Agricultural Fumigants Market

Analysis of Agricultural Fumigants Industry (2025 to 2035)

The agricultural fumigants industry is valued at USD 1.10 billionin 2025. As per Fact.MR analysis, it will grow at a CAGR of 2.8% and reach USD 1.46 billionby 2035.

In 2024, the industry witnessed a small but significant change in operating dynamics and regulatory attention. North America, holding 26.2% share, witnessed higher uptake of chloropicrin-based products as producers looked for alternatives to methyl bromide during continued regulatory phase-outs.

Latin America saw increased use of propylene oxide as it proved effective for preserving grains, particularly within Brazil's soy belt, where resistance issues with pests were an issue halfway through the year. Meanwhile, supply chains were also strained in Q2 2024 from running behind schedule on raw material shipments from East Asia, affecting fumigant supply modestly in Europe and Africa. The industry also witnessed increased focus on worker safety, leading to investments in protective technologies and training programs.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the industry will likely be more innovation-driven, with biotech-integrated fumigants and bio-based alternatives drawing research interest, especially due to heightened environmental concerns. Regulatory systems in the EU and certain regions of Asia will continue to tighten, possibly eliminating additional legacy compounds by the late 2020s.

Yet, the need for effective soil and post-harvest pest control will continue to drive steady growth, particularly in high-value horticulture and grain-producing economies. Strategic alliances and R&D on precision fumigation will determine the competitive advantage in this mature industry.

Key Metrics

Metrics	Values
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 1.10 billion
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 1.46 billion
Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035)	2.8%

Fact.MR Survey on Agricultural Fumigants Industry

A recent Fact.MR survey of 500 stakeholders across the USA, Western Europe, Japan, and South Korea highlights common priorities in the agricultural fumigants market, most notably, pest-spectrum performance (78%) and application accuracy (69%).

Regional distinctions are prominent, however. In the USA, large-scale farming drives demand for multi-purpose fumigants and GPS-guided injection technology, with 62% favoring such solutions. In Western Europe, environmental compliance dominates stakeholder concerns, with 81% citing eco-friendly formulations and 55% emphasizing low-VOC requirements due to strict EU regulations and organic farming trends.

Meanwhile, stakeholders in Japan and South Korea, where landholdings are fragmented, favor pre-mixed and low-volume, high-potency fumigants. Interestingly, only 22% of Japanese respondents actively use digital traceability tools, citing unclear ROI and compatibility challenges.

Globally, material preferences for packaging and application equipment lean toward metal canisters (71%), though biodegradable liners are gaining traction in Europe. A major universal concern is the rise in raw material prices, with 88% of respondents noting cost pressures. Price sensitivity, however, varies; USA and European markets accept higher costs for regulatory compliance, while Asian markets remain focused on keeping costs under USD 50 per hectare.

Key roadblocks include certification delays in Europe and a shortage of skilled applicators in the USA, while end-users across regions cite cumbersome handling and inconsistent training. Investment strategies reflect these regional nuances: The USA emphasizes automation, Europe is pivoting toward biofumigants, and Asia is investing in shelf-stable, compact packaging. Regulatory pressure is heaviest in Europe, contrasting with Asia’s lighter yet technology-driven environment.

Government Regulations on the Agricultural Fumigants Industry

Countries	Regulatory Impact & Mandatory Certifications
USA	Governed by the EPA under FIFRA (Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act). Fumigants are classified as Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs); only certified applicators can use them. Worker Protection Standard (WPS) mandates training and PPE. Methyl bromide is mostly phased out under the Montreal Protocol exceptions.
Germany	Subject to EU Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009 and REACH for chemical safety. Requires Bundesamt für Verbraucherschutz und Lebensmittelsicherheit (BVL) approval. Emphasis on low-emission and environmentally compatible formulations. Methyl bromide is fully banned.
France	Regulated by ANSES (French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety) under the EU framework. Strong restrictions on chloropicrin and organophosphates. Preference and subsidies for biofumigation alternatives.
Italy	Enforced by the Ministry of Health, aligned with EU pesticide legislation. Fumigants require registration in the national plant protection product register. Implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies is encouraged under the national agricultural policy.
South Korea	Regulated by the Rural Development Administration (RDA) and the Agrochemical Safety Information System (KRIBB). Mandatory compliance with K-REACH for chemical registrations. Incentivizes the use of low-residue fumigants and eco-friendly alternatives
Japan	Governed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF). Requires registration under the Agricultural Chemicals Regulation Law. Strong restrictions on methyl bromide. Pre-application notification and post-use documentation are mandatory.
China	Overseen by ICAMA (Institute for the Control of Agrochemicals, Ministry of Agriculture). Strict enforcement of Pesticide Administration Regulations (PAR). Recent push for low-toxicity and low-residue fumigants. Mandatory local field trials for product registration.

