NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Input costs continue to pressure crop margins as fertilizer markets stay elevated ahead of planting, according to Josh Linville, vice president of fertilizer at StoneX.
Nitrogen markets remain volatile. A large Indian urea tender is pending while reports suggest Iranian nitrogen production may return after gas supply disruptions. Even limited Iranian exports influence global supply expectations. Despite quieter trading, prices remain historically high — urea, UAN, and anhydrous ammonia all rank the second-highest ever for this time of year, meaning farmers must commit unusually large bushel equivalents to secure product.
Phosphate markets also remain tight. China is still expected to stay out of export markets until at least August 2026, and high ammonia and sulfur costs are raising production expenses worldwide. The DAP-to-corn ratio improved slightly but remains near record-expensive levels.
Potash is comparatively stable and considered reasonably priced. Meanwhile, sulfur prices are surging amid tighter global supply and rising demand, lifting costs for phosphate- and sulfur-based fertilizers.
The Fertilizer Research Act, reintroduced by Sens. Grassley, Ernst, and Baldwin, would direct the USDA to study and publish public reports on competition and pricing trends in the fertilizer market.
September 16, 2025 05:08 PM
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Farmers await concrete trade commitments from China. Until then, export prospects for soybeans, corn, and sorghum remain uncertain against strong South American competition.
September 16, 2025 11:04 AM
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National Sorghum Producers CEO Tim Lust said farmers face a challenging year with strong supply, murky trade conditions, and uncertain access to their largest market: China.
September 15, 2025 01:59 PM
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U.S. trade talks with China resume, but meat industry leaders say dealing with shifting demand and market uncertainty is nothing new in this side of the ag sector.
September 15, 2025 12:57 PM
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Tariffs are pushing up input costs, with fertilizer prices rising $100 per ton and machinery costs climbing due to steel and parts duties.
September 15, 2025 12:21 PM
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American Soybean Association President Caleb Ragland joins us to share his reaction to September’s WASDE and discuss the trade uncertainty between China and his industry.
September 12, 2025 02:13 PM
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