Fertilizer crisis risk rises as U.S. pushes G20 action on global food security concerns
The U.S. is pushing G20 action to secure fertilizer access as war-driven disruptions threaten global food security and supply chains.
The United States is leading a new G20 initiative to ensure fertilizer access, as global supply chains face mounting disruptions due to the war in the Middle East. The effort, confirmed on April 17 by sources familiar with the discussions, aims to prevent a severe impact on agricultural production during a critical planting season.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is pushing for coordinated action among G20 members, alongside institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, to stabilize fertilizer availability and avoid deeper shocks across global agriculture.
The urgency is underscored by warnings from international organizations that supply chain disruptions could push up to 45 million more people into food insecurity, particularly in vulnerable regions like sub-Saharan Africa. Several countries are already seeking emergency financial assistance.
Fertilizer, energy, and geopolitics reshape global agriculture
Washington sees fertilizer as a cornerstone of global food security, making it a priority area for immediate multilateral action. The G20, currently chaired by the U.S., includes major stakeholders such as China, Russia, the European Union, and Saudi Arabia.
The Middle East conflict has also triggered a surge in energy prices, directly affecting fertilizer production costs-especially nitrogen-based inputs-adding further pressure on farmers and global supply chains.
Meanwhile, the United Nations is promoting a humanitarian corridor through the Strait of Hormuz to safeguard the flow of fertilizers and essential goods. This highlights how logistics, energy, and agriculture are increasingly interconnected in shaping global food systems.
For Latin America, the situation presents both risks and opportunities. While higher global prices may support export revenues, the region's dependence on imported fertilizers exposes producers to rising costs and supply uncertainty, challenging competitiveness in key agricultural markets.
