PLATTE CITY, MO. (RFD NEWS) — Rising geopolitical tensions and disruptions in key global shipping lanes are raising new concerns for agricultural input markets, particularly fertilizer, as farmers prepare for spring planting. With planting season already underway in part of the country, American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) President Zippy Duvall is sounding the alarm.
“A farm emergency is brewing, as events in the Middle East will soon be felt on America’s farm fields,” Duvall said. “Military action in Iran has led to disruptions in maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz, which means farmers could be left without fertilizer supplies as planting season gets into full swing, and drive prices higher for farmers struggling to stay in business. Farm Bureau urges the administration to use the Navy to provide safe transit of fertilizer shipments and address insurance barriers for ships transporting fertilizer cargo. If the delivery of important farm supplies isn’t prioritized, the U.S. risks putting the nation’s food security in jeopardy.”
Josh Linville, director of fertilizer at StoneX, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss the current state of the fertilizer market and the potential ripple effects for agriculture.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Linville said the situation remains fluid, with analysts closely watching shipping routes, energy markets, and fertilizer supply chains that could influence prices and availability in the weeks ahead. He noted that many producers have already secured at least part of their fertilizer supply for the season, which may help limit immediate disruptions. However, if tensions continue and supply chains remain strained, farmers could face higher costs or tighter availability during a critical time for crop production.
Through recent travel and conversations with growers across the country, Linville said producers are watching the situation closely while weighing potential impacts on planting decisions. If fertilizer supplies become constrained or prices rise significantly, some farmers could consider adjustments to application rates or crop mixes.
Linville also discussed how quickly markets might stabilize if tensions ease. Even if conditions improve rapidly, fertilizer markets may take time to settle as global supply chains adjust and prices respond to shifting demand.
