From 1990 to 2022, the worldwide agricultural use of pesticides steadily increased, reaching 3.69 million metric tons in 2022. This growth in pesticide usage reflects the vital role of crop protection chemicals in enhancing agricultural yield and ensuring food security amidst an array of global challenges such as anthropogenic climate change, and population growth. What is the most popular type of pesticide? Pesticides encompass a broad range of products, including herbicides, fungicides, bactericides, insecticides, plant growth regulators, and rodenticides. Of these, herbicides are the most commonly used, primarily for eradicating unwanted plants like weeds or grass. In 2022, the global use of herbicides hit 1.94 million metric tons, while the usage of other types of pesticides stayed below one million metric tons. Herbicides have a significant role in maintaining crop health and yield by controlling the growth of unwanted plants that compete with crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight. In 2022, the largest share of sales for herbicides in the European Union (EU) was attributed to organophosphorus herbicides. These organophosphorus herbicides include glyphosate, a commonly used herbicide that has been the subject of controversy due to its potential health and environmental effects. What are the impacts of pesticide use? The increased use of pesticides worldwide raises concerns about their environmental footprint. Pesticides can have harmful impacts on non-target species, including beneficial insects, birds, and aquatic organisms. They can also contaminate soil, water, and other vegetation. In addition to the direct effects on wildlife, pesticides can disrupt ecosystems by altering species composition and biodiversity. Furthermore, some pesticides have been linked to human health problems, ranging from short-term impacts such as headaches and nausea to chronic impacts like cancer, reproductive harm, and endocrine disruption. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) routinely monitors the levels of pesticide residues in food and whilst the majority of the food samples tested comply with legal limits, a small percentage surpass these limits, highlighting the necessity for ongoing observation and regulation. In 2021, Cyprus was the European country that had the highest proportion of import samples exceeding the MRL, with over one in six food samples from Cyprus containing excessive pesticide residue.

In 2022, the Brazil was the largest pesticide-consuming country worldwide, at some 800.65 thousand metric tons. The United States trailed in second, with 467.68 thousand tons consumed. Worldwide, pesticide consumption stood at 3.69 million metric tons in that year. Pesticide industry segments Pesticides are substances used in agriculture to control the appearance of pests or regulate plant growth. The term includes several product types such as herbicides, fungicides, bactericides, insecticides, plant growth regulators, and rodenticides. Herbicides are widely used to remove plants such as weeds or grass and are by far the most used class of pesticide worldwide. In 2021, global consumption of herbicides reached 1.7 million metric tons, whereas consumption of other pesticide types stood below one million. Leading agrochemical firms Syngenta and Bayer CropScience were the two leading agrochemical companies based on pesticide sales in 2021. Syngenta reported over 13.3 billion U.S. dollars of pesticide sales in that year, while Bayer CropScience’s pesticide revenue stood at almost 11.4 billion U.S. dollars. Bayer CropScience was formed in 2002 after the pharmaceutical giant Bayer acquired Aventis CropScience. The company’s revenue doubled in 2018 after the acquisition of Monsanto. In 2021, Bayer CropScience’s total revenue, including pesticides and seeds, reached 20.2 billion euros. Other leading companies in the pesticide sector include BASF, Corteva, UPL, FMC, and Adama.

In 2022, herbicide consumption worldwide nearly reached 1.9 million metric tons, whereas consumption of fungicides and bactericides stood at around 793.92 thousand metric tons that year. The global consumption of agricultural pesticides that year amounted to 3.69 million metric tons.

