Soil Sampling and Testing Industry and Technology Overview
The global agriculture soil sampling and testing market was valued at $3.76 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to reach $5.79 billion by 2028, witnessing a CAGR of 7.65% during the forecast period 2023-2028. This growth can be attributed to factors such as technological advancements, precision agriculture's reliance on data, environmental consciousness, regulatory pressures, optimized fertilizer use, feeding a growing population, increased investments, and growing awareness about soil testing benefits.
Agriculture soil sampling and testing stand as integral components of modern agriculture, aiding in disease prevention, sustainable practices, and optimal crop production. Governments' support and expert recommendations underscore their significance in maintaining soil health, preserving environmental integrity, and securing agricultural prosperity.
Market Introduction
Soil-borne diseases pose a significant challenge to crop yield, leading to substantial losses due to inadequate soil testing and management methods. Agriculture soil sampling and testing play a crucial role in safeguarding against soil-borne diseases through a multifaceted approach. Agriculture soil sampling and testing is a practice that helps farmers assess the nutrient status and pH level of their soil, as well as detect the presence of soil-borne diseases that can affect crop growth and yield.
Agriculture soil sampling and testing play a vital role in assessing soil suitability for various crops, reducing disease susceptibility, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. These tools contribute to soil health, crop resilience, and overall prevention of soil-borne diseases.
Impact
Soil testing helps farmers understand the specific nutrient requirements of their crops. By tailoring fertilizer applications based on soil test results, farmers can create optimal growing conditions. This often leads to increased crop yields, improved crop quality, and better overall plant health. Soil testing provides a scientific basis for managing the application of fertilizers and other soil amendments. This ensures that crops receive the right amount and type of nutrients they need to thrive, which can lead to increased yields and improved crop quality.
Soil pH significantly affects nutrient availability to plants. Soil testing reveals the pH level, and if it's too acidic or alkaline, farmers can take corrective measures such as adding lime or sulfur to adjust the pH. Balancing pH enhances nutrient uptake and fosters a healthier soil ecosystem, supporting beneficial microbial activity and root development.
Proper agriculture soil sampling and testing help prevent excessive nutrient runoff and leaching into water bodies. This runoff can lead to harmful algal blooms, water pollution, and ecosystem disruption. By managing nutrient application based on soil test results, farmers contribute to the protection of local water resources and maintain a more sustainable agricultural system.
Market Segmentation:
Segmentation 1: by End User
• Crop Insurance Company
• Agriculture Cooperatives
• Government and Research Institutes
• Agribusiness Company
• Others
Agribusiness Company to Generate High Demand over the Forecast Period
The agribusiness company segment generated $1,078.4 million in revenue in 2022, and by 2028, the segment is expected to reach $1,740.3 million at a CAGR of 8.46%. The agribusiness company segment makes use of soil sampling and soil testing in agriculture for a variety of reasons, such as:
Soil Sampling: Companies conduct soil sampling by sending trained professionals to collect representative samples, ensuring accuracy and reliability to capture soil heterogeneity in nutrient levels, pH, texture, and other properties.
Soil Testing: Soil testing in laboratories analyzes soil samples for pH, nutrient content, organic matter, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and heavy metals, providing valuable information for farmers' nutrient management and crop selection.
Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Agribusiness company segment may also advise farmers on adopting sustainable agriculture practices. This could include recommending organic soil amendments, cover cropping, reduced tillage techniques, and precision farming methods to minimize environmental impact and promote long-term soil health.
Technology Integration: In the modern era, the agribusiness company segment may leverage technology to streamline agriculture soil sampling and testing processes. They might use geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, or digital soil mapping techniques to improve the efficiency and accuracy of soil analysis.
Segmentation 2: by Testing Objective
• Nutrient Testing
• Moisture Testing
• Acidity Test
• Pesticides and Contamination Test
• Others (Salinity Test, Carbon Test and Soil Testing for Texture and Structure)
Nutrient Testing to be the Leading Application Segment in the Global Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market
Nutrients are crucial for plant growth, tree growth, and crop growth. Agriculture soil sampling and testing are essential for determining nutrient health. Laboratories collect samples from various fields, analyzing soil conditions and management practices. Soil testing assesses critical elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, manganese, etc. These insights help farmers and agronomists make informed decisions about nutrient management techniques.
Segmentation 3: by Product
• Soil Testing
Manual Sampling and Testing Kit
Digital Mapping Platform
Soil Sampling and Testing-as-a-Service
Professional Laboratory Service
• Sampling Services
Zone Sampling
Grid Sampling
Professional Laboratory Services to be the Largest Product Segment during the Forecast Period
In 2022, based on product, agriculture soil sampling and testing generated revenue of $2,118.2 million from professional laboratory services. These services offer accurate soil analysis by skilled scientists, aiding informed decisions on nutrient application and environmental compliance. Their historical data tracking, certification, and digital integration further enhance their credibility, long-term benefits, and accessibility. As a trusted source of valuable insights, professional laboratory services play a pivotal role in optimizing agricultural practices, ensuring sustainable land management, and fostering improved soil health.
There are some companies that provide only laboratory services; they won’t provide any soil sampling services. Hence, the respective farmer, grower, and landowner need to provide soil to this professional laboratory. Testing of the soil is done in the laboratory, and a report is sent to the customer. The results of soil testing can be used by the owner to make informed decisions about plant growth and soil management. For example, if a soil test shows that the nutrient content is low, the gardener can apply fertilizer to improve the soil. If the pH of the soil is too low, the gardener can add lime to raise the pH, and if the soil is contaminated, the gardener can take steps to remediate it.
Segmentation 4: by Region
• North America - U.S., and Rest-of-North America
• Europe - U.K., Spain, Ukraine, and Rest-of-Europe
• South America - Argentina, Brazil, and Rest-of-South America
• Rest-of-the-World
The North America agriculture soil sampling and testing market was valued at $1,227.2 million in 2022 and is expected to reach $1,812.2 million by 2028 at a CAGR of 6.87%.
One of the primary drivers is the stringent regulations in place in North America. These regulations pertain to food safety, environmental protection, and agricultural practices, including nutritional content, chemical use, and labeling. Compliance with these regulations often requires soil testing, which has led to an increase in demand for these services.
Another factor contributing to the growth of this market is increasing consumer awareness about food safety. As consumers become more knowledgeable about the origins of their food and the practices used in its production, there is a growing demand for soil testing to ensure the safety and quality of agricultural products.
Technological advancements have also played a significant role in driving this market growth. The development of advanced testing methods and technologies, such as remote sensing, DNA testing, and rapid diagnostic techniques, have improved the efficiency and accuracy of agricultural testing.
The growth in organic farming in North America has further increased the need for soil testing. Organic farmers rely heavily on soil health for crop productivity, making soil testing a crucial part of their farming practices.
Environmental protection efforts are another key driver. Soil testing plays a vital role in environmental protection by preventing over-fertilization and nutrient runoff.
The presence of numerous agriculture testing companies in North America also contributes to the market's growth. These providers offer a range of services, from basic soil tests to more comprehensive analyses, catering to the diverse needs of farmers and agribusinesses.
Recent Developments in the Global Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market
• In June 2023, SGS collaborated with AgriCircle AG to provide soil health measurement solutions for regenerative farming practices. This cooperation would empower farmers and other stakeholders in the agri-food industry with cutting-edge tools and expertise to drive sustainable farming practices.
• In June 2023, Woods End Laboratories, a subsidiary of Deveron Corp., was selected by the U.S Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) to support Michigan State University’s $1.95 million ‘Soil Carbon IDEA: Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access’ program.
• In April 2023, ALS acquired Hidro.Lab that has been recognized as a renowned and reputable provider of quality environmental testing.
• In April 2023, Agvise Laboratories introduced the Agvise Soil Health Index. This index provides a comprehensive assessment of soil's health, including its nutrient levels, pH, organic matter content, and more. It can help identify areas where the soil needs improvement and assist in making informed decisions about crop management practices.
Demand – Drivers and Limitations
The following are the demand drivers for the global agriculture soil sampling and testing market:
• Increased Emphasis on Organic Farming
• Advancements in Soil Testing Technologies
The market is expected to face some limitations due to the following challenges:
• Lack of Awareness and Education among Farmers
The following are the opportunities for the global agriculture soil sampling and testing market:
• Government Investment Support to Promote Soil Testing
• Growing Demand for Sustainable Agriculture
Analyst’s Thoughts
According to Debraj Chakravarty, Principal Analyst at BIS Research, “The global agriculture soil sampling and testing market is all set for substantial growth due to the increasing focus on sustainable farming practices, driven by environmental concerns and the need for optimized resource utilization. The adoption of precision agriculture technologies, coupled with regulatory pressures to reduce nutrient runoff, is expected to boost demand for accurate soil testing services. Technological advancements, such as digital mapping platforms and data-driven decision-making, are further propelling market expansion. As farmers recognize the pivotal role of soil health in crop productivity and environmental sustainability, the market is set to flourish, driven by a growing awareness of the benefits of soil sampling and testing across diverse agricultural landscapes.”
