Fertiliser report for 25th February 2011

Calum Findlay, fertiliser trader

As grain markets go into turmoil, fertiliser markets remain calm as the Egyptian situation eases. Libya, not being a major player, has little effect, with Asian markets concentrating on phosphate purchases. Shippers of Urea continue to reduce physical stocks, as A/N prices continue to firm, and are rising in France as we approach the tail end demand for the season.

Within the UK, as spring approaches, the stock sector slowly starts to buy with an upsurge expected when drier weather finally arrives, and the arable sector starts to assess any top ups after increased autumn drilling.

With increased A/N prices expected in June, a decision on purchasing competitively-priced Urea on the spot market for current use - and keeping well priced product from last season - is a factor that will become apparent during the coming weeks.

In the coming months, the main unknown factor is how stable the Middle East will be as Europe approaches the major buying season in June/July.

Stocks of Urea within in the UK are reducing with very little new shipments of Granular Urea or A/N, and GrowHow continue to export to the French market.

Blends continue to be competitive as blenders reduce stocks, amidst nervousness about uptake from the cash strapped stock sector in the coming weeks. So, whilst products are readily available, it is likely some logistic problems will occur when demand strengthens.