India Boosts Fertilizer Stocks via Alternative Sources
India is diversifying fertilizer imports to secure summer supplies. Stocks have reached 18 million tons as the government maintains subsidies for farmers.
India is aggressively diversifying its fertilizer supply chain to ensure agricultural productivity for the upcoming summer-sown crop season. The strategy involves tapping into alternative international markets to reduce dependence on the Gulf region, which has historically supplied up to 30% of the country’s urea and Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) imports, especially in light of regional tensions involving Iran.
Aparna Sharma, additional secretary in the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, reported that current stockpiles stand at 18 million metric tons, an increase from 14.7 million tons a year ago. Total demand for the summer season is expected to reach 39 million metric tons, necessitating proactive procurement measures. Sharma highlighted the government's diversification efforts during a media briefing:
