ICL CEO Highlights Minerals and Fertilizers as National Security Priorities Amid Global Supply Risks
Elad Aharonson, CEO of ICL, emphasized the strategic importance of minerals and fertilizer supply chains during a discussion at the Calcalist and Mizrahi Tefahot Growth Conference. He stated that control over these resources is a matter of national security, food security, and economic stability, especially amid current global instability. Aharonson compared strategic mineral routes like the Hormuz Strait to energy chokepoints, noting that Iranian control over Hormuz threatens fertilizer exports, which in turn impacts agricultural output and food prices.
ICL produces key minerals such as potash, bromine, and phosphate in Israel and operates globally in 120 countries with advanced production facilities in 13 nations. This global footprint allows ICL to mitigate supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical events, such as the closure of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait or the Hormuz Strait, and maintain operational flexibility.
Addressing the challenge of feeding a growing global population with shrinking agricultural resources, Aharonson highlighted ICL's leadership in precision agriculture and specialty fertilizers. These technologies increase crop yields with reduced environmental impact, supporting the nutrition of approximately 400 million people daily. ICL invests heavily in research and development to continuously improve product efficacy and sustainability.
Regarding the upcoming 2030 Dead Sea concession tender, ICL plans to compete but insists on economically viable terms to ensure long-term stability. Aharonson stressed the importance of the concession serving the Israeli public, maintaining employment for thousands in the Negev with quality jobs, and ensuring that nearly 80% of shareholders are Israeli public entities. He also raised security concerns about the Dead Sea facilities' location near a volatile border and the competitive expansion of Jordanian operations funded by their government.
Looking ahead, ICL aims to expand its global presence and grow its advanced technology product lines in fertilizers, functional food ingredients, and advanced electronics materials. Aharonson envisions ICL continuing as a major private employer in the Negev and a key player addressing global food security and technological progress, resilient through crises such as pandemics and regional conflicts.
