Canadian fertilizer producer Nutrien halts three Brazil fertilizer blending plants

HOUSTON (ICIS)–Canadian fertilizer major Nutrien has announced a decision to halt three fertilizer blending plants in Brazil as it undergoes a reorganization of their operations for improved efficiency within the country.

The plants are in Alfenas, Minas Gerais and Morrinhos and Cristalina, Goias, and comes amid what the producer is describing as tougher market conditions with Nutrien saying it will continue to be able to meet the needs of their farmer customers.

The current strategy is to continue to provide fertilizers via its other two blenders in Brazil and through their local partners and if necessary restart these three outlets. There are also plans advancing to shutter an older facility in the state of Sao Paulo.

“Nutrien is committed to serving our farmer customers in Brazil with the solutions they need and fertilizer is an important component of our overall portfolio. At the same time, we are reviewing our operating model to find efficiencies and as a result we are assessing future options for our three blenders located in the cities of Alfenas, Morrinhos and Cristalina,” said Nutrien spokesperson.

“The decision allows Nutrien to restart these assets in a short time period if needed. We are well positioned to serve our customer with the same technical quality, volume and breadth of the fertilizer portfolio, through strategic partnerships and other blenders that remain in operation.”