India's Fertiliser Import Dependency
India is structurally import-dependent for key fertiliser nutrients. While domestic urea production covers most consumption, potash (MOP) is 100% imported, and phosphatic fertilisers (DAP, MAP) require significant imports. This creates strategic vulnerability when geopolitical events — such as Russia-Ukraine war or sanctions on Belarus — disrupt global supply.
- India's total fertiliser consumption 2023-24: ~601 LMT (Lakh Metric Tonnes)
- Domestic production: ~503 LMT; imports: ~177 LMT (balance-of-trade context)
- Urea import dependency: ~87% domestically met (domestic production has increased significantly)
- Muriate of Potash (MOP): 100% imported — primarily from Canada, Jordan, Russia, Belarus
- DAP: Major source is China, Saudi Arabia (Maaden), Jordan (JPMC), and Morocco
- Long-term supply agreements: Saudi Arabia's Maaden signed with Indian companies (IPL, KRIBHCO, CIL) for 3.1 MMT DAP annually for 5 years from 2025-26
- Russia-Ukraine war: Disrupted potash from Belarus; elevated DAP and urea prices globally 2022-2024
- India's urea: Neem-coating of 100% urea made mandatory in 2015 to reduce misuse
● Tracked since February 01, 2026 · last seen April 20, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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