Fertilizer ratios hit record highs while imports slow down

Economists are warning fertilizer prices are not jiving with grain values right now, and the situation is approaching near record levels.

Josh Linville with StoneX says the urea to corn ratio is at 99 bushels per ton right now, and UAN is at 79 bushels per ton. Linville says those statistics are the second worst in history for this time of year.

He cites a number of reasons, including plant maintenance, restrictions on Russian imports, and uncertainty out of major supply regions like Trinidad.

Related Stories
Fred Seamon with CME Group joins us to discuss the latest Ag Economy Barometer and the key economic pressures shaping producer sentiment in May.
Brazil Potash CEO Matt Simpson discusses global fertilizer security, the importance of domestic production, and Brazil’s push toward fertilizer independence, which could impact market competitiveness.
Improved coffee output could strengthen the U.S. supply, but input costs and weather risks keep the outlook uncertain.
A long-running poultry waste lawsuit remains unresolved after a federal judge rejected proposed settlements and appeals followed.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Missouri Cattle RanchHER Alda Owen joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to talk about the all-new episode of FarmHER + RanchHER, which premieres on Thursday, Sept. 19!
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.
Tariffs are pushing up input costs, with fertilizer prices rising $100 per ton and machinery costs climbing due to steel and parts duties.
Year-round sales of E-15 are another major topic on Capitol Hill, which, according to Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), is one issue up for debate this session with significant bipartisan support.
Lawmakers have until September 30 to shore up federal spending for next year, or risk a government shutdown. The Farm Bill is also set to expire the same day.