IFA Tells European Commission That 25 Years of Protection for Fertiliser Producers Is Enough

IFA’s Chairman of the Inputs Project Team, Tom Short, told DG Trade representatives at a hearing for the Expiry review of anti-dumping measures on AN imports from Russia to the EU, that renewing this anti-dumping measure would lead to a continued dysfunctional fertiliser market in the EU.

“Our highest cost is nitrogen, but fertiliser prices are artificially high, and we have no say in the matter. The Commission has to listen to farmers and recognise the economic impact on the users of fertilisers. The fertiliser industry is profitable enough; they don’t need further protection with anti-dumping measures,” he said.

The European fertiliser producers sought the current review and request for a further five-year extension. The disclosure by the European Commission is due in September. A decision must be taken whether to continue with a measure that has been in place for 25 years.

IFA’s Tom Short was supported in his evidence by French arable farmer Cedric Benoist representing AGPB, part of the French farming association FNSEA, who demanded that AN had to be made available at a competitive price in Europe.

IFA has campaigned actively for a fairer market for fertilisers. Commissioner for Trade Phil Hogan confirmed in a letter to the European Farmers’ Association COPA and copied to the Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski that any decision would consider the interest of users, including farmers, and also take into consideration the prevailing market situation.

“Farmers cannot be expected to continue to work harder just to stand still,” said Tom Short.