Trump Suspends Countervailing Duties On Fertilizer Imports

The Administration said American farmers could soon see lower fertilizer costs following action by President Trump this week.

On Monday, the president temporarily suspended countervailing duties on certain imported phosphate fertilizers, a move the USDA says could reduce phosphate fertilizer prices by about 22%. USDA estimates producers could save nearly $1.8 billion a year, benefiting more than 100,000 farms across 97 million planted acres.

“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,” said Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins. “Today’s announcement will bring immediate relief to producers who rely on these critical inputs with an estimated 22 percent reduction in phosphate fertilizer prices, and $1.82 billion in annual savings for producers. President Trump will always put farmers first, and he will continue to fight for those that feed, fuel, and clothe our nation.”

Phosphate fertilizer is a key input for many crops, and officials say lower costs could help improve farm profitability ahead of fall fertilizer applications and next year's planting season.

The administration says the temporary suspension is part of a broader effort to strengthen the nation's fertilizer supply, boost domestic production, and reduce reliance on foreign sources over the long term.

“President Trump’s action today will provide immediate relief as well as a stable source of supply for American producers as they enter fall application season,” said Deputy Secretary Stephen Alexander Vaden. “The Department will continue to support initiatives to secure American farmers’ access to fertilizer, including by increasing domestic production capacity.”

Fertilizer remains one of the largest input costs facing American agriculture. The Trump Administration said under the Biden Administration, fertilizer prices reached historic highs, placing significant financial pressure on producers.