The European Commission has approved Koch’s proposed acquisition of a 50 per cent stake in Jorf Fertilizers Company I (JFC I), a Moroccan phosphate fertiliser producer owned by OCP Nutricrops, marking a significant regulatory milestone in the companies’ expanding partnership.
The transaction, reviewed under European Union merger regulations as Case M.12624, received clearance on 29 October 2026 following a simplified competition assessment. The Commission found that the proposed joint venture would not raise significant competition concerns in the European Economic Area.
Under the agreement announced in July 2026, Koch Ag & Energy Solutions, through its affiliate KAES Phosphate Holdings, will acquire a 50 per cent interest in JFC I from OCP Nutricrops. Upon completion, the two companies will establish joint control of the Moroccan fertiliser business.
JFC I operates a phosphate fertiliser production facility at the Jorf Lasfar industrial complex, with an annual production capacity of up to 1.2 million metric tonnes. The facility forms part of one of the world's largest phosphate fertiliser manufacturing platforms.
The investment will further strengthen an existing relationship between the two companies. In 2022, Koch acquired a 50 per cent stake in Jorf Fertilizers Company III, subsequently renamed Kofert, establishing their first joint venture at the complex.
Following completion of the latest transaction, the two jointly controlled businesses will have a combined annual production capacity of approximately 2.5 million metric tonnes of phosphate-based fertilisers.
The proposed acquisition reflects the companies' strategy to strengthen their participation in global phosphate fertiliser production and supply chains, supporting agricultural nutrient availability across international markets.
While the European Commission's approval removes an important regulatory hurdle, completion of the transaction remains subject to outstanding legal and contractual requirements. The companies have not disclosed the financial value of the proposed acquisition.
