Hydroponics Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028 Segmented By Type (Aggregate Systems v/s Liquid Systems), By Equipment (HVAC, LED grow light, Control systems, Irrigation systems, Material handling, Others), By Input (Nutrient v/s Growth Media), By Farming Method (Indoor v/s Outdoor), By Crop Type (Vegetables, Fruits, Flowers, Others), By Region and Competition

Market Overview

Global Hydroponics Market has valued at USD 11.77 Billion in 2022 and is anticipated to project impressive growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 7.21% through 2028. Hydroponics is an advanced agricultural technique that is revolutionizing the way we cultivate plants. It involves the cultivation of crops without soil, utilizing a nutrient-rich water solution to directly deliver vital minerals to plant roots. This innovative approach offers numerous advantages. It maximizes resource efficiency by significantly reducing water consumption compared to traditional soil-based farming. Moreover, hydroponics enables precise control over environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light, optimizing plant growth and minimizing the need for pesticides or herbicides. The versatility of this method allows for cultivation in various settings, ranging from urban rooftops to arid deserts, enabling year-round production and eliminating the limitations of seasonal farming. Furthermore, it mitigates soil-borne diseases, enhances crop yields, and presents a potential solution to global food security challenges. As our world grapples with increasing population pressures and environmental concerns, hydroponics emerges as a leading sustainable agricultural practice, offering a promising path towards more efficient, resilient, and environmentally friendly food production systems.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Trend of Vertical Farming & Indoor Cultivation

The rising trend of vertical farming and indoor cultivation is set to significantly augment global demand for hydroponics. As urbanisation continues to increase, vertical farming – the practice of growing crops in vertically stacked layers – has emerged as a sustainable solution to the problem of limited agricultural land. This method of farming is typically performed indoors, in controlled environments that optimise growth parameters, resulting in maximized yield and minimized waste. Hydroponics plays a pivotal role in such settings by allowing plants to grow without soil, using mineral nutrient solutions in water instead. This soil-less farming method, not only enables efficient nutrient uptake, leading to faster growth and higher yields, but also mitigates the risk of soil-borne diseases. Moreover, hydroponics systems use substantially less water compared to traditional farming, promoting sustainable water management. As concerns over food security intensify due to the increasing global population, the adoption of vertical farming coupled with hydroponics is projected to escalate. The compactness of these systems makes them ideal for urban environments, contributing to local food supplies and reducing the need for long-distance transportation. Hence, the convergence of these trends is expected to surge the global demand for hydroponics, signaling a paradigm shift in agriculture towards more sustainable practices.

Government Initiatives Promoting Hydroponic Farming

Government initiatives promoting hydroponic farming are expected to significantly enhance the global demand for hydroponics. As urban areas expand and arable land becomes increasingly scarce, governments worldwide are acknowledging the potential of hydroponics as an efficient, space-saving solution for crop cultivation. This soilless method of farming, which leverages nutrient-rich water solutions, offers superior yields, faster growth rates, and year-round production capabilities. Government programs are providing technical guidance, financial assistance, and policy support to encourage the adoption of hydroponics. For instance, in regions facing severe water scarcity, governments are implementing hydroponic systems to conserve water and ensure food security. Policies encouraging sustainable farming methods are further fuelling the growth of the hydroponic industry. Additionally, the introduction of tax benefits for hydroponic farmers acts as a catalyst for the adoption of this revolutionary farming technique. As a result of these initiatives, hydroponics is anticipated to see substantial growth in demand, with a significant impact on global food production and resource conservation.

Rising Investment in Research & Development for Hydroponic Technology

The global demand for hydroponics is predicted to surge in the coming years, largely due to an increase in investments towards research and development (R&D) in hydroponic technology. Hydroponics, a method of growing plants without soil, offers a sustainable solution to the challenges of conventional agriculture, such as scarcity of arable land and water. As researchers continue to explore and advance hydroponic technology, the efficiency and productivity of these systems are expected to improve, making them an increasingly attractive option for growers worldwide. Investments in R&D are not only refining existing hydroponic techniques but also paving the way for innovative approaches that could revolutionize the agriculture industry. This includes the development of advanced nutrient solutions, automated systems, and artificial intelligence to monitor plant health. Additionally, research is focusing on the potential of hydroponics in urban farming and vertical agriculture, which could significantly contribute to food security in heavily populated cities. As such, the rising investment in hydroponic technology R&D signals a promising future for this method of agriculture, with anticipated global market growth reflecting its increased demand.

