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

Granular urea

Egyptian and North African product remains firm with support from the US for March and the first half of April. Conditions continue to be ideal for applying urea, forecast to remain cooler with damp mornings, which will minimise losses. At current levels urea remains the most competitive buy on a cost-per-nutrient basis.

April tonnes are available at a discount to March but, with offers subject to the arrival of new cargoes, buyers should be cautious if product is needed for prompt delivery.

Ammonium nitrate

Stocks of imported AN are now tight for spot movement, with limited stocks in store on the east coast and new arrivals not due until April. Values on all imported AN look set to remain under pressure.

CF continues its aggressive stance on pricing and is well placed to get product onto farm at short notice in the busy spring period.

NPK

The market has settled at current levels. Whilst demand has slowed from the arable sector, buyers for grassland fertilisers have increased. Blenders continue to work at full capacity to meet current orders. With increased pressure on haulage, getting deliveries at short notice is becoming less of a possibility.

Advice would be to book requirements as early as possible, in order to have product in the store ready for application.