Top Suppliers and Manufacturers of Fertilizers in Japan 🇯🇵

Fertilizers play a crucial role in modern agriculture by enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth, leading to improved crop yields. In Japan, a nation known for its advanced technology and innovative agricultural practices, the demand for high-quality fertilizers is consistently strong. The supplier landscape in Japan is characterized by a mix of domestic manufacturers and international brands, all competing to provide farmers with the best possible products. Key suppliers in the region include some of the world's largest chemical companies, ensuring that Japanese farmers have access to a wide variety of fertilizers that meet the specific needs of their crops and soil conditions.

Sumitomo Chemical

Year Founded
1913
NA
Number of Employees
34703
NA
Revenue
22700000000
NA

Sumitomo Chemical is a prominent global leader in the chemical industry, founded in 1913 in Ehime, Japan, initially focused on fertilizer production from sulfur dioxide recovered from copper smelting emissions. Over the years, the company has diversified its operations, making significant strides in various sectors like Petrochemicals, Energy & Functional Materials, IT-related Chemicals, Health & Crop Sciences, and Pharmaceuticals.

One of Sumitomo Chemical's standout contributions is in the fertilizers sector. The company's commitment to sustainable agriculture is evident through its innovative crop protection solutions and fertilizers, which are crucial in enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.

The company's extensive product portfolio also includes synthetic resins, rubbers, engineering plastics, optical products, semiconductor processing materials, and specialty battery components. Sumitomo Chemical's products cater to diverse industries, including healthcare, agriculture, and electronics.

Sumitomo Chemical has a robust presence in global markets, exporting to North America, Europe, and Asia. Notably, they have regional headquarters in New York (Americas) and significant operations in Asia-Pacific, ensuring a strong market presence through subsidiaries and group companies in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and India.

Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with roots tracing back to Osaka, Sumitomo Chemical has expanded its operations worldwide. The company employs 34,703 individuals as of 2023 and is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Sumitomo Chemical's dedication to research and development, technological advancement, and environmental sustainability reinforces its market leadership and longstanding reputation for quality and reliability in the chemical industry.

Nippon Soda

Year Founded
1920
NA
Number of Employees
2402
NA
Revenue
142700000000
NA

Nippon Soda, established in 1920, is a leading chemical manufacturer headquartered in Japan. With a century-long history, the company excels in producing a broad array of chemicals, including agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, and specialty chemicals. Nippon Soda is known for its innovative solutions that cater to various industries, emphasizing high added value and technological advancements.

Key Products: Nippon Soda produces top-tier herbicides, insecticides, and other agrochemical products designed to enhance agricultural productivity sustainably. Additionally, the company manufactures excipients for the pharmaceutical industry, functional materials, and intermediates for industrial applications. Its flagship products, Nisso-PB and TODI, are well-regarded in crop protection and industrial chemical sectors.

Global Reach: Leveraging its innovative capabilities, Nippon Soda exports its diverse product lineup to international markets, maintaining an overseas sales ratio of 49.3%. The company actively participates in global conferences, such as In-PHARMA JAPAN and the CRS Annual Meeting, to showcase its advancements and engage with global partners.

Specialization: The company specializes in agrochemicals, industrial chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, providing both high-quality products and robust client support. Nippon Soda's dedication to research and development is reflected in its portfolio of 1,961 patents, underscoring its commitment to technological progression.

Workforce and Structure: As of March 31, 2024, Nippon Soda employs 2,402 individuals, each contributing to the company’s mission of enhancing everyday life through their chemical products. The company is part of the prestigious Mizuho keiretsu, which bolsters its market position and growth strategies.

Historical Accomplishments: One notable acquisition is the MSSA Chemical Company in France, specializing in sodium and related by-products, which underscores Nippon Soda's strategic expansion to enrich its product portfolio and market presence. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability has solidified their reputation as a trusted supplier worldwide.

Asahi Agria

Year Founded
1935
NA
Number of Employees
NA
Revenue
NA

Asahi Agria is a distinguished supplier in the agricultural sector, primarily known for its high-quality fertilizers, organic seeds, and hay. Established in 1935, it stands out as the only organic fertilizer manufacturer in Japan that also specializes in seeds and hay. The company has a rich history of innovation and sustainability.

In the fertilizer business, Asahi Agria promotes the use of high-quality fertilizers crafted from a diverse range of organic raw materials, including livestock manure. This commitment supports local farmers while enhancing soil health and crop yields. This focus on sustainability ensures that their fertilizers are both effective and environmentally friendly.

Additionally, Asahi Agria excels in the seed business. The company focuses on developing new vegetable varieties that balance essential traits such as disease resistance, high yields, and good taste. These innovative seeds meet the evolving demands of modern agriculture, helping farmers to produce better crops year after year.

Moreover, in the hay business, Asahi Agria provides safe and reliable hay sourced from Australia. This product assures quality and sustainability, further supporting the agricultural needs of their customers.

Headquartered in Japan, Asahi Agria strategically exports its products to international markets, including North America, Europe, and various regions in Asia. This broad export network underscores its influence and reach in the global agricultural market.

With a strategic focus on organic materials and a diverse product range, Asahi Agria has cemented its footprint in the agricultural landscape of Japan and beyond. The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction, environmental sustainability, and innovative farming solutions positions it as a leader in the fertilizer and agricultural supply sectors.

Kanto Chemical Co., Inc.

Year Founded
1954
NA
Number of Employees
NA
Revenue
NA

Kanto Chemical Co., Inc. has established itself as a leading supplier in the global chemical industry, recognized for its extensive range of high-quality chemical products. Founded in 1954 in Japan, the company specializes in producing a plethora of chemicals including analytical reagents, organic synthesis chemicals, and high purity alkali compounds.

The company's product portfolio extends to crucial sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and life sciences. Notably, Kanto Chemical also plays a significant role in the semiconductor industry, supplying essential materials that meet the precise needs of this rapidly evolving field. With a strong emphasis on research and development, Kanto constantly innovates to meet the dynamic requirements of its diverse clientele.

Kanto Chemical is headquartered in Chuo, Tokyo, and operates manufacturing and distribution networks globally. Its significant export markets include Asia, Europe, and North America, solidifying its reputation as a trustworthy and reliable supplier. The company’s Portland, Oregon facility features world-class cleanrooms and advanced analytical laboratories, further enhancing its quality assurance capabilities.

Through international exhibitions like the Medical Fair Asia and Analytica, Kanto actively engages with its customers, showcasing its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. The company also emphasizes sustainable practices and social contributions, striving to forge a brighter future through quality products and services.

Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.

Year Founded
1933
NA
Number of Employees
19000
NA
Revenue
1343000000000
NA

Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. is a leading Japanese chemical manufacturer known for its diverse product range and global reach. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, the company delivers high-performance materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and specialty chemicals. They also produce extensive arrays of fertilizers and crop protection chemicals, contributing significantly to the agriculture sector.

Founded in 1933, the company has grown through strategic partnerships and organic development to become a key player in the chemical industry. Mitsui Chemicals, Inc., is a part of the renowned Mitsui conglomerate and is committed to addressing societal challenges via innovative chemical solutions, aiming for a sustainable future.

Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, the company maintains a strong international presence, exporting products to markets in Asia, North America, Europe, and more. Notably, their product portfolio includes solutions for automotive, electronics, healthcare, packaging, and construction materials. They are well-regarded for their advanced MR lenses, functional materials, and bio-based chemicals.

With major subsidiaries like Novus International, Inc. and Certis USA LLC, Mitsui Chemicals has a robust network that supports its operations globally. This network allows for efficient marketing and distribution of their products, including those used in medical instruments, food and industrial packaging, and solar and semiconductor-related components.

As of their last reported period in 2015, Mitsui Chemicals, Inc., achieved a revenue of 1.34 trillion yen. The company employs approximately 19,000 individuals, showcasing a commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence in the chemical sector.

Yara Japan K.K.

Year Founded
1905
NA
Number of Employees
NA
Revenue
3037
NA

Yara Japan K.K. is a leading supplier in the fertilizer industry, renowned for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and crop nutrition. As a subsidiary of Yara International ASA, Yara Japan leverages a wealth of global expertise to enhance agricultural productivity through innovative and sustainable practices.

The company's top products include a wide range of nitrogen-based fertilizers, such as urea, ammonium nitrate, and specialty formulations. These products are designed to meet the specific nutrient needs of various crops, thereby promoting plant growth and improving crop yields. Yara Japan is also focused on the production of clean ammonia, a significant component in reducing carbon footprints in both agriculture and energy sectors.

Yara Japan actively exports its products to multiple markets across Asia and beyond, contributing to global food security and sustainable agricultural practices. The company's advanced facilities utilize cutting-edge technology to improve production efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Through these efforts, Yara Japan plays a crucial role in addressing the dynamic needs of farmers while supporting the broader goals of environmental sustainability.

Located in Japan, Yara Japan K.K. operates with a rich history of innovation. The company was founded within the Yara International network, which dates back to 1905. Over the years, Yara Japan has forged strategic partnerships and undertaken numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. Their involvement in digital farming solutions and regenerative agriculture practices further underscores their commitment to leading the industry towards a more sustainable future.

JCAM AGRI

Year Founded
2009
NA
Number of Employees
326
NA
Revenue
33300000000
NA

JCAM AGRI is a prominent player in the agricultural industry, specializing in the production and sales of high-quality fertilizers. Formed through the merger of Chisso Asahi and Mitsubishi Chemical Agri in 2009, the company benefits from a rich legacy of innovation and expertise in chemical manufacturing.

Located in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, JCAM AGRI is committed to enhancing agricultural productivity worldwide. The company is recognized for its significant market share of over 60% in Japan's coated fertilizer sector, achieved through strategic partnerships with major chemical corporations such as JNC, Mitsubishi Chemical, and Asahi Kasei.

JCAM AGRI's top products include a range of advanced coated fertilizers like Coater NPK and Coated Urea, with nutrient release patterns that vary from 40 to 350 days. These products offer precise control over nutrient release, addressing the specific needs of various crops efficiently. The company also produces Straight IBDU, a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer ideal for seedlings and palm plants, available in different particle sizes.

With a focus on sustainability, JCAM AGRI specializes in delivering fertilizers that enhance soil health and support sustainable farming practices. Although specific export markets are not detailed, the company's innovative products are likely distributed across multiple regions to meet the growing global demand for efficient agricultural solutions.

In the fiscal year 2021, JCAM AGRI reported revenue of 33.3 billion yen, underscoring its robust presence in the market. The company employs around 326 professionals dedicated to advancing agricultural development and building trust within the farming community through fair management practices.

JCAM AGRI's strategic location in Tokyo and its deep-rooted history in the agricultural sector enable it to cater to diverse agricultural needs, making it a trusted partner for farmers and suppliers worldwide.

Katakura & Co-op Agri

Year Founded
1920
NA
Number of Employees
827
NA
Revenue
40670000000
NA

Katakura & Co-op Agri is a preeminent supplier within the agricultural sector, particularly well-known for their comprehensive range of fertilizer products. The company engages in the manufacturing and sales of various types of fertilizers including compound fertilizers, chemical fertilizers, paste fertilizers, and nursery soil. These products are pivotal in enhancing agricultural productivity and soil health, thereby supporting the global farming community.

Founded in 1920, Katakura & Co-op Agri has built a robust portfolio that extends beyond fertilizers to include several essential chemicals. Their Chemicals segment produces high-demand items like cosmetics, industrial phosphoric acid, calcium phosphate for animal feed, and synthetic mica. These products cater to diverse industries ranging from cosmetics to animal husbandry, showcasing the company's broad expertise and versatility.

Katakura & Co-op Agri also operates a Real Estate segment, managing the leasing of office buildings and retail spaces in Japan. This diversification maximizes the utility of their real estate assets and contributes to their financial stability.

Located in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan, Katakura & Co-op Agri leverages its strategic location for efficient operations and logistics. The company has a considerable international presence, exporting its top-notch products to various regions including North America, Europe, and Asia. This global reach allows them to effectively meet the demands of a diverse client base.

With a history rooted in innovation and sustainability, Katakura & Co-op Agri remains committed to enhancing agricultural practices and contributing to food safety. The company's dedication to research and development ensures continuous improvement in their product offerings, thereby solidifying their status as a key player in the chemicals and agricultural industries.

Ube Industries

Year Founded
1897
NA
Number of Employees
15000
NA
Revenue
8050000000
NA

Ube Industries, established in 1897, is a prominent Japanese manufacturer specializing in a wide range of industrial chemicals, machinery, and materials. Initially founded as the Okinoyama Coal Mine, the company has significantly diversified its operations over the years, becoming a key player in multiple sectors.

The company's extensive product portfolio includes critical chemicals such as caprolactam, elastomers, engineering plastics, and battery materials. These products have vital applications across the automotive, electronics, and pharmaceutical industries. Although Ube Industries is not primarily known as a fertilizer supplier, its focus on advanced chemical manufacturing indicates its capability to produce high-quality materials that could support fertilizer production processes.

In addition to chemicals, Ube Industries is renowned for its high-precision machinery offerings such as die casting machines, injection molding machines, and extrusion presses. These machines are integral to modern manufacturing processes and are utilized in various industries, including construction and medical sectors.

With a significant export market, Ube Industries caters to clients worldwide, enhancing its competitive stature in the industrial sector. The company's headquarters are in Ube City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, and it operates numerous facilities across the country, including in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Chiba, and Fukuoka. Moreover, it has extended its presence internationally with facilities in the United States and China.

Ube Industries is committed to sustainability and innovation, focusing on R&D activities that aim to develop sustainable products and processes. Their dedication to environmental initiatives includes recycling and zero-emissions operations. The company continues to adapt and evolve, maintaining its reputation for quality and innovation in the global market.

Over its long history, Ube Industries has shown remarkable adaptability and growth, currently employing around 15,000 people and generating substantial revenue, which stood at approximately $8.05 billion in 2023.

Future Supply Dynamics

Looking ahead, the supply of fertilizers in Japan is expected to remain robust, driven by the country's commitment to sustainable agriculture and increasing crop yields. However, several market factors and regulatory developments will shape the future landscape. The Japanese government continues to enforce stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing the impact of chemical fertilizers on the ecosystem. As a result, we can expect a surge in demand for eco-friendly and organic fertilizers. Additionally, advancements in agricultural technology and precision farming methods are likely to influence the types and quantities of fertilizers used. Suppliers who innovate and adapt to these changes will be well-positioned to thrive in Japan's evolving agricultural sector.

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