The Indian government has issued a second global tender to import 70 lakh tonne of urea for the upcoming kharif season, despite a sharp increase in international prices. This move aims to ensure adequate fertiliser supplies amid disruptions linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis, as reported by PTI.
Price Surge and Tender Details
The global price of urea has surged from $447 per tonne in February to $947 per tonne currently, according to Fertiliser Ministry Additional Secretary Aparna S Sharma. Speaking during an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia, she confirmed that the tender is in progress and the final price is yet to be determined.
India has already secured 25 lakh tonne of urea and 50 lakh tonne of di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) from sources outside the Strait of Hormuz. These shipments are expected to arrive during June and July, providing a buffer for the sowing season.
Domestic Production and Imports
According to the ministry, domestic fertiliser production stood at 104.81 lakh tonne during the period of the West Asia crisis, while imports amounted to 27.62 lakh tonne. This brings the total addition to availability to approximately 132.43 lakh tonne. The government is closely monitoring the situation to maintain stable supplies.
Revised Demand Estimates
Factoring in the El Niño outlook, the agriculture ministry has revised fertiliser demand estimates downward after consultations with state governments. Urea demand for the 2026-27 kharif season is now estimated at 194 lakh tonne, a reduction of 4 lakh tonne from earlier projections. Similarly, demand for DAP has been reduced by 6 lakh tonne to 60 lakh tonne, Sharma stated.
Kharif Sowing Season Underway
The kharif sowing season has begun in parts of the country, with farmers starting field preparations and early sowing activities in regions that have received pre-monsoon rainfall. The government's proactive measures aim to support farmers and ensure timely availability of fertilisers.
