Morocco Dominates Global Phosphate Reserves, Holding 70% of World’s Supply

Morocco is the country with the most abundant phosphate reserves, around 50 billion tons and 70% of global reserves. It is followed by Egypt with 2.8 billion tons, Tunisia (2.5 billion), Algeria (2.2 billion), China (1.9 billion), Brazil (1.6 billion) and South Africa (1.6 billion).

Despite its first place on the list of countries with the largest reserves, Morocco is the second largest producer of phosphate with 35 million tons, behind China, the leader with 90 million tons. The United States (20 million), Russia (14 million) and Jordan (12 million) follow.

However, Morocco is the world’s leading exporter of phosphate fertilizers, an essential nutrient for the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, cereals and legumes. It is followed by China and Egypt. In terms of importing countries of phosphate fertilizers, Brazil, Bangladesh and the United States form the top trio.