Key Insights
The U.S. crop protection chemicals market, valued at approximately $20 billion in 2025, is experiencing steady growth, projected at a 4.34% CAGR from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by several factors. Increasing prevalence of crop diseases and pests necessitates the use of effective crop protection solutions. Furthermore, the rising demand for higher crop yields to meet the growing global food needs is fueling the market. Favorable government policies supporting sustainable agricultural practices and technological advancements in pesticide formulation and application techniques also contribute significantly. Segment-wise, insecticides and fungicides hold substantial market share, driven by their widespread use across various crops. Chemigation and foliar application methods dominate, reflecting current agricultural practices. The market sees strong demand from commercial crops, fruits and vegetables, and grains and cereals, indicating diverse applications across major agricultural sectors. Growth in the organic farming segment presents a unique opportunity, requiring specialized biopesticides and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Market Size (In Billion)
However, the market faces certain restraints. Stringent regulatory approvals and environmental concerns regarding pesticide use are key challenges. The increasing awareness of the potential health and environmental risks associated with certain chemical pesticides is pushing the industry toward developing and adopting more sustainable alternatives, such as biopesticides and integrated pest management strategies. This trend is reshaping the market landscape, favoring companies that invest in research and development of environmentally friendly crop protection solutions. Fluctuations in raw material prices and economic conditions can also impact market growth. Competition among major players, including Sumitomo Chemical, American Vanguard, Adama, Bayer, Syngenta, BASF, FMC, UPL, Corteva, and Nufarm, is intense, with companies continually striving for innovation and market share. The regional analysis reveals significant market activity across all U.S. regions, with variations based on specific agricultural strengths in each area.
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Company Market Share
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Market Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the U.S. crop protection chemicals industry, covering market dynamics, growth trends, key players, and future outlook. The study period spans from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 as the base year. This report is invaluable for industry professionals, investors, and researchers seeking to understand this dynamic and crucial sector.
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Market Dynamics & Structure
The U.S. crop protection chemicals market is a dynamic and complex landscape shaped by interplay of several key factors. Market concentration remains relatively high, with a few multinational corporations holding substantial market share. However, the market is experiencing increased competition from smaller, specialized firms focusing on niche products and sustainable solutions. Technological innovation is a crucial driver, with ongoing efforts to develop more efficacious, targeted, and environmentally benign formulations. Stringent regulatory oversight by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including evolving safety standards and approval processes, significantly influences product development and market access. The market also faces pressure from the growing adoption of biological control agents and other integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. End-user demographics, including large-scale commercial farms, smaller-scale horticultural operations, and organic farms, continue to shape product demand and market segmentation.
- Market Concentration: While the top 10 companies still hold a significant portion of the market (estimated at approximately 65% in 2025), increased competition from smaller, specialized players is eroding this concentration. This diversification is being driven, in part, by the rising demand for biopesticides and other sustainable solutions.
- Technological Innovation: Focus remains on developing targeted, low-impact formulations, including novel modes of action and improved delivery systems (e.g., nanotechnology, microencapsulation). The development and adoption of biopesticides and other biological control agents is also accelerating.
- Regulatory Landscape: EPA regulations, including the registration and re-registration of existing pesticides and the review of new active ingredients, present both challenges and opportunities for market participants. Navigating these regulations is a key factor in market success.
- M&A Activity: Significant merger and acquisition (M&A) activity (estimated at 35 deals between 2019 and 2024) has reshaped the market landscape, leading to consolidation amongst key players and impacting competitive dynamics. This activity is expected to continue, although perhaps at a slightly reduced pace.
- Innovation Barriers: High R&D costs, lengthy regulatory approval processes, and the need for significant investment in robust efficacy and safety data continue to present substantial barriers to entry for smaller companies.
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Growth Trends & Insights
The U.S. crop protection chemicals market exhibited robust growth during the historical period (2019-2024), fueled by factors such as increasing global food demand, expanding acreage under cultivation, and the need to maximize crop yields in the face of climate change. Adoption of advanced crop protection solutions, such as precision application technologies and data-driven decision-making tools, has also driven growth. Technological disruptions, including the increasing availability of biopesticides and improvements in formulation technologies, are reshaping the market landscape. Growing consumer awareness of environmental sustainability and a preference for environmentally friendly crop protection solutions are also influencing market trends. The market is projected to maintain a moderate CAGR of 3.5% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of $25 Billion by 2033. Market penetration of new technologies, particularly in the area of biopesticides and precision application, is expected to grow by 15% over the forecast period.
Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry
The U.S. crop protection chemicals market is geographically diverse. However, regions with high agricultural intensity like the Midwest and the South exhibit stronger growth due to extensive acreage devoted to major crops such as corn and soybeans. Within product segments, herbicides dominate the market, followed by insecticides and fungicides. This is primarily due to the prevalence of weed pressure and various insect pests across many crops. The foliar application method holds a substantial share, reflecting widespread agricultural practices.
- Leading Segment (Function): Herbicides (xx Million in 2025, estimated)
- Leading Segment (Application Mode): Foliar application (xx Million in 2025, estimated)
- Leading Crop Type: Grains & Cereals (xx Million in 2025, estimated)
- Key Growth Drivers: Government support for agricultural innovation, technological advancements in precision agriculture and favorable climatic conditions in certain regions.
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Product Landscape
The U.S. crop protection chemicals industry boasts a diverse product portfolio, encompassing a broad range of herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and other specialized crop protection agents. Continuous innovation is driving the development of improved formulations with enhanced efficacy, reduced environmental impact, and targeted application capabilities. New formulations often incorporate advanced technologies to improve bioactivity, reduce drift potential, and enhance compatibility with other crop management practices. Precision application techniques, such as drone-based spraying and sensor-guided treatments, are becoming increasingly prevalent, enabling more efficient and targeted use of crop protection chemicals and minimizing off-target effects. Unique selling propositions often center on superior efficacy against specific pests or diseases, improved safety profiles (for both human health and the environment), and a reduced environmental footprint.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry
Key Drivers: Increasing crop yields, growing global food demand, expanding acreage under cultivation, technological advancements (precision agriculture, biopesticides).
Key Challenges: Stringent environmental regulations, rising R&D costs, potential for pesticide resistance, supply chain disruptions (e.g., xx% increase in raw material costs in 2022, estimated), and intense competition among established players.
Emerging Opportunities in U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry
Several key factors are creating significant opportunities for growth within the U.S. crop protection chemicals industry. These include the increasing adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, the rising demand for biopesticides and other biological control agents, the expansion of precision agriculture technologies, and the development of crop-specific formulations tailored to the needs of specific crops and farming practices. Untapped markets exist within the organic farming sector and in the production of specialty crops. Furthermore, the growing awareness of the environmental impact of conventional pesticides is creating a greater demand for more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions.
Growth Accelerators in the U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Industry
Strategic partnerships between chemical companies and agricultural technology providers are driving innovation and market expansion. Technological breakthroughs in targeted pest control and environmentally friendly formulations are enhancing market prospects. The focus on sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management is further accelerating growth.
Key Players Shaping the U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Market
Notable Milestones in U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Sector
- January 2023: Bayer partnered with Oerth Bio to develop eco-friendly crop protection solutions.
- March 2023: AMVAC launched new herbicides (Impact Core and Sinate) to combat weed resistance in maize.
- April 2023: Nufarm launched Tourney EZ, a liquid fungicide for turf and ornamental crops.
In-Depth U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Market Outlook
The U.S. crop protection chemicals market is poised for continued growth, fueled by technological advancements, increasing food security concerns, and a growing focus on sustainable agriculture. Strategic partnerships, product innovation, and expansion into new market segments will shape future industry dynamics. The market's potential lies in developing targeted, efficient, and environmentally responsible solutions.
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Segmentation
-
1. Function
- 1.1. Fungicide
- 1.2. Herbicide
- 1.3. Insecticide
- 1.4. Molluscicide
- 1.5. Nematicide
-
2. Application Mode
- 2.1. Chemigation
- 2.2. Foliar
- 2.3. Fumigation
- 2.4. Seed Treatment
- 2.5. Soil Treatment
-
3. Crop Type
- 3.1. Commercial Crops
- 3.2. Fruits & Vegetables
- 3.3. Grains & Cereals
- 3.4. Pulses & Oilseeds
- 3.5. Turf & Ornamental
-
4. Function
- 4.1. Fungicide
- 4.2. Herbicide
- 4.3. Insecticide
- 4.4. Molluscicide
- 4.5. Nematicide
-
5. Application Mode
- 5.1. Chemigation
- 5.2. Foliar
- 5.3. Fumigation
- 5.4. Seed Treatment
- 5.5. Soil Treatment
-
6. Crop Type
- 6.1. Commercial Crops
- 6.2. Fruits & Vegetables
- 6.3. Grains & Cereals
- 6.4. Pulses & Oilseeds
- 6.5. Turf & Ornamental
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Segmentation By Geography
- 1. U.S.
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry
U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry 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 5% from 2020-2034 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Objective
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Market Snapshot
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Market Drivers
- 3.2. Market Restrains
- 3.3. Market Trends
- 3.4. Market Opportunities
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.1.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.1.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 4.1.3. Threat of New Entrants
- 4.1.4. Threat of Substitutes
- 4.1.5. Competitive Rivalry
- 4.2. PESTEL analysis
- 4.3. BCG Analysis
- 4.3.1. Stars (High Growth, High Market Share)
- 4.3.2. Cash Cows (Low Growth, High Market Share)
- 4.3.3. Question Mark (High Growth, Low Market Share)
- 4.3.4. Dogs (Low Growth, Low Market Share)
- 4.4. Ansoff Matrix Analysis
- 4.5. Supply Chain Analysis
- 4.6. Regulatory Landscape
- 4.7. Current Market Potential and Opportunity Assessment (TAM–SAM–SOM Framework)
- 4.8. IMR Analyst Note
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast 2021-2033
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Function
- 5.1.1. Fungicide
- 5.1.2. Herbicide
- 5.1.3. Insecticide
- 5.1.4. Molluscicide
- 5.1.5. Nematicide
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Mode
- 5.2.1. Chemigation
- 5.2.2. Foliar
- 5.2.3. Fumigation
- 5.2.4. Seed Treatment
- 5.2.5. Soil Treatment
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Crop Type
- 5.3.1. Commercial Crops
- 5.3.2. Fruits & Vegetables
- 5.3.3. Grains & Cereals
- 5.3.4. Pulses & Oilseeds
- 5.3.5. Turf & Ornamental
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Function
- 5.4.1. Fungicide
- 5.4.2. Herbicide
- 5.4.3. Insecticide
- 5.4.4. Molluscicide
- 5.4.5. Nematicide
- 5.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Mode
- 5.5.1. Chemigation
- 5.5.2. Foliar
- 5.5.3. Fumigation
- 5.5.4. Seed Treatment
- 5.5.5. Soil Treatment
- 5.6. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Crop Type
- 5.6.1. Commercial Crops
- 5.6.2. Fruits & Vegetables
- 5.6.3. Grains & Cereals
- 5.6.4. Pulses & Oilseeds
- 5.6.5. Turf & Ornamental
- 5.7. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.7.1. U.S.
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Function
- 6. U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2021-2033
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Function
- 6.1.1. Fungicide
- 6.1.2. Herbicide
- 6.1.3. Insecticide
- 6.1.4. Molluscicide
- 6.1.5. Nematicide
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Mode
- 6.2.1. Chemigation
- 6.2.2. Foliar
- 6.2.3. Fumigation
- 6.2.4. Seed Treatment
- 6.2.5. Soil Treatment
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Crop Type
- 6.3.1. Commercial Crops
- 6.3.2. Fruits & Vegetables
- 6.3.3. Grains & Cereals
- 6.3.4. Pulses & Oilseeds
- 6.3.5. Turf & Ornamental
- 6.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Function
- 6.4.1. Fungicide
- 6.4.2. Herbicide
- 6.4.3. Insecticide
- 6.4.4. Molluscicide
- 6.4.5. Nematicide
- 6.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Mode
- 6.5.1. Chemigation
- 6.5.2. Foliar
- 6.5.3. Fumigation
- 6.5.4. Seed Treatment
- 6.5.5. Soil Treatment
- 6.6. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Crop Type
- 6.6.1. Commercial Crops
- 6.6.2. Fruits & Vegetables
- 6.6.3. Grains & Cereals
- 6.6.4. Pulses & Oilseeds
- 6.6.5. Turf & Ornamental
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Function
- 7. Competitive Analysis
- 7.1. Company Profiles
- 7.1.1 Sumitomo Chemical Co Ltd
- 7.1.1.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.1.2. Products
- 7.1.1.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.1.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.2 American Vanguard Corporation
- 7.1.2.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.2.2. Products
- 7.1.2.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.2.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.3 ADAMA Agricultural Solutions Ltd
- 7.1.3.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.3.2. Products
- 7.1.3.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.3.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.4 Bayer AG
- 7.1.4.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.4.2. Products
- 7.1.4.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.4.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.5 Syngenta Group
- 7.1.5.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.5.2. Products
- 7.1.5.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.5.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.6 BASF SE
- 7.1.6.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.6.2. Products
- 7.1.6.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.6.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.7 FMC Corporation
- 7.1.7.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.7.2. Products
- 7.1.7.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.7.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.8 UPL Limite
- 7.1.8.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.8.2. Products
- 7.1.8.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.8.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.9 Corteva Agriscience
- 7.1.9.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.9.2. Products
- 7.1.9.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.9.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.10 Nufarm Ltd
- 7.1.10.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.10.2. Products
- 7.1.10.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.10.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.1 Sumitomo Chemical Co Ltd
- 7.2. Market Entropy
- 7.2.1 Company's Key Areas Served
- 7.2.2 Recent Developments
- 7.3. Company Market Share Analysis 2025
- 7.3.1 Top 5 Companies Market Share Analysis
- 7.3.2 Top 3 Companies Market Share Analysis
- 7.4. List of Potential Customers
- 8. Research Methodology
List of Figures
- Figure 1: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue Breakdown (billion, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Share (%) by Company 2025
List of Tables
- Table 1: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Function 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Function 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Function 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Function 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Function 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Function 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 19: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 20: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 21: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Function 2020 & 2033
- Table 22: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Function 2020 & 2033
- Table 23: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 24: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Application Mode 2020 & 2033
- Table 25: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 26: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Crop Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 27: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 28: U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry Volume Kiloton Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 5%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry?
Key companies in the market include Sumitomo Chemical Co Ltd, American Vanguard Corporation, ADAMA Agricultural Solutions Ltd, Bayer AG, Syngenta Group, BASF SE, FMC Corporation, UPL Limite, Corteva Agriscience, Nufarm Ltd.
3. What are the main segments of the U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry?
The market segments include Function, Application Mode, Crop Type, Function, Application Mode, Crop Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 83.32 billion as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Seed Treatment As A Solution To Enhance Yield; Growing Awareness For Seed Treatment Among The Farmers; Rising Trend Of Organic Farming.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Rise in weed infestations. shortage of labor. increased wages. and need for higher food production may drive the herbicide market in the country.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Limitations Across Farm-Level Seed Treatment; Rising Environmental Concerns.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
April 2023: Nufarm launched a new liquid formulation fungicide, Tourney EZ, exclusively for turf and ornamental crops based on customer demand, which further strengthens the company's role in turf and ornamental crop protection.March 2023: AMVAC launched a portfolio of herbicides, including Impact Core and Sinate, to combat weed resistance in maize.January 2023: Bayer formed a new partnership with Oerth Bio to enhance crop protection technology and create more eco-friendly crop protection solutions.
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 and volume, measured in Kiloton.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry," 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 U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry 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 U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the U.S. Crop Protection Chemicals Industry, 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