Farmers Weekly Podcast Ep 329: Fertiliser tax and olive oil

Will a new carbon tax push up fertiliser prices? Has the farming industry successfully regulated its own pesticide use? And could English olive oil become the next big farming opportunity?

In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, we examine the government’s latest proposals for a carbon tax on imported fertiliser – and what they could mean for farm businesses when the new rules take effect in January 2027.

See also: Carbon import tax less impactful than feared in 2027

New figures suggest the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (Cbam) could initially cost considerably less than feared.

But with fertiliser prices already rising, growers remain concerned about the longer-term implications.

We speak to Harriet Trewin of the Agricultural Industries Confederation about the likely impact on ammonium nitrate prices and what farmers should do ahead of the changes.

We also visit Parliament to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Voluntary Initiative, the industry-led scheme promoting responsible pesticide use.

Voluntary Initiative chairman David Bell explains why good stewardship is increasingly important as farmers face the loss of key crop protection products.

Liberal Democrat MP Wendy Chamberlain discusses the importance of industry self-regulation and the need for government support.

Meanwhile, in Lincolnshire, farmer David Hoyles is bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to the Fens with what is believed to be Britain’s first commercial olive harvest.

After investing £1m and planting 18,000 olive trees, he is producing premium English olive oil. We visit his farm near Spalding to discover how the venture is progressing.

Plus, our latest autumn drilling update with Bayer Crop Science examines the balance between delayed drilling, grassweed control and crop establishment.

We also bring you the latest UK livestock and arable commodity prices, discuss farmland bird populations and preview Farmers Weekly Live, taking place at Stoneleigh Park in July 2027.

This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is hosted by Johann Tasker, with Farmers Weekly deputy editor Abi Kay and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker.

This episode is brought to you by Bayer Crop Science – weeding out uncertainty.

To contact, sponsor or advertise on the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk.

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