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
David Gruchot with USDA APHIS joined us to discuss the growing threat of invasive pests and the steps individuals can take to help protect U.S. agriculture.
April 16, 2026 11:32 AM
·
Input costs may stay elevated beyond tariff impacts.
April 16, 2026 10:47 AM
·
Seafood producers gain expanded access to USDA support programs.
April 16, 2026 10:22 AM
·
CoBank Lead Energy Economist Teri Viswanath discusses their analysis of rising energy costs, rural impacts, and the outlook for fuel prices amid ongoing global uncertainty.
April 15, 2026 03:33 PM
·
Lawmakers say payments will support schools, infrastructure and public safety in rural communities.
April 15, 2026 03:10 PM
·
Risk management and diversification improve survival odds. Heidi Exline with American Farmland Trust discusses barriers to farmland access and efforts to connect the next generation of producers with retiring farmers.
April 15, 2026 03:05 PM
·
