Sourcing Fertiliser in 2026 with the AF Group

Why It Matters

The combination of sustained higher prices and the looming CBAM creates real cost pressure for UK growers, making procurement strategy and faster adoption of nitrogen-saving technologies essential to protect margins. Ensuring supply continuity while managing input costs will shape planting and fertiliser decisions for the coming season.

Summary

John Barrett of the AF Group, a UK farmers' buying cooperative, says fertilizer supply to UK farms remains intact despite recent geopolitical disruption because suppliers are diverting product from the US and Europe. Prices have risen and are less volatile than fuel but remain elevated, with new pricing updates expected weekly. Barrett urges farmers to adopt buying strategies rather than buying all at once, and flags the incoming Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) which could add roughly £50/ton to imported fertilizer. He expects high prices to accelerate uptake of efficiency measures and alternatives such as precision application, biologicals, legumes and organic fertilizers.

Original Description

Global events are putting pressure in supply chains for inputs vital to the agriculture industry. Should we be worried? How can we adapt to what is fast becoming a new normal? And what advice do AF have for farmers? Chief Agricultural Office John Barrett discusses.

@TheAFGroup is the UK’s largest agricultural purchasing co-operative and works with thousands of farmers across the UK.

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