Fertilizer Exports Surge 44 Percent in Q1 While Imports Drop Sharply

In the first quarter of 2025, China’s fertilizer exports skyrocketed to 7.16 million tons, marking a 44.5% year-on-year jump, according to preliminary customs data. Export revenues also surged, reaching $1.436 billion, up 42.7% from the same period last year. March alone contributed 2.48 million tons, representing a 26.9% growth, with corresponding earnings hitting $480 million.

While exports showed strong momentum, imports took a downturn. From January to March, fertilizer imports totaled 3.83 million tons, down 8%, with the value of those imports dropping even more sharply by 16.3%, to $1.167 billion. In March, China imported 1.33 million tons, with an average CIF price of $299.92 per ton.

This export-import imbalance reflects both strong overseas demand for Chinese fertilizers and possibly declining domestic reliance on imported materials. The contrasting trends could influence global fertilizer pricing and supply chains as planting seasons ramp up worldwide.

As China continues to strengthen its position in global agricultural inputs, these figures suggest an accelerating shift in fertilizer trade flows that stakeholders will be watching closely.