The Fertilizer Institute commends Trump executive order including potash

HOUSTON (ICIS)–The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) said it is extending a sincere thanks to US President Donald Trump for including potash alongside critical minerals in the most recent executive order titled “Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production.”

The industry group said this designation sets into place a framework to ensure that potash and other national critical mineral resources are leveraged to create jobs and fuel American prosperity.

For fertilizers it will help ensure a stable and abundant supply, which are critical to maintaining global competitiveness of US farmers, strengthening rural economies and keeping food prices in check.

“Originally included in the first list of Critical Minerals created in 2018 under President Trump’s first administration, potash’s omission from the 2022 list was a mistake that a broad coalition of industry and consumer advocates have been working to remedy,” said Corey Rosenbusch, TFI president and CEO.

TFI noted that 98% of annual US potash consumption comes from imports. Despite having natural reserves, the U.S. only accounts for 0.2% of global supply.

There are additional seams that remain unmined due to regulatory uncertainty that has resulted in delayed permitting. Part of the regulatory uncertainty stems from a lack of clarity on potash’s critical mineral status.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the Trump Administration on actions that will promote a strong and resilient fertilizer industry that supports U.S. agriculture and ensures affordable food prices for American families,” Rosenbusch said.

“This includes continued engagement with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) with the goal of expanding on the executive order to ensure the permanent recognition of both potash and phosphate in their rightful place on the Critical Minerals list.”