American Farm Bureau Federation Reports Fertilizer Crisis Impacting U.S. Farmers
The American Farm Bureau Federation has released a survey indicating that 70% of U.S. farmers are unable to afford the necessary fertilizer for the 2026 planting season. This crisis is largely attributed to the ongoing war with Iran, which has disrupted global supply chains, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for energy and fertilizer inputs. The conflict has exacerbated existing issues stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's war against Ukraine, which had already driven fertilizer prices up due to supply chain disruptions and increased energy costs. The survey highlights the financial strain on farmers, who are facing a 25% to 40% increase in fertilizer costs since the war began, with some nitrogen products experiencing even higher surges.