In 2012, the worldwide ammonia capacity was estimated at over 207 million tonnes with the largest chunk belonging to Asia and Europe (over 72% in total). China, India, Russia and the USA have highest ammonia capacities.
In 2009, the global ammonia market was badly affected by the economic recession. However, in 2010 the market entered a recovery phase. Between 2009 and 2012, the overall ammonia production increased by over 10.5% and overrode 170 million tonnes. Asia and Europe are the leading regions in terms of ammonia production. In 2012, their combined production volume was estimated at above 125 million tonnes. China, Russia, India, the USA and Indonesia form top five ammonia producing countries in the world, altogether representing more than 55% of the world’s ammonia output.
Major Ammonia Manufacturers in the World, 2012
The world demand for ammonia has been growing at a steady rate during several past years. Asia-Pacific is the leading ammonia consumer, accounting for over half of the total demand figure.
Approximately 55% of the total ammonia output is consumed by urea manufactures. Other important applications include the production of ammonia nitrate, DAP/MAP and other fertilizers as well as direct application and some non fertilizer industries.
Ammonia Consumption by End Use Sector, 2012
In 2011, the worldwide ammonia trade was worth of more than USD 10 billion. The list of the most prominent companies involved in the ammonia market includes but is not limited to CF Industries, Yara, PCS Nitrogen, QAFCO, Toaz, Koch Nitrogen, Agrium Inc, Eurochem, Orascom Construction Industries and SINOPEC.
Driven by the steadily increasing demand, the global ammonia market is poised for future growth. In 2018, the overall ammonia production is expected to go beyond 202 million tonnes. The current market leader, Asia, is likely to see the growth of consumption up to 110 million tonnes by 2018.
More information on the Ammonia Market can be found in the report Ammonia: 2013 World Market Outlook and Forecast up to 2017.