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Global: World’s fertilizer duopoly could crash with prospective new competition

By  |  June 10, 2013

BHP Billiton is threatening to shatter the current duopoly that stands among the world’s potash companies as experts weigh the potential effects of its entrance into the fertilizer market. The global market is currently dominated by Belarus Potash Company and Canpotex, who have standardized their prices for decades, say reports. But mining company BHP is threatening that makeup with its plans for a major potash mine in Western Canada which would become the globe’s largest; the mine is scheduled to open in 2017. Four producers in the two groups currently leading the market have recently settled for $100 million as part of a US case that accused the companies of colluding to raise fertilizer prices. BPC represents various potash producers in Russia and Belarus; Canpotex is its North American-based sister company. Together, the two have set identical prices in various markets including China and India.

Full Content: Reuters

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