An NCGA survey and president Jed Bower, an Ohio farmer, say concern is rising as many producers face a third or fourth year of losses.
Bower blamed concentrated US fertilizer producers and said companies have taken billions in profits while charging more than farmers can afford to raise crops.
He said the administration and USDA are examining the issue, but relief this season is unlikely because planting is under way and most fertilizer has already been applied.
With antitrust probes and new laws underway, will U.S. farmers see real relief from soaring fertilizer prices before the next planting season?
How might ongoing Middle East conflicts and global supply chain disruptions permanently reshape American agriculture and food prices?
The 2026–2027 U.S. Fertilizer Crisis: How Strait of Hormuz Closure and Trade Policies Triggered a 70% Farmer Affordability Collapse
Overview
The 2026 fertilizer crisis stems from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which disrupted over 30% of global fertilizer trade and caused urea prices to surge sharply. This shock was worsened by US duties that cut Moroccan phosphate imports and China's suspension of key fertilizer exports, creating a severe global shortage. As a result, 70% of US farmers cannot afford needed fertilizer, with smaller farms and those in the South and Northeast hit hardest. The crisis threatens crop yields and food security, prompting urgent calls for policy reform, supply diversification, and farmer adaptation to avoid worsening impacts in 2027.