Bangladesh says Saudi Arabia helped prevent fertilizer shortages during the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The emergency support ensured timely supplies during the country’s crucial planting season. Officials said the assistance reduced risks to national food security.
Saudi Supplies Sustained Bangladesh’s Farming Season
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted fertilizer imports after the conflict involving Iran intensified. Consequently, Bangladesh faced shortages during its key agricultural season from mid-March to mid-July. The period is essential for rice and cash crop cultivation before the monsoon.
Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation Chairman Mohammad Fazlur Rahman said domestic fertilizer production also declined. Raw material shortages forced local producers to halt operations. Therefore, the agency sought emergency supplies from regional producers.
Rahman said Bangladesh approached Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) and Fertiglobe in the United Arab Emirates for assistance. Bangladesh imports around 1.55 million tonnes of urea fertilizer annually. Approximately 65 percent comes from Saudi Arabia, while the remaining 35 percent arrives from the UAE.
SABIC agreed to provide emergency shipments despite the logistical challenges. The company transported fertilizer about 1,200 kilometers by road from Al-Jubail Port to Yanbu Port. Meanwhile, Fertiglobe arranged additional exports through its production facilities in Egypt.
Emergency Assistance Reduced Food Security Risks
Rahman said most emergency supplies came from SABIC during the critical period. As a result, Bangladesh maintained consistent fertilizer availability for farmers. He emphasized that timely deliveries remain essential for protecting the country’s food security.
The emergency support also contributed to a 30 percent increase in Bangladesh’s fertilizer imports from Saudi Arabia compared with last year. Furthermore, officials described Saudi Arabia as a reliable long-term supplier. Rahman said the Kingdom has consistently supported Bangladesh during challenging periods.
