Fertiliser Imports Surge as India Plans Record DAP Purchase

India is preparing for a significant rise in Fertiliser Imports, with plans to procure a record 1.35 million tonnes of diammonium phosphate (DAP) in a single tender. The move comes amid growing concerns over global supply disruptions triggered by geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing Iran conflict, which has impacted fertilizer availability and trade routes.

The large-scale procurement represents nearly a quarter of India’s annual DAP requirement, highlighting the urgency to secure adequate supplies ahead of the upcoming sowing season. Officials stated that the decision is aimed at ensuring stable availability of key crop nutrients and preventing shortages that could affect agricultural productivity.

Experts note that rising dependence on DAP imports reflects broader challenges in the global fertilizer market, where supply chain instability and fluctuating raw material costs are putting pressure on prices. The current purchase is also expected to tighten international supply further, potentially pushing global fertilizer prices higher in the coming months.

The government’s move is seen as a precautionary step to protect Indian farmers from external shocks and maintain steady input availability during critical crop cycles. DAP is a crucial nutrient used for enhancing crop yield, particularly in cereals and cash crops.

Analysts also highlight that increasing agri-input imports underscores the need for long-term strategies such as domestic production expansion and alternative nutrient planning to reduce import dependency.

Geenrally, India’s record procurement reflects both immediate risk management and the growing importance of securing food security through stable fertiliser supply chains.