Lead

Australia has imported more than one million tonnes of fertiliser since the ongoing Middle East conflict disrupted international trade, according to reports from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). The imports, which include urea — the world's most commonly used nitrogen fertiliser — come as the federal government streamlines biosecurity processes to ensure farmers have adequate supplies for the winter cropping season.

In a typical year, a third of the world's fertiliser passes through the Strait of Hormuz, and its closure during the Iran conflict has prompted nations to secure supply. Australia is wholly reliant on urea imports to support agricultural production.

Coverage comparison

Reporting from the ABC highlights two key developments: the scale of imports — exceeding one million tonnes — and the government's efforts to accelerate biosecurity assessments and secure additional shipments. Both articles emphasise the importance of fertiliser for Australia's cropping sector and the potential impact on food prices. The tone is cautious but optimistic, with one report noting that farmers are optimistic about a more reliable and cheaper supply if the Strait of Hormuz reopens.

Key claims

  • One million tonnes imported: Since the war in the Middle East began disrupting trade, more than one million tonnes of fertiliser has been imported into Australia, according to the ABC.
  • Urea imports in 2025: Australia imported around 3.6 million tonnes of urea in 2025, based on analysis by firm Episode 3, as reported by the ABC.
  • Biosecurity process streamlined: The government sped up biosecurity checks in April to ensure supplies for the winter crop, including sampling on ships before they arrive.
  • Additional shipments secured: The federal government has secured extra shipments, with reports differing on the number. One ABC article mentions three additional shipments, while another mentions six shipments totalling more than 209,000 tonnes. Both involve financial guarantees for companies including Incitec Pivot, CSBP, and Summit Fertilizer.
  • Government investment: The federal budget allocated $7.5 million for a fuel and fertiliser security facility, as reported by the ABC.
  • Strait of Hormuz: A third of the world's fertiliser passes through this strait, and its closure has cut off supplies. Reports suggest it could reopen within days, but a finalised ceasefire deal between the US and Iran is yet to be achieved.

Perspectives

Government perspective: Agriculture Minister Julie Collins emphasised that streamlined biosecurity processes and secured shipments aim to provide certainty in uncertain times. She told the ABC that additional urea imports, totalling around 340,000 tonnes through Export Finance Australia, are coming into the country.

Industry analyst perspective: Rabobank agribusiness analyst Stefan Vogel cautioned that even if a ceasefire is signed, the flow of goods would take time to normalise. He noted that shipping companies may be reluctant to resume passage through the Strait of Hormuz due to fears the peace deal might collapse, leaving ships stranded.

Farmer perspective: Farmers are reportedly optimistic about obtaining reliable and cheaper fertiliser supplies if the Strait reopens, but remain concerned about current prices and availability.

Conclusion

The import of over one million tonnes of fertiliser and the government's proactive measures have helped mitigate immediate shortages, but uncertainty persists. The potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz offers hope for more stable supply, yet analysts warn that normalisation will be gradual. As negotiations continue, Australia's agricultural sector faces a period of cautious adjustment.