Global Fertilizer Supply Chain Vulnerability Exposed by Strait of Hormuz Disruptions
Original framing: “How Iran war could create ‘fertilizer shock’ – often ignored global risk to food prices, farming” — The Hindu
The global fertilizer supply chain has been vulnerable to disruptions throughout history, from the Napoleonic Wars to the 1973 oil embargo. These disruptions have had significant impacts on global food prices and farming practices. The current crisis in the Strait of Hormuz is part of a larger pattern of global supply chain vulnerabilities.
The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz highlights the systemic risk of global fertilizer supply chain disruptions to food prices and farming.
This risk is often overlooked in mainstream discussions, despite its significant implications for global food security. The disruption of global fertilizer supply chains presents an opportunity to transition to more sustainable and equitable farming practices, promote fair trade practices, and support small-scale farmers and local communities. By centering indigenous knowledge and practices, historical context, and cross-cultural perspectives, we can develop more effective solutions to this crisis and promote global food security.