India Engages with Russia, Belarus, and Morocco to Increase Fertilizer Imports
India held talks with Russia, Belarus, and Morocco on March 19, 2026, to increase fertilizer imports ahead of the summer planting season amid tensions in the Middle East and tightened global export controls.
India Seeks to Diversify Fertilizer Supplies
India, one of the world's largest fertilizer importers, is in talks with Russia, Belarus, and Morocco to increase imports of essential fertilizers such as urea, potash, DAP, and others ahead of the June-July planting season.
This comes as tensions in the Middle East and China's export restrictions could tighten global supplies of the commodity, even though Indian supplies remain ample. According to government and industry sources, the move is driven by the need to ensure farmers have access to essential nutrients.
India’s domestic fertilizer market relies on imported raw materials such as liquefied natural gas (LNG). Authorities are prioritizing gas supplies to fertilizer plants and have also considered alternatives, such as Indonesia.
Why This Matters?
Any disruptions or shortages in fertilizer supply will directly affect India’s agricultural output, food security, and rural incomes, especially with the summer crop season approaching. Here are key factors:
· Crop production depends on the availability of fertilizers: Rice, cotton, oil crops, and other kharif crops are heavily dependent on fertilizers such as urea, DAP, and potash. The availability of these fertilizers is critical in maintaining the supply chain.
· Middle Eastern tensions pose a risk to supply routes: The tensions and unrest in the Middle East pose a risk to the supply route through the Hormuz Strait, affecting the supply of fertilizers and raw materials.
· China’s export restrictions on fertilizers tighten the supply: China’s recent restrictions on fertilizer exports have reduced supply, making it even more critical for India to seek alternative sources.
· Reliance on imported gas will impact production: Domestic fertilizer production depends on LNG supply. Any disruption to gas supplies will reduce manufacturing output and increase dependence on imports.
· Diversifying imports will reduce risks: Working with a broader range of countries, including Russia, Belarus, Morocco, and possibly Indonesia, will help India avoid over-reliance on any single region.
· Spending on agriculture and inflation: Shortages or high fertilizer prices will lead to increased costs and subsidies, which can affect the overall economy.
Securing the Future of India’s Crops
In the wake of the planting season, New Delhi has taken proactive steps through its foreign policy to increase fertilizer availability and protect the country from disruptions.
