With ongoing volatility across the fertiliser market, Defra has launched a survey which is open until 15 April 2026. They want to gather data on price fluctuation, availability and affordability of fertiliser products in England.
Complete the survey: Fertiliser survey: Share your views
Defra's Farming Blog explains the rationale behind this work.
Greater transparency
Reflecting on the challenges facing members, NFU Combinable Crops Board Chair, Jamie Burrows said:
“Where we want to see greater transparency in the marketplace, we are instead faced with opaque pricing structures and uncertainty. This survey is an opportunity to demonstrate to policymakers the need for a fairer, more transparent and more sustainable future for British farming.
“With fertiliser being one of the biggest drivers of production decisions, costs, and ultimately farm viability, the lack of transparency across the marketplace creates frustration for many growers.
Sharing your experiences, the prices you’ve paid, the products you’ve used, the strategies you’ve adopted and the pressures you’re navigating can help demonstrate the real-world insights that are needed to design and deliver positive change.
“We know this season hasn’t been easy.”
Clear message to government needed
Fertiliser availability, volatile markets, and shifting environmental expectations have left many businesses making tough calls. The more members who share their first-hand experience, the stronger and clearer the message to government will be: British farmers need stability, transparency and fairness to build resilience into their businesses.
Jamie Burrows continued, “Spring is a busy period in the farming calendar; lambing is in full swing, drilling is underway and a range of other jobs that demand your time. But it’s vital that as many NFU members as possible take part in this survey.
“Whether you are growing combinable crops, livestock, fresh produce or anything in between, your input matters. Every response strengthens the collective case.”
Make your voice heard
The NFU continues to lobby government to ensure that farmers’ voices are heard where it counts. This works best with our members’ support, knowledge and insights.