USDA Flags Phosphate Supply Risks Ahead of Fall Applications as Nitrogen Outlook Improves on U.S. Gas
Updated
Updated · RFD-TV · Jun 18
USDA Flags Phosphate Supply Risks Ahead of Fall Applications as Nitrogen Outlook Improves on U.S. Gas
1 articles · Updated · RFD-TV · Jun 18
Summary
USDA said phosphate fertilizer is its bigger concern heading into fall, with officials watching production curtailments, export flows and farmers’ access to supplies before application season.
Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden said the risk stems from a highly concentrated market and several years of pressure, not a single shipping disruption, leaving U.S. producers exposed when global trade tightens.
Nitrogen fertilizer looks stronger over the medium and long term because ample U.S. natural gas supports domestic production, giving that market a firmer supply base than phosphate.
USDA is discussing near- and long-term responses with other cabinet agencies and said more announcements could come soon as farmers manage tight input budgets for the next crop year.
Updated USDA Commodity Costs and Returns data are also due soon, with farm economists watching how fertilizer and fuel volatility is shaping crop budgets and profitability.