Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market By Nature (Water Soluble and Hydrogels), By Type (Surfactants, Gypsum, Super Absorbent Polymers, Others), By Crop Type (Cereals & Grains, Oilseeds & Pulses, Fruits & Vegetables and Other Crops), By Application (Agricultural and Industrial), By Soil Type (Sand, Silt, Clay, Loam and Peat), By Country, Competition, Forecast and Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market was valued at USD 274.04 Million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 378.56 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.49% during the forecast period. The Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market is driven by the increasing demand for sustainable agriculture, rising soil degradation, and the need for higher crop yields. Rapid urbanization and intensive farming have led to soil nutrient depletion, compelling farmers to adopt soil conditioners to improve soil structure, water retention, and fertility. Government initiatives promoting sustainable farming practices and organic agriculture are further boosting market growth. The rising awareness of soil health and the adoption of precision farming techniques are accelerating the use of both organic and inorganic soil conditioners. Additionally, the expansion of the horticulture and floriculture sectors, along with the growing demand for high-quality produce, is fueling the adoption of soil conditioners across countries like China, India, Japan, and Australia.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Soil Degradation and Declining Soil Fertility

Soil degradation is one of the most pressing agricultural challenges in the Asia-Pacific region, driven by intensive farming practices, excessive use of chemical fertilizers, deforestation, and industrial pollution. As countries like China, India, and Indonesia struggle with declining soil health, farmers and agribusinesses are increasingly turning to soil conditioners to restore fertility and improve soil structure. Repeated cropping without adequate soil replenishment has led to nutrient depletion, compacted soils, and reduced microbial activity, negatively impacting productivity. Soil conditioners, particularly organic variants, play a crucial role in reversing these effects by enhancing soil aeration, increasing organic matter, and improving microbial diversity. In November 2023, BASF and Yunnan Yuntianhua Co., Ltd., a leading Chinese chemical fertilizer manufacturer, have initiated a pilot project in China to assess the reduction of CO₂e emissions through the use of Yuntianhua’s stabilized urea fertilizer, enhanced with BASF’s urease inhibitor Limus®. The findings from this initiative are expected to contribute to climate-smart farming efforts in China and pave the way for global program expansion.

Governments across the region have recognized the urgency of addressing soil degradation, introducing policies that promote sustainable soil management practices. For instance, China’s “Zero Growth of Fertilizer Use” initiative aims to reduce chemical fertilizer dependency by encouraging the use of organic alternatives such as bio-conditioners and compost. In India, the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) supports soil health management through subsidies and farmer education programs, further fueling the adoption of soil conditioners. With the increasing awareness of soil conservation, demand for soil conditioners is expected to rise significantly, reinforcing their role in restoring soil health and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.

Growing Adoption of Sustainable and Organic Farming

The rising consumer preference for organic and sustainably grown food is a major factor driving the demand for soil conditioners across Asia-Pacific. As awareness of the harmful effects of chemical fertilizers and pesticides grows, farmers are shifting toward organic farming methods that rely on natural soil amendments. In October 2023, BiOWiSH Technologies, Inc. and MAP (Modern Agriculture Platform), Syngenta Group China's exclusive agricultural service program, have signed a Strategic Cooperation Agreement to launch the commercial distribution of BiOWiSH® Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizer (EEF) across China.

Countries such as Australia, Japan, and South Korea have well-established organic food markets, encouraging the widespread use of organic soil conditioners like compost, biochar, and vermicompost. India, one of the largest organic producers globally, has government-backed programs like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), which supports organic farming by providing financial aid for organic inputs, including soil conditioners. Similarly, in China, organic certification programs and eco-farming policies promote the use of organic soil amendments to improve soil health and reduce reliance on synthetic inputs. The growing health-conscious consumer base and increasing demand for pesticide-free produce further strengthen the adoption of organic soil conditioners.

Expansion of Precision Agriculture and Smart Farming Technologies

The adoption of precision agriculture in Asia-Pacific is revolutionizing soil management by optimizing resource use and enhancing soil health monitoring. Precision farming techniques, such as remote sensing, soil testing, and automated irrigation systems, provide real-time data that help farmers make informed decisions about soil conditioning requirements. Countries like Japan and Australia are at the forefront of agricultural digitization, utilizing AI-driven soil analysis and GPS-guided equipment to apply soil conditioners more efficiently. In India and China, agri-tech startups are developing mobile-based soil health applications that recommend specific soil conditioners based on field conditions. The integration of these technologies with soil conditioners allows for targeted application, minimizing wastage while maximizing benefits. As governments and private players invest in smart farming infrastructure, the role of soil conditioners in precision agriculture will continue to expand, improving both productivity and sustainability.

