As the Gulf conflict persists, Pakistan’s farm input security vulnerabilities have been highlighted by disruptions in global fertilizer markets. While domestic production has shielded Pakistan from urea shortages, the reliance on imports for diammonium phosphate (DAP) leaves the farm economy at risk. Pakistan’s annual DAP production of 0.7 million tonnes falls short of the required 2 million tonnes, mostly met through imports from the Middle East.
The reliance on DAP imports exposes Pakistan to price fluctuations and logistical challenges, unlike urea, which benefits from local stocks. Global disruptions like supply chain issues and feedstock shortages are squeezing availability, potentially leading to higher costs, limited supplies during planting seasons, and farmers being forced to adjust nutrient applications.
DAP scarcity poses a significant threat to agriculture, especially in early-stage crop growth, impacting staple crop yields. The shortfall in DAP cannot be compensated by urea or other nutrients without compromising productivity, farm incomes, price stability, and ultimately, food security. Ensuring uninterrupted gas supply to existing DAP plants is crucial, with policymakers urged to incentivize domestic production and reduce import reliance for long-term sustainability.
