As trade talks continue, experts say we could get more potash from Russia

Fertilizer will soon be in high demand. Most U.S. potash supplies come from Canada, but that could change depending on how future trade talks unfold.

“As of right now, we believe that potash is under the 0% tariff rate because it is considered a critical mineral, because it falls underneath our trade agreements for North America. If that’s the case, there’s no reason for our supply routes to change. Yes, Russia will remain number two, but it is a distant number two. Canada will continue to be the major player. Now, if tensions with Canada were to ramp up again and we start seeing more tariff rates on their potash, that is going to change things. We are going to see ourselves try to call more product from places like Russia,” said StoneX’s Josh Linville.

Fertilizer prices are tracking higher recently. Analysts with DTN found last week’s prices for UAN32 gained 10 percent. Potash gained five percent, but is still almost 10 percent off last year’s levels.

Related Stories
Economists are also closely watching how policy decisions in Washington could influence markets moving forward. Analysts say deferred futures for corn, soybeans, and wheat suggest markets are operating near break-even levels, not at prices that would encourage expanded production.
The federal government’s status is far from the only factor moving the markets on Friday. Two critical reports released today on producer inflation and the status of the U.S. cattle herd are also top of mind.
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-IA, details how the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” Act (OBBBA) supports farmers, biofuels, and rural communities with tax breaks, crop insurance relief, and ag infrastructure.
Transportation access, legal disputes, and fertilizer freight costs will directly influence input pricing and grain movement in 2026.
Fertilizer markets face uncertainty after President Trump raised the possibility of tariffs on Canadian imports, with analysts warning of supply and pricing risks. Josh Linville with StoneX provides a fertilizer industry outlook.
Canadian tariffs would raise costs for potash, ammonia, and UAN, increasing spring fertilizer risk.
Tariff relief and new trade agreements may temper food costs by reducing import costs.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

UC Davis Professor and Extension Specialist Dr. Frank Mitloehner joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to preview the festivities and share why this event has become such a special tradition for the ag community.
Beal joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss her election to NASDA’s presidency, challenges facing American agriculture, and her background as a Mainer and dairy farmer.
RFD-TV Farm Legal and Taxation expert Roger McEowen joined us Friday to break down the executive order and what it means for farmers and ranchers.
Chad Rezniek with the Colorado AgrAbility Project joined us as part of National Farm Safety and Health Week to discuss the growing need for behavioral health support in rural communities.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to break down what this extension means for affected ranchers.
Potash has seen the most significant decline, falling 11 percent over the same five-year period.