Key Insights
The German fertilizer market, valued at approximately €230.1 billion in 2025, is projected for significant growth. Experts anticipate a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by the increasing demand for food security across Germany and the EU, requiring enhanced crop yields and, consequently, greater fertilizer application for field crops, horticulture, and turf. Technological advancements in complex and specialty fertilizers, tailored for specific crop needs and application methods, further stimulate market growth. Additionally, growing farmer awareness of sustainable agriculture and soil health promotes the adoption of efficient, high-quality fertilizers.
Germany Fertilizer Market Market Size (In Billion)
The market is not without its challenges. Stringent environmental regulations designed to protect water and air quality may limit market expansion. Price volatility of raw materials like phosphate and potash also impacts production costs and fertilizer pricing. Nevertheless, the German government's commitment to agricultural modernization and sustainable intensification is expected to support market growth, particularly in key agricultural regions including North Rhine-Westphalia, Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, Lower Saxony, and Hesse. The presence of prominent fertilizer manufacturers such as Nouryon, Grupa Azoty S.A. (Compo Expert), and Yara International AS contributes to the market's dynamism and potential for sustained development.
Germany Fertilizer Market Company Market Share
Germany Fertilizer Market Analysis: Size, Trends, and Forecast (2025-2033)
This comprehensive report delves into the German fertilizer market, covering market size, growth drivers, challenges, and future prospects. With a base year of 2025 and a forecast period extending to 2033, this analysis offers valuable insights for stakeholders. The estimated market size for 2025 is €230.1 billion. Key industry players, including Nouryon, Grupa Azoty S.A. (Compo Expert), AGROFERT, EuroChem Group, ICL Group Ltd, AGLUKON Spezialdünger GmbH & Co, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA, PhosAgro Group of Companies, K+S Aktiengesellschaft, and Yara International AS, are profiled, providing a detailed understanding of the competitive landscape.
Germany Fertilizer Market Composition & Trends
The German fertilizer market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with several major players holding significant market share. The market share distribution is dynamic, with ongoing mergers and acquisitions (M&A) impacting the competitive landscape. Innovation is spurred by the need for sustainable and efficient agricultural practices, leading to advancements in fertilizer technology and formulation. Stringent environmental regulations, particularly concerning nitrogen runoff and phosphorus pollution, shape the market dynamics and favor the adoption of precision fertilization techniques. Substitute products, including organic fertilizers and biofertilizers, are gradually gaining traction, but conventional chemical fertilizers still dominate the market. End-users are largely agricultural businesses, including large-scale farms and smaller horticultural operations. Recent M&A activity reflects the strategic importance of the German market.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding approximately xx% of the market share in 2024.
- Innovation Catalysts: Demand for sustainable agriculture, precision farming technologies, and environmental regulations.
- Regulatory Landscape: Stringent environmental regulations impacting fertilizer composition and application methods.
- Substitute Products: Organic fertilizers and biofertilizers are gaining market share, but at a slow pace.
- End-User Profiles: Large-scale farms, horticultural businesses, and turf & ornamental care providers.
- M&A Activities: Significant M&A activity, with deal values exceeding xx Million USD in the last three years. Examples include the acquisition of Borealis' nitrogen business by Agrofert (USD 871 Billion), and K+S's acquisition of a 75% share of Industrial Commodities Holdings' fertilizer business.
Germany Fertilizer Market Industry Evolution
The German fertilizer market has witnessed steady growth over the past five years, driven by increasing demand from the agricultural sector. Growth rates have fluctuated due to factors such as weather patterns and global commodity prices, but the overall trend shows a positive trajectory. Technological advancements have led to the development of more efficient and targeted fertilizer products, reducing environmental impact and enhancing crop yields. Consumer demand is increasingly focused on sustainable and environmentally friendly fertilizers, creating opportunities for producers who can offer such solutions. The market is also seeing a shift towards precision farming techniques, utilizing data-driven approaches for optimized fertilizer application. This enhances efficiency and reduces waste. Adoption of precision technologies is growing at a rate of approximately xx% annually. The market is also seeing increasing investments in research and development of new fertilizer technologies, further driving market growth. A specific example includes the rising popularity of controlled-release fertilizers that minimize nutrient runoff.
Leading Regions, Countries, or Segments in Germany Fertilizer Market
While detailed regional data requires a deeper dive within the full report, the analysis points toward strong performance across various segments. The German fertilizer market shows strength across multiple application modes, crop types, and fertilizer types.
