Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market

Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market Size:

The  agriculture soil sampling and testing market size reached US$ 4.05 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 7.8 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% during 2024-2032. The rising need for optimized crop yields, significant advancements in precision farming techniques, the rising demand for high-quality produce, increasing awareness of soil health, and regulatory requirements for sustainable agriculture are some of the major factors propelling the growth of the market.

Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: The rising need for optimized crop yields and efficient resource management represents the major factor propelling the market growth. The growing awareness of sustainable farming practices and regulatory requirements for environmental protection further drive the adoption of soil testing. As global food demand rises, farmers seek to enhance productivity through precise knowledge of soil health, nutrient levels, and composition.
• Key Market Trends: The increasing integration of advanced technologies, including the internet of Things (IOT), artificial intelligence (AI), and remote sensing for real-time soil monitoring and data analysis represents the key trends of the market across the globe. There is a significant shift towards digital agriculture, with farmers using mobile apps and cloud-based platforms for soil data management and decision-making.
• Geographical Trends: North America is the largest region in the agricultural soil sampling and testing market. The rising need for optimized crop yields, advancements in precision farming, regulatory requirements for sustainable practices, increasing awareness of soil health, and the rising demand for high-quality, organic produce are driving the market growth across the North American region.
• Competitive Landscape: Some of the major market players in the agriculture soil sampling and testing industry include Agilent Technologies Inc., ALS Ltd., bioMérieux SA, Eurofins Scientific, Intertek Group PLC, Merck KGaA, R J Hill Laboratories Ltd., SGS S.A., TUV Nord Group, LGC Limited, and Agvise Laboratories, among many others.
• Challenges and Opportunities: The market faces various challenges, including high costs of soil testing technologies, regulatory hurdles and compliance challenges, and lack of awareness and adoption challenges. However, the market also offers several opportunities like technological advancements and integration with farming systems, rising preference for sustainable agriculture practices, and stringent regulations imposed on agricultural commodities.
   

Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market Drivers:

Rising Food Safety and Quality Concerns

The increasing concerns for food quality and safety are significantly impacting the growth of the market across the globe. The increasing demand for high-quality, safe produce among consumers is driving farmers to ensure optimal soil conditions. The growing focus on food safety and quality is bolstering the adoption of comprehensive soil sampling and testing practices. According to a survey, food safety is the primary concern for consumers: 85% trust branded products, 80% non-packaged products, and 69% packaged unbranded products. Consumers primarily want more information on food safety (55%) and health (53%). Trust and information from brands are high: 90% trust packaged branded products, while only 64% trust unbranded products. Only 19% regularly use QR codes but this increases to 65% if they are perceived as a means to access product information on content and authenticity. This, in turn, is fueling the agriculture soil sampling and testing market significantly.

Increased Risk of Foodborne Illness and Disease Outbreaks

The market is also driven by the growing risk of foodborne diseases and illness outbreaks. Contaminated soil can harbor harmful pathogens and chemicals that can transfer to crops, posing health risks. Regular soil testing helps identify and mitigate these contaminants, ensuring safe and healthy produce. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 600 million - almost 1 in 10 people in the world - fall ill after eating contaminated food and 4,20,000 die every year, resulting in the loss of 33 million healthy life years (DALYs). US$ 110 billion is lost each year in productivity and medical expenses resulting from unsafe food in low-and middle-income countries. Children under five years of age carry 40% of the foodborne disease burden, with 125000 deaths every year.

Growing Demand for Organic Food Products

The rising demand for organic food products is acting as a major growth-inducing factor in the market. Organic farming relies on maintaining healthy soil free from synthetic chemicals and contaminants. The increasing preference for organic products among consumers for their health and environmental benefits is leading farmers to adopt rigorous soil testing practices to meet this demand, which is further boosting the market growth. According to USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service surveys (2011 and 2021), certified organic cropland acres increased by 79% (to 3.6 million acres), pastureland/rangeland decreased by 22% (to 1.3 million acres), and certified operations increased by more than 90% (to 17,445 farms) over the 2011-21 period. Conventional grocery retailers are the primary outlet for organic food sales, surpassing natural food stores in the mid-2000s. By 2020, traditional grocery stores, club stores, and supercenters accounted for 56% of the share of organic food sold to consumers (Organic Trade Association, 2021).

Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market Opportunities:

Technological Advancements and Integration with Farming Systems

Significant technological advancements and increasing integration with farming systems are transforming the market outlook. Precision farming, IoT centers, and data analytics are some of the innovations enabling real-time monitoring and detailed soil analysis. These technologies provide farmers with actionable insights into soil health, nutrient levels, and environmental conditions, optimizing crop management and yield. For instance, in September 2023, AGCO Corporation, a global leader in agricultural machinery and precision AG technology, announced its plans to build a 300-acre test farm named, “Dakota Smart Farm” in Castleton, North Dakota. The farm, which will focus on precision agriculture technologies and high value retrofit solutions, will be an anchored tenant at the Grand Farm Innovation Campus. AGCO-owned company Appareo will lead the farm’s operations, employing a team of experts to develop innovative farming practices.

Rising Preference for Sustainable Agriculture Practices

The growing preference for sustainable agricultural practices is contributing to the opportunities of the market. The increasing focus of farmers on soil health and environmental stewardship is seeking to minimize chemical use and improve crop sustainability. According to the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water, sustainable agriculture is far from mainstream in India with only 5 (crop rotation; agroforestry; rainwater harvesting; mulching; and precision) sustainable agriculture practices and systems (SAPSs) scaling beyond 5% of the net sown area. Most SAPSs are being adopted by less than 5 million (or 4%) of all Indian farmers. Many are practiced by less than 1%. Crop rotation is the most popular SAPS in India, covering around 30 million hectares (Mha) of land and approximately 15 million farmers. Agroforestry, mainly popular among large cultivators, and rainwater harvesting have relatively high coverage- 25 Mha and 20-27 Mha, respectively. Organic farming currently covers only 2.8 Mha - or 2% of India's net sown area of 140 Mha. Natural farming is the fastest-growing sustainable agricultural practice in India and has been adopted by around 8,00,000 farmers. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) has achieved a coverage area of 5 (Mha) after decades of sustainable promotion.

Stringent Regulations Imposed on Agricultural Commodities

Strict regulations imposed on agricultural commodities are driving the market growth across the globe. Several governments and regulatory bodies mandate rigorous soil testing to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards, preventing contamination and ensuring sustainable farming practices. For instance, in 2024, the FDA published a final rule that revises certain pre-harvest agricultural water provisions for covered produce (other than sprouts) in Subpart E of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule. Specifically, this rule replaces the previous pre-harvest water microbial quality criteria and testing requirements for covered produce (other than sprouts) with requirements for systems-based, pre-harvest agricultural water assessments for hazard identification and risk management decision-making purposes.

Key Technological Trends & Development:

Increasing Research and Development (R&D) Activities

The extensive R&D activities and establishment of highly efficient and automated soil testing laboratories are influencing the growth of the market. Significant advances in R&D led to innovative testing methods and technologies, enhancing accuracy and efficiency. Automated laboratories streamline soil analysis, providing faster and more reliable results. For instance, in December 2023, Eurofins Scientific, a global leader in contract research services, announced the signing of an agreement to acquire the operations of SGS Crop Science in 14 countries. The business generated revenues of approximately CHF 46m in 2022.

Rising Integration of IoT and AI

The widespread adoption of IoT and AI to provide real-time insights into remotely located and insufficiently treated fields is fueling the growth of the market. IoT sensors collect data on soil conditions, while AI analyses this data to offer actionable recommendations.  AI and IoT integration help farmers optimize resource use, enhance crop yields, and promote sustainable agricultural practices by improving accuracy and efficiency, thus boosting the growth of the market.

Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on sample type, sampling field, technology, sampling and testing method, site, and end-user.

Breakup by Sample Type:

• Surface Soil Samples
• Subsurface Soil Samples
• Core Samples
• Composite Samples
   

Surface Soil Samples accounts for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the sample type. This includes surface soil samples, subsurface soil samples, core samples, and composite samples. According to the report, surface soil samples represented the largest segment.

In the market, the demand for surface soil sample type is influenced by the requirement for precise soil composition analysis to optimize crop yields and nutrient management. Detailed soil sampling provides essential data on pH levels, nutrient content, and soil health. For instance, in October 2023, BhoomiSeva, a leading distributor for “Bhu-Vision”, a cutting-edge automated soil testing platform, launched its Soil Health Card Project, promising a paradigm shift in agriculture. This ambitious initiative aims to usher in a new era of sustainable farming in India. With around 80 prospective stockists eager to embrace this innovative approach, the future of Indian agriculture looks promising.

