Metal Chelates Market
Report ID: SQMIG15J2143
Report ID: SQMIG15J2143
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Report ID:
SQMIG15J2143 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: February, 2026
Pages:
195
|Tables:
94
|Figures:
71
Global Metal Chelates Market size was valued at USD 5.8 Billion in 2024 and is poised to grow from USD 5.98 Billion in 2025 to USD 7.68 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 3.17% during the forecast period (2026-2033).
The primary driver of the global metal chelates market is the increasing demand for increased crop production from reducing arable land. Continuous farming practices and planting the same crop repeatedly create a depletion of essential micronutrients in the soil, such as iron, zinc, and manganese. The elimination of these nutrients, when using traditional fertilizers, limits the ability of crops to absorb nutrients due to fixed form (or immobilization) of nutrients and low solubility (powder forms). As such, the increase in nutrient use efficiency, more optimal plant growth and health, leading to increased yields has prompted an increase in adoption of chelated fertilizers by farmers and growers over conventional mineral products.
A key trend driving the global metal chelates sector growth is the rapid adoption of precision agriculture, fertigation systems, and greenhouse cultivation. Typical salts used for growth in hydroponics or soilless systems are not effective for most growers as they tend to precipitate in drip lines and interact with the soil's chemical properties. Metal chelates, by contrast, maintain stability at a wide range of pH and irrigation conditions. Thus, approximately 50% of the growers using automated systems to provide nutrients use chelated formulations due to the fact that these formulations do not clog as easily and promote uniform feeding and increased ROI, resulting in a direct increase in demand from the commercial horticulture and high-value crop sectors.
How can AI Enhance Responsiveness to Crop Cycles?
AI is transforming the global metal chelates market by enabling data-driven precision agriculture. AI-powered sensors and imaging analyze soil micronutrient levels and plant stress in real time, revealing deficiencies that chelated micronutrients can correct. Farmers optimize the schedule and dosage for their applications as part of their farming practices. By doing this, they reduce wasted product, resulting in a greater amount of on-farm production, driving the need for more targeted chelate products. Also, as AI enhances supply chain forecasting for manufacturers, it improves their ability to plan their manufacturing schedules based on their supply chain needs (i.e., the crop cycles), while reducing inventory carrying costs. Another related activity is AI-assisted formulation design, which aids manufacturers via machine learning to determine the best-performing chelate formulations to speed up the research and development process to create new and expand existing products.
In 2024–2025, Yara International ASA expanded its AI-driven digital farming tools that integrate crop nutrition knowledge into precision agriculture platforms, enabling real-time nutrient recommendations and optimized fertilizer (including chelated micronutrient) application through APIs and data analytics. This development helps farmers improve nutrient use efficiency and yields, indirectly boosting demand for metal chelates by linking AI insights with tailored nutrient management strategies.
Market snapshot - 2026-2033
Global Market Size
USD 5.97 Billion
Largest Segment
Liquid
Fastest Growth
Powder
Growth Rate
3.17% CAGR
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Global Metal Chelates Market is segmented by Nutrient Type, Crop Type, Mode of Application, Form, Application Area, End User and region. Based on Nutrient Type, the market is segmented into Primary Nutrients, Secondary Nutrients, Micronutrients and Other Nutrients. Based on Crop Type, the market is segmented into Cereals & Grains, Oilseeds & Pulses and Other Crops. Based on Mode of Application, the market is segmented into Soil Application, Foliar Application, Fertigation and Others. Based on Form, the market is segmented into Liquid, Powder and Granular. Based on Application Area, the market is segmented into Agriculture, Industrial, Animal Feed, Nutraceuticals and Water Treatment. Based on End User, the market is segmented into Fertilizer Manufacturers, Food & Beverage Industry, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics and Chemical Industry. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.
Why are Foliar Applications Suited to Liquid Chelates?
