A landmark outcome of the visit was the signing of long-term supply agreements between Saudi Arabia’s Maaden – one of the world’s largest mining and fertilizer companies – and Indian giants Indian Potash Limited (IPL), KRIBHCO, and Chambal Fertilisers (CIL). Starting from FY 2025-26, these agreements will ensure the annual import of 3.1 million metric tonnes of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) to India over the next five years, with an option to extend for another five.
This strategic deal is a significant leap from India’s current DAP imports. In FY 2024-25, India imported 1.9 million MT of DAP from Saudi Arabia – a 17% increase from the previous year. The new supply commitment from Maaden will play a pivotal role in ensuring long-term price stability and supply reliability for Indian farmers, further supporting the country’s food security and rural economy.
During his visit to Riyadh, Minister Nadda engaged in high-level discussions with Bandar bin Ibrahim Al Khorayef, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources. The two leaders emphasized the importance of expanding collaboration in fertilizers, petrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Both sides also explored opportunities for Indian PSUs to invest in Saudi Arabia’s growing fertilizer industry, while encouraging reciprocal Saudi investments in Indian sectors.
To institutionalize this collaboration, a Joint Working Group has been formed, co-led by India’s Fertilizer Secretary and Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister for Mining Affairs. This group will explore long-term cooperation in fertilizer manufacturing, research, and development – with a special focus on customized and alternative fertilizers tailored to Indian soil and crop needs.
Minister Nadda also met Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s influential Minister of Energy and co-chair of the Economy and Investment Committee under the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council. Their discussions reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
The Indian delegation, which included senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Department of Fertilizers, also visited Maaden’s state-of-the-art phosphate production facility at Ras Al Khair – showcasing the technological strength and scale of Saudi Arabia’s fertilizer infrastructure.
This visit marks a turning point in India-Saudi Arabia strategic cooperation, aligning with India’s goals of fertilizer self-reliance, diversified sourcing, and resilient supply chains. For Indian agriculture, the agreements with Maaden offer not just continuity of supply but a long-term vision of sustainability and collaboration.
