# Fertilizer sales dip 13% in July on poor monsoon, lower sowing

2026-08-12T22:36:26+00:00 | Business & Economy | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 2 independent outlets

India’s fertilizer sales fell 13% in July to 77.44 lakh tonnes from 89.41 lakh tonnes a year ago, the steepest drop for the main sowing month, according to government data reported by BusinessLine. Urea sales slipped 9%, complex fertilisers 29%. The decline follows a 12% monsoon deficit since June 1 and a 1.8% shortfall in kharif sowing area as of August 7. At least 112 districts received 60% or less rain. Separately, Livemint reports that two-thirds of applied fertiliser is never absorbed by plants, with scientists citing low nutrient-use efficiency. The government’s subsidy bill crossed Rs 2.17 lakh crore in FY26, and a Rs 3.54 lakh crore proposal is pending for FY27.

## Coverage

- thehindubusinessline.com <https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/indias-fertilizer-sales-down-in-july-on-dipping-kharif-sowing-area-and-deficient-monsoon/article71336250.ece>
- livemint.com <https://www.livemint.com/industry/india-fertilizer-subsidy-waste-problem-groundwater-contamination-air-pollution-11786619443225.html>

Tags: agriculture, fertilizer sales, food production, kharif sowing, monsoon deficit, urea
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