Fertilizer Strategies

Book excerpt: The rapid response of the agricultural sector to increased crop prices indicates that it is able to meet the world's overall food requirements. The problem lies more in the distribution of the agricultural output and the economic inability of a segment of the population to satisfy basic requirements. This document presents guidelines for governments on the development of fertiliser strategies. It illustrates the difference before and after the involvement of the private sector and offers solutions for improvement. The role of fertilisers in the development of agriculture is discussed with practical suggestions for decision-makers regarding production and import. The many issues involved in the efficient distribution and marketing of fertilisers are presented, together with an institutional framework for the integration of all the aspects into a comprehensive policy. There is a useful glossary.