Government Policies and Subsidies Supporting Soil Health Improvement

Several governments in the Asia-Pacific region have launched policies and financial incentives to promote soil health improvement through the use of conditioners. In China, soil restoration programs focus on reducing chemical fertilizer use and encouraging organic amendments, leading to increased adoption of soil conditioners. India’s Soil Health Card Scheme provides farmers with detailed information about soil quality, guiding them toward appropriate soil conditioners to enhance fertility. Australia’s government funds regenerative agriculture projects that support the application of soil conditioners to combat soil erosion and nutrient loss. Additionally, ASEAN countries are implementing regional soil conservation programs to address land degradation and promote sustainable farming. These initiatives not only raise awareness but also provide economic incentives, making soil conditioners more accessible to farmers and agribusinesses.

Rising Water Scarcity and Need for Improved Soil Water Retention

With increasing water scarcity across Asia-Pacific, soil conditioners that enhance water retention and soil moisture management are gaining traction. Countries like India, China, and Australia frequently experience droughts, making efficient water use critical for agricultural sustainability. Soil conditioners such as hydrogels, biochar, and organic compost help improve soil’s ability to retain moisture, reducing irrigation requirements and preventing crop failure. Advanced soil conditioning products that incorporate superabsorbent polymers are being adopted in drought-prone regions to enhance soil-water interactions. Governments and agricultural research institutions are promoting water-efficient farming techniques that include soil conditioning to optimize water usage. The growing need to conserve water resources while maintaining crop productivity will continue to drive demand for soil conditioners across the region.

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Key Market Challenges

High Costs and Limited Affordability for Small-Scale Farmers

One of the biggest challenges in the Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market is the high cost of soil conditioning products, particularly advanced organic and bio-based conditioners. Many farmers, especially small-scale growers in developing countries such as India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Indonesia, struggle with limited financial resources and cannot afford expensive soil conditioners regularly. Organic soil conditioners like biochar, humic acid, and vermicompost require significant production and processing efforts, leading to higher prices compared to conventional chemical fertilizers. While government subsidies and incentive programs exist in some countries, they are often insufficient to cover the costs for a large number of farmers. Additionally, logistical barriers, such as the lack of proper distribution networks, further limit accessibility, particularly in rural areas where farming communities need these products the most. In countries like China and India, where the majority of farmers own small landholdings, investing in high-quality soil conditioners is often seen as an extra financial burden rather than a necessity. This creates a dependency on cheaper, synthetic fertilizers, which, while providing short-term yield boosts, contribute to long-term soil degradation. Even when farmers are aware of the benefits of soil conditioners, financial constraints force them to prioritize essential inputs such as seeds and pesticides over soil health-enhancing products. Until more affordable and scalable solutions are introduced, cost-related barriers will continue to hinder widespread adoption of soil conditioners in the region.

Lack of Awareness and Knowledge About Soil Conditioners

Despite the growing interest in sustainable farming, many farmers across the Asia-Pacific region still lack sufficient knowledge about the benefits and application methods of soil conditioners. In many rural farming communities, traditional agricultural practices continue to dominate, with little understanding of soil health management beyond conventional fertilization methods. Many small and medium-scale farmers rely on inherited knowledge rather than scientific farming techniques, making it difficult to introduce soil conditioning as a regular practice. The limited penetration of agricultural extension services and farmer education programs in remote regions further exacerbates this issue. Without proper guidance, farmers may either misuse soil conditioners, apply incorrect dosages, or fail to integrate them effectively into their farming systems, reducing their potential benefits. Additionally, there is a general misconception that soil conditioners provide immediate results like chemical fertilizers, whereas in reality, their effects are gradual and long-term. This often leads to frustration among farmers who expect rapid improvements in crop yields and soil quality. The lack of structured training and workshops on soil management in countries like Myanmar, Cambodia, and Nepal further slows down adoption rates. Until governments, agricultural organizations, and private players invest more in education and awareness campaigns, the lack of knowledge about soil conditioners will remain a significant challenge.

