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

Granular urea

This week all major global markets saw strong price gains, and availability is forecast to remain tight for the short/medium term.

Egyptian product has increased by over $20/t this week and Algerian urea sold at an equivalent of £295/t on farm in the UK for February.

UK demand has increased after the festive period and prices have continued to move up, further depleting stocks held in the UK.

Heading towards first applications UK stocks are at an all-time low, and with such high FOB levels now being quoted, only the brave will step in for any refill.

Ammonium nitrate

In Europe YARA has increased its price for 33.5% N by $12/t.

CF has held its February and March offer. However, given the increases seen elsewhere, terms will be revised upwards soon.

Growers should give serious consideration to cover not just part of their requirements, but all.

Imported AN continues to be offered at parity or a minimum discount to CF product, but availability remains extremely tight and new imports are limited.