Month: August 2025

Overall market risk: In July 2025, the West African fertilizer market showed a mixed picture of stability and upward price pressures, reflecting both strong seasonal demand and varying supply conditions across the region. In many areas, imports, government support programs, and international partnerships helped ensure steady availability of key products, allowing farmers to access inputs at relatively stable prices during the peak of agricultural activity. However, localized challenges—including raw material shortages for blending, rising ex-factory costs, and logistical pressures—contributed to price increases in some markets and limited overall consumption. Average retail prices for key products such as urea and NPK blends either held steady or rose moderately, depending on supply dynamics, with affordability remaining manageable in certain countries but strained in others. While short-term stability is expected to continue, the market remains sensitive to global fertilizer and energy price movements, regional logistics costs, and evolving government subsidy and regulatory policies that will shape affordability and access in the coming months.

Côte d’Ivoire: In July 2025, Ivory Coast’s fertilizer market remained stable, driven by strong seasonal demand and well-maintained supplies. Agricultural activity peaked as farmers increased purchases, prompting importers to reinforce stocks, with imports reaching over 480,000 tons between January and July—more than double initial forecasts and consistent with past consumption trends. Thanks to this proactive supply management, prices held steady, with a 50 kg bag trading at 21,000 FCFA ($35) for urea, 19,500 FCFA ($33) for NPK 0-23-19, and 22,000 FCFA ($37) for NPK 15-15-15. For cotton fertilizers, 2024 tariffs remain in force at 17,050 FCFA ($28) for urea and 18,100 FCFA ($30) for NPK 15-15-15 +6S +1B, pending new government announcements expected later in the month. While short-term stability is anticipated, the market remains sensitive to shifts in logistics costs, international raw material prices, and regulatory or subsidy policies.

Ghana: In July 2025, Ghana’s fertilizer market remained stable, with prices showing only minor shifts from June and no major affordability concerns for farmers. Imports and government programs ensured strong availability of key products, supported further by international donations aimed at strengthening food security and fair distribution. Despite global uncertainties, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, supply chains have remained resilient, with Russia still accounting for over 24% of Ghana’s fertilizer imports. Retail prices held steady: urea averaged GHS 435.00 ($41.28) per 50kg bag, NPK 23-10-5 stayed at GHS 500.00 ($47.46), NPK 20-10-10 at GHS 400.00 ($36.28), NPK 25-10-10 at GHS 460.00 ($41.72), and ammonium sulphate at GHS 320.00 ($29.02). This price stability, alongside strong supply and accessibility, has provided farmers with a predictable input environment during the peak agricultural season.

Nigeria: In July 2025, Nigeria’s fertilizer market experienced rising prices despite strong farming activity supported by consistent rainfall across much of the country. Demand for fertilizers has increased as farmers continue application, but supply challenges—particularly shortages of raw materials for NPK blending—have driven up costs and encouraged the circulation of adulterated products, keeping overall consumption lower than expected. Urea prices rose sharply, with the ex-factory rate increasing from ₦35,000 to ₦38,000 per 50kg bag, pushing the average retail price up 16% from ₦740,400 ($478) per ton in June to ₦863,600 ($563) in July. Blended products also saw notable hikes, with NPK 15-15-15 rising 11% to ₦1,065,380 ($694) per ton and NPK 20-10-10 climbing 8% to ₦942,000 ($614) per ton. Fertilizer imports dropped significantly as the country transitions into Phase III of the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative (PFI), with only 135,000 metric tons of raw materials imported so far compared to over 300,000 tons during the same period last year. Overall, while demand remains strong, supply shortages and rising costs continue to define the Nigerian fertilizer market.

Availability and Affordability: In July 2025, fertilizer availability in West Africa was largely stable, supported by imports, subsidies, and international programs, ensuring farmers could access key products during peak farming. However, affordability was uneven, with some countries benefiting from stable prices while others faced higher costs due to raw material shortages, rising factory prices, and logistics challenges. Overall, while supply remained steady, access depended heavily on policy support and effective supply management.

Distribution: In July 2025, fertilizer transport across West Africa remained largely efficient, with Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana reporting smooth port operations and reliable inland distribution. Cross-border flows were stable overall, though movement in Northeast Nigeria continued to face restrictions due to insecurity in the region.

