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.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated this week that the government will intervene to help, following China’s withdrawal from the U.S. soybean market. One trader says the industry will remain in a holding pattern until Tuesday.
October 03, 2025 01:04 PM
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University of Illinois Ag Economist Gary Schnitker says early projections indicate soybeans will be more profitable than corn in 2026.
October 03, 2025 11:53 AM
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In a final rule published in the Federal Register, the Department states that it will no longer base wage rates on the Farm Labor Survey.
October 02, 2025 11:20 AM
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Trump’s upcoming talks raise hopes for U.S. soybeans, but China’s record purchases from Brazil and Argentina show America’s market share remains under heavy pressure.
October 02, 2025 10:27 AM
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“MAKE SOYBEANS, AND OTHER ROW CROPS, GREAT AGAIN!”
October 01, 2025 02:53 PM
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Taiwan’s pledge to expand imports strengthens export prospects for U.S. row crops, livestock products, and specialty commodities, while the USDA’s broader trade push seeks to diversify farm markets globally.
October 01, 2025 12:47 PM
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With China’s pullback, U.S. sorghum producers must broaden their export markets. Building connections now could help stabilize prices and demand for the upcoming larger crop.
September 30, 2025 04:23 PM
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The Senate failed to pass a continuing resolution that had been approved by the House the previous week. They could take it up again today, but it would take seven democrats to end the stalemate.
September 30, 2025 11:26 AM
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Livestock and government payments provide a boost, but crop receipts and rising expenses keep pressure on margins. Strong financial planning remains key in a volatile environment.
September 30, 2025 10:45 AM
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