- Application Mode: Soil application remains the dominant method, due to its established use and simplicity. However, Fertigation and Foliar application are experiencing notable growth, driven by advancements in technology and increased awareness of their efficiency benefits.
- Crop Type: Field crops constitute the largest segment, driven by the high demand for staple crops such as wheat, corn, and potatoes. However, the horticultural and turf & ornamental sectors are also exhibiting significant growth, fueled by increased demand for high-quality produce and landscaping.
- Type & Form: Complex fertilizers, offering a balanced blend of essential nutrients, hold a significant market share. However, demand for specialty fertilizers tailored for specific crop needs and soil conditions is also growing steadily. Conventional forms still dominate, but specialty formulations are rapidly gaining ground, driven by their precision and targeted effect.
Key Drivers of Segment Dominance:
- Investment Trends: Significant investments in research and development of specialized fertilizers and application technologies.
- Regulatory Support: Government incentives and regulations promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
- Consumer Preferences: Growing demand for high-quality crops and environmentally friendly solutions.
Germany Fertilizer Market Product Innovations
Recent innovations focus on improving fertilizer efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and meeting specific crop needs. This includes the development of slow-release fertilizers to minimize nutrient leaching and the use of advanced coatings to protect nutrients from degradation. New formulations incorporating biostimulants enhance nutrient uptake and stress tolerance in plants. These product innovations contribute to higher yields, improved crop quality, and reduced environmental footprint, enhancing their market value.
Propelling Factors for Germany Fertilizer Market Growth
The German fertilizer market's growth is fueled by several key factors:
- Technological advancements: Precision farming techniques and improved fertilizer formulations are increasing efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
- Economic growth: Increased agricultural output and higher disposable incomes contribute to demand for high-quality food and agricultural products.
- Government support: Policies promoting sustainable agriculture and food security contribute to market growth.
Obstacles in the Germany Fertilizer Market
Challenges include:
- Regulatory hurdles: Stringent environmental regulations increase production costs and complexity.
- Supply chain disruptions: Global events, such as pandemics or geopolitical instability, can impact fertilizer availability and pricing.
- Competitive pressures: The market is competitive, leading to price pressures and the need for constant innovation.
Future Opportunities in Germany Fertilizer Market
Opportunities lie in:
- Precision agriculture: Continued adoption of technology for optimizing fertilizer application.
- Sustainable solutions: Growing demand for eco-friendly fertilizer options and bio-based products.
- New market segments: Expansion into specialized agricultural segments like organic farming and vertical agriculture.
Major Players in the Germany Fertilizer Market Ecosystem
- Nouryon
- Grupa Azoty S A (Compo Expert)
- AGROFERT
- EuroChem Group
- ICL Group Ltd
- AGLUKON Spezialduenger GmbH & Co
- Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA
- PhosAgro Group of Companies
- K+S Aktiengesellschaft
- Yara International AS
Key Developments in Germany Fertilizer Market Industry
- April 2023: K+S acquired a 75% share in Industrial Commodities Holdings (Pty) Ltd's fertilizer business, expanding its presence in Southern and Eastern Africa.
- April 2023: Nouryon acquired ADOB, strengthening its specialty farming solutions portfolio.
- May 2023: Agrofert acquired Borealis' nitrogen business, significantly expanding its European fertilizer production and distribution network (USD 871 Billion).
Strategic Germany Fertilizer Market Forecast
The German fertilizer market is poised for continued growth driven by technological advancements, sustainable practices, and increasing agricultural demands. The focus on precision agriculture, eco-friendly solutions, and specialized fertilizers presents significant growth potential. The market is expected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), reaching an estimated xx Million USD by 2033.
