The issue of fertiliser prices is causing concern for farmers according to the ICMSA. Tipperary farmer Pat McCormack and president of the farming body says farmers are unable to get a price quotation from suppliers at present.
This despite the farmer giving a specific product quantity and a date for delivery. The ICMSA says the practice was leading to speculation amongst farmers that – as the international price of fertilisers trended notably lower – the Co-ops and other stockists were intent on selling their existing stocks at the previously higher prices. According to the CSO agricultural price report, in the 12 months to August 2022 fertiliser costs increased by almost 130%.
Mr McCormack is accusing fertiliser suppliers of taking a hedge position on their pricing and doing so at the expense of the farmer.