Based on the global metal chelates market forecast, liquid metal chelates are driving innovation through enhanced solubility, stability across pH ranges, and compatibility with fertigation and foliar systems. Ready-mix blends, slow-release additives, and bio-stimulant mixtures are now being manufactured by many manufacturers to enhance micronutrient delivery. Liquid formulations of micronutrients are the most popular due to their ability to provide uniform dosages, rapid uptake by plants, simplicity of tank mixing and compatibility with precision irrigation systems. Due to these benefits of reduced labor, based on the reduced chance of precipitation from these products, and high-value use in horticulture, liquids are the most commonly preferred product globally.
Powder form is poised for fastest growth in the global metal chelates market due to lower production and shipping costs, longer shelf life, and customizable concentrations. It was suitable to those who live in remote areas without advanced sprayers; it enabled on-the-spot reconstitution of product; it appeals to smallholder farmers in search of affordable, flexible nutrient choices, leading to increased adoption by smallholders.
How does Precision Farming Enhance Chelate Efficiency?
Agriculture applications dominate the global metal chelates market as farmers increasingly rely on chelated micronutrients to correct soil deficiencies and boost crop yields. The aim of innovation is to provide crop-specific chelates or foliar sprays, integrating with precision farming tools, to ensure target nutrient delivery. Agricultural strength is attributed to the large size of the areas being cultivated. Therefore, there is strong growing adoption and market leadership of AgTech products in Agriculture, based on these attributes.
Industrial applications are becoming the fastest-growing segment because metal chelates are increasingly used in wastewater treatment, pulp and paper bleaching, and heavy-metal sequestration, meeting stricter environmental regulations and efficiency needs in manufacturing processes. Based on these observations, we can conclude that their ability to remove and bind metal ions will provide opportunities for expanding commercial use through increased use in high-value sectors that require both the direct control of metal ions and processes using a sustainable approach.
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Why do Farmers Use Chelates to Improve Fertilizer Efficiency in North America?
As per the global metal chelates market analysis, North America is dominating the industry, supported by large-scale commercial farming and strong adoption of precision nutrition practices. As the U.S. and Canada continue to experience increased use of chelated micronutrients by growers to help overcome soil variability and improve fertilizer efficiency while maintaining high-quality standards for high-value crops, the combination of established networks of agribusinesses, research partnerships, and sustainable agriculture initiatives further encourages product development and continuing growth in regional demand.
US Metal Chelates Market
The United States is the largest contributor to North America’s metal chelates market due to its extensive commercial agriculture and early adoption of precision nutrient management. Corn, soybeans, and the production of many other fruits/vegetable crops give rise to the ongoing need for chelated micronutrients (such as zinc, iron, manganese, magnesium, etc.) to enhance yield quality or fulfill specific requirements of the soil. For example, there are many good reasons to have research facilities in support of agrochemical producers.
Canada Metal Chelates Market
Canada contributes significantly through its expanding horticulture, greenhouse, and field crop sectors that require efficient micronutrient solutions in diverse climatic conditions. With continued support from government programs for sustainable farming practices, the rapid growth of controlled environment agriculture, and an increased interest in export-quality produce, the overall market development for chelated products will continue to grow and significantly increase Canada's influence in that market across North America.
Why is the Asia Pacific Metal Chelates Market Expanding Rapidly?
Asia Pacific’s metal chelates market is expanding rapidly due to intensive agriculture, rising demand for higher crop yields, and growing awareness of soil nutrient deficiencies. The use of chelated micronutrients is expanding in the agricultural practices of China, India, and Australia. The increased use of these products is being driven by an increasing amount of greenhouse farming and precision fertilising techniques that have been developed. The implementation of government policies promoting sustainability and food security is also strengthening the growth of the market in the entire region.