The worldwide agricultural consumption of pesticides is forecast to increase slightly over the next few years, from around 4.3 million metric tons in 2023 to a value of around 4.41 million metric tons in 2027. The region that consumes the most agricultural pesticides is the Americas, with more than half of the world’s total pesticide use in 2021. Ensuring food security amidst a growing population Pesticides are critical in modern agriculture for managing pests, diseases, and weeds that threaten crop yields. With the world population projected to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050, increasing agricultural productivity is essential as it helps ensure stable and abundant food supplies necessary to feed a growing global population. Pesticides play a crucial role in this by reducing crop losses and improving overall yield. Additionally, as climate change continues to affect weather patterns and increase the incidence of extreme weather events, the threat of pests and diseases is likely to rise. Pesticides will thus become increasingly vital in protecting crops under these increasingly unpredictable conditions, thereby supporting global food security. Environmental footprint The forecast growth in worldwide agricultural pesticide consumption raises concerns about the long-term productivity of agricultural land and the broader environmental impacts. Over-reliance on chemical pesticides can lead to the development of pesticide-resistance, requiring ever-increasing amounts of chemicals to achieve the same level of control, which can degrade soil health over time. This degradation can reduce the land’s fertility and productivity, necessitating increased fertilizer use to maintain yields, thus creating a vicious cycle. Furthermore, pesticides can leach into waterways, causing contamination of rivers, lakes, and groundwater. This contamination can harm aquatic ecosystems, killing beneficial insects, fish, and other wildlife, and can also pose risks to human health through polluted drinking water sources.

In 2022, the Americas represented more than 51.1 percent of the agricultural pesticide consumption worldwide. Asia and Europe followed, with shares of 28.6 and 12.8 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, pesticide consumption in Africa and Oceania combined accounted for less than eight percent of the world's total.

Delve into the 2025 global pesticide industry with insights from IndexBox, highlighting leading nations in consumption, production, export, and import activities.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global pesticide intermediate market size will be USD 112514.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.80% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 45005.68 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 33754.26 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 25878.27 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.8% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 5625.71 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 2250.28 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% from 2024 to 2031.
The bio-pesticide is the fastest growing segment of the pesticide intermediate industry

Market Dynamics of Pesticide Intermediate Market

Key Drivers for Pesticide Intermediate Market

Growing demand for food security to drive market growth

The increasing global population, expected to surpass 9 billion by 2050, is putting pressure on agricultural systems to produce higher yields to ensure food security. This surge in demand for food necessitates the efficient use of pesticides to protect crops from pests, diseases, and weeds, which directly boosts the demand for pesticide intermediates. With limited arable land available, maximizing crop productivity through the use of effective pesticides has become essential. Pesticide intermediates play a critical role in producing high-quality active ingredients for these products, making them indispensable in modern agriculture. As governments and organizations focus on improving agricultural output to meet food security goals, the demand for advanced pesticide intermediates is expected to drive significant growth in the market.

Increasing agricultural productivity to boost market growth

The rising need to enhance agricultural productivity is a major driver for the pesticide intermediate market. As global food demand surges due to population growth, farmers face increasing pressure to maximize crop yields. Pesticides play a crucial role in protecting crops from pests, diseases, and weeds, thus improving overall productivity. The use of pesticide intermediates is essential in the creation of efficient and targeted pesticide formulations, which help farmers protect their crops and ensure higher yields. Furthermore, advancements in agricultural practices, such as precision farming, have increased the use of pesticides, further fueling the demand for intermediates. As governments and agricultural organizations focus on improving productivity to meet food security goals, the pesticide intermediate market is expected to see substantial growth in the coming years.

Restraint Factor for the Pesticide Intermediate Market

Environmental concerns over chemical pesticide usage to limit market growth

The increasing awareness of the harmful effects of chemical pesticides on the environment has emerged as a significant restraint on the pesticide intermediate market. Pesticides, when not used responsibly, can lead to soil degradation, water contamination, and biodiversity loss, affecting both ecosystems and human health. This has led to stricter regulations by governments and environmental bodies, requiring manufacturers to adopt safer and more sustainable practices. The growing demand for organic and eco-friendly alternatives is further restricting the use of traditional chemical-based pesticide intermediates. As environmental concerns continue to rise, there is a growing movement toward reducing chemical pesticide usage and shifting toward biopesticides or integrated pest management systems, which limits the growth potential of the pesticide intermediate market.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Pesticide Intermediate Market

The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the pesticide intermediate market, primarily due to disruptions in the global supply chain. Lockdowns and restrictions on industrial activit...

The average global consumption of agricultural pesticides increased from 1.23 kilograms per hectare of cropland in 1990 to over 2.37 kilograms in 2022. The global consumption of agricultural pesticides amounted to 3.69 million metric tons in 2021.

Microencapsulated Pesticide Market size was estimated at USD 630.98 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 1307.38 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 10.6% from 2024 to 2031.

