Disruption of Fertilizer Supply: A Threat to Global Food Security
UN Official Warns of Major Humanitarian Crisis Due to Fertilizer Supply Disruptions
A United Nations official has issued a warning about the risk of a significant humanitarian crisis unless urgent action is taken to ensure the continuous transit of fertilizers and their raw materials through the Strait of Hormuz, as the agricultural season begins in various regions worldwide.
Pressured Supply Chains
According to Jorge Moreira da Silva, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services and head of the UN working group for the strait, the current maritime traffic disruptions are already impacting global fertilizer supply chains. He emphasized that roughly one-third of the world’s fertilizer trade passes through this strategic passage.
Direct Impact on Agricultural Production
The official clarified that the difficulties in delivering essential materials such as urea, ammonia, and sulfur are having immediate repercussions on agricultural production, jeopardizing yields and the stability of food markets.
Risk of Worsening Hunger
He also warned that the continuation of this crisis could exacerbate global food insecurity, with estimates suggesting that up to 45 million more people could fall into acute hunger.
Ongoing International Mobilization
In light of this situation, the United Nations is working to establish a coordination mechanism aimed at facilitating the passage of fertilizer shipments and their inputs, in order to limit disruptions to agricultural supply chains.
Call for Swift Action
Ultimately, the UN official stressed the urgency of taking action to prevent severe consequences for global agricultural production, particularly in a context marked by the commencement of farming campaigns in several countries.
