Rising DAP Prices: Cost-Effective Fertilizer Alternatives for Pakistani Farmers

By Asif Shehzad

Khanewal, Punjab – October 2025:

Background:
Fertilizers are essential for high crop yields, especially for staples like wheat, maize, and cotton in Pakistan. For years, Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) has been a preferred choice because it supplies both phosphorus and nitrogen — key nutrients for plant growth.

The Problem:
Recently, DAP has become expensive and hard to find. As of October 2025, a 50 kg bag costs Rs. 14,500 – 15,500 depending on the region. In addition, the market is flooded with fake or substandard DAP, making farmers unsure about its quality. Rising costs and supply challenges are forcing farmers to look for cheaper and reliable alternatives without sacrificing crop productivity.

✅ Why Consider SSP + Urea?

Experts suggest a combination of Single Super Phosphate (SSP) and Urea as a cost-effective alternative.

• SSP provides phosphorus, sulfur, and calcium, improving soil health and crop growth.
• Urea supplies nitrogen, essential for plant development.
• Together, they deliver nutrients similar to a DAP bag, while offering additional benefits for soil and crops.

⚖️ Recommended Combination for Cost-Effectiveness

To replace one 50 kg bag of DAP per acre, use:

3 bags of SSP + ½ bag of Urea

• Gives similar phosphorus and nitrogen levels.
• Adds sulfur and calcium to enhance soil structure, water retention, and fertility.
• Ratios can be adjusted based on soil tests and crop type, allowing precise, cost-effective nutrient management.

Practical Benefits of SSP + Urea

• Improves Soil Health: Sulfur and calcium strengthen soil, support root growth, and enhance nutrient uptake.
• Suitable for Alkaline Soils: SSP’s mild acidity helps make phosphorus more available in high-pH soils.
• Affordable & Locally Available: SSP is produced locally, reducing reliance on imported DAP.
• Lower Risk of Fake Products: Local production ensures genuine supply.
• Comparable or Better Yields: Studies show SSP + Urea can achieve similar or superior yields under rain-fed and irrigated conditions.

✅ Sustainability & Long-Term Benefits

Switching to SSP + Urea not only reduces immediate costs, but also maintains soil fertility over time. Overusing DAP alone can lead to phosphorus buildup and soil hardening, whereas SSP supports soil life and long-term productivity.

???? Conclusion

With rising DAP prices and supply uncertainty, farmers need practical, affordable alternatives.

SSP + Urea offers:
✅ Nutrient balance comparable to DAP
✅ Added soil benefits (sulfur & calcium)
✅ Lower cost per acre
✅ Reliable and easily available

By adopting this strategy, farmers can maintain high yields, improve soil health, and reduce reliance on imported fertilizers, creating a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural future in Pakistan.