Multiple reports say global fertiliser trade drops by about 30% as ongoing conflict in the Middle East disrupts shipping and supply chains. The decline affects the availability and cost of fertiliser used for agricultural production, which can translate into higher input prices for farmers. For South Africa, the reporting links the reduced fertiliser flow to potential upward pressure on food prices, particularly where farmers rely on imported or price-sensitive fertiliser supplies. The articles also note that the situation increases financial strain on producers, who may face higher costs just as they plan planting and seasonal crop production. While the direct impact varies by crop and region, the overall concern highlighted across the coverage is that reduced fertiliser trade can worsen affordability and availability challenges in the domestic food system. The reporting frames the developments as part of broader trade and logistics disruptions tied to the Middle East conflict, with knock-on effects for countries dependent on global fertiliser markets.