FAO Seeks Urgent Funding to Protect Afghanistan's Wheat Harvest from Soaring Fertilizer Prices

Afghanistan's farmers are facing severe challenges as fertilizer prices rise ahead of the critical winter wheat planting season. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is appealing for USD 38.3 million to enable up to 600,000 farming households to access fertilizer and certified wheat seed.

The sharp increase in fertilizer prices follows disruptions to global markets linked to the 2026 Middle East crisis. With naturally low soil fertility, wheat production depends heavily on adequate applications of diammonium phosphate (DAP) and urea.

Winter wheat is Afghanistan's principal staple crop, accounting for over two-thirds of annual fertilizer demand. Rising prices mean many farmers may be forced to reduce fertilizer use or cultivate smaller areas, resulting in lower production, reduced household food availability, and increased debt.