• The United States is exploring Morocco as an alternative fertilizer supplier amid Middle East disruptions.
• About 22% of U.S. fertilizer imports, or $2 billion, came from the Middle East in 2024.
• The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-third of global fertilizer shipping, increasing supply risks.

The United States is discussing with Morocco to diversify fertilizer supply sources and reduce exposure to disruptions from the Gulf region. Reuters reported the discussions on March 17, citing Kevin Hassett.

“We have established licenses for Venezuela to produce more fertilizer. We have held discussions with Morocco,” he said. He described the effort as “insurance against disruptions” for U.S. farmers.

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified supply concerns. The escalation involving the United States, Israel and Iran since late February has disrupted regional shipping flows.

In this context, Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to vessels from hostile countries. The strait connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea and plays a critical role in global fertilizer trade and food security.

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development highlighted the importance of this maritime route. A study published on March 10 showed that about one-third of global fertilizer shipments, or nearly 16 million tonnes, pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

The flow includes 67% urea, the world’s most widely used nitrogen fertilizer. It also includes 20% diammonium phosphate (DAP) and 9% ammonium dihydrogen phosphate. Therefore, any disruption to this route could significantly impact global fertilizer markets.

The situation raises concerns in Washington due to reliance on Middle Eastern supply. Data compiled by Trade Map shows that the United States imported about $9.3 billion worth of fertilizers in 2024. About 22% of these imports, or roughly $2 billion, came from Middle Eastern countries. As a result, policymakers are seeking to diversify sourcing to mitigate geopolitical risk.

Opportunity for Morocco

Potential agreements with Morocco could increase fertilizer exports to the United States. Morocco already supplies fertilizers to the U.S. market, but its share remains limited. Trade Map data shows that the United States imported about $195 million worth of fertilizers from Morocco in 2024, representing only 2.2% of total imports.

However, Morocco remains Africa’s leading fertilizer exporter and could strengthen its position in global markets.

In 2024, Morocco generated about $6.68 billion in fertilizer export revenues. Compound fertilizers accounted for 78.8% of exports, while phosphate fertilizers accounted for 21%. Nitrogen and potash fertilizers made up the remaining share.

This article was initially published in French by Stéphanas Assocle

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum