There is very little forward buying of fertiliser for next season happening on NI farms, reports from suppliers suggest.
With global energy markets down, many farmers are currently holding off on buying fertiliser in the expectation that prices will drop, or at least remain stable, ahead of next spring.
The price of natural gas, which is a key input for fertiliser production, has fallen by 40% since the most recent peak in February 2025.
When compared to this time last year, most international gas markets are down by approximately 20%.
Another factor that could push fertiliser prices lower is that demand from arable growers could be down globally on the back of poor grain prices.
On the other hand, sources in the trade point to uncertainty about the impact of a new EU carbon tax, a lack of clarity about fertiliser supply in Europe, as well as the constant threat of market disruption due to unforeseen geopolitical events.
Deal
Local fertiliser suppliers are still keen to offer deals to shift last season’s stocks, with reports suggesting full or half loads of CAN are available for around the £340/t mark.
However, with milk prices sliding, most dairy farmers are reluctant to tie too much money up in fertiliser over the winter period.
Paying meal bills, etc, has taken precedence over buying fertiliser for the time being.
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