Germany Fertilizer Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Complex
-
1.2. Straight
-
1.2.1. Micronutrients
- 1.2.1.1. Boron
- 1.2.1.2. Copper
- 1.2.1.3. Iron
- 1.2.1.4. Manganese
- 1.2.1.5. Molybdenum
- 1.2.1.6. Zinc
- 1.2.1.7. Others
-
1.2.2. Nitrogenous
- 1.2.2.1. Urea
-
1.2.3. Phosphatic
- 1.2.3.1. DAP
- 1.2.3.2. MAP
- 1.2.3.3. SSP
- 1.2.3.4. TSP
-
1.2.4. Potassic
- 1.2.4.1. MoP
- 1.2.4.2. SoP
-
1.2.5. Secondary Macronutrients
- 1.2.5.1. Calcium
- 1.2.5.2. Magnesium
- 1.2.5.3. Sulfur
-
1.2.1. Micronutrients
-
2. Form
- 2.1. Conventional
-
2.2. Speciality
- 2.2.1. CRF
- 2.2.2. Liquid Fertilizer
- 2.2.3. SRF
- 2.2.4. Water Soluble
-
3. Application Mode
- 3.1. Fertigation
- 3.2. Foliar
- 3.3. Soil
-
4. Crop Type
- 4.1. Field Crops
- 4.2. Horticultural Crops
- 4.3. Turf & Ornamental
-
5. Type
- 5.1. Complex
-
5.2. Straight
-
5.2.1. Micronutrients
- 5.2.1.1. Boron
- 5.2.1.2. Copper
- 5.2.1.3. Iron
- 5.2.1.4. Manganese
- 5.2.1.5. Molybdenum
- 5.2.1.6. Zinc
- 5.2.1.7. Others
-
5.2.2. Nitrogenous
- 5.2.2.1. Urea
-
5.2.3. Phosphatic
- 5.2.3.1. DAP
- 5.2.3.2. MAP
- 5.2.3.3. SSP
- 5.2.3.4. TSP
-
5.2.4. Potassic
- 5.2.4.1. MoP
- 5.2.4.2. SoP
-
5.2.5. Secondary Macronutrients
- 5.2.5.1. Calcium
- 5.2.5.2. Magnesium
- 5.2.5.3. Sulfur
-
5.2.1. Micronutrients
-
6. Form
- 6.1. Conventional
-
6.2. Speciality
- 6.2.1. CRF
- 6.2.2. Liquid Fertilizer
- 6.2.3. SRF
- 6.2.4. Water Soluble
-
7. Application Mode
- 7.1. Fertigation
- 7.2. Foliar
- 7.3. Soil
-
8. Crop Type
- 8.1. Field Crops
- 8.2. Horticultural Crops
- 8.3. Turf & Ornamental
Germany Fertilizer Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Germany
Germany Fertilizer Market Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of Germany Fertilizer Market
Germany Fertilizer Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2020-2034 |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Estimated Year | 2026 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2034 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 4.1% from 2020-2034 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Increasing Demand for Tomato; Adoption of Greenhouse Technology in Tomato Cultivation; Government support
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1 Increasing Loses due to Physiological Disorder
- 3.3.2 Pest and Disease; Unfavourable Climatic Condition
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Germany Fertilizer Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Complex
- 5.1.2. Straight
- 5.1.2.1. Micronutrients
- 5.1.2.1.1. Boron
- 5.1.2.1.2. Copper
- 5.1.2.1.3. Iron
- 5.1.2.1.4. Manganese
- 5.1.2.1.5. Molybdenum
- 5.1.2.1.6. Zinc
- 5.1.2.1.7. Others
- 5.1.2.2. Nitrogenous
- 5.1.2.2.1. Urea
- 5.1.2.3. Phosphatic
- 5.1.2.3.1. DAP
- 5.1.2.3.2. MAP
- 5.1.2.3.3. SSP
- 5.1.2.3.4. TSP
- 5.1.2.4. Potassic
- 5.1.2.4.1. MoP
- 5.1.2.4.2. SoP
- 5.1.2.5. Secondary Macronutrients
- 5.1.2.5.1. Calcium
- 5.1.2.5.2. Magnesium
- 5.1.2.5.3. Sulfur
- 5.1.2.1. Micronutrients
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 5.2.1. Conventional
- 5.2.2. Speciality
- 5.2.2.1. CRF
- 5.2.2.2. Liquid Fertilizer
- 5.2.2.3. SRF
- 5.2.2.4. Water Soluble
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Mode
- 5.3.1. Fertigation
- 5.3.2. Foliar
- 5.3.3. Soil
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Crop Type
- 5.4.1. Field Crops
- 5.4.2. Horticultural Crops
- 5.4.3. Turf & Ornamental
- 5.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.5.1. Complex
- 5.5.2. Straight
- 5.5.2.1. Micronutrients
- 5.5.2.1.1. Boron
- 5.5.2.1.2. Copper
- 5.5.2.1.3. Iron
- 5.5.2.1.4. Manganese
- 5.5.2.1.5. Molybdenum
- 5.5.2.1.6. Zinc
- 5.5.2.1.7. Others
- 5.5.2.2. Nitrogenous
- 5.5.2.2.1. Urea
- 5.5.2.3. Phosphatic
- 5.5.2.3.1. DAP
- 5.5.2.3.2. MAP
- 5.5.2.3.3. SSP
- 5.5.2.3.4. TSP
- 5.5.2.4. Potassic
- 5.5.2.4.1. MoP
- 5.5.2.4.2. SoP
- 5.5.2.5. Secondary Macronutrients
- 5.5.2.5.1. Calcium
- 5.5.2.5.2. Magnesium
- 5.5.2.5.3. Sulfur
- 5.5.2.1. Micronutrients
- 5.6. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 5.6.1. Conventional
- 5.6.2. Speciality
- 5.6.2.1. CRF
- 5.6.2.2. Liquid Fertilizer
- 5.6.2.3. SRF
- 5.6.2.4. Water Soluble
- 5.7. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Mode
- 5.7.1. Fertigation
- 5.7.2. Foliar
- 5.7.3. Soil
- 5.8. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Crop Type
- 5.8.1. Field Crops
- 5.8.2. Horticultural Crops
- 5.8.3. Turf & Ornamental
- 5.9. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.9.1. Germany
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Competitive Analysis
- 6.1. Market Share Analysis 2025
- 6.2. Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 Nouryon
- 6.2.1.1. Overview
- 6.2.1.2. Products
- 6.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.2 Grupa Azoty S A (Compo Expert)
- 6.2.2.1. Overview
- 6.2.2.2. Products
- 6.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.3 AGROFERT
- 6.2.3.1. Overview
- 6.2.3.2. Products
- 6.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.4 EuroChem Group
- 6.2.4.1. Overview
- 6.2.4.2. Products
- 6.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.5 ICL Group Ltd
- 6.2.5.1. Overview
- 6.2.5.2. Products
- 6.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.6 AGLUKON Spezialduenger GmbH & Co
- 6.2.6.1. Overview
- 6.2.6.2. Products
- 6.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.7 Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA
- 6.2.7.1. Overview
- 6.2.7.2. Products
- 6.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.8 PhosAgro Group of Companies
- 6.2.8.1. Overview
- 6.2.8.2. Products
- 6.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.9 K+S Aktiengesellschaft
- 6.2.9.1. Overview
- 6.2.9.2. Products
- 6.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.10 Yara International AS
- 6.2.10.1. Overview
- 6.2.10.2. Products
- 6.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.1 Nouryon
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue Breakdown (billion, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: Germany Fertilizer Market Share (%) by Company 2025
List of Tables
- Table 1: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Form 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Form 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Form 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Form 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: Germany Fertilizer Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Germany Fertilizer Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 4.1%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Germany Fertilizer Market?
Key companies in the market include Nouryon, Grupa Azoty S A (Compo Expert), AGROFERT, EuroChem Group, ICL Group Ltd, AGLUKON Spezialduenger GmbH & Co, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA, PhosAgro Group of Companies, K+S Aktiengesellschaft, Yara International AS.
3. What are the main segments of the Germany Fertilizer Market?
The market segments include Type, Form, Application Mode, Crop Type, Type, Form, Application Mode, Crop Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 230.1 billion as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increasing Demand for Tomato; Adoption of Greenhouse Technology in Tomato Cultivation; Government support.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Increasing Loses due to Physiological Disorder. Pest and Disease; Unfavourable Climatic Condition.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
May 2023: Agrofert acquired Borealis' nitrogen business, including fertilizers, melamine, and technical products, at USD 871 billion. This acquisition will enable AGROFERT to serve its customers in the area of fertilizers and technical nitrogen throughout Europe by integrating Borealis production facilities in Austria, Germany, and France, as well as a comprehensive sales and distribution network.April 2023: K+S acquired a 75% share of the fertilizer business of a South African trading company, Industrial Commodities Holdings (Pty) Ltd (ICH). In addition to expanding the core business, K+S is strengthening its operations in southern and eastern Africa as a result of this acquisition. The newly acquired fertilizer business in the future is to be operated in a joint venture under the name of FertivPty Ltd.April 2023: ADOB, a major provider of chelating micronutrients, foliar, and other specialty farming solutions based in Poland, has been purchased by Nouryon. Through the acquisition, the company has broadened its innovative crop nutrition portfolio.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in billion.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Germany Fertilizer Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Germany Fertilizer Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Germany Fertilizer Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Germany Fertilizer Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database
Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)
Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations
Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence