Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 11, Morocco's leading phosphate producer, OCP Group, has introduced NP 5-42 to its product lineup. This compound fertilizer, classified under HS code 310559, uses ammonia as the nitrogen source.

OCP promotes NP 5-42 within its triple superphosphate (TSP) efforts, noting its compatibility with nitrogen sources like urea, ammonium sulfate (amsul), ammonium nitrate (AN), and calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) for blending or granulation processes.

Standard TSP provides 46 percent P2O5 without nitrogen. It matches the P2O5 level in diammonium phosphate (DAP) but falls below the 52 percent in OCP's monoammonium phosphate (MAP) variant.

OCP targets Europe initially for NP 5-42 distribution, with potential expansion to other regions later. Pricing details remain unavailable.

In Europe, phosphate uptake proceeds slowly, as attention centers on nitrogen procurement. Local purchasers indicate that NP 5-42 arrives after the current season's planning for NPK compounders, potentially leading to hesitation in shifting from established inputs.

From the Moroccan port of Jorf Lasfar, DAP shipments to Europe totaled 585,000 tonnes and MAP reached 209,000 tonnes in January through October, based on vessel schedules. TSP exports to the region hit 96,000 tonnes over that span.

OCP continues to expand TSP production capacity and volumes, with notable rises in deliveries to Brazil and India. Future TSP offerings will incorporate tailored blends like NP 5-42.

According to Argus Analytics, Moroccan TSP capacity climbed to 2.98 million tonnes per year from 2.28 million tonnes per year in 2024, with projections to 4.88 million tonnes per year by 2028.

OCP's emphasis on TSP partly aims to curb reliance on fluctuating import costs for ammonia feedstock. DAP includes 18 percent nitrogen, versus none in TSP. The five percent nitrogen in NP 5-42 thus cuts ammonia needs by about 72 percent per tonne compared to DAP.

Ammonia prices for delivery to Morocco have risen nearly 50 percent since June, last evaluated at $590 per tonne CFR on a midpoint basis on October 30.

NP 5-42's formulation supports efficient nutrient delivery, aiding crop yields while addressing input volatility. Its lower nitrogen ratio eases production pressures amid global energy shifts. OCP's integration of this product aligns with broader capacity builds, enhancing supply reliability for international markets.

The compound's granulation compatibility facilitates custom NPK mixes, potentially improving soil application precision. As European demand stabilizes, NP 5-42 could gain traction for next-season formulations.

OCP's expansions, including solar-powered facilities and sustainable water use, underscore commitments to efficient operations. These steps bolster long-term output growth, meeting rising needs for phosphorus-based nutrients worldwide. The product's debut reflects ongoing adaptations to market dynamics, fostering balanced fertilizer availability.