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.