UN Warns Hormuz Blockade Could Trigger Global Food Crisis


 Thursday 23 April 2026

UN Warns Hormuz Blockade Could Trigger Global Food Crisis
The UN says a prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could drive food inflation and shortages, risking a crisis similar to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The trade of fertilizers is currently at risk due to the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region, which has severely impacted the flow of energy and fertilizers through the Strait of Hormuz. This conflict has led to a significant reduction in shipping activity, with daily transits dropping from an average of 103 vessels in the last week of February to single digits within weeks. The disruption has created shortages and increased costs for countries that rely on the Gulf for essential agricultural inputs. The situation is further complicated by the fact that fertilizers are a critical input in the production of nitrogen-based fertilizers such as urea and ammonia, which are essential for modern farming. The conflict has also raised concerns about the potential for a global food crisis due to the impact on the availability of fertilizers and crop yields.

Fertilizers are essential in farming as they enhance crop yields, improve soil health, and ensure food security, making them a critical component of modern agriculture.
Enhancing Crop Yields

Fertilizers provide essential nutrients that plants need for healthy growth, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). These nutrients are vital for various plant processes, such as photosynthesis, root development, and disease resistance. By replenishing depleted nutrients in the soil, fertilizers significantly increase crop yields, allowing farmers to produce more food on the same amount of land. Studies have shown that fertilizer use can boost crop yields by up to 50% or more in some cases.

Improving Soil Health
Over time, continuous cropping and other agricultural practices can deplete essential nutrients from the soil. Fertilizers help maintain soil fertility by replenishing these nutrients, which is crucial for sustainable agricultural production. Healthy soils support beneficial microbial activity and improve soil structure, leading to better water retention and nutrient availability for plants.

Ensuring Food Security
As the global population continues to grow, the demand for food increases. Fertilizers play a critical role in meeting this demand by enhancing agricultural productivity. They enable farmers to produce more food without expanding into new areas, thus helping to prevent deforestation and maintain ecosystem stability yara.com+1. By improving the nutritional value of crops through biofortification, fertilizers also contribute to human health by providing essential nutrients in the food.

Supporting Sustainable Agriculture
Fertilizers can be categorized into organic and inorganic types. Organic fertilizers, derived from natural sources, improve soil health and promote long-term fertility, while inorganic fertilizers provide immediate nutrient supply. Both types, when used responsibly, can support sustainable agricultural practices by ensuring that soils remain productive over time.

In summary, fertilizers are indispensable in modern farming. They not only enhance crop yields and improve soil health but also play a vital role in ensuring food security for a growing global population. By understanding and utilizing fertilizers effectively, farmers can contribute to a more sustainable and productive agricultural system.

South Africa's fertilizer industry is influenced by global trade dynamics, local agricultural needs, and environmental factors. The country primarily imports fertilizers from Saudi Arabia, Russia, Qatar, China, Germany, and Oman. In 2023, the value of fertilizers imported was $824 million, with a peak in 2022 exceeding $1.5 billion. The highest export volumes were recorded in 2015, with most exports destined for neighboring countries like Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, and Eswatini.

The Fertilizer Association of Southern Africa (Fertasa) represents the industry, promoting its image and interests through effective engagement with government and organized agriculture.

South African farmers can optimize fertilizer application by conducting soil tests, developing nutrient management plans, and employing techniques such as split applications and banding. These strategies help maximize the benefits of fertilizer while minimizing its drawbacks.

Afrifert and Kynoch Fertilizer are notable companies in the South African fertilizer market, offering high-quality fertilizers and specialized knowledge to empower farmers.

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