Regulatory
EU suspends fertiliser tariffs for one year to cut costs and reduce Russian dependency
The decision removes import duties on essential inputs such as urea and ammonia
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By ICN Bureau | May 26, 2026
The Council of the European Union has agreed to suspend customs tariffs on key nitrogen-based fertilisers for one year in a move aimed at easing costs for farmers and reshaping supply chains across Europe.
The decision, announced by the European Council on 22 May 2026, removes import duties on essential inputs such as urea and ammonia. The measure is designed to support agricultural production while strengthening the EU’s trade resilience.
Officials estimate the suspension could save the sector around €60 million in import duties, according to the European Commission. The policy also forms part of a broader push to reduce reliance on Russia and Belarus and diversify fertiliser supply chains.
“Today’s decision gives European farmers better access to affordable, reliable fertiliser supplies – good news for the agriculture sector and EU consumers alike.
"At the same time, we are accelerating away from Russian and Belarusian products and building more resilient supply chains and partnerships globally," said Makis Keravnos, Minister of Finance of the Republic of Cyprus.
The suspension applies selectively: it covers products not already entering the EU duty-free under preferential trade arrangements, and is capped by quotas linked to 2024 import levels. However, imports from Russia and Belarus are excluded entirely, reflecting the EU’s political stance following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Belarus’s support for Moscow.
Prices for nitrogen-based fertilisers have surged since 2021, increasing pressure on farmers and food costs across Europe. In 2024 alone, the EU imported millions of tonnes of ammonia, urea, and nitrogen fertiliser products to maintain agricultural output.
The measure will take effect the day after its publication in the EU’s Official Journal and remain in force for one year, with the European Commission expected to monitor market conditions and recommend extensions or adjustments if needed.
