Nepal is facing a critical shortage of chemical fertilizers, directly impacting food production and security. The country produces between 16 and 18 million metric tons of food annually but still suffers a daily deficit of 6 billion calories.
Projections suggest grain imports must increase by 20% in 2026 to meet demand. Agricultural output needs a similar boost to cover the gap. Recent data highlights that the use of fertilizers has historically increased grain production by over 50%.
The economic burden is significant, with $200 million spent on fertilizer imports in 2024 and 2025. While the government plans to build domestic industries to reduce dependency, challenges regarding raw materials like ammonia persist.
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