OCP Group moves to acquire full ownership of Emaphos

The Moroccan phosphate group OCP has announced plans to acquire full ownership of Emaphos, a purified phosphoric acid producer located at Jorf Lasfar. The buyout will target the remaining holdings of Germany’s Chemische Fabrik Budenheim and Belgium’s Prayon. The transaction is being conducted through OCP’s wholly owned subsidiary, OCP Specialty Products & Solutions.

Following an expansion in 2023, Emaphos has an annual production capacity of approximately 300,000 tonnes. The move is part of a broader strategy to shift OCP’s product mix toward high-value derivatives rather than raw rock and crude acid. Emaphos produces purified phosphoric acid used in specialized sectors including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and materials supporting the energy transition, such as batteries.

While OCP will take full control, the European partners are expected to remain strategic commercial partners and maintain existing supply relationships. The deal is subject to regulatory approvals, with completion anticipated in early 2027. No purchase price was disclosed.