WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump temporarily suspended countervailing duties on certain phosphate fertilizer imports, a move the Agriculture Department estimates could lower prices by about 22% and save U.S. farmers roughly $1.82 billion annually.
The proclamation is intended to increase phosphate fertilizer supplies, improve competition and reduce one of agriculture’s largest production costs ahead of future planting seasons.
USDA estimates the action could benefit more than 100,000 farms across 97 million planted acres nationwide.
“As we have worked to implement America First fertilizer actions—from waiving the Jones Act to implementing more flexible Hours of Service waivers—we have focused on finding short-term solutions while delivering long-term stability for our nation’s farmers,” Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said in a statement.
The suspension is part of a broader administration effort to strengthen fertilizer supply chains and expand domestic production.
The administration has designated phosphate and potash as critical minerals, signed a USDA-Justice Department memorandum targeting anti-competitive practices affecting agricultural inputs, and moved to accelerate domestic fertilizer manufacturing projects.
Deputy Agriculture Secretary Stephen Vaden said the action will provide “immediate relief” and a more stable supply source as producers approach the fall application season.
Fertilizer remains among the largest input costs for U.S. agriculture, making price swings a significant pressure point for farm profitability and food production costs.
USDA said it will continue supporting domestic fertilizer production projects intended to strengthen supply chains, create rural jobs and reduce reliance on foreign sources.
Support the local news that supports Chester County. MyChesCo delivers reliable, fact-based reporting and essential community resources—free for everyone. If you value that, click here to become a patron today.