The National Federation of Organic Agriculture (Fnab) has asked to be included in a government program that offers financial assistance for the purchase of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. This program, valued at 145 million euros, was created to help farmers deal with rising fertilizer prices, which have been affected by the war in the Middle East and the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for global fertilizers. Originally set to end in September, the program was extended until December to help farmers with their autumn planting needs. In September, the eligibility threshold for the aid was lowered to 350 euros at the request of Young Farmers, allowing more farmers to benefit. The program offers 50 euros per ton of simple nitrogen fertilizers, up to half of what farmers used in 2025, with an increase to 70 euros per ton for those whose fertilizer costs make up more than 10 percent of their total expenses. The Fnab pointed out that the program currently only supports synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, leaving out organic farms, which are restricted to using organic fertilizers. The federation cited data from Insee, France’s national statistics office, and reports from organic farmers and cooperatives, showing that the price of organic fertilizers increased by 10 to 30 percent in 2026 compared to 2025, depending on the region and type of fertilizer. The Fnab explained that the rising cost of synthetic fertilizers has pushed conventional farmers to use organic alternatives, which in turn has increased demand and prices for organic fertilizers. This situation, the federation said, has already been noted by the government’s own services. The Fnab is requesting that purchases of fertilizers made since June 2026 be eligible for aid and is asking the government to expand the program to include "all fertilizers and soil amendments authorized in organic agriculture," including retroactive support for purchases made since June 1st for the new farming season. The goal, according to the federation, is to ensure "equal treatment between farmers." The Fnab also argues that focusing support on synthetic nitrogen fertilizers keeps the agricultural sector reliant on fossil fuels and imported materials, which conflicts with the goals of the fertilizer plan outlined by the Ministry of Agriculture. The federation emphasized that expanding the aid program would align with broader environmental and agricultural policy goals, reducing reliance on imported resources and supporting a more sustainable farming model. The request comes at a time when organic farming has been growing in popularity, with more farmers seeking alternatives to synthetic inputs. The government has not yet responded to the Fnab’s appeal, but the issue highlights the complex interplay between agricultural policy, economic pressures, and environmental objectives.