Key Market Trends

Increasing Demand for High-Quality Agricultural Produce

Consumer preferences are shifting toward high-quality, nutrient-rich produce, driving farmers to improve soil health through conditioners. Countries like Japan and South Korea have strict quality standards for food products, encouraging farmers to use soil conditioners that enhance soil fertility and crop nutrition. In December 2023, Tokyo-based agrochemical manufacturer Sumitomo Chemical is set to establish a new agrochemical plant in western Gujarat, India. The company plans to acquire approximately 50 acres of land and aims to complete construction by 2027. With an initial investment exceeding 5 billion yen ($35 million), the total investment is expected to reach several tens of billions of yen over the mid- to long-term as the facility expands.

Export-oriented agricultural industries in Australia, New Zealand, and Thailand are also investing in soil conditioning to meet international quality requirements. The integration of soil conditioners in commercial farming helps improve crop texture, taste, and shelf life, making them more competitive in global markets. As agricultural exports grow and consumer expectations rise, soil conditioners will play a key role in ensuring premium-quality food production.

Rapid Urbanization and Need for Soil Restoration in Degraded Lands

Rapid urbanization in Asia-Pacific has led to land degradation, soil compaction, and loss of arable land. In response, governments and private enterprises are investing in soil restoration projects that utilize conditioners to rehabilitate degraded soils. In China, reforestation and desertification control programs incorporate bio-soil conditioners to restore land fertility. In July 2023, Yara has inaugurated its first water-soluble fertilizer plant in China, marking a significant milestone in Yara Africa & Asia’s strategy to deliver high-quality crop nutrition solutions to farmers in China and beyond. Through the establishment of Yara Crop Nutrition (Huaibei) Co., Ltd., the company aims to equip farmers, particularly smallholders, with premium water-soluble fertilizers to enhance crop nutrition and soil health. The plant will play a key role in Yara China's commitment to providing sustainable, crop-specific solutions, ultimately boosting productivity and profitability for farmers both locally and globally.

In India, urban rooftop farming and green spaces are gaining popularity, where soil conditioners are used to improve soil structure in compacted urban environments. The demand for land rehabilitation and sustainable urban agriculture will continue to drive the soil conditioners market.

Growth of the Horticulture and Floriculture Industries

The expanding horticulture and floriculture sectors in Asia-Pacific are increasing the demand for soil conditioners to enhance soil structure and nutrient availability. Countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam, known for their floriculture exports, rely on soil conditioners to improve flower yield and quality. Similarly, China and India’s fruit and vegetable industries are adopting organic and inorganic soil amendments to maintain high production levels. With the rising global demand for exotic fruits, medicinal plants, and ornamental flowers, soil conditioners are becoming an essential input for horticulture and floriculture businesses, further driving market growth.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Based on the Type, surfactants was dominating the Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market due to their wide applicability, efficiency in water management, and compatibility with various soil types and crops. Surfactants, often referred to as soil wetting agents, have gained substantial traction across the region as farmers seek effective solutions to combat soil hydrophobicity, improve water infiltration, and enhance nutrient distribution. Given the increasing challenges posed by erratic rainfall patterns, soil degradation, and water scarcity, surfactants provide an immediate and cost-effective remedy to optimize water utilization and soil moisture levels. Their dominance over gypsum and SAPs is largely attributed to their versatility, ease of application, and effectiveness in addressing soil-water imbalances across different agricultural systems.

One of the primary reasons for the strong market position of surfactants is their ability to break down soil water repellency, which is a growing concern in regions like Australia, China, and parts of India, where dryland farming is prevalent. Over time, certain soils, particularly sandy and degraded soils, develop a waxy coating due to organic matter decomposition, making it difficult for water to penetrate and distribute evenly. Surfactants work by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread more effectively across the soil profile, ensuring better root access to moisture and nutrients. This property is especially valuable for crops like wheat, barley, rice, and maize, which require efficient water absorption for optimal growth.

Unlike gypsum, which primarily serves as a soil amendment for reducing compaction and improving soil structure, surfactants offer a more immediate impact on water dynamics, making them a preferred choice for farmers looking for quick solutions. Gypsum is highly effective in sodic soils, helping displace sodium ions and improve soil porosity, but its effectiveness is limited to specific soil conditions, such as highly alkaline or clay-heavy soils. In contrast, surfactants can be used across diverse soil types, from sandy soils to compacted clay soils, giving them a broader market reach in the Asia-Pacific region. Furthermore, the cost and labor associated with gypsum application make it less attractive to small and medium-scale farmers, particularly in countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia, where labor-intensive soil management practices are less feasible.

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Country Insights

China was the dominant country in the Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market, driven by its vast agricultural sector, government-backed soil restoration initiatives, and rapid advancements in agritech. With over 120 million hectares of arable land, China has one of the largest agricultural landscapes in the world, requiring continuous soil improvement and conditioning to maintain high productivity. The country’s dominance is further fueled by the intensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides over past decades, which has led to widespread soil degradation, salinity, and declining fertility levels. In response, both the government and private sector have aggressively promoted soil conditioners as a solution to restore soil health, improve nutrient efficiency, and enhance crop yields. As a result, China leads the market in both production and consumption of soil conditioning products, significantly outpacing other countries in the region.

One of the primary reasons for China’s market leadership is its strong government intervention in sustainable agriculture. Over the past decade, the Chinese government has implemented strict policies to reduce excessive fertilizer use and combat soil degradation, encouraging farmers to adopt organic and synthetic soil conditioners as an alternative. The Action Plan for Zero Growth of Chemical Fertilizer Use by 2020 and the Soil Pollution Prevention and Control Law have pushed farmers and agribusinesses to explore humic acids, biochar, gypsum, and organic compost-based conditioners to maintain soil fertility while reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. Additionally, state-funded agricultural programs and subsidies have made soil conditioners affordable and accessible, particularly for smallholder farmers in regions like Henan, Shandong, and Heilongjiang, where large-scale crop production is prevalent.

Recent Developments

• In May 2024, Nousbo, a KOSDAQ-listed company since 2022, is recognized for its advanced CRF production technology. The company possesses world-class sigmoid-type Controlled-Release Fertilizer (CRF) technology, which regulates fertilizer release in alignment with crop growth curves. Nousbo's CRF offers significant labor reduction compared to conventional fertilizers that require multiple applications. Additionally, it minimizes fertilizer usage, helping to prevent salt damage, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce river water pollution, contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices.
• On January 15, 2025, in Hangzhou, China, Bayer Crop Science hosted a product launch event for Wojiarun®, a next-generation water-soluble secondary fertilizer and advanced calcium fertilizer developed by Bayer. Featuring an upgraded brand, formula, and purity, the launch underscores Bayer’s strong commitment to fertilizer research and production in China.
• In January 2024, Syngenta Group’s MAP has introduced Endos™ Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizer (EEF) in China. The name Endos™ originates from its use of endophytic microorganisms, which play a key role in enhancing nutrient uptake. This EEF technology incorporates BiOWiSH® Crop Liquid, a specialized blend of proprietary microbial cultures, either coated onto dry fertilizers or integrated into liquid fertilizers. Designed to boost crop productivity, Endos™ offers a cost-effective, safe, and sustainable solution for modern agriculture.
• In April 2024, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) have jointly launched the Fertilize Right Project, a USD4.4 million initiative aimed at enhancing fertilizer efficiency, increasing farmer incomes, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in rice cultivation. This project reflects the strengthened agricultural cooperation between the US and Vietnam, creating new opportunities for sustainable development. As Vietnam's agricultural exports continue to grow, the country has solidified its role in global food security, with the US remaining one of its key trade partners.

Key Market Players

• Rallis India Limited
• ADEKA Corporation
• UPL Limited
• Omnia Specialities Pty
• Gujarat State Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited
• BASF India Limited
• Novozymes South Asia Private Limited
• Syngenta India Private Limited
• Greenfield Eco Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
• Biobank Co., Ltd.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

           ·       Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market, By Nature:

o   Water Soluble

o   Hydrogels

          ·       Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market, By Type:

o   Surfactants

o   Gypsum

o   Super Absorbent Polymers

o   Others

          ·       Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market, By Crop Type:

o   Cereals & Grains

o   Oilseeds & Pulses

o   Fruits & Vegetable

o   Other Crops

           ·       Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market, By Application:

o   Agricultural

o   Industrial

           ·       Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market, By Soil Type:

o   Sand

o   Silt

o   Clay

o   Loam

o   Peat

          ·       Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market, By Country:

o   China

o   Japan

o   Australia

o   Thailand

o   India

o   Indonesia

o   South Korea

o   Singapore

o   Malaysia

o   Vietnam

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market.

Available Customizations:

Asia-Pacific Soil Conditioners Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

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