economy
April 1, 2026
MILLIONS OF LIVES AT RISK: If food and fuel prices rise further, the world faces an unprecedented disaster!
The war has already shaken oil markets, but attention is now shifting to fertilizer – a key factor for the next planting season.
TL;DR
- A conflict involving the US and Israel with Iran could trigger a new food price shock and push millions into acute hunger.
- Rising energy, transport, and fertilizer costs are exacerbated by control over the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global food prices.
- Poorer, import-dependent countries are expected to be the most severely affected.
- Fertilizer, particularly nitrogen-based types reliant on natural gas, is crucial for the next planting season.
- About a third of global seaborne fertilizer trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Countries like Malawi and Zambia are already facing fears of fertilizer shortages and price hikes.
- A disruption lasting over three months could have serious consequences for global food production and planting decisions.
- Fertilizer production is being reduced in countries like India, Algeria, and Slovakia due to high gas prices.
- Ammonia prices in the US have risen by 41% and urea by 21% compared to last year.
- The World Food Programme warns that rising fuel and fertilizer costs, combined with transport disruptions, could severely impact global food security.