Calum Findlay, Gleadell’s fertiliser manager, comments on the fertiliser markets

Ammonium nitrate

European markets remain quiet as harvest continues. With shipments from Lithuania’s giant Achema factory now moved to September, values for imported material remain stable for both August and September delivery periods.

GrowHow has held prices, which remain at a £10/t premium to imported product. However, values are likely to increase by a further £3/t for September and monthly thereafter.

Urea

Globally, prices look to have stabilised as US markets continue to firm steadily for nearby months and Q4 and 2016 Q1.

UK importers have moved prices up to reflect this move and, with the global supply outlook remaining tight, further increases are expected.

P&K

Straight phosphate and potash are still trading below replacement in the UK, with blends trading at further discounts to encourage buyers.

However, many blenders are operating well below the cost of production so we expect price rises on PK fertilisers next week.