In an era where the global population surges toward 10 billion by 2050, food security hinges on agricultural productivity. Fertilisers, essential for replenishing soil nutrients, boost crop yields by up to 50%, making their supply chain a strategic pillar of global sustenance. Without adequate fertilisers, vast swathes of arable land would underperform, exacerbating hunger in vulnerable regions. This supply's disruption, as seen in recent geopolitical tensions, underscores its criticality: price spikes and shortages can cascade into food crises, affecting billions.
Globally, fertiliser production and exports are dominated by a handful of nations. Russia leads as the top exporter, contributing about 16.6% of global fertiliser exports, primarily potash and nitrogen-based products. China follows closely, accounting for 10.1%, excelling in nitrogen and phosphate output. Canada ranks third with 8%, renowned for potash. Morocco, a phosphate powerhouse, supplies 6.4%, leveraging its vast reserves. The USA and Saudi Arabia round out the top six, with shares of 6.2% and 5.9%, respectively, focusing on diverse nutrients like ammonia and urea. These countries control over 50% of exports, making supply vulnerabilities, such as sanctions on Russia or export curbs in China, direct threats to food security worldwide.
In Africa, where soil depletion and climate challenges amplify fertiliser needs, local companies play a vital role in bolstering regional food systems. Morocco's OCP Group, a global giant, dominates phosphate production and operates subsidiaries (OCP Africa) across the continent, blending custom fertilisers in nations like Nigeria and Ethiopia. Nigeria hosts Dangote Fertiliser Limited, Africa's largest urea plant with a 3 million tonne capacity, reducing import dependency. Yara International operates in 60 countries and supplies tailored nutrients to 150 countries around the world. Other key players include Indorama Corporation in Nigeria, Industries Chimiques du Senegal (ICS) for DAP and NPK, and South Africa's Kynoch Fertilizer, offering crop-specific solutions.
Ultimately, the global fertiliser supply's strategic importance demands diversified sourcing and sustainable practices to safeguard food security. By investing in African companies, the continent can mitigate external shocks, fostering self-reliance and resilience in feeding its growing population – which happens to be the fastest growing population the world!