USDA Launches $500 Million FIELDS Program to Boost Fertilizer Output as Global Supply Chains Strain
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 6
USDA Launches $500 Million FIELDS Program to Boost Fertilizer Output as Global Supply Chains Strain
1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 6
Summary
$500 million in USDA funding will go to the new FIELDS Program, which Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said is meant to expand U.S. fertilizer production and strengthen food security.
Rollins tied the push to supply shocks hitting key inputs, arguing higher fertilizer prices reflect scarcity rather than domestic producer misconduct.
Russia's sulfur output and ammonia exports have been disrupted by the Ukraine war, with ammonia shipments running about 80% below pre-war levels, while Middle East tensions have left roughly 16 million tons of fertilizer in limbo around the Strait of Hormuz.
China's export restrictions on fertilizer and raw inputs have added pressure, and Rollins said Washington should ease permitting, regulatory and energy constraints while diversifying sourcing with trusted partners.
Next year's planting season could bring a sharper hit to farmers and grocery bills if disruptions persist, especially after many growers had already bought fertilizer before this year's turmoil.