Fertilizer prices rise 25–35% in Azerbaijan, threatening crop yields

Prices for certain types of imported mineral fertilizers in Azerbaijan have recently increased by 25–35%, adding to farmers’ financial burden and raising concerns about declining crop yields. The main drivers of the price increases include ongoing international armed conflicts, tensions in regions where the country’s key trading partners are located, and supply chain disruptions. Higher fertilizer prices are already affecting farm production costs.

As mineral fertilizers become more expensive, some farmers are being forced to reduce application rates, which could negatively affect crop development, yields and product quality. Farms with limited financial resources to purchase sufficient fertilizer supplies face the greatest risks. As a result, efforts to cut production costs could lead to smaller harvests and lower farm incomes.

According to agricultural expert Vahid Maharramli, prices for nitrogen fertilizers imported from Russia have risen significantly in Azerbaijan. Prices for certain mineral fertilizers rose from 31 to 43 Azerbaijani manats per tonne, or by nearly 39%. The cost of domestically produced urea has also increased, further limiting farmers’ ability to offset high prices for imported products. This situation is adding to price pressure in the fertilizer market and forcing producers to reassess their fieldwork budgets.

Rising fertilizer costs could negatively affect various segments of Azerbaijan’s agricultural sector, particularly grain, vegetable and fruit production. Lower nutrient application rates increase the risk of reduced crop productivity, potentially limiting domestic agricultural supplies and creating additional upward pressure on food prices.

At the same time, specialists advise farmers not to abandon mineral fertilizers entirely, despite the significant price increases. According to experts, maintaining adequate crop nutrition can help avoid greater yield losses and preserve the economic viability of agricultural production.

Tags: Azerbaijan, fertilizers, nitrogen fertilizers