01 September, 2026 | By The Times - August 26

Farmers Encouraged to Plan Ahead Amid Fertiliser Supply Concern

British farmers are being encouraged to plan their fertiliser requirements early as disruption in the Middle East places renewed pressure on global supplies and prices.

A significant proportion of the world’s fertiliser and ammonia supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Ongoing disruption in the region has raised concerns about the availability and cost of nitrogen-based fertilisers, including urea and ammonium nitrate.

The market was already facing uncertainty due to the continued effects of the war in Ukraine, sanctions, banking restrictions and wider disruption to international trade. With major agricultural markets now competing for alternative supplies, smaller importing countries such as the UK could face tighter availability and higher replacement costs.

This does not mean fertiliser is currently unavailable. However, securing the required product and arranging delivery at short notice may become increasingly difficult as the spring application period approaches.

Even when fertiliser is available, it must still be transported, stored, blended, bagged and delivered. A sudden increase in demand could therefore place considerable pressure on haulage capacity and available delivery slots.

The UK is particularly exposed to changes in the international fertiliser market because domestic production is limited and manufacturers are increasingly reliant on imported raw materials, including ammonia.

For farmers already facing financial pressure following difficult weather conditions, further increases in fertiliser prices or interruptions to supply would add another challenge when planning for the coming season.

Plan Your Fertiliser Requirements Early

Farmers should review their expected fertiliser requirements as early as possible and avoid relying on last-minute availability ahead of key application dates.

Ordering early can help provide greater certainty over:

• Product availability

• Delivered prices

• Suitable delivery dates

• Spring application planning

• Overall input costs

To discuss your fertiliser requirements, current availability or delivery options, please contact the Galloway & MacLeod team on 01698 791919.