Global Microencapsulated Pesticide Market Drivers

Enhanced Environmental Sustainability: Microencapsulated pesticides are increasingly being adopted due to their ability to deliver controlled release of the active ingredient. This reduces overall pesticide use, thereby minimizing potential environmental impact and pollution.

Improved Targeting and Reduced Risks: The encapsulation process allows for targeted delivery of the pesticide to the specific pest, minimizing harm to beneficial insects, pollinators, and the surrounding ecosystem. This is achieved by the controlled release mechanism that reduces exposure to non-target organisms.

Regulatory Pressure and Stringent Standards: Regulatory bodies worldwide are enacting stricter regulations on conventional pesticide use. This, in turn, is driving the demand for safer and more sustainable pest control solutions, which microencapsulated pesticides offer due to their controlled release properties.

Expanding Applications in Various Sectors: Microencapsulated pesticides are finding application in a growing number of sectors beyond agriculture. This includes public health for vector control, pest management in non-agricultural settings like gardens and urban areas, and even consumer products like pet repellents. This diversification is further propelling market growth.

Explore the expected growth of the global pesticide market over the next decade, driven by increasing demand worldwide. Market performance is projected to expand with an anticipated CAGR of +1.5% in volume terms and +2.3% in value terms from 2024 to 2035, reaching 22M tons and $154B respectively by the end of 2035.

In 2020, the country with the highest consumption of agricultural pesticides per area of cropland was Antigua and Barbuda, at over 36.59 kilograms per hectare. Ranking second was Qatar, with 35.11 kilograms of pesticides used per hectare of cropland, followed by Brunei Darussalam, with approximately 29 kilograms per hectare.

The market size of the Pesticide Intermediate Consumption Market is categorized based on Product (Insecticides, Herbicides, Fungicides, Others) and Application (Agriculture, Public Health, Industrial, Others) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

This report provides insights into the market size and forecasts the value of the market, expressed in USD million, across these defined segments.

Global Pesticides Use on Crops by Country, 2023 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Slovakia Agricultural Consumption: PA: Insecticides (ITC) data was reported at 318.200 Ton in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 322.400 Ton for 2015. Slovakia Agricultural Consumption: PA: Insecticides (ITC) data is updated yearly, averaging 246.950 Ton from Dec 1993 (Median) to 2016, with 24 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 617.200 Ton in 1995 and a record low of 134.300 Ton in 2000. Slovakia Agricultural Consumption: PA: Insecticides (ITC) data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistical Office of the Slovak Republic. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Slovakia – Table SK.B011: Agricultural Consumption.

TBRC pesticides market report includes herbicides, fungicides and insecticides, synthetic insecticides, bio-insecticides, oilseed, commercial crops, fruits

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Synthetic Chemical Insecticides market size will be USD XX million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Remote Auctions Type held the highest Synthetic Chemical Insecticides market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Synthetic Chemical Insecticides Market

Key Drivers for Synthetic Chemical Insecticides Market

Use of Insecticides for Crop Production and Protection to Increase the Demand Globally

Wheat, rice, and corn are among the most frequently treated crops with insecticides in the cereals and grains sector. These grains are cultivated worldwide, contributing significantly to the global demand for pesticides, a trend expected to continue in the coming years. As global cereal production has risen, reaching a new record of 2,847 million tonnes in the 2023 marketing season (July/June), farmers increasingly prioritize quality and yield through effective pesticide use. In 2021, the combined sales of the top 100 pesticide companies totaled 254.414 billion yuan, marking a year-on-year increase of 23.38%. The entry threshold for these companies rose to 504 million yuan, up by 53 million yuan compared to 2021. Among them, the top ten companies achieved total sales of 100.788 billion yuan, a 27.03% increase year-on-year. Sixty-eight companies reported sales exceeding 1 billion yuan, with eleven surpassing 5 billion yuan and two exceeding 10 billion yuan in sales..

Increase in Demand for Agrochemicals to Propel Market Growth

Various types of agrochemicals, including insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides, play crucial roles in enhancing crop productivity. Agriculture is a diverse sector encompassing operations ranging from small farms to large multinational holdings. In 2021, food crop production in North America totaled 532.3 million metric tons, marking a 1% increase from 2020, as reported by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The intensification of agricultural activities, driven by increasing global food demand due to population growth, has heightened the consumption of insecticides. Insecticides are instrumental in mitigating crop losses by mitigating the adverse effects of insects. According to the National Horticulture Database published by the National Horticulture Board, India recorded fruit production of 99.08 million metric tonnes during 2019-20, cultivated across 6.63 million hectares of fruit-growing area. Consequently, the rising demand for agrochemicals is fueling the expansion of the global Synthetic Chemical Insecticides market.

Restraint Factor for the Synthetic Chemical Insecticides Market

Poisonousness Related to Insecticides to Limit the Sales

Insecticides are substances designed to eliminate insects, but some can pose risks to human health. Inhalation, ingestion, or skin absorption of certain insecticides can lead to poisoning, manifesting in symptoms like eye irritation, coughing, cardiac issues, and respiratory problems. Due to these health hazards, proper handling and stringent safety practices are essential, limiting the acceptance of insecticides for residential purposes. In 2018, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prohibited the use of Endosulfan in the United States.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Synthetic Chemical Insecticides Market

Introduction of the Synthetic Chemical Insecticides Market

The Synthetic Chemical Insecticides Market occupies a pivotal position within global agr...

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Microencapsulated Pesticides market size will be USD XX million in 2023 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2023 to 2031.

The global Microencapsulated Pesticides market will expand significantly by XX% CAGR between 2023 to 2031.
North America held the major market of more than XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2023 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2023 to 2031.
Cereals and grains held the highest Microencapsulated Pesticides market revenue share in 2023.

Market Dynamics of the Microencapsulated Pesticides Market

Key Drivers of the Microencapsulated Pesticides Market

Enhanced Efficiency and Environmental Safety Drive the Microencapsulated Pesticides Market Growth

The growth of the Microencapsulated Pesticides Market is primarily driven by the increasing global demand for high-efficiency crop protection solutions that minimize environmental impact. Microencapsulation technology enhances the effectiveness of pesticides by protecting active ingredients from premature degradation and delivering them in a controlled manner, thereby reducing the frequency of applications. This technology also aligns with the rising regulatory pressures and environmental concerns regarding pesticide use, as it helps in reducing runoff and non-target exposure. Additionally, the growing adoption of precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices further fuels the market's expansion.

For instance, Alonso et al.& Zhang et al. suggests Microencapsulation technology enhances the efficiency of pesticides by protecting active ingredients from premature degradation and controlling their delivery, which aligns with rising regulatory pressures and environmental concerns. https://doi.org/10.1002/JCTB.4204 https://doi.org/10.1080/02652048.2019.1665118

Improved Safety and Reduced Environmental Impact Drive the Microencapsulated Pesticides Market Growth

Another significant driver for the Microencapsulated Pesticides Market is the increasing need for pest management solutions that are safer for both applicators and end consumers. Microencapsulation technology addresses this need by encapsulating the active ingredients, thereby reducing direct exposure to hazardous chemicals during application. This not only improves safety standards but also enhances public and environmental health. The technology’s ability to limit the volatilization and drift of pesticides during application also reduces the risk of harming non-target species, including beneficial insects and wildlife. As consumer awareness and regulatory focus on health and environmental safety continue to grow, the demand for safer pesticide formulations like microencapsulated pesticides is expected to increase, driving further development and adoption of this technology across global agricultural sectors.

For instance, Kumar et al. discussing Microencapsulation reduces direct exposure to hazardous chemicals during application, enhancing safety for applicators and the public, and minimizing impacts on non-target species, including beneficial insects and wildlife. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbpol.2013.10.025

Key Restraints of the Microencapsulated Pesticides Market

High Development Costs and Complexity Restrict the Microencapsulated Pesticides Market Growth

The development and adoption of microencapsulated pesticides are significantly restrained by the complexity and cost of the technology involved. Microencapsulation requires precise engineering to create capsules that can effectively release their contents under specific conditions, which necessitates advanced manufacturing processes and high-quality materials. These factors contribute to higher production costs compared to traditional pesticide formulations. Additionally, the market faces challenges in educating farmers and agricultural stakeholders in emerging economies about the long-term benefits of microencapsulated products versus the initial cost outlay. This education gap slows market penetration and adoption rates, particularly where immediate cost concerns outweigh potential long-term benefits such as reduced application frequencies and lower environmental impact. Regulatory complexities also add layers of expense and time to product development, as new formulations must undergo rigor...

