Why is India diversifying its fertilizer imports from China?

India is diversifying fertilizer imports as China has reportedly restricted its supplies of speciality fertilisers.

What are India's indigenous fertilizer solutions?

India is developing nano-fertilisers, bio-fertilisers, and customised nutrient blends to reduce import reliance.

How much of India's fertilizer imports come from China?

In fiscal year 2024-25, China supplied 65.65% of India's total water-soluble fertiliser imports.

Home / Business and Economy / India Diversifies Fertilizer Sources Amid China Supply Squeeze

India Diversifies Fertilizer Sources Amid China Supply Squeeze

5 Dec, 2025

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Summary

India is importing speciality fertilisers from Germany, Egypt, and others due to China's restrictions.
Indigenous nano and bio-fertiliser solutions are being advanced to reduce import dependence.
China supplied 65.65% of India's water-soluble fertiliser imports in FY 2024-25.

India Diversifies Fertilizer Sources Amid China Supply Squeeze

India is actively seeking alternative international suppliers for speciality fertilisers amidst reports of China curtailing exports over recent months. Companies are now turning to Belgium, Egypt, Germany, Morocco, and the United States to mitigate the impact of these supply disruptions. Speciality fertilisers are currently unsubsidised and fall outside the government's Nutrient Based Subsidy scheme, allowing companies flexibility in their import decisions based on market conditions.

Concurrently, India is intensifying efforts towards self-sufficiency in nutrient management. Research institutions, including the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and State Agricultural Universities, are spearheading the development of indigenous alternatives. These include advanced solutions like zinc EDTA, boron blends, nano-fertilisers, and bio-fertilisers enriched with essential micronutrients, aiming to lessen import dependency.