Market Analysis

The industry is set for modest growth, driven primarily by rising concerns over soil-borne pests and tightening regulatory oversight. Innovations in eco-friendly formulations and precision application are emerging as key differentiators. Certified applicators, eco-compliant manufacturers, and regions investing in biofumigation stand to benefit most, while legacy chemical producers relying on phased-out actives may lose ground.

Top Strategic Imperatives, Risk Assessment, and Watchlist for Stakeholders

In order to navigate the changing fumigants landscape, stakeholders need to focus on three strategic imperatives. Transitioning to bio-based and low-toxicity fumigants is paramount, particularly in environmentally regulated industries such as Western Europe and Japan. Preemptive investment in R&D and marketing of biofumigants and reduced-risk chemical alternatives will ensure leadership and positioning with future regulatory changes.

Second, digitizing fumigation operations using IoT-enabled application equipment and

automated compliance monitoring is critical to address increasing demands for safety, traceability, and regulatory compliance. Finally, strengthening regional alliances and licensing models will allow stakeholders to overcome intricate local regulations, especially in high-barrier industries like the EU and South Korea, while riding the growth through distributor partnerships and M&A initiatives.

However, three significant risks need to be tracked closely. The high probability of regulatory prohibitions on traditional fumigants, the medium risk of raw material price spikes because of global supply chain uncertainty, and the high risk related to the slow uptake of certified technologies in developing countries.

At the executive level, short-term measures involve evaluating the feasibility of biofumigants through feasibility analyses, engaging regulators to anticipate changing labeling and active ingredient regulations, and growing the certified applicator network through focused training and incentive programs to enable safe and compliant use in regions.

For the Boardroom

To stay ahead in a tightening regulatory and cost-sensitive environment, the client must accelerate its pivot toward bio-based and precision-applied agricultural fumigants. This intelligence underscores an urgent need to realign R&D and commercialization priorities around eco-compliant formulations and smart application systems, particularly for growth-ready industries in Europe and South Korea.

Near-term investment in certified applicator networks and regional partnerships will secure compliance, brand trust, and access in high-barrier geographies. The roadmap must now shift from volume-centric sales to differentiated, tech-integrated solutions that meet the dual pressures of sustainability mandates and operational efficiency.

Segment-wise Analysis

By Type

According to Fact.MR’s analysis, chloropicrin is anticipated to be the most lucrative segment under type, growing at a 30.0% share in 2025. It is commonly applied in fumigation in agriculture because of its broad-spectrum efficacy in managing a vast array of pests, such as fungi, nematodes, and weeds. It is most prized for its effectiveness and speed of action in soil and warehouse fumigation.

Chloropicrin acts by interfering with the cellular activities of pests, and it is a dependable option for crop protection before and after planting. On the other hand, it is usually applied in a mixture with other fumigants like methyl bromide in order to boost its effectiveness and range of pests that it can control. Its effective penetration into the soil and long-lasting activity also make it suitable for its application in different agricultural ecosystems.

By Form

The gas segment is expected to be most lucrative, advancing a 40.0% share in 2025. Gas form is widely used in agricultural fumigants primarily because of its superior penetration ability and uniform distribution in soil and storage environments. Gaseous fumigants can easily diffuse through soil particles, ensuring that pests such as nematodes, fungi, insects, and weed seeds are effectively targeted even in deeper layers or hard-to-reach spaces. This form is particularly advantageous for pre-plant soil treatments and large-scale storage applications where consistent exposure across an area is crucial for efficacy.

