South Asia

India accounts for 80% of fertilizer consumption in the region, but Pakistan and Bangladesh also have large fertilizer requirements. This region is facing considerable population pressures, with very limited reserves of good agricultural land. Economic progress is boosting the demand for agricultural products. The region depends on adequate and efficient fertilization for its economic well-being.

Following twelve years of favourable monsoons fertilizer use in India decreased by 8% in 2000/01 mostly as a result of adverse weather conditions, but recovered partially in 2001/02. Fertilizer use in Pakistan is hampered by a nutrient imbalance in favour of nitrogen, and in Bangladesh by periodic floods.