Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and International Financial Institutions (IFIs) have called for stronger global cooperation and increased investment to make fertilizer supply chains more resilient, warning that repeated global shocks have exposed structural weaknesses that disproportionately affect smallholder farmers and low-income households.
In a joint statement, six major development institutions said fertilizer availability remains closely linked to global food security. They emphasized that simply increasing fertilizer supplies will not be sufficient to address long-term food security challenges. Greater fertilizer-use efficiency, diversified nutrient sources, healthier soils and more resilient food systems will also be essential.
The joint statement was signed by the African Development Bank Group, Asian Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Inter-American Development Bank Group, International Fund for Agricultural Development and World Bank Group.
The institutions proposed developing a coordinated MDB Roadmap on Strengthening Fertilizer Supply Chains, in collaboration with G20 members, development partners and the private sector. The roadmap would bring together financing, policy dialogue, technical assistance, research and innovation around a common agenda.
The proposed initiative aims to strengthen fertilizer value chains from production and processing to blending, storage and transportation. MDBs said increased investment in critical infrastructure and economic corridors could help countries reduce their exposure to future supply disruptions while ensuring timely access to fertilizers.
Another major focus will be improving the efficiency with which fertilizers are used. The institutions highlighted soil diagnostics, better fertilizer recommendations, precision nutrient management, digital agriculture and farmer advisory services as important tools for reducing wastage and improving productivity.
The statement also underlined the need to address broader weaknesses in food systems. Improved soil and water management, nature based solutions, resilient agricultural value chains, innovative technologies and greater private sector investment were identified as key areas for future support.
The MDBs also pledged continued assistance to vulnerable households and smallholder farmers by improving access to finance, agricultural inputs, logistics and markets. Particular emphasis will be placed on helping farmers and agrifood enterprises manage fertilizer-related challenges while promoting efficient use of natural resources.
The latest initiative builds on the IFI Action Plan to Address Food Insecurity, launched in response to the global food crisis of 2022. G20 discussions have since emphasized resilient food and fertilizer value chains, while the proposed G7+ Action Plan on Fertilizer Shocks and Food Systems Resilience has highlighted stronger monitoring, early-warning mechanisms, coordination and timely financing.