Trump suspends phosphate fertilizer duties to cut costs for U.S. farmers

President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation temporarily suspending countervailing duties on certain phosphate fertilizer imports. According to the administration, this action will increase fertilizer availability, enhance market competition, and lower input costs for U.S. farmers before the upcoming planting seasons.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture expects the measure to reduce phosphate fertilizer prices by about 22%, resulting in annual savings of about $1.82 billion for producers. USDA projects that over 100,000 farms across 97 million planted acres could benefit from these lower costs. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins stated that this action is part of the administration’s broader “America First” fertilizer strategy, which also includes Jones Act waivers, flexible Hours of Service exemptions for fertilizer transportation, and initiatives to strengthen fertilizer supply chain resilience.

This announcement builds on previous Trump administration policies aimed at strengthening the domestic fertilizer industry. These efforts include designating phosphate and potash as critical minerals, forming a USDA-Department of Justice partnership to address alleged anti-competitive practices in agricultural input markets, expediting permits for domestic fertilizer manufacturing, and creating a dedicated USDA agricultural economist position focused on fertilizer markets. Deputy Agriculture Secretary Stephen Vaden stated that the administration will continue to support investments to expand domestic fertilizer production and ensure reliable supplies for American growers.