Overall market risk: As of June 2025, the West African fertilizer market is marked by heightened activity driven by favorable rainfall, steady import flows, and ongoing government support initiatives. Supply has generally kept pace with growing seasonal demand, ensuring availability across most countries. However, affordability remains a major concern for farmers, as rising production and import costs continue to influence retail prices. While some markets recorded relative price stability and others saw moderate increases, overall market functionality and accessibility have been maintained. Governments and importers remain vigilant, closely tracking international price movements and exchange rate fluctuations to manage supply costs and sustain market balance.

Côte d’Ivoire: In Ivory Coast, the fertilizer market remained well-supplied and stable in June 2025 as crop planting advanced toward its seasonal peak. Import volumes for the first half of the year reached approximately 450,000 tonnes, more than double initial forecasts and consistent with average consumption trends over the past two years. This strong supply ensured that demand was fully met, maintaining market stability. Prices also held steady, with a 50 kg bag of urea averaging 21,000 FCFA (US$35), NPK 0-23-19 at 19,500 FCFA (US$33), and NPK 15-15-15 at 22,000 FCFA (US$37). For cotton cultivation, no new prices have been set, leaving 2024 rates in place: 17,050 FCFA (US$28) for urea and 18,100 FCFA (US$30) for NPK 15-15-15 enriched with sulfur and boron (+6S +1B). While the outlook is stable, the market remains sensitive to potential shifts in international raw material prices, logistics costs, and government policy decisions on subsidies and regulations.

Ghana: The Ghanaian fertilizer market in June 2025 was marked by stable supply and moderate price adjustments, supported by both retail activity and government distribution programs. Average prices of basal NPK fertilizers and urea declined compared to May, with NPK dropping by 6% and urea by 2%, while ammonium sulphate remained stable. High-nitrogen blends such as NPK 25-10-10 continued to record strong demand in the Volta Region, especially in Kpando. In the Northern Regions, fertilizer distribution under government schemes and the Feed Ghana Programme reduced pressure on retail markets, contributing to affordability for farmers. By mid-year, fertilizer consumption exceeded 300,000 MT across product types, reflecting a well-functioning market. Retail prices in June averaged GHS 435.00 (US$42.04) for urea, GHS 500.00 (US$48.33) for NPK 23-10-5, GHS 400.00 (US$38.66) for NPK 20-10-10, and GHS 460.00 (US$44.46) for NPK 25-10-10, while ammonium sulphate held steady at GHS 320.00 (US$30.92). Overall, affordability challenges were limited, and ongoing government support ensured access across farming communities.

Nigeria: Nigeria entered the peak of the wet farming season in June 2025, with consistent rainfall driving widespread agricultural activity and steadily rising fertilizer demand across the country. While supply remains active, particularly from blending plants with access to raw materials, affordability challenges persist as prices continue to rise. Urea recorded the most significant increase, with factory prices jumping from ₦32,500 to ₦35,000 per 50kg bag, pushing average retail prices up by 4% to ₦740,400 (US$478) per ton. NPK prices also rose slightly, with NPK 15-15-15 averaging ₦955,540 (US$616) per ton and NPK 20-10-10 at ₦875,600 (US$565) per ton. Despite adequate availability of products, high costs—driven by raw material constraints, seasonal demand, and low import volumes linked to the ongoing transition into the third phase of the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative—remain a concern for farmers nationwide.

Availability and Affordability: Fertilizer availability across West Africa was generally strong in June 2025, supported by steady imports and improved distribution as planting intensified. Côte d’Ivoire had imported over 450,000 tons, covering most of its seasonal needs, with stable prices due to effective stock management. Nigeria also saw increased demand driven by rainfall, but availability remained inadequate with reported scarcity. Across the region, while fertilizers are largely accessible, affordability is becoming a concern as prices begin to edge up due to rising raw material costs and seasonal demand pressures.

Distribution: In June 2025, fertilizer transport across West Africa was generally smooth. Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana reported efficient port operations and steady inland distribution, with no major disruptions. The cross-border movement of goods remained stable except for Northeast Nigeria, where insecurity continued to restrict fertilizer movement.

Overall market risk: In May 2025, the agricultural season was actively underway across West Africa, with planting and input application activities intensifying due to the arrival or progression of rains. Fertilizer demand increased in all three countries as farmers moved from land preparation to planting and fertilization. Countries ensured early-season preparedness by importing significant volumes of fertilizer ahead of the season, resulting in generally good product availability.

