Reza Mahmud :
A widespread Fertiliser shortage, coupled with rising prices, has left farmers across the country in a dire situation.
Dealers and small traders attribute the crisis to an importers’ syndicate, alleging deliberate delays of 15 to 25 days in fertiliser supply.
The syndicate, allegedly led by Nawaipara Group, is accused of monopolising the market by controlling subsidised fertilisers.
This artificial shortage has made boro farmers particularly vulnerable during the peak season for cultivating the country’s main paddy crop.
Reports suggest that Nawaipara Traders, an importing company, has imposed restrictive conditions on dealers, including requiring personal visits with documents to collect supplies.
Additionally, the company has designated 12 affiliates as exclusive representatives for fertiliser distribution, limiting access for other traders.
Dealers report significant delays in obtaining subsidised Fertilisers from Nawaipara Traders, with one citing a three-week delay after payment.
Similar complaints have been raised by dealers in Rajshahi, Natore, and Kushtia regions.
While other importers reportedly supply Fertilisers without issue, dealers accuse Nawaipara Traders of prioritising profits over timely delivery.
Adding to their woes, dealers claim they are forced to use Nawaipara Traders’ designated transport services, further increasing delays and costs. These practices, they argue, harm small traders and disrupt grassroots-level distribution.
Fertiliser supplies in Bangladesh are overseen by the Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) and Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC).
The government recently approved the import of 100,000 tons of Fertilisers under G2G agreements at a cost of 582.24 crore Taka. This includes 30,000 tons of bulk granular urea from Qatar, 40,000 tons of DAP from Saudi Arabia and 30,000 tons of TSP from Morocco.
However, critics argue that the government’s efforts have been insufficient to address the current crisis. Shamsuzzaman Dudu, Vice-Chairman of the BNP, criticised the authorities for failing to act against syndicates, calling it a result of poor preparation.
Hasan Zafir Tuhin, President of Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal, echoed these sentiments, accusing the government of enabling the syndicate.
Responding to the allegations, Mohammad Faizur Rahman Bakul, Managing Director of Nawaipara Traders, declined to comment, citing hospitalisation abroad.
Meanwhile, Riaz Uddin Ahmed, Executive Secretary of the Bangladesh Fertiliser Association, acknowledged the dealers’ complaints and urged importers to refrain from imposing specific transport requirements.
He also emphasised the need for prompt delivery within two days of payment.
Mohammad Moniruzzaman, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, stated that no formal complaints regarding the syndicate had been received but assured action if such complaints are filed.
The ongoing Fertiliser crisis continues to create significant challenges for farmers and small traders alike.
As the boro season progresses, the need for reform in Fertiliser distribution practices has become increasingly urgent to safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and ensure food security.
