Global diesel crunch hits farmers, raising food inflation risks

farmers: Farmers are agricultural producers who grow crops and raise livestock, relying on fuel for tractors, harvesting equipment, irrigation, and transport. They are directly affected by the diesel supply squeeze because harvesting and planting require substantial fuel use, increasing operating costs and potentially passing inflation through to food prices. Food inflation: Economists warn that sustained diesel-cost increases can raise food prices because fuel is used throughout production, freight, and agricultural supply chains. Seasonal pressure: The impact is especially acute during harvest and planting periods, when farmers’ fuel demand is elevated and profit margins are already under pressure. Supply disruption: Recent reporting attributes the diesel squeeze to disruptions affecting fuel flows through the Strait of Hormuz and damage to Russian refining infrastructure.