Fertiliser Report - 28th June 2013

Calum Findlay, Gleadell’s Fertiliser Manager, comments on the fertiliser markets.

Granular urea

Current values are finding plenty of buyers in the UK, with urea looking competitive against other nitrogen sources. Over the past month we have seen a 4% swing in foreign exchange, reducing prices by about £12/t. Indications are that values are at the bottom of the long-term trading level on the world market.

Ammonium nitrate

Values have firmed for spot delivery of imported products, with very little difference between UK and imported prices. Current low urea values are keeping a roof on AN values. Any upside in urea will move other nitrogen products upwards. The autumn “blue bag” tracker is still available, to provide you with a later purchase option for UK products.


Phosphate

Interest in phosphate for seedbed application is emerging and, with limited time before oilseed rape sowing, demand is expected to increase. On the world stage, India, the world’s largest phosphate market, has ironed out payment and supply issues so large uptake can be expected. As we enter peak sowing time usage in the northern hemisphere, current values look a good buy.

Potash

Much like nitrogen, potash is currently at its lowest usage point. With some very competitive spot values, straights users for precision application should see potash as a good summer buy for autumn or spring application.

Alzon

Current terms on Alzon are for October- December delivery, providing a very cost effective nitrogen source of autumn delivery. Nitrogen stabilisers provide a real opportunity to improve crop nutrition without large expense or specialist equipment.