Arab countries hold some of the world’s largest phosphate reserves

Yesterday 23:00

By: Azzat Manal

Arab countries hold some of the world’s largest phosphate reserves

Arab countries are home to some of the world’s largest phosphate reserves, giving the region a strategically important position in the global agricultural and fertilizer industry. Morocco stands out in particular, holding around 70% of the world’s estimated phosphate reserves, according to figures cited from the US Geological Survey.

Phosphate rock is considered a critical mineral for global agriculture because it is the main source of phosphorus used in fertilizer production. Unlike some other agricultural inputs, phosphorus cannot be replaced by another element, making access to phosphate resources closely linked to long-term food security.

Morocco’s vast reserves have made the country one of the key players in the international phosphate industry. Its resource base provides a major foundation for the production of phosphate-based fertilizers and other processed products, while supporting the development of a broader mining and chemical-processing sector.

The importance of phosphate extends well beyond mining. Around 90% of global phosphate production is used to manufacture agricultural fertilizers, which supply crops with phosphorus, an essential nutrient involved in root development, energy transfer and plant growth.

Phosphate-based products are also used in animal feed and in the production of phosphoric acid. The latter has applications across several industries, including food processing, water treatment and detergents. Phosphate derivatives can also be found in products linked to glass, ceramics and cosmetics.

The concentration of reserves in a relatively small number of countries gives phosphate a particular strategic dimension. Global agricultural production depends on a stable supply of phosphorus, meaning disruptions in mining, processing or international trade can have consequences for fertilizer markets and food production.

For countries with substantial reserves, phosphate therefore represents more than a conventional mineral resource. It can support industrial development, export revenues and investment in fertilizer production, while creating opportunities to move further up the value chain instead of exporting raw material alone.

Morocco has increasingly developed its phosphate sector around this broader industrial approach, combining mining with chemical processing and fertilizer manufacturing. This strategy allows phosphate resources to contribute to agricultural supply chains both domestically and internationally.

The growing global focus on food security, population growth and agricultural productivity is likely to keep phosphate at the center of discussions about critical resources. At the same time, the industry faces challenges related to resource efficiency, environmental management and the need to use fertilizers more sustainably.

With its exceptionally large reserves, Morocco occupies a central position in this global landscape, while other Arab countries also contribute to the region’s importance as a major source of phosphate resources. The strategic value of these reserves is ultimately tied to one of the world’s most fundamental needs: maintaining reliable food production.