Expect fertilizer prices to climb this fall, Sen. Grassley warns

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says fertilizer costs are top of mind for many farmers across the United States. He worries about consolidation, and he also makes a prediction about what lies ahead.

“The issue will become even more acute in the fall as farmers look to purchase next year’s fertilizer. I’ll continue pushing for the Administration to keep farmer input costs in mind.”

Grassley says there are a number of reasons farmers are worried about these costs, citing geopolitical issues, like the war in Ukraine and a drop in phosphate exports from China. Despite all of that, retail prices have stayed steady in the short term and remain below last year’s range.

Analysts with DTN say prices for all eight major fertilizer types were mostly flat last week, but seven are now higher than this time last year. Urea prices have climbed 32 percent over the past year. UAN-32 is up 30 percent, while UAN-28 is up 23 percent. Potash is the only fertilizer lower this year and about five percent below last summer.

Related Stories
Energy risks could reshape global ag trade flows.
Geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz disrupt fertilizer shipments, raising costs and creating uncertainty for U.S. farmers ahead of planting season.
Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses supply chain disruptions, rising costs, and the potential impact on agriculture as farmers navigate ongoing global uncertainty.
Suderman joins Tony St. James in the RFD Studios to discuss how geopolitical tensions are triggering global transport disruptions, new inflation pressures, and other challenges for agriculture to navigate.
Farm Bureau economist Dr. Faith Parum explains how geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East could further tighten fertilizer movement, increase fuel costs, and complicate planting decisions for U.S. farmers this spring.
Farm CPA Paul Nieffer explains the Farmer Bridge Assistance payment limits, provides clarity on new legislation, and offers advice for producers considering business structure adjustments.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Despite the need for swift action, many ag lawmakers and industry groups argue that farm aid alone will likely not be sufficient to help farmers without improved trade relations with China.
Tyson’s capacity cuts weaken local basis, tighten kill space, and heighten dependence on imports, signaling more volatility for producers.
2,400 turkeys were donated to Tracy Lawrence’s Turkey Fry after a refrigerated truck broke down, spoiling 650 turkeys
Former Market Day Report anchor Janet Adkison was inducted into the National Association of Farm Broadcasting Hall of Fame, recognizing over 20 years of service sharing stories that impact Rural America.
Jake Charleston, with Specialty Risk Insurance, joins us now for an industry update and advice for cattle producers as they consider options for managing the risks of a murky market.