The soil active herbicides market involves products that are applied to or mixed into soil to prevent the growth of unwanted weeds and vegetations. Soil active herbicides such as trifluralin, diuron, oxyfluorfen, and pendimethalin are non-selective and can control the growth of both annual and perennial weeds. They work through soil absorption by weed roots and shoots.

The global soil active herbicides market is estimated to be valued at US$ 9841.66 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 22% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.

Key Takeaways

Key players operating in the soil active herbicides market include GE Additive, Stratasys Ltd., Materialise N.V., EoS GmbH, Allevi, Inc., RegenHU, EnvisionTEC GmbH, 3D Systems, Inc., Nanoscribe GmbH, and GPI Prototype and Manufacturing Services, LLC. Key players are focusing on developing advanced Soil Active Herbicides Market Size to control the development of resistant weeds. The demand for soil active herbicides is expected to increase due to the growing adoption of conservation tillage practices among farmers worldwide. Furthermore, ongoing research and development activities to introduce more soil-friendly and eco-friendly herbicide formulations is anticipated to support the market growth.

Technological advancements such as development of herbicide combinations and formulations that can breakdown quickly in soil are helping farmers to minimize the negative environmental impact of soil active herbicides. Market players are also investing in developing digital farming tools along with herbicides to offer 360-degree weed management solutions to farmers.

Market Trends

Growing preference for pre-emergence herbicides - Pre-emergence herbicides are widely being adopted as they prevent seed germination and establish control over weed population from the beginning of cropping season. This reduces labour costs and maximizes crop yield.

Rising demand for herbicide combinations and tank mixes - Combining two or more herbicides in proper ratios provides broad-spectrum weed control and helps delay the onset of herbicide resistance in weeds. It is a major trend in the market.

Market Opportunities

Development of new modes of action - Introduction of herbicides with novel modes of action can help overcome the challenge of herbicide resistance in weeds. It is a key area attracting research investments.

Growing adoption in turf and landscape markets - With the increasing demand for landscape maintenance services, the market for soil herbicides in turf and ornamental sectors is projected to generate lucrative opportunities over the coming years.

Impact of COVID-19 on Soil Active Herbicides Market Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the growth of the soil active herbicides market in the initial months. Travel restrictions and lockdowns hampered farming activities and disrupted supply chains across many countries. Farmers faced shortage of labor and access to herbicides products. However, with easing of restrictions from mid-2020, the market started recovering. Demand picked up as agricultural activities resumed with proper safety measures. Going forward, herbicides manufacturers are focusing on improving access to rural areas through innovative distribution networks. E-commerce emerged as a reliable channel to cater remoter locations. Companies also adopted digital platforms to educate and support farmers during the crisis. While short-term challenges existed, the pandemic highlighted the importance of herbicides in ensuring food security. This will drive investments towards developing more sustainable and effective solutions in the long run.

North America Dominates Soil Active Herbicides Market in Terms of Value

North America currently holds the highest market share in value terms owing to widespread adoption across the developed agricultural sector in the US and Canada. Wheat, corn and soybean are some of the major crops cultivated where soil active herbicides play a vital role is weed management. Moreover, the region is home to several global market leaders which strengthens product availability and awareness. Meanwhile, developing countries in Asia Pacific are projected to witness fastest gains. Rising incomes, government support for farmer productivity and expanding cultivated areas for food crops makes the region highly lucrative. China and India will majorly contribute to the rapid growth owing to their huge population size and rapidly industrializing agricultural practices.

Europe Concentrates Significant Value in Soil Active Herbicides Market

Europe accounts for a significant share in terms of value on account of strong demand from prominent countries like France, Germany, UK and Spain. Farmers in the region widely utilize soil active herbicides for crops like wheat, barley, vegetables etc. Stringent regulations regarding product quality and residue management also helps Europe emerge as a quality-driven market. Countries in Eastern Europe are expected gain higher traction going ahead. This can be attributed to reviving agricultural investments post economic downturn in the past decade. Meanwhile countries in Western Europe will continue to lead through technological advancements in agricultural machinery that aids efficient herbicide application.

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