OCP launches new NP 5-42 fertilizer to optimize phosphorus use, curb ammonia exposure

MOROCCO – Morocco’s phosphate giant OCP Group has launched a new compound fertilizer, NP 5-42, containing 5% nitrogen and 42% phosphate (P₂O₅), marking a strategic evolution in its phosphate-based plant nutrition portfolio.

Classified under HS code 310559, the new formulation aims to balance agronomic performance with cost efficiency amid volatile global fertilizer markets.

The NP 5-42 fertilizer, which uses ammonia as its nitrogen source, forms part of OCP’s triple superphosphate (TSP) initiative and represents the company’s growing focus on flexible nutrient solutions.

Standard TSP contains 46% P₂O₅ and no nitrogen, while diammonium phosphate (DAP) contains 18% nitrogen, and monoammonium phosphate (MAP) holds 52% P₂O₅. By comparison, NP 5-42 offers an intermediary nutrient profile that supports both soil phosphorus needs and early nitrogen demand.

OCP is initially targeting the European market for NP 5-42, though the company has indicated plans to expand distribution to other regions.

However, the launch faces a challenging market backdrop, European phosphate demand has been sluggish, and most NPK blenders have already secured their raw materials for the 2025 season.

Traders suggest adoption may be limited this year, as buyers are focused more on securing nitrogen supplies amid price fluctuations.

According to Argus Analytics, Morocco exported 585,000 tons of DAP, 209,000 tons of MAP, and 96,000 tons of TSP to Europe from January to October 2025 through its Jorf Lasfar port.

The introduction of NP 5-42 is expected to diversify this mix and strengthen OCP’s position as a supplier of tailored phosphate solutions.

The timing of this product’s development reflects OCP’s broader risk-mitigation strategy against rising ammonia prices.

With ammonia CFR prices to Morocco surging 50% since June to reach US$590 per ton by late October, OCP’s NP 5-42 formula, which reduces ammonia consumption by roughly 72% compared with DAP, offers a significant cost advantage.

In parallel, the company continues to expand its TSP production capacity, which has grown from 2.28 million tons in 2024 to 2.98 million tons currently, with a target of 4.88 million tons per year by 2028.

Much of this capacity is directed toward growing export markets such as Brazil and India, where demand for high-phosphate fertilizers remains strong.

Agronomically, NP 5-42 provides a balanced nutrient supply suitable for root crops, legumes, early-stage cereals, and perennial crops with deep rooting systems.

Its moderate nitrogen content supports early vegetative growth without triggering excessive leaf expansion that could delay maturity. With 42% P₂O₅, it ensures sustained phosphorus availability throughout the growth cycle while allowing farmers to fine-tune nitrogen inputs based on local soil fertility.

Sign up to HERE receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.