2022-10-19 Fertilizers Europe welcomes the development of a Fertilizer Strategy by the European Union
The European Fertilizers Association, Fertilizers Europe, has published a press release in which it states that it welcomes the outcome of the debate in the European Parliament on October 6, and the decision of the European Commission to present a Fertilizer Strategy soon. of the EU to guarantee European strategic autonomy, stimulate the green growth of the fertilizer industry, promote economic stability for European farmers and food security for society as a whole.
According to Jacob Hansen, Managing Director of Fertilizers Europe:
- The European fertilizer industry celebrates that the European Commission and the European Parliament have recognized the crisis that is affecting the sector and the importance of guaranteeing continuous and affordable access to natural gas.
- Since 50 per cent of food production depends on mineral fertilizers, the fertilizer industry is an essential player and is aware of its responsibility to provide crops with the necessary nutrients to obtain high quality yields.
- We need to work together to ensure the resilience and strength of the European fertilizer sector: the EU cannot afford to become totally dependent on fertilizer imports and thus compromise our food security.
- With the current 70 percent reduction in European ammonia production, the availability of fertilizers has been reduced, with direct negative effects on European food security and on important products linked to the ammonia value chain, such as AdBlue and the CO2.
- A solid strategy is needed to achieve a balanced fertilization of European soils. Mineral and organic fertilizers are complementary to each other, and the industry is committed to giving farmers the support they need to achieve better nutrient use efficiency. The strategy presented by the European Commission must address fertilization with a global approach (organic and mineral).
- European industry has already started its path towards decarbonisation with various projects across Europe. Supporting the production of green ammonia and low-carbon fertilizers will not only reduce the sector's footprint, but will play a crucial role in reducing dependence on natural gas and other Russian raw materials.
- The European fertilizer industry has committed to achieving the goals of the green transition. Fertilizers Europe encourages the Commission to provide adequate support for the industry to continue with this transition.
- Eliminating anti-dumping measures on some fertilizers would only jeopardize the ability of European industry to get back on its feet, and could be the Trojan Horse for other agencies.
Link to Fertilizers Europe Press Release: https://www.fertilizerseurope.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Press-release-on-fertilizer-strategy_final-1.pdf
