U.S. buyers will likely bear the brunt of the costs of 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian fertilizers, at least in the short run, analysts tell Agri-Pulse. Some suppliers are signalling price hikes of $25/ton. 

For context, the U.S. imports more than 90 per cent of its annual potash fertilizer demand, mostly from Canada, leaving farmers particularly sensitive to any new costs. 

News reports say that Nutrien – the world’s largest potash producer headquartered in Saskatchewan, Canada – was not taking U.S. potash orders in recent weeks that were due for delivery past February 2, for any volumes above what would already be in the country by then. 

This leaves American farmers in a pinch because most potash application occurs in March, especially in the southern U.S.  With estimates for corn plantings to be higher, by 1.3 million acres, the situation is compounded with the likelihood of pricier potash supplies. 

Source:  Agri-Pulse