Shipments of water-soluble fertilizers (WSF) from China to India are effectively suspended, although there has not been an official announcement from the Chinese authorities.

Local reports say that Chinese port officials have withheld inspection clearance for consignments marked for India.

The president of the Soluble Fertilizer Industry Association of India was quoted in one report as saying that deliveries had come to a complete halt.

China would typically account for 80 per cent of an approximate 400,000 tonnes per year WSF market in India.

One industry source told New AG International that this was a ‘huge issue’ for India. Buyers had enjoyed a ready supply at very competitive prices. Importers will now have to source from other supply regions.

Events around trade disputes can change quickly. This might be a strategy for the Chinese to retain more WSF for its domestic market or establish higher prices for its exports.

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