India's Strategic Move to Secure Fertiliser Supplies Amid Global Disruptions

In light of the ongoing Middle East conflict affecting global fertiliser availability, India is proactively securing its urea supplies. The government has directed Indian Potash Ltd to import 2.5 million metric tonnes of urea, crucial for the upcoming Kharif sowing season. Additionally, measures to enhance domestic production through increased natural gas supply to urea plants are being implemented. This strategic response highlights the importance of timely fertiliser access for key crops, ensuring farmers are supported during critical planting periods.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 6, 2026, 15:36 IST

Urgent Measures for Fertiliser Security

In response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the resulting disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, India is taking decisive action to secure its fertiliser supplies. The government has instructed Indian Potash Ltd (IPL), a state-owned entity, to initiate a tender for the importation of 2.5 million metric tonnes of urea. This step is crucial to prevent any shortages in the domestic market, particularly with the Kharif sowing season approaching.

Tender Specifications:

1.5 million tonnes will be imported via the west coast

1 million tonnes will come through the east coast

Shipments are scheduled to be loaded by June 14

Bids must be submitted by April 15

As the largest importer of urea globally, India is currently facing challenges due to supply chain disruptions linked to the US-Israel conflict with Iran. The Middle East is responsible for nearly half of India's urea and DAP imports, with Saudi Arabia and Oman being the primary suppliers.

Enhancing Domestic Production

In a related initiative, the government has decided to boost the natural gas supply to urea production facilities from the current 70-75% to 90% of their average consumption starting Monday. The fertiliser ministry reported that domestic urea production fell to 18 lakh tonnes in March, down from the typical average of 24 lakh tonnes. Increased gas availability and additional spot LNG purchases are anticipated to enhance production in the upcoming months. Furthermore, the government has raised gas allocations for industrial and commercial users, including city gas distribution networks, by an extra 10%.

Importance of Timely Fertiliser Availability

Urea plays a vital role in the cultivation of key crops such as rice, maize, and soybeans. With the monsoon season expected to commence in June, ensuring timely access to fertilisers is critical for farmers nationwide. Officials have urged all industrial consumers, including fertiliser manufacturers, to communicate any additional gas requirements to gas marketing companies promptly, facilitating swift arrangements for supplies. This new import tender and the increase in gas supply underscore the government's commitment to addressing the potential fertiliser shortage stemming from the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.