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
Product targets nutrient loss while supporting plant growth
April 22, 2026 12:22 PM
·
After a challenging year, Georgia pecan growers are looking ahead with cautious optimism as costs and global tensions weigh on the future of the crop.
April 22, 2026 12:03 PM
·
A prolonged Iran ceasefire offers limited relief as fertilizer concerns persist, prompting U.S. policy shifts and driving farmers to reconsider crop acreage.
April 22, 2026 10:55 AM
·
California rewards low-carbon ethanol, not higher blending volumes.
April 22, 2026 09:00 AM
·
U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss rising input costs, fertilizer transparency efforts, and the role of trade in supporting farmer profitability.
April 21, 2026 04:12 PM
·
Shells from restaurants are collected, cleaned, and returned to the water, where they can support new growth.
April 21, 2026 04:10 PM
·
