ICL Growing solutions has opened a huge new fertiliser plant in India, helping to improve food security for millions of people at a time when crop production is under serious threat.

The seven-acre facility in Supa, Maharashtra, will produce 30,000t of water-soluble fertiliser a year, helping local and international farmers to adopt more efficient and sustainable growing practices, while increasing yields and strengthening long-term food security.

"With geopolitical tensions disrupting global trade routes and delaying fertiliser shipments through a key corridor as the Strait of Hormuz, building local production capacity is essential," says Nir Ilani, President of ICL Growing Solutions. "This facility enhances India's supply resilience and ensures farmers have consistent access to high-quality solutions."

Agriculture contributes over 20% to India's gross domestic product and employs more than half of its workforce, making it the largest producer of rice and second largest producer of wheat globally. It is the world's second largest consumer of fertilisers, and the government is encouraging farmers to adopt more efficient and environmentally sustainable practices.

The launch therefore comes at a critical time, as the country relies heavily on fertiliser imports and is facing supply disruptions due to geopolitical tensions. "These delays are already affecting fertiliser availability worldwide and could pose long‑term risks to food security if not addressed," says Mr Ilani.

"This new facility also supports the Government of India's 'Make in India' initiative and reflects ICL's strategy to expand local production in high-growth markets. By manufacturing water soluble fertilisers within India, we aim to reduce dependence on cross-border supply chains, diversify production routes and ensure more reliable access to essential agricultural inputs."

Water soluble fertilisers enable precise nutrient delivery and higher agronomic efficiency. "Designed to deliver the same high-quality specialty products currently exported from Israel, the plant combines cutting-edge technology with local expertise to deliver more sustainable farming."

The investment also reflects ICL's long-term commitment to India's agricultural market, and its belief in the role specialty fertilisers can play in supporting food security, Mr Ilani adds.  "This is an important step forward in our mission to help farmers produce more, improve quality, and use resources more efficiently."

 ·       For more information visit www.icl-growingsolutions.com.