Fertilizer supply in India showed strong momentum in the first week of November, but sales declined in the following two weeks as farmers reported inadequate availability in several regions. While urea and DAP demand remained high, overall sales growth slowed as the month progressed.
Fertilizer Supply in India: Sales Trends in November
Fertilizer sales increased by 6% during November 1โ21, led by 12% growth in urea and 7% growth in DAP. However, sales of Muriate of Potash (MOP) remained flat, and complex fertilizers fell by 5%.
After fertilizer sales doubled in Week 1, the next two weeks recorded a 12% drop, indicating a temporary imbalance in fertilizer supply in India.
During November 1โ21:
Urea: 23.42 lt (20.95 lt last year)
DAP: 11.29 lt (10.53 lt)
MOP: 1.67 lt (unchanged)
Complex: 10.79 lt (11.37 lt)
Government Statement on Fertilizer Availability
Despite farmer complaints, the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers stated that the availability of Urea, MOP, Complexes, and SSP is comfortable.
For DAP, availability was 28.62 lt as of November 21โhigher than the requirement of 17.19 lt for the entire month, strengthening the fertilizer supply in India.
Officials also said opening DAP stocks were higher by 7.84 lt compared to last Rabi season, and imports continue to support inventory.
Stock Levels Supporting Fertilizer Supply in India
Stock position as of November 1:
Urea: 50.54 lt (68.16 lt last year)
DAP: 19.05 lt (11.52 lt)
MOP: 7.33 lt (7.41 lt)
Complex: 36.21 lt (31.13 lt)
Estimated November demand:
Urea: 43.54 lt
DAP: 17.19 lt
MOP: 3.35 lt
Complex: 18.85 lt
Rabi Sowing Boosting Fertilizer Demand
Rabi sowing has expanded sharply, especially for wheat, putting additional pressure on fertilizer supply in India.
Wheat mandi prices stayed stable at โน2,541/quintal during the week ending November 29, about 10% lower than last year. Wheat acreage reached 128.37 lakh hectares, up 20% year-on-year.
DAP Remains Key Nutrient for Wheat and Mustard
Farmers rely heavily on DAP for wheat and mustard field preparation due to its rich phosphorus content.
SSP composition: 16% P, 11% S, 19% Ca
DAP composition: 18% N, 46% P
This nutrient advantage keeps DAP in high demand during the Rabi season.
