Fertilizer Imports to Ukraine Increased, but Market Shortage Persists in 2026

In the first quarter of 2026, Ukraine imported approximately 1.2 million tons of fertilizers, which is 13% more than in the same period last year. However, even this increase in supplies did not fully cover the shortage in the domestic fertilizer market.

This is reported by AgroReview

Import Details and Supply Structure

The largest growth was seen in nitrogen fertilizers, with import volumes reaching 693 thousand tons. The import of potassium fertilizers amounted to 27 thousand tons, while phosphorus fertilizers accounted for only 12 thousand tons. Regarding complex fertilizers, Ukraine imported 204 thousand tons of NPK, 168 thousand tons of NP, and 13 thousand tons of PK.

Experts note that the market shortage was mitigated by increased supplies of urea from Nigeria and sulfate from China. However, despite traders’ expectations in December 2025 regarding increased competition and surplus supply, the situation changed dramatically by March — fertilizer prices nearly doubled, and there was a shortage of fertilizers.

“The significant increase in nitrogen fertilizer imports compensated for the substantial decline in NPK import volumes. The situation was largely salvaged by urea imports from Nigeria and sulfate from China. While traders expected heightened competition and complained about surplus supply back in December, by March the situation had drastically changed — prices nearly doubled, and there was insufficient product,” experts explained the situation.

Shortage and Risks for the Fertilizer Market

As of April 1, 2026, there is a shortage of NPK in the Ukrainian market of at least 100 thousand tons, while the deficit of phosphorus-containing fertilizers is estimated at 70-80 thousand tons. Additional pressure is created by restrictions on the export of phosphorus fertilizers from China, as well as issues related to the war in Iran, which affect global supply chains.

Experts predict that by the end of the current year, the deficit will remain a key characteristic of the fertilizer market in Ukraine, and the word “deficit” will become almost synonymous with the word “fertilizers.”