A new CoBank report says Middle East instability, tight supplies and limited phosphate availability are keeping fertilizer costs elevated. The region accounts for more than 30 percent of global urea exports, with significant fertilizer supplies moving through the Strait of Hormuz. CoBank economist Jacqui Fatka said farmers are responding with more soil testing, variable-rate applications and precision nutrient management. Some farmers have cut phosphate and potassium applications by ten to 15 percent, while maintaining nitrogen rates to protect yields. Fatka warns continued reductions in fertilizer applications could eventually hurt soil productivity and crop yields.
