FAI: Kharif Fertilizer Stock Adequate, Gas Supply Cut Threatens Urea Production

• India has sufficient fertilizer stock for the upcoming kharif season, but a 40% gas supply reduction is a major concern.
• Geopolitical tensions in West Asia (Qatar's production halt) have curtailed LNG supply, impacting domestic urea production for rabi and increasing import costs.
• FAI Director General Chaudhari Suresh Kumar confirms adequate current stock but warns of future shortages and rising global prices for urea, DAP, and sulfur.
• Government is prioritizing gas allocation to the fertilizer sector, discussing supplies with countries like China, and committed to protecting farmers' interests through subsidies.
• Total fertilizer reserves are up 36.5% year-on-year to 177.31 lakh tonnes, with companies adapting by scheduling maintenance and early plant shutdowns.