Despite variations in pricing trends stability in some markets and slight increases in others, the overall market remained functional and accessible. Governments and importers closely monitored international price trends and exchange rates to manage supply costs. Government-supported distribution programs (like Ghana’s Feed Ghana) contributed to easing farmer access, while steady domestic production (especially in Nigeria) helped maintain supply.

Côte d’Ivoire: The agricultural season in Côte d’Ivoire began in May with the onset of significant rainfall, triggering active planting and increased fertilizer demand. Importers had proactively stocked up, with over 300,000 metric tons imported in April, about 86% of the annual requirement ensuring strong product availability. Fertilizer prices remained stable, with urea averaging 21,000 FCFA, NPK 0-23-19 at 19,500 FCFA, and NPK 15-15-15 at 22,000 FCFA per 50kg bag. Cotton fertilizer prices were still pending release, with 2024 rates temporarily in use. Price stability is expected to hold in the short term, although external factors like logistics, global raw material costs, and regulatory decisions may influence future pricing.

Ghana: Fertilizer demand in Ghana surged as farmers entered the planting season, particularly seeking basal NPK products. Average prices increased slightly month-on-month—urea by 3%, NPK by 6%, and ammonium sulphate by 1%. Despite the Ghanaian cedi appreciating against the U.S. dollar, the price hikes were attributed to older stock acquired under weaker exchange rates. Fertilizer remained widely available nationwide, with no reported shortages. The government supported access through the Feed Ghana program, distributing about 1,000 bags of fertilizer to vegetable farmers in selected communities. Ghana’s fertilizer market continues to perform steadily, with sufficient availability and manageable price movements.

Nigeria: In Nigeria, rainfall patterns in May shifted farming activities into high gear across the country. In the Northeast and Northwest, where rains arrived later, farmers began land preparation and early planting, while Southern and North Central zones advanced to fertilizer application stages. Fertilizer availability improved in line with seasonal demand, supported by ongoing blending and steady urea production. Prices remained relatively stable nationwide, with the ex-factory price of urea holding at ₦32,500. Farmers across regions were actively purchasing fertilizers for planting and application. With domestic production and regional distribution in full swing, Nigeria’s fertilizer market remained resilient and responsive to growing demand.

Availability and Affordability: Fertilizer availability across West Africa was generally strong in May 2025, supported by steady imports and improved distribution as planting intensified. Côte d’Ivoire had imported over 300,000 tons, covering most of its seasonal needs, with stable prices due to effective stock management. In Ghana, demand rose sharply with the onset of planting, particularly for basal fertilizers like NPK 20-10-10 and 23-10-5, pushing prices upward despite a stronger cedi. Nigeria also saw increased demand driven by rainfall, but availability remained adequate with no reported scarcity. Across the region, while fertilizers are largely accessible, affordability is becoming a concern as prices begin to edge up due to rising raw material costs and seasonal demand pressures.

Distribution: In May 2025, fertilizer transport across West Africa was generally smooth. Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana reported efficient port operations and steady inland distribution, with no major disruptions. The cross-border movement of goods remained stable except for Northeast Nigeria, where insecurity continued to restrict fertilizer movement.

Overall market risk: Farming activities across West Africa are gradually picking up with the onset of the rainy season, though the pace varies across regions depending on rainfall levels. Fertilizer availability remains generally stable, thanks to a combination of local production, steady import flows, and carryover inventories. Prices are mostly holding steady, though slight increases are noted in areas where planting has begun. Importers in some countries are actively building stock while monitoring international price movements. While short-term risks are minimal, logistics and external market pressures could influence supply and pricing. Overall, the region is well-positioned to support the 2025 planting season.

Côte d’Ivoire: As the planting season nears, fertilizer importers are actively replenishing stocks, supported by consistent supply flows and close monitoring of global price trends. A total of 275,676 metric tons—representing about 79% of the estimated annual need—was imported in Q1 2025, ensuring good availability and reducing short-term supply risks. Market prices remain generally stable, with urea selling at 21,000 FCFA ($35), NPK 0-23-19 at 19,500 FCFA ($33), and NPK 15-15-15 at 22,000 FCFA ($37). For cotton farming, 2024 prices are still in use pending official updates. While stability is expected in the short term, external factors like logistics, raw material costs, and policy changes may influence future prices.