The global pesticide market, valued at $2565.96 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.82% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Increasing global food demand necessitates higher crop yields, leading to greater pesticide usage across various crop types, including cereals and grains, vegetables and fruits, oilseeds and pulses, and commercial crops. Furthermore, the evolving pest resistance to existing pesticides is driving innovation and the development of more effective and targeted solutions, stimulating market growth. Favorable government policies supporting agricultural advancements and improved pest management practices in many regions also contribute significantly to market expansion. However, growing environmental concerns regarding pesticide residue and their impact on human health and biodiversity pose significant restraints to market growth, prompting the adoption of sustainable and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, which can both limit and accelerate market growth depending on implementation. The market is segmented geographically, with North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific representing major regional markets, each demonstrating varying growth rates and market dynamics reflecting differences in agricultural practices, regulatory landscapes, and consumer preferences. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of multinational corporations and regional players, with ongoing mergers, acquisitions, and technological advancements shaping the industry's competitive dynamics. Leading companies are focusing on developing innovative formulations, expanding their product portfolios, and strengthening their distribution networks to gain a competitive edge. The pesticide market's future trajectory will be influenced by several trends. The growing adoption of precision agriculture techniques, including drone technology and advanced data analytics, enables targeted pesticide application, minimizing environmental impact and enhancing efficiency. The increasing demand for organic and sustainable agricultural practices is pushing the development of biopesticides and other eco-friendly pest control solutions. Regulatory scrutiny regarding pesticide registration and usage is becoming increasingly stringent globally, necessitating compliance and potentially hindering the growth of certain product segments. Nevertheless, the ongoing need for enhanced crop protection, coupled with technological advancements and evolving agricultural practices, anticipates continued growth in the global pesticide market over the forecast period. However, it's crucial for companies to adopt sustainable practices and address environmental concerns to ensure long-term market sustainability.

The size and share of the market is categorized based on Product (Insecticides, Herbicides, Fungicides, Others) and Application (Agricultural, Non-agricultural) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

Home & Garden Pesticides Market size was valued at USD 7.95 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 11.21 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.39% from 2024 to 2031.

Global Home And Garden Pesticides Market Drivers

Growing Concerns about Pest Control: There is a growing need for efficient insecticides in both home and garden settings due to growing knowledge of the health hazards linked with pests and the damage they bring to property.
Urbanization and Housing Developments: There’s a greater chance of running into pest issues when urban areas grow and new housing developments are built. This makes the use of pesticides necessary to eradicate weeds, rodents, and other pests.
Shifting Consumer Lifestyles: Due to their hectic schedules, homeowners frequently have little time to take care of their houses and gardens. They consequently look for quick and practical fixes for pest issues, which fuels the market for simple-to-use pesticide treatments.
Growth in Organic and Natural Products: Consumers who care about the environment are beginning to favor more natural and organic pest management solutions. The creation of environmentally benign insecticides made from plant extracts and other natural sources has been spurred by this trend.
Technological and Formulation Advancements: Pesticide formulations and delivery systems have been optimized to maximize efficacy while reducing dangers to human health and the environment. This involves creating tailored delivery systems and low-toxicity formulas.
Regulatory Shifts and Compliance: Modifications to pesticide use laws, particularly those pertaining to safety and environmental requirements, have an impact on market dynamics. It is frequently necessary to introduce new, safer alternatives or reformulate current products in order to comply with these rules.
Climate Challenges: Changes in climate patterns have the potential to impact pest distribution and behavior, posing novel difficulties to pest management strategies. The creation of pesticides that are efficient against newly emerging pest species or strains is therefore required.
Increasing Pest Resistance: Target pests may become resistant to particular pesticides after extended treatment. To battle resistant populations, this necessitates the development of novel pesticide formulations or the use of alternate pest control techniques.
Consumer Pesticides: The DIY movement in home and garden care has led to an increase in demand for consumer-friendly pesticide products that are easily accessible in retail stores. This has resulted in the growth of the DIY market. Easy-to-use goods with durable effects are generally preferred by do-it-yourselfers.
Health Concerns and Public Awareness: A move toward safer alternatives has resulted from heightened awareness of the possible health concerns linked with traditional pesticides. Products with low dangers to the environment and public health are more and more in demand.