Nepal set for fresh fertiliser crunch as Iran war hits supply, pushes up prices
Summary
The war in Iran has pushed global fertiliser prices higher, threatening Nepal's fertiliser supply during its critical paddy transplantation period, potentially impacting crop yields and food security.
Key Points
- The war in Iran has caused a sharp increase in global fertiliser prices, disrupting supply chains.
- Nepal depends heavily on imported chemical fertilisers to meet its agricultural demands, with a current shortfall expected during the paddy transplantation period.
- Government efforts include signing contracts and seeking alternatives such as imports from India to mitigate potential shortages.
- High fertiliser prices and supply disruptions could reduce crop yields, increase food prices, and worsen poverty and food insecurity in Nepal.