The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has called on governments worldwide to avoid restrictions on the trade of fertilizers and other key agricultural inputs. Speaking during the 181st Session of the FAO Council, Director-General Qu Dongyu stressed that uninterrupted access to fertilizers is essential for maintaining global crop production and ensuring food security.
FAO warned that disruptions to major shipping routes and supply chains can have far-reaching consequences for agriculture far beyond the regions directly affected. Rising fertilizer costs and shortages may reduce crop yields, increase production costs for farmers, and contribute to higher food prices for consumers around the world.
The organization also encouraged countries to improve fertilizer-use efficiency, adopt sustainable farming practices, and strengthen international cooperation to build more resilient agrifood systems. According to FAO, better management of agricultural inputs can help farmers increase productivity while reducing environmental impacts.
Agricultural experts say the announcement is particularly significant because fertilizers are fundamental to the production of staple crops such as wheat, maize, rice, and vegetables. Ensuring stable global supplies will be critical for supporting farmers, protecting harvests, and maintaining affordable food supplies as geopolitical and climate-related challenges continue to affect agriculture worldwide.