Additionally, gases like phosphine, methyl bromide, and chloropicrin act quickly and leave minimal residue, which helps maintain crop safety and quality post-application. Their volatile nature also means that they can be applied using automated or pressurized systems, improving safety and efficiency for certified applicators.

By Crop Type

Fruits and vegetables are widely treated with agricultural fumigants due to their high susceptibility to soil-borne pests, fungi, and nematodes, which can significantly reduce yield and industry quality. These crops often require intensive cultivation and are grown in high-value segments where even minor infestations can lead to major economic losses. Fumigation before planting helps ensure a pest-free growing environment, which is essential for maintaining the health, appearance, and shelf life of fruits and vegetables.

Additionally, many fruits and vegetables are stored post-harvest for extended periods, during which they are vulnerable to pest infestations, making warehouse fumigation a critical step in preserving product integrity. Due to global demand and strict quality standards for export, producers of fruits and vegetables frequently rely on fumigants to meet phytosanitary requirements and avoid shipment rejections. The fruits and vegetables segment is expected to be most profitable, generating a 40.0% share in 2025.

By Application

The soil segment is expected to be most lucrative, advancing a 65.0% share in 2025. Soil is the most widely used application area for agricultural fumigants because it is the primary medium through which crops interact with pests, pathogens, and weeds. Before planting, soil fumigation ensures a clean growing environment by eradicating nematodes, fungi, bacteria, and weed seeds that can damage or inhibit crop growth. This is especially critical for high-value and intensive crops like fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants, where soil health directly impacts yield, quality, and profitability.

Pre-plant fumigation also enhances nutrient uptake by improving root development and reducing competition from unwanted vegetation. Furthermore, soil fumigation is often part of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that aim for long-term control without heavy reliance on post-emergence chemical applications. It is also supported by regulatory frameworks in export-focused countries that demand pest-free certification before shipments, especially in the case of horticultural exports.

By Pest Control Method

The tarpaulin fumigation segment is expected to generate the highest share of 34.0% in 2025. Tarpaulin fumigation is widely used in the agricultural fumigants industry due to its cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and broad applicability across diverse farming conditions. This method involves covering the soil or commodity pile with a gas-impermeable tarpaulin to trap fumigant gases and ensure deep penetration and even distribution.

It is particularly favored in open-field agricultural settings, where creating sealed environments is challenging. Farmers prefer this method because it doesn’t require complex infrastructure or expensive equipment, making it accessible for small to mid-sized operations in both developing and developed countries. Tarpaulin fumigation is highly effective for soil treatment before planting high-value crops like vegetables and strawberries, as it controls a wide range of pests, pathogens, and weed seeds.

Country-wise Analysis

USA

In the United States, the industry is likely to grow at a CAGR of 2.5% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2035, marginally less than the overall average, owing to regulatory restrictions and increasing scrutiny towards synthetic fumigants.

Moreover, the USA is still one of the top industries in volume, led by intensive farming procedures in major farm states such as California, Texas, and Florida. Use in high-value fruit and vegetable crops, nuts, and grains maintains base demand. Although methyl bromide phase-out has redirected dynamics, alternatives such as chloropicrin and metam sodium still reign supreme.

UK

UK’s sales are expected to register a CAGR of 3.1% in the assessment term., marginally higher than the global average. The nation's intense focus on sustainable agriculture and post-Brexit regulatory control is driving significant changes in pest control practices. Broad-spectrum fumigants are being met with regulatory challenges, yet demand for precision-directed and lower-toxicity products increases.

Fumigation is still unavoidable for warehouses and cereal grains, especially for export guarantees and compliance with international phytosanitary requirements. The R&D environment in the UK is driving alternative molecule development and fumigant treatment methods like recapture gas and drip irrigation for soil treatments.

France

The industry is predicted to grow at a rate of 2.6% CAGR in France in the assessment period. Crop diversity within the country, from fruits such as grapes and apples to grains, supports consistent use of fumigants. Aggressive policymaking to limit pesticides, though, is exerting pressure on the fumigants segment.

