Iran war pushes farmers towards organic fertilisers as chemical prices surge

Rising fertiliser prices triggered by the US-Israel war on Iran are forcing farmers across parts of Africa, Asia and Latin America to turn to alternatives such as cow dung, compost and biofertilisers, raising hopes for a shift toward more sustainable farming practices.

In Senegal, farmer Abou Sow said he first noticed the impact of the conflict after seeing reports online of US strikes on Iran. Since the war began on 28 February, fertiliser prices have risen by about 40%, putting pressure on farmers already struggling with high costs.

Sow, however, was ahead of many others. Eight years ago, he stopped using chemical fertilisers and switched to organic compost made from livestock waste and natural materials.

He now helps other farmers source manure locally and produce compost, checking soil quality by spotting healthy earthworms.

"We cannot wait for a ceasefire," he said. "Depending on chemical fertilisers is risky."

Experts say the conflict has disrupted global supply chains, including natural gas supplies used to produce fertiliser, particularly after tensions around the Strait of Hormuz affected energy and shipping routes.

The Gulf region accounts for around 30% of global fertiliser trade, and international prices have jumped by nearly 50%, according to the World Bank.

UN Food and Agriculture Organization chief economist Maximo Torero warned that rising costs could seriously affect global food security.

Shift toward natural farming

Experts say reducing reliance on chemical fertilisers could bring environmental benefits, as their production contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.

Organic alternatives such as compost and manure can improve soil health and reduce pollution, while also helping store carbon in the soil.

In Senegal, where the country imports about 125,000 tons of fertiliser annually, farmers say shortages are becoming more visible despite government assurances of supply.

Some farmers blame global leaders for rising costs. "War has made everything expensive," said farmer Aliou Fall.

Sow now uses about six tons of compost per year. He benefits from nearby livestock farming, which provides easy access to manure.

But he warned that farmers in remote areas face major difficulties in sourcing and transporting organic materials. He also fears that rising costs could force some farmers to abandon their land.

Biofertilisers and government response

Across Africa, companies are increasingly producing biofertilizers made from bacteria and organic waste, including processed food scraps.

Senegal's government has announced subsidies and distribution of 30,000 tons of organic fertiliser, but farmers say the support remains insufficient.

Global subsidies continue to favour chemical fertilisers, making alternatives less competitive, experts say.

"You are still incentivising the wrong products," said food systems expert Susan Chomba.

Brazil sees rapid growth in biofertilizers

In Brazil, which imports more than 80% of its fertiliser, prices have also jumped sharply since the conflict began.

Experts say the biofertiliser sector is expanding quickly, growing by about 15% in the past year as farmers look for cheaper and more resilient alternatives.

Agricultural economist Joana Colussi noted that Brazil's dependence on imports makes it vulnerable to global shocks.

India pushes natural farming

In India, farmers are increasingly adopting traditional methods such as mixing cow dung, urine and natural ingredients to replace chemical fertilisers.

In southern states like Telangana, millions of farmers are shifting toward what is known as natural farming, combining livestock waste, crop diversity and soil-friendly practices.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced a national mission to promote natural farming and reduce fertiliser use by half.

India imports about 60% of its fertiliser from the Gulf, making it vulnerable to price shocks linked to regional instability.

Agricultural scientist GV Ramanjaneyulu said interest in organic methods has grown since the conflict began, although farmers still face a difficult transition period.

Experts say switching to natural farming requires more labour and time, but many believe rising global uncertainty could accelerate the shift away from chemical fertilisers.