4 Arab Nations Dominate the Top 10 Global Fertilizer Exporters

In a complex geopolitical landscape, fertilizers are no longer just agricultural inputs; they have evolved into a “sovereign commodity” as vital as oil and gas. International trade data for 2024 (HS 31 classification) reveals a shifting map of influence, with four Arab nations securing spots among the world’s top 10 exporters in a market valued at approximately $83.9 billion.
​This Arab presence is not merely a commercial achievement; it establishes the region as a fundamental pillar of global food security.

​The Top 10 Global Players:

• Russia: The Resilient Giant. Despite sanctions, Moscow leads by diversifying exports (nitrogen, phosphate, potash) and pivoting toward Asian and African markets.
• ​China: The Market Regulator. With $8.5 billion in exports, Beijing controls global rhythm by adjusting export volumes to prioritize its domestic market.
• ​Canada: The Potash Kingdom. Holding a near-monopoly on potash via Saskatchewan, Canada remains an irreplaceable pillar of modern agriculture.
• ​Morocco (4th Globally): Phosphate as Soft Power. With $5.4 billion in exports, Morocco (led by OCP Group) has moved beyond raw materials to high-value finished fertilizers, becoming a strategic partner for Africa and Latin America.
• ​USA: The Paradox. A major exporter of ammonia ($5.2 billion) but also a massive importer of potash and phosphate to satisfy its vast agricultural sector.
• ​Saudi Arabia (6th Globally): The Green Energy Leader. Leveraging its natural gas advantage, the Kingdom exported $5 billion. Companies like SABIC and Ma’aden are now leading the future with low-carbon ammonia production.
• ​Belgium: The Logistics Hub. Powering through infrastructure rather than raw materials, Belgium serves as Europe’s primary blending and redistribution center.
• Oman (8th Globally): The Urea Surge. With $2.7 billion in exports, Oman’s strategic location and the OMIFCO complex have made it a preferred supplier for South Asia and East Africa.
• ​Egypt (9th Globally): The Mediterranean Nitrogen Fortress. Exporting $2.43 billion, Egypt (via Abu Qir and MOPCO) utilizes its geographic advantage to supply Europe and Africa with essential nitrogen fertilizers.
• ​Netherlands: The Connectivity Engine. Using the Port of Rotterdam as a hub for ammonia storage and trade, ensuring the flow of supply chains across Europe.