By Jamie Martin
U.S. wheat farmers are seeking relief from rising fertilizer costs by calling for the removal of duties on phosphate fertilizer imports. The National Association of Wheat Growers has asked trade officials to reconsider these policies, which they say are harming farm operations.
Phosphate fertilizer plays a key role in crop growth and productivity. However, current duties on imports from Morocco and Russia have made this essential input more expensive. As a result, many farmers are struggling to manage their production costs.
“Phosphate fertilizer is a critical and necessary component in growing wheat, and the current countervailing duties have placed an unsustainable financial burden on America’s farmers who raise wheat,” said NAWG CEO Sam Kieffer. “Revoking these orders would provide immediate and meaningful relief to growers and strengthen the competitiveness of U.S. agriculture.”
According to government estimates, fertilizer accounts for nearly 38% of total wheat operating expenses. This high share means that any increase in fertilizer prices directly affects farm profitability.
Studies from Texas A&M University suggest that these duties added around $6.9 billion in extra costs for U.S. farmers between 2021 and 2025. Wheat producers alone faced close to $1 billion of that burden.
The organization also explained that the U.S. relies heavily on imported phosphate fertilizers. Domestic supply is not enough, with a yearly shortage of about 3 million metric tons. Reduced imports have led to tighter supply and higher prices.
Farmers are already dealing with many external challenges such as global disruptions and increasing transportation costs. NAWG believes that removing fertilizer duties is a practical step that can help lower expenses and improve stability in the agriculture sector.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-orientaly
Categories: National