Summary
Farmers in the West of England are facing steep price increases for fuel and fertiliser due to disruptions caused by a war in Iran. The conflict has affected oil supplies, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, leading to higher global oil prices.
Key Facts
- Fuel for farm equipment has doubled in price since the conflict in Iran began.
- The Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for a fifth of the world's oil supply, has been disrupted by the conflict.
- Farmers are experiencing "crippling increases" in the cost of essential items like fuel and fertiliser.
- Regular diesel prices have risen by 17%, while specific "farm diesel" prices have more than doubled.
- Fertiliser prices have nearly doubled due to the war affecting chemical supplies.
- Farmers face not only higher costs but also rationing of diesel fuel, limiting the quantity they can purchase.
- Smaller farms are especially hit hard due to the lack of advance buying and storage options for fertiliser.
- A war-related shortage has also made it difficult for farmers to acquire necessary amounts of fertiliser.
