India Seeks Fertiliser Imports from Russia, Belarus and Morocco Amid Supply Risks: Reports

India is stepping up efforts to safeguard fertiliser availability as geopolitical tensions and trade restrictions begin to strain global supply chains. With the crucial sowing season approaching, authorities are actively engaging with alternative supplier nations to avoid any disruption in agricultural activity. 

Shift Towards Alternative Suppliers 

To reduce dependence on traditional supply routes, India is in discussions with countries such as Russia, Belarus and Morocco to increase fertiliser imports. These talks come as uncertainty grows over supplies from the Middle East, which currently accounts for a significant share of India’s imports of urea and diammonium phosphate. 

Officials indicated that while inventories remain stable for now, the situation could tighten if disruptions persist. One source noted that “we've got more stocks than last year, but if the war goes on longer, things could get tight,” highlighting the precautionary approach being adopted. 

In addition to these countries, India is also considering Indonesia as a backup supplier, even though available quantities from there may be limited. 

Rising Demand and Supply Risks 

Fertiliser demand in India typically rises sharply during June and July, when farmers begin sowing crops such as rice, corn, cotton and oilseeds. To meet this seasonal demand, shipments are usually secured in advance during the March to May period. 

However, global supply conditions have become more challenging. Disruptions in shipping routes, particularly through key energy corridors, have affected liquefied natural gas availability, which is a critical input for urea production. At the same time, China has imposed tighter controls on fertiliser exports, adding further pressure on global availability. 

Industry participants have also flagged rising prices, noting that “just before the war, there was ample urea… below $425 a ton. Now supplies are tight, and prices have risen above $600.” 

Government Measures to Stabilise Supply 

Despite the evolving challenges, there is currently no immediate shortage of fertilisers in the country. The government has taken steps to ensure continuity by prioritising gas allocation to fertiliser plants, enabling them to maintain production levels. 

Authorities are focused on preventing any supply gap during the peak agricultural season. A key concern remains urea, given its widespread use and reliance on gas-based production processes. 

Officials emphasised that the strategy is proactive, with efforts underway to secure additional imports well before demand peaks. 

Read More: India Explores New Avenues for Russia to Use Accumulated Rupee Reserves! 

Conclusion 

India’s outreach to multiple supplier nations reflects a calculated move to manage global uncertainties and ensure uninterrupted fertiliser availability, especially as the country prepares for its critical sowing season. 

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