South America Insecticide Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

South America Insecticide Market Trends

Chile recorded the highest per capita consumption rate of insecticides in South America

• Insects can cause direct damage to crops by feeding on plant tissues such as leaves, stems, roots, or fruits. This feeding can result in reduced photosynthesis, stunted growth, deformities, or even plant death. These adverse effects can lead to substantial yield losses and affect the overall productivity of the crops.
• South America cultivates a wide range of crops, including major commodities such as soybeans, corn, coffee, wheat, sugarcane, bananas, and citrus fruits. The major pests in these crops include stink bugs, loopers, armyworms, aphids, and whiteflies.
• In South America, Chile is the largest consumer of insecticides, with a consumption of 1.6 kg/ha in 2022. Chile is a major exporter of agricultural products, particularly fruits and wine. Export markets often have stringent phytosanitary regulations and quality standards to prevent the spread of pests and ensure food safety. Insecticide use is crucial to comply with these requirements, safeguarding market access of Chilean produce in international markets.
• The southern regions of Brazil, including the states of Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, and Cerrado region in central Brazil, are known for extensive agricultural production of soybeans, corn, and cotton. They face major concerns with pests like the fall armyworm, rootworm, bollworm, and corn earworm, contributing to Brazil's rank as the second-highest consumer of insecticides in South America, with a consumption rate of 765.6 g/ha.
• South America exhibits a wide range of climatic conditions, from tropical rainforests to arid and semi-arid regions. These diverse agroecological conditions influence pest populations and dynamics. The use of insecticides is necessary to provide the best crop protection, which will further drive the insecticide market.

Cypermethrin is the highest-priced insecticide at USD 21.08 thousand per metric ton

• Cypermethrin belongs to the class of pyrethroid insecticides, which are non-synthetic chemicals designed to mimic the natural insecticidal properties of pyrethrins derived from chrysanthemums. In South America, cypermethrin is used to effectively manage a wide range of pests, including, but not limited to, aphids, beetles, caterpillars, leafhoppers, and whiteflies. The mode of action of cypermethrin involves disrupting the nervous systems of insects, leading to paralysis and, ultimately, their death. In 2022, cypermethrin was priced at USD 21.08 thousand per metric ton.
• Imidacloprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide belonging to the chemical class of neonicotinoids. Neonicotinoids act on the nervous system of insects in a similar way to nicotine, causing overstimulation of nerve cells and ultimately leading to paralysis and death. This active ingredient was priced at USD 17.17 thousand per metric ton in 2022. In South America, imidacloprid is widely used to effectively manage various pests, including aphids, leafhoppers, whiteflies, thrips, and certain beetle species.
• Malathion is an organophosphate insecticide belonging to the chemical class of organophosphates. It is widely used to control a variety of insect pests. In South America, malathion is used to effectively manage pests, such as aphids, spider mites, thrips, fruit flies, and leafhoppers in various crops. Malathion's mode of action involves inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme essential for proper nerve function in insects. By disrupting the nervous system, it causes overstimulation of nerve cells, leading to paralysis and, ultimately, death of the target pests. This is the most affordable chemical among the three, with a price of USD 12.5 thousand per metric ton in 2022.

Segment Analysis: Application Mode

Foliar Segment in South American Insecticide Market

The foliar application method continues to dominate the South American insecticide market, commanding approximately 54% market share in 2024. This significant market position can be attributed to the foliar application's effectiveness in controlling target pests and its flexibility in terms of timing and dosage compared to other methods. The method has gained considerable traction, particularly in the pulses and oilseeds segment, where it accounts for the highest share of usage. Foliar application provides targeted and rapid control against various pests like lepidopterans and stink bugs, contributing to increased crop yields and improved quality. The method's popularity is further enhanced by its ability to offer uniform distribution of insecticides and immediate response to pest outbreaks across various crop types.

Seed Treatment Segment in South American Insecticide Market

The seed treatment segment is projected to exhibit the strongest growth trajectory in the South American insecticide market during 2024-2029, with an expected growth rate of approximately 4.5%. This robust growth is driven by the segment's proven effectiveness in controlling the spread of plant infections and its role in combating insect vectors while safeguarding crop productivity. The method's ability to minimize pesticide use, improve crop establishment, and support sustainable farming practices has positioned it as a valuable tool in modern agriculture. Seed treatment's growing adoption is particularly notable in regions facing challenges with early-season pests and soil-borne insects, where it provides crucial early protection and effectively disrupts pest lifecycles.

Remaining Segments in Application Mode

The other application modes in the South American insecticide market include soil treatment, fumigation, and chemigation, each serving specific purposes in pest management strategies. Soil treatment is particularly effective for targeting soil-borne insect pests that affect root systems and lower plant parts. Fumigation involves the use of gaseous or volatile fumigant insecticides for broad-spectrum pest control, especially in situations requiring rapid suppression of pest populations. Chemigation, which integrates chemicals with irrigation water, offers precise and uniform distribution of liquid insecticides across fields, making it particularly valuable in regions with advanced irrigation systems. These methods complement each other in providing comprehensive pest management solutions across different agricultural scenarios and crop types.

Segment Analysis: Crop Type

Pulses & Oilseeds Segment in South America Insecticide Market

The pulses and oilseeds segment dominates the South American insecticide market, commanding approximately 48% of the total market value in 2024. This significant market share is primarily driven by the extensive cultivation of crops like soybeans, sunflowers, and canola across the region. The segment's dominance is particularly notable in Brazil, where soybean cultivation contributes to over a third of the agricultural sector's production value. The prevalence of destructive pests such as the southern armyworm, which can cause yield losses of up to 17% in soybean production, has necessitated substantial systemic insecticide usage in this segment. Additionally, the expansion of pulse and oilseed cultivation areas, coupled with the high economic value of these crops, has motivated farmers to invest heavily in pest control measures, including contact insecticides, to protect their valuable crops and maximize returns on investment.

Pulses & Oilseeds Segment in South America Insecticide Market

As both the largest and fastest-growing segment, pulses and oilseeds are projected to maintain strong growth momentum through 2024-2029. The segment's growth is driven by several factors, including the increasing pest resistance to existing insecticides, which is prompting farmers to adopt different strategies and rotate various insecticide products. Climate changes and extreme weather conditions have led to increased pest pressures, particularly affecting crops like soybeans and other legumes. The segment's robust growth is further supported by the rising global demand for oilseeds and pulses, encouraging farmers to expand their cultivation areas and invest in better pest management solutions. The adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, which include the strategic use of different insecticides, is expected to continue driving the segment's growth in the coming years.

Remaining Segments in Crop Type

The other significant segments in the South American insecticide market include grains and cereals, commercial crops, fruits and vegetables, and turf and ornamental applications. The grains and cereals segment, particularly corn and wheat cultivation, faces significant challenges from pests like fall armyworms and corn leafhoppers. Commercial crops, including coffee, cocoa, and sugarcane, require specialized insecticide applications to combat specific pest varieties. The fruits and vegetables segment deals with a diverse range of pests, including fruit flies and citrus fruit borers, while the turf and ornamental segment focuses on maintaining the aesthetic and health of landscaping and ornamental plants. Each of these segments contributes uniquely to the overall market dynamics, with specific pest challenges and protection requirements driving insecticide demand.

South America Insecticide Market Geography Segment Analysis

South America Insecticide Market in Brazil

Brazil dominates the South American insecticide market, commanding approximately 88% of the total market value in 2024. The country's vast agricultural landscape, characterized by extensive cultivation of soybeans, corn, cotton, and other crops, drives substantial insecticide consumption. The prevalence of major agricultural pests, particularly in the southern regions including Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, and the Cerrado region, necessitates comprehensive pest management strategies. The country faces significant challenges from pests like the fall armyworm, rootworm, bollworm, and corn earworm, which threaten crop productivity. Brazilian farmers have adopted integrated pest management approaches, combining chemical controls with cultural practices to protect their crops. The country's tropical and subtropical climate creates favorable conditions for year-round pest activity, requiring consistent insecticide applications. Additionally, Brazil's position as a global agricultural powerhouse, particularly in soybean and corn production, demands robust crop protection measures to maintain export quality standards.

South America Insecticide Market in Argentina

Argentina's insecticide market is projected to grow at approximately a 4% CAGR from 2024 to 2029, marking the highest growth rate in the region. The country's agricultural sector faces evolving challenges from various pest species, particularly in its extensive grain and oilseed production regions. The South American bollworm, Helicoverpa gelotopoeon, poses a significant threat to soybean crops, while corn leafhoppers and aphids impact cereal production. Argentina's farmers are increasingly adopting precision agriculture techniques, incorporating targeted insecticide applications to optimize pest control while minimizing environmental impact. The country's diverse agricultural zones, ranging from subtropical regions in the north to temperate areas in the south, require specialized pest management approaches. The expansion of agricultural frontiers and intensification of farming practices has led to increased pest pressure, driving the demand for innovative pest control product solutions. Furthermore, the country's focus on export-oriented agriculture necessitates adherence to international standards for pest control and residue limits.

South America Insecticide Market in Chile

Chile's insecticide market is characterized by its focus on high-value horticultural and fruit crops, which require specialized pest management approaches. The country's unique geographic features, stretching from arid northern regions to temperate southern zones, create diverse pest challenges across different agricultural areas. Chilean farmers prioritize insecticide use in fruit orchards, vineyards, and vegetable production, where pest damage can significantly impact export quality. The country's agricultural sector maintains strict phytosanitary standards to meet international market requirements, particularly for its fruit exports. Climate variations along Chile's length influence pest populations and necessitate adapted control strategies. The adoption of integrated pest management practices, combining chemical and biological controls, has become increasingly important. Additionally, the country's agricultural research institutions actively work on developing sustainable pest management solutions, influencing commercial insecticide application practices.

South America Insecticide Market in Other Countries

The agricultural insecticide market in other South American countries, including Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Bolivia, exhibits distinct characteristics based on their agricultural profiles and pest challenges. These countries primarily focus on protecting traditional crops while adapting to emerging pest threats. The agricultural sectors in these nations are increasingly recognizing the importance of effective pest management in improving crop yields and quality. Local farming practices, combined with regional climate patterns, influence insecticide application methods and timing. The adoption of modern agricultural technologies varies across these countries, affecting insecticide usage patterns. Environmental considerations and sustainability concerns are becoming more prominent in pest management decisions. Additionally, these countries are working to strengthen their agricultural infrastructure and pest monitoring systems to improve the efficiency of insecticide applications. Cross-border pest management initiatives and knowledge sharing among these nations contribute to evolving pest control strategies.

Free With This Report

Along with the report, We also offer a comprehensive and exhaustive data pack with 50+ graphs on insecticide, fungicides, and herbicides consumption per hectare and the average price of active ingredients used in insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, nematicides, and molluscicides. The data pack includes Globe, North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Africa.