Blog Post

Input Markets

The structure and behavior of agricultural input markets, such as fertilizer or seed markets, can have significant regional and global effects on agricultural development and, thus, food security. Prohibitively high costs and other constraints can limit the use of beneficial inputs and lead to decreased agricultural productivity, which can negatively impact farmers as well as consumers. On the other hand, input producers may benefit from higher prices.

Understanding how input markets behave both globally and regionally can help policymakers determine how best to invest in the development and regulation of such markets.

Watch IFPRI researcher Manuel Hernandez discuss market structure and pricing behavior in the fertilizer industry.