The phosphate supply system in the Pacific region

Phosphate trade in the Pacific Basin is dominated by imports from outside the region. The principal suppliers within the area have been Nauru and Christmas Islands and the now depleted supplies of Makatea and Ocean Islands. Rapidly dwindling reserves on these islands coupled with expectations of a four to five fold increase in demand of phosphate fertilizer by the end of this century place considerable stress on the phosphate supply system in the Pacific. Anticipated developments in production from inactive deposits in Australia, Peru, and possibly Baja California, Mexico may eventually hold a major share in the Pacific markets. Other possibilities in the region include contributions from new discoveries and utilization of submarine deposits, especially those of the Chatham Rise and Baja California areas. Increased interest in small-scale mining for use in local agricultural operations may result in increased utilization of smaller deposits found throughout the Pacific.