India's Fertiliser Supply at Risk as West Asia Conflict Threatens Key Imports

A CareEdge Ratings report warns that India's fertiliser supply is vulnerable ahead of the sowing season, with over a quarter of imports sourced from conflict-ridden West Asia. The ongoing tensions are disrupting key trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz, which is also critical for energy imports. These disruptions could lead to higher fertiliser prices and increase the government's subsidy burden. The situation poses a significant risk to agricultural output during the upcoming Kharif season, especially with concurrent weather uncertainties.

Key Points: India Fertiliser Imports at Risk from West Asia Conflict: Report

  • 26% of India's fertiliser imports sourced from West Asia
  • Conflict disrupts key Strait of Hormuz supply route
  • Risks to Kharif season amid El Nino concerns
  • Supply issues could raise prices, subsidy burden
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Fertiliser imports at risk ahead of sowing season, 26% sourced from current hotspot West Asia: CareEdge Report

26% of India's fertiliser imports come from West Asia. Supply disruptions could raise prices and impact the Kharif sowing season, says CareEdge.

"Impact on Fertiliser Imports Concerning Ahead of Sowing Season - CareEdge Ratings Report"

New Delhi, March 23

India's fertiliser supply is facing growing risks ahead of the sowing season as the ongoing conflict in West Asia disrupts key trade routes, with around 26 per cent of fertiliser imports coming from the region, according to a report by CareEdge Ratings.

The report highlighted that India sources over a quarter of its fertiliser imports from West Asian countries, making it vulnerable to supply disruptions amid geopolitical tensions.

It stated, "Impact on Fertiliser Imports Concerning Ahead of Sowing Season... India sources over a quarter of its fertiliser imports from West Asian countries."

Data in the report showed that West Asia accounts for 26.2 per cent of India's fertiliser imports, followed by Jordan at 19.2 per cent and Russia at 15.5 per cent.

Other contributors include Morocco at 10.4 per cent, China at 5.7 per cent, Egypt at 5.6 per cent, Canada at 3.8 per cent and Togo at 3.6 per cent, while others account for 10 per cent.

The ongoing conflict in West Asia has disrupted key supply routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, which is one of the most important global channels for energy trade.

The report noted that such disruptions could pose challenges for India during the upcoming Kharif season, especially amid rising concerns over the possible occurrence of El Nino.

According to the report, supply disruptions could lead to higher fertiliser prices, driven by a sharp rise in LNG prices, which are a key input for fertiliser production. This, in turn, could increase the government's subsidy burden.

The report further highlighted the critical importance of the Strait of Hormuz for India's energy security. It noted that 89 per cent of crude oil and condensate transported through the strait went to Asian markets in the first half of 2025, led by China, India, Japan and South Korea.

Additionally, around 40 per cent of India's crude oil imports are transported through this route, underlining the country's dependence on the region.

The report cautioned that continued disruptions in West Asia could have a cascading impact not only on energy supplies but also on fertiliser availability, which is crucial for agriculture.

Overall, the report emphasised that geopolitical tensions in West Asia could pose significant risks to India's fertiliser supply chain and agricultural output, particularly at a time when weather uncertainties are also rising.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The data is stark - 26% from a conflict zone and 40% of our oil through the Strait of Hormuz. This is a major strategic vulnerability. Time to seriously diversify our import partners and invest in sustainable alternatives.
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Priyanka N
My uncle is a farmer in Punjab. He's already worried about input costs. If fertiliser prices shoot up, it will be a disaster. Hope the authorities are listening and will increase the subsidy buffer if needed. Jai Kisan!
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Aman W
While the report highlights a real risk, I feel our media sometimes creates panic. India has navigated such situations before. Our diplomatic channels are strong; we will find a way to ensure supply. Have some faith.
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Michael C
This is a classic case of over-dependence. The numbers from Jordan and Russia are also high. A single geopolitical event can ripple through our entire food system. Long-term solution has to be self-reliance in fertiliser production.
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Kriti O
It's not just fertiliser, it's linked to LNG prices and oil. A double whammy for the economy. Maybe this crisis will finally push us to promote organic farming and reduce chemical fertiliser use. Every challenge is an opportunity 🙏

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