ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday assured farmers that its fertilizer supplies were secure despite ongoing trade disruptions in the Middle East, which raised concerns about potential shortages and price hikes in the country.
Much of the world’s fertilizer is produced in the Middle East, but the ongoing United States-Israeli strikes on Iran have prompted Tehran to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz waterway, disrupting traffic and driving up energy and fertilizer prices.
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development says rising costs, especially for gas-dependent nitrogen fertilizers, are pressuring agricultural output and could push up global food prices, particularly in developing countries.
Pakistan’s Food Security Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain on Monday chaired a weekly fertilizer review committee meeting to assess the availability, distribution and pricing of key fertilizers, including urea and Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertilizers ahead of the cropping season.
“The entire world is facing uncertainty, but Pakistan has managed to stabilize fertilizer prices through timely and effective policy measures,” the food ministry quoted Hussain as saying.
“There is absolutely no need for panic. Farmers and the general public can remain confident that essential agricultural inputs will remain available at stable prices.”
During the meeting, officials said urea stocks would remain ample through the upcoming cropping season, with carryover reserves estimated to be around 570,000 tons by its end.
“Similarly, DAP buffer stocks are projected to remain stable, with approximately 96,000 tons available until the end of July, ensuring smooth availability during peak sowing months,” the ministry added.
Hussain said Pakistan had maintained price stability despite global market volatility. He directed stakeholders to ensure timely fertilizer distribution, warning of strict action against hoarders and black marketers, according to the statement. The meeting also reviewed supply chain and logistics to ensure smooth nationwide availability.
Hussain urged farmers to continue operations with confidence, assuring “stable fertilizer supply and prices.”
