to the growth of this industry. Additionally, the increasing demands for agricultural goods in the area have further fueled this expansion. Leading nations in the ammonia sector, such as India and China, have played a significant role in driving the market forward.

Over the past two years, prices in the ammonia market have experienced a consistent decline on a global scale. This can be primarily attributed to the widening imbalance between supply and demand in the country. The increased production coupled with decreased demand has resulted in an oversupply of ammonia, leading to the downward pressure on prices.

Several factors have contributed to the reduced demand for ammonia. Lower food and crop costs, dim financial outlooks, erratic power prices, and intensifying competition have all influenced the market dynamics. However, it is worth noting that China remains the top consumer and manufacturer of ammonia globally. Holding a market share of over 50% in the Asia Pacific region, China's ongoing large-scale manufacturing and extensive use of ammonium continue to drive the overall growth of the industry.

China's expanding industrial capacity has further propelled its production capability, supporting the continuous growth of the ammonia market. With the implementation of expansion strategies by Chinese businesses, it is anticipated that the ammonia industry will continue to expand over the projected timeframe.

Key Market Players

BASF SE

Casale SA

CF Industries Holdings, Inc.

Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals Ltd

Csbp Ltd.

EuroChem Group AG

Koch Fertilizer, LLC.

Nutrien Ltd

Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited

SABIC

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Ammonia Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Ammonia Market, By Form:
• Liquid
• Gas
• Powder
• Ammonia Market, By End User:
• Agriculture
• Textiles
• Mining
• Pharmaceutical
• Refrigeration
• Others
• Ammonia Market, By Region:
• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Kuwait
• Turkey
• Egypt

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Ammonia Market.

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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