News Type: Press Releases

TFI Study Highlights Fertilizer Industry’s $140 Billion Impact and Global Trade Ties

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today released the 2024 Fertilizer Industry Economic Impact Study, highlighting the importance and economic contributions of the U.S. fertilizer industry to the national, state, and local economies. The study also underscores the global nature of fertilizer markets and the importance of open markets and fair competition in providing farmers access to vital nutrients exactly when and where they are needed.

“Fertilizer is a cornerstone of modern agriculture and a critical component of the global food supply chain,” said TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “While the latest data reveals the industry’s significant domestic economic impact, it also provides an opportunity to educate people about fertilizer’s complex global network and its reliance on open markets and fair competition to meet the needs of American farmers.”

The United States is both a major fertilizer producer and consumer. As the third-largest fertilizer-consuming country in the world, the U.S. accounts for close to 11% of global consumption. Domestically, the industry contributes $140 billion to the economy, supports nearly 500,000 jobs, and generates over $36 billion in income for American workers. The global interconnectivity of fertilizer markets is what makes this success possible.

“Trade is a critical component of the U.S. fertilizer industry,” Rosenbusch explained, citing key nitrogen-based fertilizers ammonia and urea as examples that highlight the nuanced relationships that keep vital supply chains moving. “The U.S. produces significant amounts of ammonia, but we still need to import around 12% to meet our needs. Additionally, the U.S. is the fourth largest producer of urea but also the third largest importer because our needs are so high. This blend of domestic production and international trading partners is what ensures our growers have the resources they need throughout the year.”

Potash and phosphate are another example of the importance of trading partners. The U.S. relies on imports for 98% of its potash needs, mainly from North America trading partner Canada. Conversely, phosphate, mined extensively in Florida’s Bone Valley region, underpins the U.S.’s dual role as a leading producer and exporter, with nearly 40% of U.S. phosphate exports by volume heading to Canada in 2023.

“Our ability to feed the world depends on maintaining and strengthening these vital trade relationships,” Rosenbusch concluded. “And what makes our industry so strong is the balance between domestic production and having reliable global trading partners.”

To explore the full findings of the 2024 Fertilizer Industry Economic Impact Study, please click here.

###

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

TFI: Rollins a Strong Choice to Lead USDA

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today applauded president-elect Trump’s nomination of Brooke Rollins to serve as Secretary of Agriculture, calling her nomination a “strong choice to lead the USDA.”

“TFI and the fertilizer industry congratulate Brooke Rollins on her nomination to lead the Department of Agriculture,” said TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “She has strong agricultural ties and will be a powerful voice to lead on issues critical to the agricultural industry.”

In describing Rollins as a strong choice, Rosenbusch pointed to the nominee’s professional accomplishments, including work on the WOTUS rule, improving American food security, and her support for measures that defend US agricultural trade interests.

“Nominee Rollins has shown adeptness in not just effectively navigating difficult policies, but also ensuring that those policies have positive impacts on the American people,” Rosenbusch said. “Her experience serving in various policy roles in the first Trump Administration, including director of domestic policy; leading the Texas Public Policy Foundation for 15 years; and establishing both the America First Policy Institute and America First Works, has shown that she knows how to get things done.”

In addition to her proven policy track record, nominee Rollins has the agricultural roots to hit the ground running with a firm understanding of the challenges and opportunities that currently exist in the agricultural sector.

“I’ve known Brooke for 40 years and saw firsthand her passion for agriculture through our time together in the Glen Rose, Texas chapter of FFA where she was elected First Vice President for the Texas state chapter,” Rosenbusch continued. “She then went on to receive her agricultural development degree from Texas A&M where she was also the first female student body president elected in the school’s history.

“She definitely has the ag bona fides,” Rosenbusch concluded. “And the demonstrated leadership qualities that will enable her to succeed. Brooke Rollins’ nomination is a strong choice to lead the USDA and TFI looks forward to working with her upon her confirmation.”

###

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

The Fertilizer Institute Calls for More Customer Focus from Rail Industry

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today provided testimony to the Surface Transportation Board (STB) emphasizing the ongoing need for the freight rail industry to shift its focus toward customer service and growth. The fertilizer industry has long relied on rail service for the efficient and safe transport of its products but has struggled with declining service quality, increasing rates, and a lack of attention to customer needs.

