Fertilizer imports to Ukraine have increased, but the deficit remains significant

In the first quarter of 2026, Ukraine imported almost 1.2 million tons of fertilizers, which is 13% more than in the same period last year.

“A significant increase in imports of nitrogen fertilizers compensated for a significant drop in NPK import volumes. The situation was largely saved by imports of urea from Nigeria and sulfate from China. If in December traders expected increased competition and complained about an excess supply, then in March there was a cardinal change – prices almost doubled, and there was not enough goods,” the experts explained the situation.

Thus, the import of nitrogen fertilizers (N) amounted to 693 thousand tons, 27 thousand tons of potash fertilizers (K) were imported to Ukraine, and 12 thousand tons of phosphorus fertilizers (P). The import of complex fertilizers looks like this: NPK – 204 thousand tons, NP – 168 thousand tons, PK – 13 thousand tons.

“As of April 1, 2026, we have a shortage of NPK, at least 100 thousand tons, and a clear shortage of phosphorus-containing fertilizers – 70-80 thousand tons. We must take into account the ban on the export of phosphorus fertilizers from China and the chain of problems that are already being felt due to the Iranian war. By the end of this year, the word “deficit” will become almost synonymous with the word “fertilizers,” experts summarize.

Tags: Ukraine, imports, fertilizers