The ongoing conflict with Iran could trigger severe food shortages and price hikes across Africa, according to the head of the world's largest fertiliser company. Svein Tore Holsether, CEO of Yara International, warned that a global auction for fertiliser is emerging, leaving the poorest nations unable to afford essential supplies.
Holsether emphasised that Africa, despite its potential to be a major food producer, remains heavily reliant on imports. He cautioned that while Europe might avoid famine, the continent's most vulnerable populations would bear the brunt of the crisis. Yara, a Norwegian multinational operating in 60 countries, has already seen urea prices surge by 60-70% since late February.
The war has disrupted supplies of urea and ammonia, key fertiliser components. Ammonia production has been suspended in some Gulf states due to safety risks, and inventories are dwindling. Holsether noted that production losses are daily and restarting will take weeks or months.
Sub-Saharan African farmers face immediate challenges as the sowing season approaches, compounded by the need to build stockpiles for 2027 crops. Unlike the EU, which has loosened subsidy rules and offered grants, African nations lack similar support. Holsether stressed that under-fertilisation in Africa will have far more severe consequences than in Europe, where soil health is already optimised.
“Yet again, we are in a situation where the most vulnerable will pay the highest price,” Holsether said, urging world leaders to act before it is too late.