“The fertilizer industry is heavily reliant on rail and cannot afford to see continued stagnation in freight rail service,” said TFI vice president of government affairs Ryan Bowley. “Unfortunately, we’ve seen freight volumes plateau, services decline, and rates skyrocket.”

TFI’s testimony comes at a pivotal time for the Class I railroads that make up the backbone of the nation’s freight rail system. The STB’s inquiry into the rail industry’s growth potential highlights a disturbing trend: freight rail carloads have been in decline since 2008, while trucking and other transportation sectors have consistently expanded their capacity.

Bowley also pointed to data showing that while rail employment has dropped and carloads have declined, rail rates have surged. Between 2005 and 2017, rates for transporting critical farm inputs like anhydrous ammonia increased by over 200%. Such price hikes, combined with inconsistent service, have made it difficult for fertilizer companies to meet the just-in-time delivery demands of farmers across the country.

“These rising costs and service failures are particularly troubling for industries like ours, which depend on rail to move bulk products safely,” Bowley continued. “Our members regularly face delays, held shipments, and escalating rates, often without any recourse. It’s clear that a new approach is needed.”

In its testimony, TFI highlighted the need for the rail industry to pivot toward a customer-focused, growth-driven model that balances profitability with service quality. The industry’s  adoption of “Precision-Scheduled Railroading” (PSR) led to deep cuts in staff and equipment, further exacerbating service issues.

TFI’s testimony also praised recent moves by the STB to increase oversight of rail service and pricing, including the implementation of faster emergency service orders while stressing the importance of additional reforms such as expanding access to reciprocal switching, a policy that would allow shippers to switch between competing rail carriers more easily.

“The rail industry should be actively competing for freight, not relying on captive customers to drive revenue,” Bowley concluded. “We need a system where railroads aren’t just collecting more revenue from a shrinking base but are growing their business by serving more customers with better service.”

TFI’s testimony can be read in full here.

###

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

TFI Applauds Canadian Rail Resolution

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today released the below media statement in response to the Canadian government ordering binding arbitration in the labor dispute between Teamsters Canada and the CN and CPKC railroads:

“TFI applauds the Canadian government’s efforts to take action to get the rail system moving again as quickly as possible. The economies of Canada and the United States are closely intertwined, and a dependable and reliable rail network is necessary to support the cross-border fertilizer supply chain and facilitate the movement of critical agricultural inputs on both sides of the border. We also thank US government officials for their engagement with both the industry and their counterparts in Canada. TFI looks forward to continuing to work with policymakers on strengthening supply chains and domestic fertilizer supply and production.”

###

TFI: Canadian Rail Stoppage Resolution Critical

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today continued to push for a resolution to the rail stoppage in Canada after Thursday saw the shutdown of Canada’s rail networks saying that the impacts from even a short stoppage could have significant and long-lasting consequences.

“Rail transport is the backbone of North America’s supply chain, and fertilizer and agriculture are among the most dependent on rail service,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch, noting that the ripple effect will extend to the entire agricultural industry. “The interconnected and time-specific nature of agriculture means that even short-term disruptions to one segment have wide-ranging implications, affecting everything from grocery store prices to international trade.”

Fertilizers are critical inputs that must reach farmers at specific times during the year to ensure a successful harvest. Canada is the world’s largest producer and the U.S.’s main supplier of potash, a vital potassium-rich mineral used in fertilizers; Canada is also crucial in meeting nitrogen fertilizer needs across the Northern Plains. Ninety percent of U.S. fertilizer imports from Canada arrived by rail, and rail is the primary mode of transportation in moving potash from Canadian mines to ports for export around the globe.

TFI and 34 other U.S. agriculture industry associations wrote leaders on both sides of the border earlier this week urging intervention to avoid disruptions to the cross-border supply chain.

“Given the potential for widespread disruption, it is imperative that Canadian authorities act swiftly to resolve any rail stoppages as the agricultural sector and consumers in both Canada and the United States cannot afford prolonged uncertainty,” Rosenbusch continued. “U.S. policymakers also must recognize the seriousness of this issue and urge Canada to prioritize negotiations and find a resolution quickly.”

The rail shutdown in Canada also highlights the glaring oversight of not including potash on the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) Critical Minerals list.

