Published on: 2026-05-07
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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Disruptions in shipping in the Strait of Hormuz are beginning to affect not only the global oil and gas markets but also food production. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) warns that the fertilizer shortage caused by the crisis in one of the world’s key maritime corridors could lead to reduced crop yields and rising food prices as early as the second half of 2026 and in 2027.
Large-scale crisis
With such a warning, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu spoke at a meeting with representatives of more than 40 countries of the Mediterranean and partner states, gathered in Rome, to discuss the threats to global food security.
According to the head of the FAO, the current crisis goes far beyond the scope of geopolitics and already affects trade, agricultural resources supplies, and people’s access to food. “This is not only a geopolitical crisis, but also a blow to the very foundation of the global agri-food system,” said Cui Dunyu.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most important routes of global trade. A significant portion of global supplies of oil, liquefied natural gas, sulfur, and fertilizers passes through it. Disruptions in vessel traffic are already leading to increases in energy prices and fertilizer shortages on the global market.
Farmers can no longer wait
The FAO emphasizes: agriculture is especially vulnerable to such disruptions, since the agricultural cycle cannot be “put on pause.” Fertilizers must be available during certain periods of the sowing campaign. Even a delay in deliveries by several weeks can lead to farmers being forced to reduce fertilizer use or even abandon it altogether.
“If fertilizers do not arrive on time, crop yields fall regardless of what happens later,” noted the head of the FAO. Particular concern is caused by the fact that the crisis coincided with critically important sowing periods in many food-producing countries. According to FAO estimates, the most vulnerable remain the states of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, dependent on imports and already facing food shortages, economic difficulties, or the consequences of climatic shocks.
In the organization, they warn: the consequences may be felt in almost all countries of the world. A decrease in crop yields can lead to a reduction in global food supplies and a new wave of price increases.
Combine efforts
The FAO called on governments to act promptly. Among the top priorities are the search for alternative trade routes, the lifting of export restrictions, support for farmers, and the protection of humanitarian supplies.
In the longer-term perspective, the organization proposes reducing dependence on a limited number of transport routes and fossil fuels by investing in sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and new fertilizer production technologies.
In Rome, it was emphasized that the current crisis demonstrates how closely interconnected energy security, global trade, and the food system are. Even local disruptions in one strategic region can quickly affect prices and the availability of products worldwide.
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