This has exposed vulnerabilities for India, the world’s most populous country, the second-largest fertilizer consumer, and a major agricultural producer. The shift toward diversifying fertilizer sources beyond the Gulf could create new commercial opportunities for African producers. On March 17, Reuters reported that the United States had also opened discussions with Morocco to secure fertilizer supplies. India is both the world’s largest exporter of rice and the main supplier to Africa, holding about 40% of global market share. As a result, fertilizer availability and pricing between June and August will directly influence rice prices toward the end of 2026.

Source: The North Africa Journal April 01, 2026 17:32 UTC