Age-old fumigants 1,3-dichloropropene and chloropicrin are under restrictions, which is leading the way for a shift towards safer and biological products. Soil-borne disease control in high-value crops and post-harvest grain storage are central applications in the industry.

Germany

In Germany, the landscape is anticipated to achieve a CAGR of 2.3% from 2025 to 2035. The reason primarily stems from the country's strict environmental policies and open discouragement of chemical-based agriculture.

Additionally, precision agriculture and integrated pest management (IPM) methods still utilize fumigation as a backup method, particularly in high-density greenhouse cultivation and post-harvest storage. Imports of fumigated produce and grains are also driving modest warehouse fumigation demand.

Italy

In Italy, the industry is projected to grow at a 2.7% CAGR during the forecast period, slightly below the global average. The nation's fruit, vegetable, and grape industries continue to fuel demand for soil fumigants, particularly in the south, where pest pressure is more intense.

Metam sodium and chloropicrin continue to be the leading options in fumigation treatments, though groundwater contamination concerns are promoting a slow shift toward more localized application techniques. Italy's export-oriented agri-food supply chains, especially those for tomatoes and wine grapes, require post-harvest pest control, which makes fumigation of warehouses still relevant.

South Korea

In South Korea, the sector is estimated to expand by a CAGR of 3.3% between 2025 and 2035, led by stringent food safety regulations, export restrictions, and increased focus on value-added agriculture.

South Korea has a high dependence on grain imports, which in turn requires intense warehouse fumigation operations utilizing phosphine and controlled-atmosphere fumigants. Domestically, intensive production in small arable areas leads to a high incidence of pests and diseases, and the demand for soil fumigants is boosted, especially for vegetable greenhouses.

Japan

Japan’s sales are expected to develop at a CAGR of 3.0% during the period 2025 to 2035, consistent with world growth. With its structurally fragmented agriculture, high-value crops, and aging farm population, Japan depends on reliable, labor-saving methods of pest control. Soil fumigation is common in vegetables and root crops grown in greenhouses, but warehouse fumigation continues to be critical in rice and grain storage.

Regulatory support for sustainable fumigants and automation is also motivating innovation in the sector. Moreover, domestic R&D initiatives are increasingly focused on precision application and minimizing residue levels, aligning with consumer demand and environmental standards. As climate variability increases, pest pressure is also expected to rise, further driving the need for effective fumigation strategies. Innovations tailored to Japan’s unique agricultural structure are likely to gain traction in the coming decade.

China

The industry in China is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 2.9% from 2025 to 2035, slightly above the global average. As the world's largest agricultural producer, China's requirement to maintain food quality, minimize post-harvest losses, and satisfy increasing domestic food standards is driving steady demand. Warehouse fumigation with phosphine is still prevalent, especially in large grain storage facilities and commodity distribution centers. Soil fumigants are also becoming more popular in fruit and vegetable greenhouses, particularly in the Yangtze River Delta and Pearl River areas.

Moreover, government-led initiatives promoting food security and improved storage infrastructure are further boosting demand for effective fumigation practices. Additionally, increased focus on export-oriented agriculture is pushing the adoption of globally compliant fumigation protocols and residue management.

Australia & New Zealand

The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% from 2025 to 2035 in these countries. Australia's large-scale farming operations, particularly in grains, livestock, and horticulture, continue to drive the demand for fumigants. New Zealand’s relatively smaller farming operations compared to Australia mean that there is a greater focus on cost-effective, efficient solutions that can be scaled easily.

Additionally, Australian stakeholders are increasingly seeking solutions that offer both efficacy and environmental compliance, as there is a growing emphasis on sustainability in farming practices. The adoption of precision agriculture, such as GPS-guided application systems, is expected to boost the demand for high-efficiency fumigants. Furthermore, regulatory pressures, while less stringent than those in Europe, are still influencing market dynamics, as there is a notable shift towards safer, low-VOC products.

As a leader in organic farming, New Zealand is expected to see an increasing demand for bio-based fumigants and low-toxicity options. Additionally, New Zealand’s regulatory landscape, while not as stringent as in Europe, continues to promote environmentally friendly practices, aligning with the global trend towards sustainable agriculture. The adoption of digital traceability tools is expected to be more gradual but will likely increase over time.

Competitive Landscape

The industry is moderately concentrated, with some multinational firms like BASF SE, Syngenta AG, UPL Limited, and ADAMA Ltd. holding prominent shares. These industry giants are spending lavishly on research and development to develop newer, safer, and eco-friendly fumigants, as the world focuses on sustainable agriculture. Their strategies also include expanding distribution networks and establishing strategic partnerships with farmers, cooperatives, and research institutions to increase penetration and product effectiveness.

In 2024, Syngenta AG launched a new phosphine fumigant intended for use in stored grain applications with improved efficacy and safety profiles. Likewise, UPL Limited grew its fumigant portfolio in 2025 with the launch of a low-toxicity fumigant targeting post-harvest crop protection, consistent with the industry's shift towards products with less environmental footprint. These launches are indicators of the companies' drive to meet both regulatory needs and consumers' demands for safer agricultural inputs.

The competitive dynamics are also influenced by strategic mergers and acquisitions. For example, Safex Chemicals, an Indian agrochemical company, acquired Shogun Lifesciences in February 2022, expanding its portfolio in farm solutions, such as fumigants. Such mergers and acquisitions help companies diversify their offerings and consolidate their industry positions.

Competition Analysis

Between 2025 and 2035, several companies are poised to play pivotal roles in the evolving bio-based polyamides industry. DuPont is projected to hold a 5-6% share, with an estimated 5.6% by 2025, leveraging its leadership in high-performance materials across automotive, electronics, and industrial sectors. Its continued innovation in sustainable polymers and partnerships with automakers reinforce its position as an industry frontrunner.

Honeywell International, expected to maintain a 3.3% share (within the 3-4% range), capitalizes on its green manufacturing capabilities and bio-based technology developments, especially in aerospace, chemicals, and industrial automation. Its focus on eco-friendly alternatives supports rising demand in the automotive and consumer durables sectors.

Toray Industries is projected to maintain a stable 3.0% share, backed by its strength in textile innovation and global leadership in fiber production. Its bio-based polyamide fibers are increasingly sought after in garments, automotive interiors, and packaging, reflecting rising interest in sustainable materials.

Mitsui Chemicals, with an anticipated 2.8% share (2.5-3%), benefits from its advanced research in bio-based plastics and monomers, targeting automotive and manufacturing sectors striving to cut emissions. Similarly, Nippon Steel Chemical is expected to contribute around 2.5% of the industry (2-3%), supported by its legacy in high-performance materials and strategic shift toward green technologies. As demand for bio-based solutions grows, these firms are well-positioned to shape the industry through sustainability-focused innovation and sector-specific strengths.

Key Industry Players

• DuPont
• Honeywell International
• Toray Industries
• Mitsui Chemicals
• Nippon Steel Chemical
• Dow Chemical Company
• Syngenta International AG
• Nufarm Limited
• AMVAC Chemical Corporation
• ADAMA Agricultural Solutions Ltd.
• BASF SE
• UPL Limited
• Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc.
• Isagro S.p.A.
• Arkema Group
• Solvay Group
• Eastman Chemical Company
• DEGESCH America, Inc.
• Reddick Fumigants, LLC
• Vietnam Fumigation J.S Company

Segmentation

By Type:

• Methyl Bromide
• Chloropicrin
• Phosphine
• Metam Sodium
• 1, 3-Dichloropropene
• Others

By Form:

• Solid
• Liquid
• Gas

By Crop Type:

• Cereal and Grains
• Oilseeds and Pulses
• Fruits and Vegetables
• Others

By Application:

• Soil
• Warehouse

By Pest Control Method:

• Tarpaulin Fumigation
• Non-Tarp Fumigation
• Structural Fumigation
• Vacuum Chamber Fumigation
• Others

By Region:

• North America
• Latin America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Middle East and Africa (MEA)