Farmers in crisis: Fertilizer shortage puts crops and livelihoods at risk

Farmers in nearly every part of Bangladesh are struggling due to a severe fertilizer shortage. 

The stock held by the government is not enough to meet the demand, and while the Department of Agricultural Extension insists there isn’t a major crisis, many believe a syndicate is intentionally making the situation worse to embarrass the interim government.

In the northern regions, where potato cultivation is common, the pressure is mounting as the Boro season approaches. 

Farmers are particularly anxious because fertilizers are vital for crop growth, and without them, their livelihoods are at risk.

The need for fertilizer peaks from December to March, but in places like Naogaon, traders and dealers are using the shortage as an excuse to hike prices by as much as 250 Taka per bag. 

Farmers are left paying more but still struggling to get their hands on enough fertilizer. Similar issues are reported in Rajshahi and other districts.

A farmer from Rajshahi explained the price differences he faced, saying, “One shop is asking for 1,400 Taka per bag, while another is charging 1,530 Taka for the same thing. How can we get the fertilizer we need?”

The Ministry of Agriculture informed the Ministry of Finance that several foreign fertilizer suppliers have not delivered their stock due to payment issues. 

However, insiders suspect that corrupt officials are working with syndicates, and the blame is being unfairly shifted to dealers and traders.

KSM Mostafizur Rahman, a member of the Fertilizer Association, pointed out, 

“There may be syndicates or other manipulations taking place here. The supply chain needs to be monitored more effectively. There is also a need for the strict enforcement of laws. If anyone is involved in syndication, there are special powers under the Special Powers Act and the Consumer Rights Protection Act that can be applied. Fertilizers must be delivered to farmers at the correct price, not just at any price.”

Despite the issues in some areas, the Department of Agricultural Extension insists that there is no overall shortage of fertilizers. 

They are working to identify and address the syndicate’s manipulations.

Md. Saiful Alam, Director-General of the Department, said, 

“It’s difficult to identify the invisible syndicate, but we can strengthen monitoring. If we can ensure that the fertilizers reach the farmers who actually need them, we’ve instructed upazila and district-level officials to take action.”

More than 70% of the chemical fertilizers used in the country are applied during the Boro and Rabi seasons, so any delay in supply is worrisome. 

Experts fear that without timely distribution, the country may face food shortages in the coming months.