五矿证券：中长期全球需求保持稳定增长 年内钾肥价格易涨难跌

Industry Overview - The global potash market is characterized by an oligopolistic structure, with stable long-term demand growth expected. The annual compound growth rate (CAGR) for global potash demand from 2024 to 2030 is projected to be 2.67%, reaching 85.2 million tons by 2030 [1][2] - Potash is one of the three essential nutrients for crop growth, often referred to as "the grain of grains." The global potash market size is estimated to be $28.12 billion in 2024, with solid potash mines dominating the market due to simpler extraction processes [1] Demand Dynamics - Global population growth is expected to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, driving an increase in food demand while arable land expansion is limited, leading to inelastic potash demand. Key regions with rapid potash demand growth include China, Southeast Asia, and Brazil [2] - In China, adjustments in planting structure and increased potash application rates are contributing to steady demand growth. Southeast Asia's demand is boosted by the promotion of biodiesel, particularly in Indonesia and Malaysia, while Brazil's soybean production continues to drive strong potash demand [2] Supply Factors - Greenfield potash projects require significant capital expenditure and have long development cycles, typically taking 7-10 years for large-scale projects. The global potash market has over 20 million tons of planned new capacity, primarily from greenfield projects, although progress is slow [3] - The BHP Canada Jansen project is expected to be a major contributor to new capacity, with a planned output of 8.5 million tons in phases one and two, and a long-term target of 16-17 million tons, potentially positioning BHP among the top five potash producers globally [3] Price Outlook - The global potash market is currently characterized by a supply-demand imbalance, with short-term price trends expected to be strong due to tight supply conditions influenced by major producers like Belaruskali and Uralkali reducing output. The price is projected to rise in 2025-2026, with a strong upward trend [4] - From 2027 onwards, as new projects come online, the potash supply-demand balance is expected to ease, leading to potential price pressure, although prices will be supported by marginal costs [4]