Drought in Russia: Grain region particularly affected
In Russia, the main region for grain cultivation has been experiencing dry conditions for weeks. This is likely to result in lower yields and poorer quality than previously expected.
Increase in Dutch Manure Export
The Dutch manure export has significantly increased in the first quarter of this year. Almost one million tons of manure left the Netherlands for foreign destinations, which is 43% more than the same period last year, as reported by the agricultural magazine Boerderij citing figures from the RVO (Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend). In total, there were 33,302 shipments containing 9 million kg of phosphorus and over 10 million kg of nitrogen.
Main Destination Still Germany
The main destination remains Germany with 584,051 tons of manure in the first quarter of this year. Exports to Germany grew the most in the first quarter by 70%. 132,599 tons went to Belgium, an 18% increase. Exports to France increased by 17% to 245,151 tons. Other destinations are negligible.
Significant Growth in Cattle Manure
The largest growth is seen in the export of cattle manure. While the absolute numbers are only 22,000 tons, it is five times more than the previous year. The majority falls into the category of "other manure," not further specified, which increased by 53% to over 704,000 tons. Additionally, over 108,000 tons of pig manure were exported, showing a strong increase of 28%. Poultry manure increased by 14% to a total of over 94,000 tons.
Increase in Imports
Imports to the Netherlands have also increased in the first quarter compared to the previous year. In total, there were 184,103 tons imported, representing an increase of over 50%. Particularly, the import of pig manure has significantly increased, more than quintupling.
Reasons for Increase in Imports
This increase in imports is likely due to favorable weather conditions at the beginning of spring, allowing for better manure application everywhere. Fertilizer imports into the Netherlands often happen in border areas, where farmers obtain their fertilizer from beyond the border. Manure imports by farmers have increased by 300%, while in previous years, when spring was very wet, a decline was observed in these operations.