Overview
Despite volatility in global fertilizer markets, Rock Phosphate continues to provide relative price stability. However, rising production and transportation costs—particularly in Egypt—signal possible future pressure. As DAP and MAP prices surge past $700/t CFR in key regions, Rock Phosphate remains a more cost-effective raw material.
Rock Phosphate Price Snapshot (as of May 2025)
| Region | Grade / Origin | Price (CFR or FOB) |
|---|---|---|
| Indonesia | 26% P₂O₅ (Egyptian) | $83–85/t CFR |
| Malaysia | 29–30% P₂O₅ (Pakistani) | $105–110/t CFR |
| Vietnam | 27.5% P₂O₅ (Egyptian) | < $100/t CFR (tender) |
| India | 26–30% P₂O₅ (Egyptian) | 600,000+ tons imported Q1 |
| Egypt | 30% P₂O₅ (FOB Red Sea) | $96–97/t FOB |
This pricing reflects strong regional demand and a relatively stable trading environment for Rock Phosphate, especially when compared to finished phosphate fertilizers like DAP and MAP.
Regional Demand and Trade Activity
India
-
Over 600,000 tons of Rock Phosphate were imported from Egypt in Q1 2025.
-
Used for NPK blending and DAP production.
-
Government subsidies on DAP (Rs31,299/t) help offset high costs, keeping demand firm.
Vietnam
-
Recently awarded a tender for 45,000 tons of 27.5% P₂O₅ Rock Phosphate under $100/t CFR.
-
Additional inquiries for lower and higher-grade materials indicate robust demand.
Indonesia
-
Significant importer of both 26% and 29% P₂O₅ grades.
-
In 2024, imported 1.4 million tons from Jordan—over 800,000 tons for JV phosphoric acid production.
-
Stable pricing: $83–85/t CFR for Egyptian 26%, and ~$115/t CFR for Pakistani 29%.
🚢 Trade Logistics & Freight Rates
Freight rates are holding steady for May 2025, supporting smooth and cost-effective trade flows:
| Route | Volume | Rate ($/t) |
|---|---|---|
| Red Sea → India | 25–35,000 tons | $19–21/t |
| Red Sea → Indonesia | 25–35,000 tons | $22–24/t |
| Morocco → South Brazil | ~30,000 tons | $18–20/t |
| Morocco → U.S. | 25–35,000 tons | $21–23/t |
However, rising diesel prices in Egypt may begin to impact FOB pricing in the coming weeks.
Strategic Investments to Watch
-
Chuanjinnuo: Building a 300,000 t/yr MAP and phosphoric acid plant in Ain Sokhna, Egypt — leveraging local Rock Phosphate for export efficiency.
-
Jordan x 🇮🇩 Indonesia: JPMC’s 200,000 t/yr phosphoric acid plant in Surabaya strengthens regional integration.
-
Guizhou Phosphate: Launching a 600,000 t/yr lithium iron phosphate (LFP) project starting in 2026, expanding into battery materials.
These investments will redefine supply chains and reinforce the importance of Rock Phosphate in both the agriculture and energy sectors.
Outlook for the Next 30–60 Days
The market is expected to remain firm to bullish, driven by:
-
China’s ongoing pause on DAP/MAP exports.
-
Rising production and fuel costs in key export hubs like Egypt.
-
Sustained demand in Asia and continued investment in processing capacity.
Stakeholders should monitor price movements closely and evaluate long-term contracts or diversified sourcing options to mitigate volatility.
Conclusion
Rock Phosphate remains a cost-effective, strategic input amid tightening global fertilizer supply. With demand rising across Asia and infrastructure investments underway, the rock market is entering a pivotal phase.
💬 Engage With Us
Looking to source Rock Phosphate or analyze future trends? Get in touch with our team for tailored insights, pricing support, or market intelligence.
