A sharp increase in sulfur prices is raising concerns about U.S. phosphate fertilizer production and the possibility of higher costs for American farmers.
Eight members of Florida’s congressional delegation are asking the Trump administration to take additional steps to address the shortage. According to U.S. Rep. Scott Franklin’s office, sulfur delivered to Tampa previously averaged about $172 per long ton. Since May, prices have climbed above $1,100 per metric ton.
Sulfur is a key ingredient used to produce phosphate fertilizer, which supplies nutrients needed by crops.
Lawmakers say global sulfur supplies have tightened because of geopolitical conflicts and shipping disruptions. Some domestic phosphate producers have reportedly reduced operating rates or idled facilities because of high prices and limited availability.
The Florida lawmakers are asking the administration to work with U.S. refiners and sulfur marketers, address transportation bottlenecks and seek additional supplies from American allies.
They warn that continued supply constraints could eventually increase fertilizer expenses for farmers and leave the United States more dependent on imported fertilizer. Higher input costs would add to the financial pressure already facing many agricultural producers.