“The argument against including potash as a critical mineral hinges on the fact that most of the U.S. supply comes from Canada, a stable and reliable trading partner. However, a Canadian rail stoppage shatters this notion, revealing just how vulnerable the U.S. is to disruptions in its potash supply chain,” Rosenbusch explained. “Potash undoubtedly fits the definition of a mineral with a supply chain vulnerable to disruption and essential to our nation’s economy and national security.”

The Canadian rail shutdown exposed additional vulnerabilities in the U.S. supply chain and underscores the need for a more robust strategy to protect essential agricultural inputs.

“Food security is national security, and protecting the supply chain of essential agricultural products like potash is critical to the wellbeing of both nations,” concluded Rosenbusch. “Action must be taken now to ensure that our food systems remain resilient and capable of withstanding future challenges.”

###

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

TFI Announces 2024 4R Advocate Winners

Arlington, VA –The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) announced today the selection of two agricultural retailers and their partnering farmers as the 2024 4R Advocates. These four individuals are being recognized for their exceptional commitment to implementing fertilizer management practices based on the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship, which have demonstrated significant economic and environmental benefits.

“Our 2024 4R Advocates are at the forefront of environmental stewardship,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch, speaking at TFI’s Agronomy Conference and Expo in St. Louis, MO. “Their commitment to the 4Rs—right source, rate, time, and place— is crucial for optimizing crop yield and sustainability, ensuring our ability to continue feeding the crops that feed the world. We are proud to honor these grower and retailer pairs for their significant contributions to farming practices and look forward to their continued impact on shaping agriculture.'”

Now in its 13th year, the 4R Advocate program highlights the in-field successes of these best management practices, which focus on the right source, rate, time, and fertilizer placement. This framework aims to enhance production and profitability, boost environmental protection, and improve sustainability.

The advocates selected for this year, who collectively manage diverse cropping systems across multiple states, will participate in various TFI outreach efforts. These include hosting farm field days, participating in conference panels, and promoting 4R stewardship practices within their communities.

2024 4R Advocates:

Retailer: Allen Spray, Chestertown, MD – Williard Agri Service

Farmer: Bryant Lowe, Laurel, DE – Lakeside Farms

Retailer: Daniel Mullenix, Auburn, AL – GreenPoint Ag

Farmer: Mason Roberts, Sylvester, GA – MTR Farms

The 4R Advocate program is a key element of TFI’s campaign to raise awareness and adoption of 4R Nutrient Stewardship practices. This initiative underlines the critical role of efficient nutrient utilization in sustainable crop production systems. To learn more about 4R practices, please visit www.tfi.org.

Additionally, as of this summer the industry is on track with its 4R Acre commitment to manage 70 million acres under 4R practices by 2030. A 4R acre is defined as an acre of U.S. cropland under management using 4R practices, such as crediting organic sources and removal rates, variable rate technology, split applications, the use of cover crops, accounting for weather during application, etc.

###

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

TFI’s Rosenbusch Testifies to Congress on Critical Nature of Phosphate, Potash

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch today provided testimony in support of phosphate and potash, two of the three macronutrients essential to agricultural productivity, to the House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources. The hearing focused on several bills related to critical minerals including the bipartisan H.R. 8450, the Phosphate and Potash Protection Act of 2024, introduced by Representatives Cammack and Slotkin. If enacted, the legislation would direct the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to conduct an immediate review to determine the need for adding phosphate and potash to the Critical Minerals list.  

“Half of all global crop yields can be attributed to fertilizer, but as the world population continues to grow it is imperative that the sustainable production and use of fertilizers continues to provide the ability of growing more food without needing more land on which to grow it,” Rosenbusch testified. “But the majority of phosphate and potash resources are concentrated in only a few countries, leaving them vulnerable to supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical instability. The events of the past few years have shown us that food security is national security and now is the time to protect our nation by including phosphate and potash on the USGS Critical Minerals list.”

Only 14 countries in the world produce potash, with Belarus and Russia comprising nearly 40% of global production. While the U.S. produces potash domestically, it imports roughly 95% of its needs. Regarding phosphate, 11 countries produce significant amounts with China accounting for over 40% of global production.

“Without these two minerals, modern agricultural systems would crumble and the ability to feed our growing population would be nearly impossible,” continued Rosenbusch. “It is vital that we take proactive steps to secure our own agricultural future by recognizing the role these minerals play in putting food on our tables.”

