Our Bureau
Mumbai
Fertiliser stocks rallied after several India-bound supply vessels carrying key agricultural inputs resumed their journey through the Strait of Hormuz, easing concerns over possible disruptions ahead of the Kharif sowing season. Around 12 fertiliser cargo ships that were earlier held up near the strategic waterway have started moving towards Indian ports, according to reports.
The development provided relief to markets, with investors responding positively to signs of improving supply conditions. Fertiliser companies gained as concerns over shortages of imported nutrients, including urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), ammonia and sulphur, began to ease.
The vessels had been delayed due to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping route connecting the Persian Gulf with international markets. Earlier, India had 16 fertiliser-linked ships carrying essential agricultural supplies stranded in the region, including vessels loaded with urea, DAP, ammonia and sulphur.
The resumption of movement is expected to strengthen India’s fertiliser availability during the crucial crop season. The government has maintained that there is no immediate shortage risk, stating that the country had already secured significant supplies through imports and increased domestic production. India had imported about 5 million tonnes of crop nutrients and also initiated steps to source additional urea supplies.
Industry officials, however, cautioned that a complete recovery in global fertiliser supply chains may take time. While the movement of ships has improved, logistics disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties continue to influence international markets.
The easing of the Hormuz disruption comes at an important time for Indian agriculture, as farmers prepare for the Kharif season, when demand for fertilisers typically rises. Analysts said improved availability could reduce supply pressure and provide stability to fertiliser prices.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical route for global commodity trade, and any prolonged disruption can impact countries dependent on imports. For India, which relies on overseas supplies for several fertiliser inputs, the safe passage of these vessels marks a positive development for agricultural preparedness.
