The Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) is warning UK farmers to order fertiliser early for spring 2026 amid growing concerns over global supply pressures, EU trade measures, and changing weather patterns.
AIC says early engagement with suppliers is “essential” to safeguard farm productivity, with geopolitical and logistical factors likely to tighten supply if demand peaks late in the season.
“Suppliers need clear demand signals to plan effectively,” said Jo Gilbertson, AIC’s Head of Fertiliser. “Without early engagement, distribution networks may struggle to meet demand within narrow timeframes. This is about ensuring supply resilience, not assigning blame.”
Recent shifts in weather – including 40% more sunshine and 40% less rainfall recorded in 2025 – have accelerated crop development and compressed delivery windows. Combined with new EU tariffs on Russian fertiliser and the introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), AIC warns these factors could further restrict availability to UK farms.
The Confederation’s key advice to farmers includes:
- Order early to secure spring 2026 requirements
- Stay in contact with suppliers for market updates
- Plan ahead based on expected cropping needs
- Take delivery early when product becomes available
AIC Members, who operate under assurance schemes such as the Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme (FIAS), are recognised for high standards and FACTS-qualified advice. Farmers sourcing from AIC Members benefit from assured quality and professional guidance tailored to their cropping plans.
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