China Fertiliser Shipments to India Surge 173%

India’s fertiliser imports from China witnessed a staggering 173 percent surge in FY26, climbing to 5.02 million tonnes as reported by the Ministry of Commerce. While Russia remains the primary supplier at 6.8 million tonnes, this shift in trade flow significantly impacts dry bulk shipping routes. Increased vessel traffic at major ports like Mundra and Kandla necessitates heightened logistical coordination. As trade volumes rise, maritime professionals must monitor vessel turnaround times and port congestion levels affecting bulk carriers transporting these critical agricultural commodities.

The surge in bulk fertiliser shipments demands strict adherence to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code, specifically regarding the classification of chemical cargoes. Compliance departments must ensure that vessels carrying these fertilisers strictly follow MARPOL Annex V regulations concerning the discharge of cargo residues and hold cleaning procedures. Furthermore, under SOLAS Chapter VI, masters must ensure that the master’s information manual is updated to reflect the specific stowage and segregation requirements for hazardous chemical fertilisers to prevent potential chemical reactions or structural damage during transit.

This shift in trade routes directly impacts navigating officers and masters responsible for voyage planning and cargo stowage. These officers must ensure precise compliance with the IMSBC Code schedules for specific fertiliser grades to avoid stability issues. Furthermore, deck officers must oversee rigorous hold inspections and ventilation protocols to maintain cargo integrity. Staying updated on these changing trade patterns is essential for maintaining operational safety and ensuring efficient cargo handling during port calls across the Indian coastline.