AIC Gives Evidence to EFRA Committee on Fertiliser and Food Supply Chain Pressures
On Tuesday 21 April, Jo Gilbertson, Head of Fertiliser at AIC, gave oral evidence to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee as part of its inquiry into fairness in the food supply chain. The inquiry is examining trading relationships and the resilience of the food supply chain.
The session focused on pressures across the food and farming supply chain, including the economic impacts of the conflict involving Iran on key input costs such as fertiliser and fuel. MPs questioned how these pressures are affecting agricultural supply chains, access to food and drink, and fairness between farmers, suppliers and retailers.
Jo outlined how recent geopolitical developments are influencing fertiliser sectors. He explained that sustained uncertainty may affect future supply conditions and purchasing decisions, particularly if confidence later in the year is impacted. He also highlighted the close relationship between fertiliser production, manufacturing activity and energy, and observed that market stability and policy clarity will be important considerations in the months ahead.
As part of this, Jo outlined the AIC’s four asks of Government in order to help provide clarity and confidence to the sector and farmers.
Jo reiterated the role of AIC in engaging constructively with Government to support understanding of market conditions across the supply chain.
Discussion also covered the knock‑on effects of higher fuel prices, and the outlook for potential food inflation and supply challenges as the year progresses.
You can watch the video of the meeting below.
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Wendy Ford
Wendy Ford is Communications Manager at AIC, creating and overseeing the content published on AIC's website, emails, Member briefings, print publications, and social media.
