NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — Fertilizer supplies are tightening ahead of spring planting, as lower imports, transportation challenges, and global disruptions are pressuring availability and prices for U.S. producers.
USDA data shows fertilizer imports fell 7 percent below average in the second half of 2025, with phosphate products seeing the sharpest declines. Domestic production remained mostly steady, but not enough to fully offset reduced import volumes — especially for key nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.
Transportation trends are also mixed. Rail shipments are running near or slightly above average, but barge movements on the Mississippi River system are below normal due to weaker import flows into New Orleans. That slowdown is limiting how efficiently fertilizer moves inland during a critical pre-plant window.
Global factors are adding pressure. Conflict in the Middle East has disrupted nitrogen fertilizer production and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — a key supply route. Urea prices have already surged, rising 37% from February to March.
Despite rising costs, USDA expects strong corn acreage this year, which will keep demand for nitrogen fertilizer elevated.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Tight supply and logistics issues may raise input costs.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Mold damage is tightening China’s corn supplies, supporting higher prices and creating potential demand for alternative feed grains in early 2026.
December 09, 2025 07:00 AM
·
Joe Peiffer with Ag & Business Legal Strategies advises farmers on end-of-year financial planning, including preparing records, avoiding common credit mistakes, and evaluating equipment purchases for 2026.
December 08, 2025 04:43 PM
·
Lewie Pugh with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) discusses the gap in truck driver education programs and how it impacts road safety and supply chain economics.
December 08, 2025 03:49 PM
·
While this month’s WASDE report will not include updated figures on U.S. crop size, officials say it will offer a clearer picture of crop conditions in the Southern Hemisphere.
December 08, 2025 01:16 PM
·
Southern producers head into 2026 with thin margins, tighter credit, and rising agronomic risks despite scattered yield improvements.
December 08, 2025 12:04 PM
·
Record yields and exceptionally low BCFM strengthen U.S. corn’s competitive position in global markets.
December 08, 2025 12:00 PM
·