Japan Metal Chelates Market
Japan contributes to the Asia Pacific metal chelates market through its advanced horticulture and highly controlled farming systems. The growing population, increased awareness of health-consciousness and increasing demand for higher-quality fruits/vegetables/orchids are leading to a dependence on more accurate levels of micronutrient application due to limited arable area. In hydroponic systems and greenhouse fertigation, growers utilize chelated formulations to ensure that nutrients are available at the right time and to eliminate deficiencies, resulting in consistent production levels of fruits/vegetables/orchids.
South Korea Metal Chelates Market
South Korea’s contribution is shaped by expanding greenhouse cultivation and high-value vegetable production. To accomplish this effect, agricultural producers are implementing more frequent application of chelated metals in their agricultural practices in order to correct the deficiency in micronutrients in overly cultivated soils and to increase the quality and life of harvested products. In addition, the support that governments are providing for smart farming and automated irrigation has increased the use of soluble chelates compatible with fertigation.
How are High-Value Crops Linked to Chelate Demand in Europe?
Europe’s metal chelates market is driven by intensive agriculture and stringent environmental regulations that prioritize efficient nutrient use and reduced chemical runoff. High-value crops such as fruits, vegetables, vineyards, etc; are being adopted by countries such as Germany, France, and Spain at a rapid pace due in part to the availability of new foliar chelates and precision nutrition products that meet sustainability goals through innovation. In addition, Europe’s position as a significant and growing market is strengthened by the existence of strong agribusiness support and infrastructure as well as governmental policies that promote good soil health.
Germany Metal Chelates Market
Germany contributes to Europe’s metal chelates market through its highly mechanized agriculture and strong focus on sustainable nutrient management. In response to improving fertilizer effectiveness and meeting stringent environmental regulations in soil and water protection, farmers are turning towards using chelated micronutrients. This continuing trend and the country's strong agricultural research base, as well as several major manufacturers who are at the forefront of developing improved crop-specific formulations, are leading to major innovations in this field.
France Metal Chelates Market
France plays a major role due to its vast cultivation of cereals, vineyards, fruits, and vegetables that require balanced micronutrient nutrition. In response to improving fertilizer effectiveness and meeting stringent environmental regulations in soil and water protection, farmers are turning towards using chelated micronutrients. This continuing trend and the country's strong agricultural research base, as well as several major manufacturers who are at the forefront of developing improved crop-specific formulations, are leading to major innovations in this field.
UK Metal Chelates Market
The United Kingdom’s contribution is shaped by intensive horticulture and controlled-environment agriculture, where precise micronutrient delivery is essential. The utilization of metal chelates in fertigation systems allows growers to attain maximum yields from their protected crop (for example) tomatoes, berries, and ornamental plants. Increased focus on developing soil health and sustainable food production has led to a shift towards using chelated forms of trace elements instead of conventional salts.
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Metal Chelates Market Drivers
Growing Micronutrient Deficiency in Soils
Expansion of Precision and Protected Agriculture
Metal Chelates Market Restraints
Limited Farmer Awareness and Technical Knowledge
Compatibility and Storage Challenges
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The global metal chelates market outlook features a competitive landscape marked by the presence of diversified agrochemical and specialty nutrition companies. Leading companies such as BASF, Nouryon, Syngenta Biologicals, Yara International and Aries Agro are investing heavily in product innovation, expanding their geographic presence and developing sustainable formulations for a wide range of markets. BASF focuses on delivering integrated micronutrient formulations to support broadacre crop production. Nouryon has developed biodegradable chelating agents to address environmental regulations. Syngenta is building its horticultural product portfolio. Yara connects its products with digital nutrition technology to help increase the precision of application and engage farmers more effectively.
As per the global metal chelates industry analysis, startup ecosystem is centered on sustainability and smarter nutrient delivery. The need for increased efficiency by growers and the constraints placed on their usage of generational synthetic chelants through law enforcement has led to the emergence of new companies that offer biodegradable, natural and sustainable chelators, micro-encapsulation technologies, and soil-responsive release technology. The cause-and-effect result is reduced micronutrient loss through leaching, better root uptake, and lower application rates, enabling startups to compete with established suppliers through environmentally safer and performance-driven innovations.
SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
As per SkyQuest analysis, the global metal chelates industry is advancing as agriculture and industry pursue higher efficiency, sustainability, and precision. The increasing depletion of micronutrients from the soil and limitations of conventional fertilisers led to a reliance on chelated products to deliver nutrients to crops with certainty for maximum yield potential. The combination of fertigation, protected horticulture and intelligent nutrient distribution systems has increased demand for chelated solutions because they provide precise delivery of nutrients with minimal waste.
There are many environmental factors currently influencing the direction of the chelation industry to produce biodegradable chelating agents that have the ability to be broadened to include applications in both dry and liquid forms. The Asia-Pacific and North American regions are experiencing strong growth trends, which correspond to increased demand for improved agricultural food quality as well as a greater use of improved agricultural technologies. Cost and awareness barriers still exist; however, R&D and a digital approach to agronomy have created opportunities for agricultural manufacturers to position metal chelates as key elements of the future of sustainable agriculture.
| Report Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size value in 2024 | USD 5.8 Billion |
| Market size value in 2033 | USD 7.68 Billion |
| Growth Rate | 3.17% |
| Base year | 2024 |
| Forecast period | 2026-2033 |
| Forecast Unit (Value) | USD Billion |
| Segments covered |
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| Regions covered | North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA) |
| Companies covered |
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| Customization scope | Free report customization with purchase. Customization includes:-
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Table Of Content
Executive Summary
Market overview
Parent Market Analysis
Market overview
Market size
KEY MARKET INSIGHTS
COVID IMPACT
MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK
Market Size by Region
KEY COMPANY PROFILES
Methodology
For the Metal Chelates Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:
1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.
2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the Metal Chelates Market.
3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.
4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.
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With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Metal Chelates Market:
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Global Metal Chelates Market size was valued at USD 5.97 Billion in 2025 and is expected to grow from USD 6.16 Billion in 2026 to USD 7.66 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 3.17% in the forecast period (2026-2033).
The global metal chelates market outlook features a competitive landscape marked by the presence of diversified agrochemical and specialty nutrition companies. Leading companies such as BASF, Nouryon, Syngenta Biologicals, Yara International and Aries Agro are investing heavily in product innovation, expanding their geographic presence and developing sustainable formulations for a wide range of markets. BASF focuses on delivering integrated micronutrient formulations to support broadacre crop production. Nouryon has developed biodegradable chelating agents to address environmental regulations. Syngenta is building its horticultural product portfolio. Yara connects its products with digital nutrition technology to help increase the precision of application and engage farmers more effectively. 'BASF (Germany)', 'Nouryon (Netherlands)', 'Yara International (Norway)', 'Syngenta Group (Switzerland)', 'ICL Group (Israel)', 'Haifa Group (Israel)', 'Van Iperen International (Netherlands)', 'Tradecorp (Spain)', 'Protex International (France)', 'Valagro (Italy)', 'Aries Agro (India)', 'Coromandel International (India)', 'BRANDT (USA)', 'Balchem Corporation (USA)', 'ADOB (Poland)'
Widespread depletion of essential micronutrients due to intensive farming is a major driver for the global metal chelates market growth. Standard fertilization methods typically do not provide adequate nutrition in alkaline and/or degraded soils, resulting in low crop production. As a result, there is a formalized need for chelation based solutions that improve nutrient bioavailability and help to recover plant vitality.
Shift Toward Biodegradable Chelating Agents: Environmental regulations are becoming increasingly strict and manufacturers are replacing traditional synthetic (or persistent) chelators with biodegradable products. As a result, soils and water will be made safer by the new biodegradable options; therefore, more farmers interested in sustainable practices will notice the benefits to their environment from using the new chelator products. The cause-and-effect result is rising demand for eco-friendly chelate formulations across agriculture and industrial applications.
Why do Farmers Use Chelates to Improve Fertilizer Efficiency in North America?
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