Herbicides Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Type (2,4-D, Glyphosate, Atrazine, Dicamba, Trifuralin, Others), By Crop Type (Cereals & Grains, Oilseeds & Pulses, Fruits & Vegetables, Others), By Mode Application, By Form, By Source, and Regional Analysis, 2024-2031

Herbicides Market Size

The global Herbicides Market size was valued at USD 39.45 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 41.58 billion in 2024 to USD 63.23 billion by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.17% during the forecast period. 

The growing global population is increasing food demand, which, while limited arable land necessitates the use of herbicides to maximize crop yields, thereby fueling the growth of the market. As arable land becomes scarce, the need to maximize crop yields intensifies. 

In the scope of work, the report includes products offered by companies such as BASF, Syngenta Group Company, Nufarm, FMC Corporation, Drexel Chemical Company, UPL, Kenvos Group, Nissan Chemical Corporation, Corteva, Dhanuka Agritech Ltd, and others.

The market is a vital segment within the global agricultural sector, catering to the growing demand for effective weed management in farming, horticulture, and landscaping. 

It includes a broad range of chemical and biological products designed to control weeds that compete with crops for essential sources such as nutrients, water, and sunlight. The market is shaped by various factors, including the demand for higher crop yields, advancements in herbicide formulation, and the expansion of agricultural practices across different regions. 

Key market playersfocus on research and development to produce more efficent and environmentally friendly herbicides. Moreover, the herbicides market is subject to strict regulations to ensure safety and minimize environmental impact.

• For instance, in the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) governs the approval, regulation, and use of herbicides, ensuring they meet safety standards and pose no risks to human health or the environment. Such regulations play a crucial role in shaping the market and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

The market refers encompasses the production and sale of chemicals that control unwanted plants (weeds), supporting the agriculture industry in growing healthier crops. 

Herbicides boost crop yields by controlling weeds and reduce competition for essential resources such as water and nutrients. Modern herbicides are formulated to minimize environmental impact, ensuring greater safety for non-target species and the ecosystem.

•  CC Holdings, Inc. offers vinegar-based herbicides under the Green Gobbler brand, providing an environmentally friendly option for weed control that supports sustainable practices. These herbicides are considered more eco-friendly as they decompose rapidly in the environment, minimizing risks to non-target plants, animals, and water sources compared to synthetic alternatives.

Analyst's Review

Herbicide companies are adapting to growing environmental concerns and stricter regulations by investing in sustainable solutions, such as bio-based herbicides and precision agriculture technologies. With herbicide resistance on the rise, companies are developing innovative products with novel modes of action and integrating digital tools for more efficient, targeted application. 

Strategic acquisitions and partnerships are helping firms stay ahead of regulatory changes and expand their portfolios. These efforts aim to create safer, more effective herbicides while meeting the evolving needs of the agricultural market.

• In June 2024, Bayer’s efforts in precision agriculture highlight how herbicide companies are adapting to growing environmental concerns and stricter regulations. Through its Climate FieldView platform and drone technology, Bayer is helping farmers optimize herbicide use by providing data-driven insights on field health, weather, and soil conditions. This approach combines digital tools with sustainable practices, allowing for more targeted and efficient herbicide application, reducing waste. Bayer's ongoing innovation and partnerships in digital solutions aim to improve herbicide efficacy while meeting regulatory demands and supporting sustainable farming practices.

Herbicides Market Growth Factors

The global market is witnessing substantial growth due to the increasing global population. The United Nations projects that the global population will reach 8.5 billion by 2030 and 9.7 billion by 2050, driving demand for higher food production. This demand necessitates the expansion of agricultural land and the need for efficient crop management solutions.

Consequently, the growth in agricultural activity is contributing to the rising demand for herbicides, as farmers require effective weed control to ensure healthy crop yields. Additionally, the adoption of genetically modified (GM) crops, which are designed to be resistant to specific herbicides, is boosting effective herbicide usage. 

Effective weed management is essential for GM crop cultivation, prompting increased reliance on herbicides to maintain optimal crop health and maximize production.

A major challenge hindering the expansion of the herbicides market is its extensive use in farming, leading to biodiversity loss and various environmental impacts, including soil degradation and water contamination. These issues raise concerns about the sustainability of conventional herbicide use. 

