General Market
Fertiliser markets have taken a breather over the last week or so. This is no surprise given the recent activity; rate of price rises combined with the frequency of price changes. A breather is unlikely to signal any price reductions, just a settling in at the new levels at best. For once it was the blenders publishing prices lists and then withdrawing them before the ink was even dry from the printer, before pulling again by the end of the week. This was probably to allow them to take stock and reconcile all the recent activity. From a growers’ perspective continuing poor weather may also postpone any enthusiasm for further fertiliser purchases for the time being.
Potash
January is a key time in the Potash market. The global Potash market is very concentrated with the four largest producers BPC; Nutrien; Urakali and Mosaic accounting for almost two-thirds of production. This is the time of year when long-term supply agreements are announced. First to announce was BPC (Belarus Potash Co) with 800K tonnes supply deal signed with an Indian buyer. This deal was $17 up on the 2020 contract, which given the rate of price increases seen in other commodities recently seems good news. Rival producers unsurprisingly stated this was ‘not reflective’ of the current market, growers would surely disagree.
Potash Video
To continue the Potash theme, did you know that the very first U.S patent signed by George Washington in 1790 was related to Potash production? This incredible, irreplaceable element is connected to fireworks, soap, and energy drinks, and of course as a valuable fertiliser. This amazing informative new video from science educators Veratasium explains the many varied uses of Potash, and how it was discovered. Enjoy using this link:-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMDJA4UvXLA
Nitrasol & Househam Sprayers
Norfolk based liquid fertiliser company Nitrasol and UK sprayer manufacturer Househam have launched a partnership focusing on pulling together a complete liquid fertiliser system from purchasing to application. The aim is to offer a service whereby a farmer can purchase a sprayer, arrange liquid fertilisers and tanks, right down to application advice and nozzles. The partnership will bring together the huge amount of knowledge the two businesses have. This will fill a gap between fertiliser suppliers and sprayer manufacturers which should make a big difference and will ultimately benefit growers. For more details on this unique partnership, click below:-
https://nitrasol.co.uk/?p=17511
Economic Data as at close on Friday 5th February v (29th January 2021) £ = $ 1.3724 ($1.3714) £ = € 1.1419 (€ 1.1299) Crude Oil = $ 59.62 ($ 55.18) Natural Gas =$ 2.76 ($2.76) Please treat pricing on graphs as a guide, please use quote request form for an up-to-date price.