Agricultural resilience and food security in an interconnected world

Fertilisers are essential for agricultural production and food security, but recent market volatility has exposed vulnerabilities in geographically concentrated and energy-intensive supply chains. Disruptions to fertiliser markets can affect farm profitability, production decisions, food prices and food security – especially since fertilisers represent a major share of production costs for crop farmers. Impacts vary across countries according to import dependence, income levels, fiscal capacity, fertiliser use and broader food security conditions. Drawing on OECD modelling and agricultural resilience work, this policy brief highlights how policymakers can balance timely responses with longer-term preparedness and adaptation. It highlights key considerations for resilience, including clearly defined responsibilities across public and private actors, efficient input use, diversified sources of supply, and open and well-functioning markets.