The USGS defines a critical mineral as essential to the economic or national security of the United States, susceptible to supply chain disruptions, and having significant consequences for the economy or national security if absent. “We are here today to ensure this committee understands that phosphate and potash meet all three of those criteria and should, without a doubt, be included on the USGS list of critical minerals,” Rosenbusch concluded.

###

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

TFI Statement on Bipartisan House Farm Bill Release

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch today released the below statement in response to the release of 2024 Farm Bill text from House Committee on Agriculture Chairmen Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA-15).

“TFI applauds the progress being made to introduce and pass a Farm Bill in 2024. The text released today by Ag Chairman GT Thompson contains key priorities for the industry that support efforts to encourage greater adoption of nutrient stewardship and conservation practices by growers across the country. These practices ensure our dinner tables remain full while minimizing impacts to our shared environment.

“At a time when true bipartisanship is increasingly rare, we thank both Chairman GT Thompson, Ranking Member David Scott, and their staffs for working together on the draft Farm Bill. We look forward to working with Congress to see a Farm Bill that addresses current challenges with updated solutions pass through both chambers on its way to President Biden’s desk for signature.”

###

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

TFI Priorities Included in Farm Bill Framework, Praises Progress

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today praised Farm Bill frameworks released by House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA-15) and Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).

“TFI is pleased to see so many of the industry’s priorities around conservation and nutrient stewardship included in the framework shared by Chairwoman Stabenow and Chairman Thompson,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “Nutrient stewardship is a cornerstone of the industry and we spend significant time encouraging grower adoption of these practices. The framework laid out yesterday will help that a great deal.”

Two specific priorities mentioned by Rosenbusch include recognizing Certified Crop Advisors (CCAs) as Technical Service Providers (TSPs) permitted to write and approve nutrient stewardship plans, and a pathway for enhanced efficiency fertilizers to be eligible for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

“We know we still have a long way to go until we have a passed Farm Bill, but this framework is a big step forward,” Rosenbusch concluded. “We look forward to working with Congress on ensuring programs that help increase grower adoption of practices that keep fertilizer on fields and food on our tables remain included in the Farm Bill, as well as further initiatives aimed at strengthening the domestic fertilizer supply to safeguard our nation’s food security.”

###

TFI Awards Biostimulant Certification to Hello Nature at BioAgTech World Congress

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) announced today that its newly launched Certified Biostimulant program has awarded a second certification for a biostimulant product during a reception at the BioAgTech World Congress in Raleigh, North Carolina.

“We are excited to be here in Raleigh with innovators in the biostimulant space to announce that Hello Nature’s PSP 5-0-0 biostimulant product has gone through the necessary steps to be recognized as a Certified Biostimulant by TFI,” said TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “Both TFI and third-party review of their data, research, and methodology has confirmed their adherence to industry-established standards.”

TFI’s Certified Biostimulant initiative aligns with the United States Biostimulant Industry Guidelines, which set forth criteria for comprehensive documentation supporting efficacy testing methods, composition, and safety measures. Upon certification, a product is granted a distinctive label, signifying to agricultural retailers and consumers that it has undergone the necessary steps to meet the outlined standards in the guidelines.

“Agricultural retailers are excited to get these innovative products into the hands of growers so they can maximize the efficiency of their fertilizer while also protecting the environment,” Rosenbusch continued. “But because biostimulants are a relatively new innovation there was a lack of a standard when assessing new products and determining which to recommend to growers. The Certified Biostimulant program was created to provide that standard and give confidence to both retailers and growers that they are choosing the right products that fit with their existing nutrient stewardship plans.”

Plant biostimulants can potentially play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture by promoting nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and overall plant vigor. Biostimulants have also been proven to provide such environmental benefits such as enhanced carbon sequestration and reduced nutrient leaching to ground and surface water.

“When we talk nutrient management, we are talking about minimizing losses to the environment, water quality, air quality, soil health, and all the other things important to the conservation and environmental communities. Biostimulants support environmental stewardship by improving the efficiencies of fertilizer application and soil health while also increasing crop yields,” Rosenbusch concluded. “We are proud to bring consumer confidence to the marketplace through our certification program and look forward to certifying more biostimulant products in the future that help to ensure our dinner tables are full and the environment is being protected.”

###