Farmers in crisis: Fertilizer shortage puts crops and livelihoods at risk

Farmers in nearly every part of Bangladesh are struggling due to a severe fertilizer shortage. 

The stock held by the government is not enough to meet the demand, and while the Department of Agricultural Extension insists there isn’t a major crisis, many believe a syndicate is intentionally making the situation worse to embarrass the interim government.

In the northern regions, where potato cultivation is common, the pressure is mounting as the Boro season approaches. 

Farmers are particularly anxious because fertilizers are vital for crop growth, and without them, their livelihoods are at risk.

The need for fertilizer peaks from December to March, but in places like Naogaon, traders and dealers are using the shortage as an excuse to hike prices by as much as 250 Taka per bag. 

Farmers are left paying more but still struggling to get their hands on enough fertilizer. Similar issues are reported in Rajshahi and other districts.

A farmer from Rajshahi explained the price differences he faced, saying, “One shop is asking for 1,400 Taka per bag, while another is charging 1,530 Taka for the same thing. How can we get the fertilizer we need?”

The Ministry of Agriculture informed the Ministry of Finance that several foreign fertilizer suppliers have not delivered their stock due to payment issues. 

However, insiders suspect that corrupt officials are working with syndicates, and the blame is being unfairly shifted to dealers and traders.

KSM Mostafizur Rahman, a member of the Fertilizer Association, pointed out,