ICL Group said it has opened a new specialty fertilizer manufacturing facility in Maharashtra, India, aiming to strengthen supply security and expand its presence in a key growth market amid global trade disruptions.
The Israel-based company said the plant will produce water soluble fertilizers, supporting rising demand in India, a major fertilizer-importing country. The move comes as geopolitical tensions and disruptions to shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, impact global fertilizer supply and raise concerns about long-term food security.
By establishing local production, ICL said it seeks to reduce reliance on imports, diversify supply chains and ensure more stable access to agricultural inputs. The project also aligns with the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative.
The facility spans about 28,000 square meters (seven acres) and is based on ICL’s existing production model in Israel, designed to deliver similar products for the local market. The company has operated in India for more than three decades, generating about $250 million in annual revenue.
ICL said the plant will produce advanced fertilizers that allow more precise nutrient delivery and improved efficiency, supporting farmers in increasing yields and adopting more sustainable practices. The company noted that India’s water soluble fertilizer market has shown strong growth in recent years.
“Establishing this manufacturing plant in India is a strategic step in scaling our specialty fertilizer production platform,” said Nir Ilani, president of ICL’s Growing Solutions division. He cited ongoing geopolitical tensions and shipping delays as key drivers for expanding local production capacity.
The investment is part of ICL’s broader strategy to grow its specialty fertilizers business, strengthen customer relationships and respond more effectively to local agricultural needs.
ICL Group Ltd. is a global specialty minerals and chemicals company focused on agriculture, food and industrial markets.