Port of Liverpool sees surge in fertiliser import demand

The Port of Liverpool has recorded a sharp increase in fertiliser import enquiries as UK supply chain operators reassess routing and port strategies amid ongoing global trade uncertainty.

Peel Ports Group has recorded a more than 200 per cent rise in enquiries linked to fertiliser imports, with customers reviewing how and where product is brought into the UK amid ongoing concerns over international shipping stability, including tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz.

While UK fertiliser volumes are traditionally handled through east coast ports, importers are increasingly considering alternative entry points as part of wider resilience planning.

The shift is also being driven by vessel optimisation strategies, with customers exploring larger ships to improve freight economics, secure available cargoes and reduce exposure to disruption across global supply chains.

Liverpool’s deep-water access and west coast positioning are emerging as key factors supporting this shift, alongside growing demand for inland warehousing capacity across the North West to support stockpiling strategies.

Phil Hall, Port Director Liverpool at Peel Ports Group, said: “Customers are looking closely at how they can strengthen resilience across their supply chains. For many, that means reviewing vessel choice, storage capacity and alternative ports to ensure they can continue to move product efficiently despite ongoing uncertainty in global markets.

“We have invested millions in facilities such as the recently developed Alexander Warehouse. Although we took the decision well before the situation in Iran, that speculative move does mean we are now ready to support this market as interest increases for immediate solutions that can support fertiliser imports and provide greater supply chain flexibility.”