Foot-and-mouth slows fertiliser trade

By Roger Chesher

JUST as product began to move, at least in England where the weather was suitable, the tragedy of foot-and-mouth disease became apparent.

With farmers understandably keen to restrict movement of lorries in the countryside, orders have slowed considerably.

The Fertiliser Manufacturers Association has been quick to advise its members to adhere strictly to ministry guidelines over disinfecting lorries, but movement has been restricted to a handful of arable farms.

Prices, therefore, are still somewhat theoretical, as an asking price does not become real until a number of customers actually pay it.

In theory, the price of domestic nitrogen rises to 134/t delivered farm but, with such difficulties over delivery, it may be some time before this sticks.

Similar rises should apply to UK produced complex and Hydro imported complex compounds, whilst the blenders still sit on their hands and wait.

At least the prospect of availability of imports in March and April is better, with a price settling around 110/t cif.

With a cost of 3 to put it on lorry, 7 to get it to farm and 5 for the merchant, it should be on farm at 125/t.

CURRENT PRICES

IRELAND