Breakup by Sampling Field:

• Zone Sampling
• Grid Sampling
   

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the sampling field have also been provided in the report. This includes zone sampling and grid sampling.

The demand for zone sampling in the market is driven by the increasing need for targeted soil analysis, optimizing resource use and crop yields. By dividing fields into management zones based on soil characteristics, farmers can apply precise inputs, enhancing efficiency. This method supports sustainable agricultural practices and improves overall productivity by addressing specific soil health issues within distinct areas.

The demand for grid sampling in the market is influenced by the rising need for detailed and uniform soil data across entire fields. This method allows for comprehensive nutrient mapping and precise input application, ensuring balanced soil fertility. The adoption of precision farming technologies and the need for accurate soil health assessments further propel the use of grid sampling, enhancing crop management strategies.

Breakup by Technology:

• Conventional
• Rapid
• Others
   

Rapid represents the leading market segment 

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the technology. This includes conventional, rapid, and others. According to the report, rapid represented the largest segment.

The demand for rapid technology in the market across the globe is influenced by advances in portable and digital testing tools enabling immediate results, enhancing precision farming, and efficient resource management. The rising need for quick, accurate soil assessment to make timely agricultural decisions is driving the demand for rapid technology in the market. The increasing awareness of toy health, sustainable practices, and the need to address toy issues promptly further propelled the adoption of rapid technologies, ensuring improved crop yields and productivity in a competitive agricultural landscape.

Breakup by Sampling and Testing Method:

• Manual Sampling and Testing Kit
• Digital Mapping Platform
• Soil Sampling and Testing-as-a-Service
• Professional Laboratory Service
   

Professional laboratory service exhibits a clear dominance in the market 

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the sampling and testing method have also been provided in the report. This includes a manual sampling and testing kit, digital mapping platform, soil sampling and testing-as-a-service, and professional laboratory service. According to the report, professional laboratory service accounted for the largest market share.

In the agricultural soil sampling and testing market outlook, the demand for professional laboratory services is fueled by the need for precise, comprehensive soil analysis. Regulatory compliance, detailed nutrient profiling, and contamination assessment require sophisticated lab capabilities. Laboratories offer advanced testing techniques and specialized equipment, ensuring high accuracy and reliability. The complexity of soil health issues and the pursuit of sustainable agriculture practices further drive this demand. Professional labs provide export interpretation and recommendations, supporting informed decision-making for optimized crop management.

Breakup by Site:

• Laboratory Testing
• On-site Testing
   

On-site testing dominates the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the site. This includes laboratory testing and on-site testing. According to the report, on-site testing represented the largest segment.

In the market, the demand for on-site testing is influenced by advancements in portable testing technologies enabling rapid results that facilitate timely decisions on nutrient management and crop strategies. The rising need for immediate, accurate soil health assessment is also driving the market demand. Real-time data collection supports precision farming, enhancing productivity and resource optimization for farmers. In line with this, the increased emphasis on sustainable practices, cost efficiency, and minimizing delays associated with lab testing further propel on-site testing adoption.

Breakup by End-User:

• Farmers and Growers
• Agricultural Cooperatives
• Crop Insurance Companies
• Government and Research Bodies
• Agribusiness Companies
• Others
   

Agribusiness companies is the predominant market segment

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the end-user have also been provided in the report. This includes farmers and growers, agricultural cooperatives, crop insurance companies, government and research bodies, agribusiness companies, and others. According to the report, agribusiness companies accounted for the largest market share.

The demand for agricultural soil sampling and testing in agribusiness is driven by the rising need for optimized crop yields, effective nutrient management, and sustainable farming practices. Significant advancements in precision farming technologies and real-time monitoring tools enhance decision-making and efficiency which is further boosting the adoption of soil testing. The increasing awareness of soil health, regulatory compliance, and the rising demand for high-quality produce are key factors.

Regional Insights:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Others
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East
• Africa
   

North America leads the market, accounting for the largest agriculture soil sampling and testing market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); the Middle East; and Africa. According to the report, North America represents the largest regional market for agriculture soil sampling and testing.

The rising need for optimized crop yields, regulatory requirements for sustainable practices, and significant advancements in precision farming are driving the growth of the market across the North American region. The increasing awareness of soil health and nutrient management, coupled with the growing demand for high-quality, organic produce, is further propelling the market. Significant innovation in technology in soil testing methods and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time soil monitoring enhance the efficiency and growth of the market. For instance, in June 2023, Agilent Technologies Inc. announced a highly anticipated, complete workflow solution for targeted per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) analysis using the United States (US) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Method 1633 (3rd draft). EPA Draft Method 1633 currently analyzes 40 PFAS compounds in wastewater and soil and is a complex and labor-intensive method, relying on multiple ample preparation and analysis steps.

Analysis Covered Across Each Country:

• Historical, current, and future market performance
• Historical, current, and future performance of the market based on Agilent Technologies Inc., ALS Ltd., bioMérieux SA, Eurofins Scientific, Intertek Group PLC, Merck KGaA, R J Hill Laboratories Ltd., SGS S.A., TUV Nord Group, LGC Limited, and Agvise Laboratories
• Competitive landscape
• Government regulations
   

Competitive Landscape:

• The market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape covering market structure, market share by key players, market player positioning, top winning strategies, competitive dashboard, and company evaluation quadrant, among others. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. This includes business overview, product offerings, business strategies, SWOT analysis, financials, and major news and events. Some of the major market players in the agriculture soil sampling and testing industry include Agilent Technologies Inc., ALS Ltd., bioMérieux SA, Eurofins Scientific, Intertek Group PLC, Merck KGaA, R J Hill Laboratories Ltd., SGS S.A., TUV Nord Group, LGC Limited, and Agvise Laboratories.
• The competitive landscape of the market is highly competitive with major players including R J Hill Laboratories Ltd., SGS S.A., Agilent Technologies Inc., ALS Ltd., and Eurofins Scientific. These players emphasize extensive research and development (R&D), advanced technologies, and comprehensive service offerings to maintain market leadership. Strategic mergers, partnerships, and acquisitions are common as companies seek to expand their capabilities and geographic presence, intensifying competition and driving the growth of the market. In February 2023, Hamilton-based Hill Laboratories signed a joint working partnership agreement with Mérieux NutriSciences, who are global leaders in food safety, quality, and sustainability.
   

Analysis Covered for Each Player:

• Market Share
• Business Overview
• Products Offered
• Business Strategies
• SWOT Analysis
• Major News and Events
   

Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market News:

• In September 2023, Eurofins Agro UK opened a new agricultural testing facility located in Needham Market, Suffolk. The company explains that there has been a sharp rise in demand for soil, slurry, compost, and forage testing as agriculture moves towards a more data-driven farming system. Eurofins Agro UK has responded to demand by consolidating all our agricultural testing in Suffolk to increase capacity, reduce waiting times, and futureproof our service.
• In June 2023, SGS announced to collaborate with AgriCircle, a pioneering agri-tech firm, to provide innovative solutions for soil health and regenerative agriculture. This cooperation aims to empower farmers and other stakeholders in the agri-food industry with cutting-edge tools and expertise to drive sustainable farming practices.
   

Agriculture Soil Sampling and Testing Market Report Scope:

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the global agriculture soil sampling and testing market performed so far, and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What are the drivers, restraints, and opportunities in the global agriculture soil sampling and testing market?
• What is the impact of each driver, restraint, and opportunity on the global agriculture soil sampling and testing market?
• What are the key regional markets?
• Which countries represent the most attractive agriculture soil sampling and testing market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the sample type?
• Which is the most attractive sample type in the agriculture soil sampling and testing market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the sampling field?
• Which is the most attractive sampling field in the agriculture soil sampling and testing market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the technology?
• Which is the most attractive technology in the agriculture soil sampling and testing market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the sampling and testing method?
• Which is the most attractive sampling and testing method in the agriculture soil sampling and testing market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the site?
• Which is the most attractive site in the agriculture soil sampling and testing market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the end-user?
• Which is the most attractive sample end-user in the agriculture soil sampling and testing market?
• What is the competitive structure of the market?
• Who are the key players/companies in the global agriculture soil sampling and testing market?

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the agriculture soil sampling and testing market from 2018-2032.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global agriculture soil sampling and testing market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the agriculture soil sampling and testing industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.