Global fertilizer markets are on edge after Iran announced a suspension of food and agricultural exports as its conflict with Israel and the United States entered a fourth day.
The move is raising concerns about supply disruptions from a region that plays a critical role in global crop nutrient production and shipping.
The Persian Gulf remains a strategic hub for fertilizer output, while the Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of global trade in crop nutrients.
Iran exported fertilisers worth $169.11 million to Nigeria in 2022, data from the UN COMTRADE database reveal.
In 2025, Nigeria imported roughly 560,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser; demand is expected to increase further this year as the wet season approaches.
Given that farmers in Nigeria are getting ready to plant, The News Chronicle understands how sensitive the timing of the export ban is, especially.
According to industry experts, any disruption could lead to higher input costs and, ultimately, more expensive food for customers.
Reports show that prices were already high before the recent rise. Prices of granular urea have allegedly risen dramatically in Egypt as consumers rush for other options.
About 11% of world urea exports come from Qatar, most of which come from Gulf facilities.
Analysts predict that, with farmers across the Northern Hemisphere starting their high-application season, ongoing stress in the area could further drive up fertiliser prices and heighten the risk of global food inflation.