Increased Inclination Towards Vegan & Organic Diets

The escalating shift towards vegan and organic diets worldwide is anticipated to bolster the demand for hydroponics, an innovative method of cultivating plants without soil. This surge in demand is primarily due to the increasing recognition of the myriad of benefits hydroponics offers. Foremost among these is the capability to yield high-quality, pesticide-free produce all year round, aligning with the nutritional needs and ethical values of a vegan and organic lifestyle. Moreover, hydroponics provides a solution to the challenge of growing crops in regions with limited arable land or adverse climatic conditions, echoing the sustainability ethos embraced by many vegans and organic food consumers. The method also enables precise control over nutrient distribution, ensuring the cultivation of nutritionally-rich produce. This aspect is particularly appealing to those following a vegan diet, as it aids in maintaining balanced nutrient intake. Furthermore, the sheer efficiency and eco-friendliness of hydroponics – requiring significantly less water and space compared to traditional farming – resonates with the environmentally conscious consumers who increasingly prefer vegan or organic foods. Given these factors, the nexus between the rising preference for vegan and organic diets and the burgeoning demand for hydroponic technology is not only logical but also indicative of future trends in global food production.

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Key Market Challenges

High Initial Investment

High initial investment is considered one of the significant barriers to the global adoption of hydroponics farming. This innovative agricultural technique, while offering substantial benefits in terms of water usage efficiency and space optimization, requires a sizable upfront capital investment. Prospective hydroponic farmers must account for the costs associated with acquiring the necessary equipment, including growth chambers, lighting systems, and nutrient solution reservoirs. Additionally, the costs of setting up a controlled environment for crop growth, which often entails building greenhouses or indoor spaces with regulated temperature, light, and humidity, are also substantial. These high costs can be prohibitive for small-scale farmers or those in developing countries where access to capital is limited. Consequently, the demand for hydroponics could decrease globally, as farmers may opt for traditional farming methods with lower entry costs. However, it's important to note that the long-term benefits and potential profitability of hydroponics could offset initial investments, but this requires a change in perspective that prioritizes long-term sustainability over short-term expenditures.

Dependence on Electricity

The global demand for hydroponics, an innovative farming method that uses nutrient solutions instead of soil, is expected to decrease due to increasing dependence on electricity. Hydroponic systems heavily rely on electricity for regulating light, temperature, and nutrient supply, which can be costly and environmentally challenging. As countries worldwide increasingly rely on electricity for various needs, there might be less availability and higher costs for powering hydroponic systems. Additionally, the move towards renewable energy sources like solar or wind is likely to affect the energy-intensive hydroponic industry. These renewable sources often provide inconsistent energy supply, which can disrupt the hydroponic systems' proper functioning. Furthermore, the push for energy efficiency and sustainability may lead to a reduction in the use of energy-intensive farming methods, such as hydroponics. Hence, as the world becomes more electricity-dependent, the demand for hydroponics may decrease. This shift in demand can also be attributed to the potential challenges associated with the scalability and cost-effectiveness of hydroponic systems, especially when compared to conventional farming practices. Moreover, the availability of land and the need for large-scale agriculture to meet growing food demands are factors that could impact the future growth of hydroponics. These factors, combined with the increasing focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices, may contribute to a gradual decline in the global demand for hydroponics in the coming years.

Key Market Trends

Reduction in Water Usage Compared to Traditional Farming

Hydroponics, an innovative method of soil-less farming, is anticipated to witness a surge in demand globally, primarily due to its remarkable efficiency in water usage as compared to traditional farming. Traditional agriculture is notorious for its excessive water consumption, largely due to inefficient irrigation systems and water loss through soil evaporation. On the other hand, hydroponics operates on a recirculation model, which considerably reduces water usage (by up to 90% in some cases) as the nutrient solution is recycled and reused. This not only makes hydroponic systems more environmentally friendly but also presents a viable solution for farming in regions with water scarcity. As global concern grows regarding dwindling fresh water supplies, the efficiency of hydroponics becomes increasingly appealing. Furthermore, the escalating effects of climate change and the urgency for more sustainable farming practices are expected to further drive the demand for hydroponic systems worldwide. The food production sector is continuously seeking ways to diminish its environmental footprint, and hydroponics offers a compelling solution, coupling efficient water usage with high crop yields. Thus, the reduction in water usage compared to conventional farming is a significant factor expected to propel the adoption of hydroponics globally.

Climate Change & Unpredictable Weather Conditions

Climate change and unpredictable weather conditions are expected to significantly increase the global demand for hydroponics. As global temperatures rise and rainfall patterns become increasingly erratic, traditional agriculture faces extreme challenges. Hydroponics, as a controlled and soil-less growing method, provides a promising alternative. It uses less water, eliminates the need for arable land, and allows for year-round crop cultivation irrespective of external weather conditions. With the frequency and intensity of droughts, floods, and heatwaves predicted to increase due to climate change, the resilience of hydroponics becomes ever more crucial. Countries with limited water resources or those facing land degradation may particularly see value in hydroponics as a sustainable agricultural solution. Additionally, the ability of hydroponics to produce higher yields in smaller spaces could help address food security issues in densely populated urban areas, where the effects of climate change are often most acutely felt. Therefore, as we grapple with the realities of our changing climate, the demand for practical, resilient, and efficient farming methods like hydroponics is set to surge across the globe.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Based on the Type, the aggregate systems dominated the market in 2022 due to their widespread popularity among indoor hydroponic farmers. These systems are favored for their ease of setup and cost-effectiveness. In such systems, inert and solid media like peat, rock wool, vermiculite, sand, sawdust, perlite, or coconut coir provide plant support. Drip systems, ebb and flow systems, and wick systems are the primary technologies in aggregate systems, with ebb and flow being the most commonly preferred mode due to its simplicity and affordability.

The liquid systems segment is projected to exhibit the fastest growth rate, driven by the rising adoption of closed system cultivation by growers. Deepwater culture and Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) systems are increasingly being used for cultivating lettuce and other leafy vegetables. Liquid systems eliminate the need for a solid medium, as the roots are directly immersed in the nutrient solution, making the cultivation process more convenient. Moreover, by providing nutrients directly to the plant roots, liquid systems promote accelerated growth and maximize yields. While soilless farming methods mitigate the risk of soil-borne diseases, closed systems using liquid solutions require regular maintenance to monitor and replace nutrient solutions, thereby minimizing the risk of pathogen dispersal.

Equipment Insights

Based on the Equipment, LED grow lights are the cutting-edge lighting solution that reigns supreme in the Global Hydroponics Market. With their remarkable efficiency and unparalleled effectiveness in promoting plant growth, LED grow lights have gained immense popularity in hydroponics. These lights offer the unique advantage of precise control over the light spectrum and intensity, catering perfectly to the specific needs of hydroponic systems. This ensures not only optimal growth but also maximized yield, making LED grow lights the go-to choice for hydroponic enthusiasts and professionals alike. Embrace the power of LED grow lights and witness the remarkable transformation in your hydroponic garden.

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Regional Insights

Asia Pacific dominated the hydroponics market in 2022 due to the significant adoption of hydroponics in countries such as China, Australia, South Korea, and others. The hydroponics market in China and India is expected to experience substantial growth over the forecast period, driven by the emergence of urban hydroponic farms. North America presents high growth potential, attributed to the presence of numerous companies in the region and the increasing adoption of alternative farming techniques in urban areas. Notable market players in North America include AeroFarms (U.S.), AMHYDRO (U.S.), Argus Control Systems Limited (Canada), and LumiGrow (U.S.).

Europe held the second-largest market share in 2022, primarily driven by the widespread adoption of hydroponics fueled by rapid industrialization and limited land availability. The region is home to developed economies such as France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. With the expanding implementation of genetically modified crop technology, Europe is expected to witness a substantial compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the forecast period. However, the lack of government incentives and the unavailability of essential equipment for establishing large hydroponic farms might impede growth in developing countries across the Middle East, Africa, and South America.

Recent Developments

• October 2022: GrowGeneration Corp (GRWG) has successfully launched a 9,000-square-foot store in Richmond, marking its inaugural hydroponic store in Virginia. With a strategic vision to capitalize on the emerging hydroponic market, GRWG plans to further expand its retail footprint in the state. Additionally, the company has recently secured two new leases for store openings in Mount Holly, NJ, and Hazelwood, MO, slated for completion by the end of 2022. These developments have effectively extended GRWG's presence to a total of 17 states.
• July 2022: Bustanica, backed by a significant investment of USD 40 million, has unveiled the world's largest hydroponic farm. This remarkable facility is the pioneering vertical farm for Emirates Crop One, a joint venture between Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) and Crop One. EKFC, renowned for its extensive catering services to over 100 leading airlines, has joined forces with Crop One, a technology-driven leader in indoor vertical farming.
• February 2022: Silal, Abu Dhabi's foremost fresh produce and agri-tech company, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AeroFarms. This strategic partnership aims to establish a long-term collaboration in research and development, facilitating the transfer of advanced farming systems knowledge and technology to local farmers.

Key Market Players

• AeroFarms
• Argus Control Systems Limited
• BrightFarms
• General Hydroponics Inc.
• GreenTech Agro LLC
• GrowLife Inc.
• Hydrodynamics International
• Hydrofarm LLC
• LumiGrow Inc.
• Thanet Earth Limited

Report Scope:

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

·         Hydroponics Market, By Type:

o   Aggregate Systems

o   Liquid Systems

·         Hydroponics Market, By Equipment:

o   HVAC

o   LED grow light

o   Control systems

o   Irrigation systems

o   Material handling

o   Others

·         Hydroponics Market, By Input:

o   Nutrient

o   Growth Media

·         Hydroponics Market, By Farming Method:

o   Indoor

o   Outdoor

·         Hydroponics Market, By Crop Type:

o   Vegetables

o   Fruits

o   Flowers

o   Others

·         Hydroponics Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   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 Hydroponics Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Hydroponics market report with the given market data, Tech Sci 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).

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