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.
Mike Newland with the Propane Education & Research Council shares how producers can prepare for winter weather and the benefits of propane.
November 07, 2025 12:03 PM
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Stagger buys and diversifies fertilizer sources — watch CBAM, India’s tenders, and Brazil’s import pace to time urea, phosphate, and potash purchases.
November 07, 2025 11:16 AM
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Tight cattle supplies keep prices high for ranchers, but policy shifts, export barriers, and packer losses signal a volatile road ahead for the beef supply chain.
November 07, 2025 11:02 AM
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Distillers dried grains (DDG) values follow corn and soybean meal trends, with ethanol grind and feed demand shaping costs into early 2026.
November 07, 2025 10:45 AM
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Recognizing phosphorus and potash as critical minerals underscores their importance in crop production and food security, providing producers with an added layer of risk protection.
November 06, 2025 03:40 PM
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Pork producers should prioritize health and productivity gains, hedge feed and hogs selectively, and watch Brazil’s export pace and China’s sow policy for price signals.
November 06, 2025 03:03 PM
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For tight margins, contract grazing leverages existing acres into new income streams and spreads risk. Here are some tips for row crop farmers looking to diversify.
November 06, 2025 02:45 PM
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While the U.S.-China framework for soybean trade is in place, Ohio farmer Chris Gibbs tells us he will believe it when he sees it.
November 06, 2025 11:38 AM
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Global nitrogen and phosphate prices remain high despite improved supply fundamentals, with limited Chinese exports and stronger fall applications tightening availability.
November 06, 2025 11:16 AM
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