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
AFBF Vice President of Public Policy and Economic Analysis, Dr. John Newton, explains the factors contributing to the growing financial strain in the ag sector and the urgent need for swift economic support.
November 25, 2025 12:40 PM
·
According to November’s Cattle on Feed Report, Nebraska now leads the nation in cattle feeding as tighter supplies continue to reshape regional market power and long-term price dynamics.
November 24, 2025 11:47 AM
·
Higher rail tariffs and tighter Canadian supplies will keep oat transportation costs firm into 2026.
November 24, 2025 11:22 AM
·
Lower U.S. and Mexican production means tighter sugar supplies and greater reliance on imports headed into 2026.
November 22, 2025 11:00 AM
·
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses industry reactions to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, the Surface Transportation Board’s review process, and current conditions on the Mississippi River.
November 21, 2025 01:59 PM
·
Lower tariff rates and new rail-service proposals may improve corn movement efficiency during early-season marketing.
November 21, 2025 12:01 PM
·
