Which Countries Rely Heavily on Gulf Fertilizer Imports?

Star Illustrated

Countries, including Kenya, remain heavily reliant on fertiliser imports from the Persian Gulf region, according to new data released by UN Trade and Development and Statista.

The report shows that Sudan recorded the highest dependency globally, with 54 per cent of its fertiliser imports by sea in 2024 originating from the Gulf region. Sri Lanka followed at 36 per cent, while Australia accounted for 32 per cent.

In East Africa, Tanzania imported 31 per cent of its fertilisers from the Gulf, Somalia 30 per cent, and Kenya 26 per cent, highlighting the region’s continued dependence on external fertiliser supply chains.

Pakistan and Thailand each recorded a 27 per cent reliance on Gulf fertiliser imports.

The calculations were based on maritime fertiliser imports measured in metric tons.

The findings underscore the strategic importance of the Persian Gulf in the global fertiliser trade amid rising concerns over supply chain disruptions, shipping costs, and food security.

Countries heavily dependent on imported fertilisers remain vulnerable to global market shocks, geopolitical tensions, and fluctuations in freight costs, factors that directly affect agricultural production and food prices.