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

Urea

Global markets have eased in US dollar terms due to limited fresh demand and surplus volumes available, but the sharply weaker pound is pushing up UK values.
We are starting to see volumes move onto farm quicker than previously anticipated. Some importers are moving Feb/Mar deliveries already.

Our advice would be to order now, making sure product is in the store in time for application, rather than delay booking and possibly miss the ideal timing.

Ammonium nitrate

Prices of imported AN appear to have stabilised at current levels despite the recent currency shifts.

UK AN prices are currently trading a small premium to the imported products. However, we would advise all AN users to strongly consider the use of UK product due to its high quality and spreading ability.

PK

Imported stocks of Canadian MOP have now mainly been cleared and many suppliers have moved on to Cleveland Potash product.

Higher raw material costs have led blenders to firm values to cover the increased cost of production.