NASHVILLE, TN (RFD NEWS) — Farmers are still facing high fertilizer costs, and some analysts say recent federal attention may not fully address the biggest near-term pressure points.
Josh Linville with StoneX says fertilizer policy is now getting the attention it needs, but much of the focus is on ammonia, potash, and phosphate rather than urea.
Linville says some announced production gains were already planned, while new ammonia capacity may not be aimed mainly at U.S. farm demand. He says urea remains one of the largest U.S. import needs and is more exposed to Russia, the Middle East, and other global suppliers.
Nitrogen supplies made it through spring better than feared, but prices remain high. Linville says reopening the Strait of Hormuz could pressure urea prices in the short term if stalled vessels move, but tight supply may keep values elevated into spring 2027.
Phosphate remains under greater pressure because ammonia and sulfur are major cost drivers.
Potash is the calmer market, with supply adequate but freight costs adding support.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Fertilizer prices remain vulnerable to global supply disruptions, and urea may deserve more policy attention.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
October 21, 2025 06:18 PM
·
API said it stands ready to work with Congress to develop a balanced approach to E15 legislation that promotes fuel choice, supports investment certainty, and contributes to a stable and fair marketplace for American consumers.
October 21, 2025 12:39 PM
·
Lawmakers are pressing for answers on how Washington’s “managed trade” approach — keeping leverage through long-term tariffs — will affect farmers, global markets, and future export opportunities.
October 21, 2025 12:17 PM
·
In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat.
October 21, 2025 11:57 AM
·
Beef industry groups seem to agree — market-based pricing, not federal intervention, best supports rancher livelihoods and long-term beef supply stability.
October 21, 2025 11:22 AM
·
Cattle groups say additional imports would offer little relief for consumers but could erode rancher confidence as the industry begins to rebuild herds.
October 21, 2025 11:06 AM
·
