Brazil is currently experiencing significant challenges in the procurement of fertilizers essential for its agribusiness, primarily due to restrictions on exports from China. Last year, China became the leading supplier of fertilizers to Brazil, overtaking Russia, which had traditionally held that position. However, China's decision to limit exports to safeguard its domestic market has further complicated an already strained international market, exacerbated by scarcities stemming from the ongoing conflict in Iran.

Brazil's importation of fertilizers from China has surged to 12 million tons, reflecting a 38% increase from 2024. Meanwhile, Russia, which previously dominated the Brazilian fertilizer market, supplied 11.1 million tons in 2025 alone. Overall, Brazil imported a total of 45.5 million tons of fertilizers last year, incurring expenses of approximately $15.5 billion. The national production of fertilizers is limited, which places enormous pressure on Brazil to secure sufficient supplies from international sources.

The implications of these restrictions on fertilizer exports could be severe for Brazil's agribusiness sector, which relies heavily on imported fertilizers to sustain its agricultural output. With the growing pressures in the international market, Brazilian farmers may face higher costs and potential shortages, which could impact food production and agricultural productivity in the coming seasons. As Brazil navigates through these complexities, it remains crucial for the government and stakeholders to seek alternative solutions to ensure a stable supply of fertilizers for the agricultural industry.