Disruptions in fertilizer supplies through the Strait of Hormuz threaten food security

Disruptions in the supply of fertilizers through the Strait of Hormuz could undermine global food security, and the most vulnerable countries will feel the consequences even into next year, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) of the United Nations told RIA Novosti.

Earlier, the head of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) department for relations with the Russian Federation, Oleg Kobyakov, told RIA Novosti that disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is causing a global shortage of fertilizers and worsening the situation in markets, including energy.

"The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for international trade... The disruption of fertilizer supplies threatens food security. The effects could be felt for much of next year, especially in developing countries, which are most vulnerable to rising prices and supply disruptions," the IMO said.

The IMO press service noted that before the conflict, ships transported 13% of the global trade in chemicals, including fertilizers, through the Strait of Hormuz. The strait also handles 38% of the world's maritime trade of crude oil, 29% of liquefied petroleum gas and 19% of liquefied natural gas, according to the UN.

In connection with the food crisis, the IMO calls on countries to show political will and resume the movement of ships carrying fertilizers through the Strait of Hormuz, the IMO noted.

"The International Maritime Organization is part of the UN Task Force on the Strait of Hormuz, led by the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS), and supports efforts to facilitate trade in fertilizers and the movement of key raw materials. However, political will and cooperation of stakeholders is required to achieve progress," the press service said.