Developing and adopting sustainable, eco-friendly herbicides, such as bio-based or natural alternatives, offers a viable solution. These alternatives ensure effective weed control while minimizing harm to non-target species and ecosystems, enabling farmers to sustain productivity without compromising environmental health.

Herbicides Industry Trends

In the future, the market will continue evolving, driven by sustainability and technology. The demand for bio-based herbicides is expected to rise as more farmers adopt eco-friendly practices and face stricter regulations. The use of precision agriculture tools will increase, enabling more effective and targeted herbicide application. 

Additionally, the adoption of herbicide-tolerant genetically modified (GM) crops will drive demand for specific herbicides that can effectively control weeds without harming crops, shaping the future of weed management and creating a more sustainable herbicides market. 

Overall, these trends are pushing the market toward innovation and sustainable practices in weed control as well as herbicide market.

• In October 2024, FMC launched Ambriva herbicide in India, specifically designed for wheat. Featuring Isoflex active, a novel mode of action, this bio-based herbicide helps manage herbicide-resistant weeds such as Phalaris minor. It offers effective early post-emergence control, supporting sustainable farming and resistance management.

Stricter regulations around pesticide use, particularly in developed regions are significantly influencing the herbicide market. As governments tighten safety standards and environmental guidelines, companies are focusing on developing products that meet these evolving regulations. 

This trend is driving innovation in safer, more sustainable herbicide formulations, as well as increasing investment in research and development to ensure compliance. Additionally, these regulations encourage the use of alternative, eco-friendly solutions, such as biological herbicides, to reduce the environmental impact. As a result, the herbicide market is increasingly shaped by the need for regulatory alignment and environmental responsibility.

Segmentation Analysis

The global market has been segmented based on type, crop type, mode application, form, source, and geography.

By Type

Based on type, the market has been segmented into 2,4-D, glyphosate, atrazine, dicamba, trifuralin, metolachlor, glufosinate, and others. The glyphosate segment led the herbicides market in 2023, reaching ae valuation of USD 9.69 billion. Glyphosate herbicide offers several benefits for modern agriculture. 

It effectively controls a wide range of weeds, including invasive and noxious species, helping farmers maintain crop yields and secure the food supply chain. Additionally, glyphosate supports environmental sustainability through conservation tillage practices, which reduce soil erosion, improve soil health, and lower CO2 emissions. 

Furthermore, it minimizes the need for extra land to produce the same amount of food, making farming more efficient. Available in various formulations and application methods, it provides flexibility for different farming

By Crop Type

Based on crop type, the market has been divided into cereals & grains, oilseeds & pulses, fruits & vegetables, and others. The cereals & grains segment secured the largest revenue share of 40.34% in 2023. 

Herbicides are commonly used on cereals and grains to protect crops from weeds that can reduce yield and quality. Their application help farmers maintain healthier crops, improve production efficiency, and minimize losses caused by unwanted vegetation. This results in higher-quality grains, enhanced food security, and better economic outcomes for farmers. 

Additionally, herbicides control invasive weed species, preventing their uncontrolled spread and ensuring stable, and profitable cereal and grain production.

By Mode Application

Based on mode application, the market has been classified into foliar spray, soil treatment, seed treatment, and post-harvest treatment. The soil treatment segment is poised to witness significant growth, registering a robust CAGR of 6.26% through the forecast period. 

Herbicides are used in soil treatment to control weeds that threaten agricultural production. They can be applied directly to the soil, with application rates varying by soil depth, or to treat seeds, seedlings, or planting materials before sowing. Additionally, herbicides can be introduced into irrigation systems to protect crops from soil-borne weeds. 

These treatments reduce weed competition, ensuring healthier crops, improved yield quality, and enhanced agricultural productivity, which supports sustainable farming Therefore, herbicides play a critical role in soil treatment by effectively controlling weeds that can hinder agricultural production. 

By Form

Based on form, the market has been classified into powder/pallets/granules and liquid. The powder/pallets/granules led the herbicides market in 2023, with a valuation of USD 32.48 billion. Powder, pellet, and granule herbicides offer several advantages for effective weed control. 

They are easy to handle, store, and apply, allowing for precise application without complex equipment. Granules and pellets provide long-lasting control by gradually releasing the herbicide into the soil, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.

This also contributes to lower environmental impact by targeting specific areas and minimizing exposure to non-target plants and animals. Additionally, their effectiveness in controlling soil-borne weeds promotes healthier crops throughout the growing season, driving increased demand for these herbicides.

By Source

Based on source, the market has been bifurcated into chemical/synthetic herbicides and bio herbicides. The chemical/synthetic herbicides segment is set to experience significant growth, registering a CAGR of 6.05% through the forecast period. Chemical herbicides are preferred over bio-based alternatives due to their effectiveness, rapid action, and lower cost. 

They provide quick and strong control over a broad range of weeds, ensuring reliable crop protection. Chemical herbicides are easier to store, handle, and apply, offering convinience for large-scale farming operations. Their ability to manage persistent and challenging weed problems results in higher yields and improved efficiency in crop production, which contributes to their continued dominance in the agricultural sector, despite growing interest in eco-friendly alternatives.

Herbicides Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

The North America herbicides market accounted for a notable share of around 35.67% in 2023, valued at USD 14.07 billion. This dominance is largely a ttributed to advanced agricultural technology and continuous innovation in herbicide formulations. 

Strict government regulations ensure that herbicides meet high-quality and safety standards, guaranteeing consistent performance. The growing demand for food grains in the region further increases the need for effective weed control solutions. These factors, along with a strong emphasis on sustainability and efficiency, position North America as a leading region in the global market, addressing agricultural production needs and regulatory compliance.

Asia-Pacific market is likely to witness significant growth over the forecast period, recording a robust CAGR of 7.14%. This growth is mainly fueled by the increasing demand for food due to a rapidly expanding population and urbanization. 

The region’s shift toward modern farming practices, including the adoption of advanced weed control technologies, further supports regional market growth. Additionally, government initiatives aimed at improving agricultural productivity and controlling weeds contribute to the rise in use of herbicide. The emphasis on improving crop yields and expanding agricultural land supports the expansion of  the Asia-Pacific global market.

Competitive Landscape

The herbicides market report will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the industry. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their market shares across different regions. 

Strategic initiatives, including investments in R&D activities, the establishment of new manufacturing facilities, and supply chain optimization, could create new opportunities for market growth.

List of Key Companies in Herbicides Market

• BASF
• Syngenta Group Company
• Nufarm
• FMC Corporation
• Drexel Chemical Company
• UPL
• Kenvos Group
• Nissan Chemical Corporation
• Corteva
• Dhanuka Agritech Ltd

Key Industry Developments

• May 2023 (Partnership): FMC Corporation and Syngenta Crop Protection announced a collaboration to introduce a new weed control technology for rice in Asia. Developed by FMC with support from Syngenta, the new active ingredient, tetflupyrolimet, features a novel mode of action (DHODH – HRAC Group 28). This innovative solution addresses the growing weed resistance to current herbicides in rice cultivation.
• August 2023 (Launch): BASF Agricultural Solutions launched Liberty ULTRA herbicide, powered by Glu-LTM Technology, in the U.S. market. This advanced solution offers effective weed control, targeting tough grasses and broadleaf weeds such as water hemp, Palmer amaranth, giant ragweed, and kochia. Formulated for glufosinate-tolerant crops such as soybeans, cotton, canola, and corn, Liberty ULTRA delivers enhanced post-emergence control and increased protection against resistant weeds. Its introduction marks a significant development in weed management, helping farmers improve crop yield and reduce weed resistance issues.

The global herbicides market is segmented as:

By Type

• 2,4-D
• Glyphosate
• Atrazine
• Dicamba
• Trifuralin
• Metolachlor
• Glufosinate
• Others

By Crop Type

• Cereals & Grains
• Oilseeds & Pulses
• Fruits & Vegetables
• Others

By Mode Application

• Foliar Spray
• Soil Treatment
• Seed Treatment
• Post-Harvest Treatment

By Form

• Powder/Pallets/Granules
• Liquid

By Mode Application

• Chemical/Synthetic Herbicides
• Bio Herbicides

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • France
  • UK
  • Spain
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • North Africa
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America