Defra has opened a consultation to help British farmers access new fertiliser products, with the potential to reduce air, land and water pollution.
It will call for evidence to set out plans for innovation within the sector, as well as to diversify supply and strengthen resilience to global market shocks.
Defra states that current regulations are widely seen as outdated and could do more to support supply resilience and protect the environment. It also plans to make the sector more agile, enabling new products to enter the market.
Results are hoped to expand access to a wider range of products and introduce more flexible legislation. It is part of the government’s plan to work with farmers and industry to put more homegrown food on people’s plates, grow the economy and protect the countryside.
Developments in the Middle East and their impact on the food and farming sector are being monitored by the government, including fluctuating fertiliser prices.
Defra states that action has been taken to support price transparency, raising industry concerns with the Competitions and Market Authority (CMA) and asking the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board to report back on fertiliser and red diesel supply.
Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle said: “Farmers work tirelessly to feed the nation, and they deserve a system that keep pace with modern agriculture, supports farm businesses, encourages innovation and cuts pollution.
“These proposals would help support innovation in the fertiliser sector, reduce reliance on imports, and support more sustainable farming.”
Jo Gilbertson, Agricultural Industries Confederation Sector Head for Fertilisers, said: “This consultation represents an important opportunity to put in place a fertiliser regulatory framework that is fit for the future.
“Aligning with a European‑style fertilising products model, while tailoring it to UK conditions and co‑designing it with industry, should help deliver a system that protects standards, supports innovation, and works in practice for businesses and farmers alike.”
The consultation will run for eight weeks, closing on the 13th of May, with responses invited from farmers, manufacturers, environmental groups and the wider industry.