Ghana: Fertilizer prices have experienced mild fluctuations, with most products trending upward as farmers actively seek supplies for the ongoing planting season. Urea prices rose by about 2%, while NPK prices saw a slight decline. In Ghana, the recent appreciation of the cedi has led to higher fertilizer costs in USD terms. Over 70,000 metric tons were discharged at Tema Port in April, boosting national inventory. Meanwhile, smallholder farmers are calling on the government to address the shortcomings of the PFJ program in the design of the new “Feed Ghana” initiative.

Nigeria: In April, farming activity across Nigeria was uneven, largely influenced by the onset of rainfall. Planting is actively underway in areas with established rains, while regions with emerging rainfall are still preparing land, and dry areas remain largely inactive. This has led to rising fertilizer demand in active zones, though it remains low elsewhere. Blending activities have increased in response to the wet season, with over 30 plants producing more than 155,000 metric tons of NPK so far this year. Although new raw material imports are limited, carryover stocks from 2024 are supporting production. Fertilizer prices remain relatively stable, though slight increases have been observed in farming zones, with urea’s ex-factory price at ₦32,500 and retail prices varying by region due to transport costs.

Availability and Affordability: In April 2025, fertilizer prices across the region showed a mix of stability and slight increases, largely influenced by the pace of farming activities. Areas where planting had already begun experienced mild price hikes due to rising demand, while regions with delayed rainfall and limited farming saw stable pricing. Overall, demand for fertilizers remained moderate to high as preparations for the planting season continued. Price stability was supported by steady import flows, effective stock management, and balanced supply conditions, helping to minimize sharp fluctuations across most markets.

Distribution: In April 2025, fertilizer logistics across key West African ports and transport routes remained largely smooth. Port operations in major entry points, including Abidjan, San Pedro, Tema, and Takoradi, faced no significant delays, ensuring steady import flows. Inland transportation was generally unhindered, though security-related challenges in some areas in Nigeria continued to restrict access, particularly affecting farmers in more vulnerable regions.

Overall market risk: In March 2025, the West African fertilizer market maintained overall stability, marked by adequate supply, steady prices, and a gradual rise in demand as wet season activities began in some areas. The Southern parts of the region, particularly Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, witnessed the early onset of rains, prompting farmers to commence land preparation and planting. This seasonal transition is beginning to drive fertilizer demand upward, although demand remains modest in areas still experiencing the dry season. Fertilizer prices remained generally stable across the region, with no significant supply shortages reported. Governments and private stakeholders are actively preparing for peak season demand through stockpiling and support initiatives aimed at ensuring availability and affordability.

Côte d’Ivoire: In preparation for the May planting season, importers significantly increased fertilizer stocks, bringing total volumes in early March to around 150,000 tons. While most farmers are still maintaining fields rather than planting, the early buildup ensures supply readiness. Fertilizer prices remained stable, with key products such as Urea, NPK 15-15-15, and NPK 0-23-19 showing no significant changes. Cotton fertilizer prices are expected to be revised in April or May. Market stability is projected to continue, although external factors such as international logistics and raw material costs could influence pricing

Ghana: Fertilizer prices stayed relatively stable in March, despite continued depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi. Import levels rose, with 20,000–25,000 tons added to existing stock, ensuring sufficient supply. No shortages were reported. The government and partner organizations are working to support affordability and availability, especially for farmers affected by the 2024 dry spell.

Nigeria: In March, rainfall marked the beginning of the wet season in the Southern and North Central regions, prompting early land preparation and planting. This has led to a gradual rise in fertilizer demand in these zones, while the Northern region remains in the dry season with low demand. NPK prices remained stable, but Urea prices showed occasional fluctuations due to varying ex-factory costs. Fertilizer availability remains strong nationwide, with blending plants expected to ramp up production to meet rising demand as the season progresses.

Availability and Affordability: In March 2025, fertilizer market conditions across West Africa remained largely stable, with strong supply levels and gradually increasing demand as preparations for the new planting season began. Fertilizer prices stayed relatively flat across Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, while Nigeria experienced slight price increases, particularly for Urea and NPK products, due to early season farming activities. Across the region, the availability of fertilizers was strong, supported by steady import volumes and proactive stock management by importers and distributors. Although demand has remained moderate in some areas, market actors are gearing up for an expected uptick in consumption as the wet season progresses.

Distribution: In March 2025, fertilizer transport and logistics across West Africa remained largely stable, enabling smooth product flow to major agricultural regions. Most countries reported no significant disruptions at seaports or along major transportation corridors. However, localized challenges persist in specific areas.