Story perspectives

Australian Farmers Shift to Barley Amid Rising Fertilizer Costs

4/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Australian farmers are shifting to barley and other less nitrogen-intensive crops due to soaring fertilizer and fuel costs tied to the Iran war.
Wheat and canola planting could fall 10%–12% this season as urea prices rise, up about 60% since the conflict began.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key fertilizer route, is disrupted, worsening supply constraints.
Experts warn continued trends could raise global food prices and hardship for vulnerable populations.

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Story summary

Australian farmers are shifting to barley and other less nitrogen-intensive crops due to soaring fertilizer and fuel costs tied to the Iran war.
Wheat and canola planting could fall 10%–12% this season as urea prices rise, up about 60% since the conflict began.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key fertilizer route, is disrupted, worsening supply constraints.
Experts warn continued trends could raise global food prices and hardship for vulnerable populations.