McKINNEY, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — The Federal Trade Commission has opened a broad investigation into fertilizer pricing and market concentration, following years of producer complaints about rising input costs.
FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson announced the investigation during a farmer gathering in McKinney, Texas. He said fertilizer has been one of the largest sources of rising farm input costs since 2020.
Farm groups, including the Texas Corn Producers Association, blamed concentrated market power for higher prices and urged the agency to follow the evidence. TCPA Chairman Aaron Martinka said farmers are seeking a fairer, more competitive marketplace.
The announcement comes as fertilizer prices remain sharply higher than pre-2020 levels, while farm income has fallen from its 2022 peak. Producers also pointed to rising Chapter 12 bankruptcy filings in several farm states.
The investigation does not prove wrongdoing, but it raises federal scrutiny of a major cost center for crop producers.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Fertilizer pricing is now under federal investigation, offering farmers a potential path to greater transparency in input markets.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
March 02, 2026 02:25 PM
·
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
March 02, 2026 02:23 PM
·
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
March 02, 2026 02:22 PM
·
Dry conditions may tighten hay supplies before summer growth. John Mays of Central Life Sciences joined us to discuss the risks of extended grain storage, how quality can be affected over time, and what growers can do to protect their grain while waiting for market opportunities.
March 02, 2026 02:21 PM
·
