India strengthens fertilizer security strategy amid high import costs

India is stepping up efforts to strengthen fertilizer security amid high import costs and supply risks. At a strategy session organized by the Fertiliser Association of India (FAI) in New Delhi, government representatives and leading industry companies discussed support for domestic production, supply stability and further regulatory changes.

Separate discussions focused on urea, phosphatic and potassic fertilizers, single super phosphate and emerging market segments. Participants are preparing recommendations for the government aimed at improving operating conditions for producers and promoting more balanced nutrient use.

The issue has become more urgent following disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, which have kept import costs elevated. In response, India has intensified large-scale urea purchases, including around 1.78 mln tons contracted by RCF in August.

The government has also increased support for the domestic fertilizer market. Around $4.49 billion in subsidies for phosphatic and potassic fertilizers was approved for April–September 2026, about $460 million more than a year earlier.

A separate discussion on regulatory reforms for specialty fertilizers and biostimulants is also planned in New Delhi in September. India is therefore focusing simultaneously on import security, support for domestic production and modernization of fertilizer-sector regulation.

Tags: imports, fertilizers, carbamide, phosphate fertilizers, prices, India