Govt. lists fertiliser supply as an essential service

• Under new guidelines distribution to be done continually but using as few employees as possible
• Fertilizer Secretariat orders all companies to keep regional offices open
• Documentation to be processed via email; Secretariat to supply transport if needed

The Government yesterday notified all fertiliser importers and distribution permit holders that the unobstructed supply of fertiliser had been deemed an essential service.

The National Fertilizer Secretariat issued the directive (7l1l2l3l4/NFP) to all permit holders reminding them that the unhindered supply of fertiliser to farmers during the COVID-19 outbreak was an essential service and has instructed them to act according to guidelines issued by the Secretariat.

Under the guidelines, the permit holders should continue unhindered supply while using as few employees as possible.

The companies were also instructed to provide sanitary and safety facilities in accordance with the COVID-19 public health directives and practice public health regulations while engaging in their duties on site. 

All documentation regarding import licenses, Customs declaration and clearances should be sent via e-mail to the respective agencies for processing.

The Secretariat urged all fertiliser companies to have their regional offices and agencies open and accessible to farmers. Such branches are to print and display notices sent by the Secretariat via e-mail.

The Secretariat also informed the companies that if additional transport facilities to regional offices and agents was required, the National Fertilizer Secretariat could assist in organising the transport.