Parliament Question: Import of Speciality Fertilizers from China

Executive Summary: This document addresses Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 921 regarding India's import of speciality fertilizers from China, particularly concerning yield increases for fruits, vegetables, and other crops. It clarifies the categorization of fertilizers under the Fertilizer Control Order, 1985, and details the government's response to reported disruptions in speciality fertilizer exports from China. The document also outlines alternative sourcing strategies and indigenous research efforts to enhance self-reliance in nutrient management. Data on water-soluble fertilizer imports from China over the last five years is provided. Key Points / Main Content: * Fertilizer Classification and Quality Control: * The Fertilizer Control Order, 1985, does not classify any fertilizer as a "speciality fertilizer." However, it includes categories for 100% water-soluble complex fertilizers and 100% water-soluble mixtures of fertilizers. * Government of India fertilizer inspectors collect samples of imported fertilizers at various ports. * The Central Fertilizer Quality Control Training Institute (CFQCTI) has provided data on water-soluble fertilizer inspections from China over the past five years. * Speciality Fertilizer Imports and Alternative Sourcing: * Speciality fertilizers are not covered under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme and are not subsidized; fertilizer companies can import these based on their business dynamics. * China has reportedly withheld export of specialty fertilizers to India over the past 23 months. * Indian companies are actively sourcing water-soluble fertilizers from alternative suppliers in Belgium, Egypt, Germany, Morocco, and the USA. * Micronutrient imports are primarily from Greece, Turkey, USA, Spain, Singapore, and Netherlands, with only a small quantity of zinc sulphate monohydrate from China, minimizing the impact on availability. * Indigenous Solutions and Research Efforts: * Indian research institutions, including ICAR and State Agricultural Universities, are developing indigenous solutions like zinc EDTA, boron blends, nanofertilizers, and biofertilizers enriched with micronutrients. * ICAR institutes such as IISSBhopal, IARIDelhi, and IIHR Bengaluru have developed and validated technologies, including nano fertilizers, biofertilizers, and customized nutrient blends. * Initiatives like Soil Test-Based Fertilizer Recommendations and Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) support an Integrated Nutrient Management Strategy. *Import Quantities* * The annexure provides a year-wise breakdown of the quantity of fertilizer imported from China for: Calcium Nitrate, Potassium Nitrate, Mono Potassium Phosphate, Mono Ammonium Phosphate, NPK water soluble, Sulphate of Potash and Mixture of Micronutrient Fertilizers. Impact Analysis: Fertilizer Companies: * Impact: Allowed to import speciality fertilizers based on business dynamics, but may face challenges due to China withholding exports. They are being impacted by increased costs of sourcing from alternative markets. * Action Required: Explore alternative sourcing options for water-soluble fertilizers and micronutrients from countries like Belgium, Egypt, Germany, Morocco, USA, Greece, Turkey, Spain, Singapore, and the Netherlands. Farmers/Agricultural Sector: * Impact: Potential disruptions in the supply of specialty fertilizers from China. Indigenous research and development efforts aim to provide alternative solutions and reduce import dependency. * Action Required: Adopt new technologies and fertilizer recommendations from ICAR and State Agricultural Universities, including nanofertilizers, biofertilizers, and customized nutrient blends. Implement Soil Test-Based Fertilizer Recommendations and Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM). Government of India (Department of Fertilizers): * Impact: Responsible for monitoring fertilizer imports, ensuring quality control, and promoting self-reliance in nutrient management. * Action Required: Continue supporting research and development efforts through ICAR and other institutions. Monitor the availability and pricing of specialty fertilizers and micronutrients. Further develop and promote initiatives like Soil Test-Based Fertilizer Recommendations and Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM).

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