(WASHINGTON D.C.) — Both phosphate and potash have been included on the just-released Final List of Critical Minerals. Originally compiled in 2018 and then revised every three years, the list is published by the United States Geological Survey and includes mineral commodities critical to the U.S. economy and national security.
The Fertilizer Institute celebrated the inclusion of phosphate and potash on the list.“Rightfully recognizing phosphate and potash as critical minerals will support American farmers across the country and help ensure high crop yields and stocked grocery store shelves for consumers. A big thank-you goes to the Trump Administration and lawmakers for their engagement and efforts on this important issue,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “The majority of the world’s phosphate and potash resources are concentrated in only a few countries, leaving them open to supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical instability. Food security is national security and it’s time to change how we think about these vital resources.”
According to TFI data, China and Russia account for over 53% of global phosphate production. Additionally, China, Russia, and Belarus account for over 67% of global potash production with only 11 other countries mining deposits. The U.S. imports roughly 97% of its potash needs, the bulk of which, about 86%, comes from Canada.
“Getting phosphate and potash back on the list is something the industry has been working on since they were oddly left off in 2022. A high priority for TFI has been educating congressional offices, policymakers, media, and the public about how closely phosphate and potash are tied to abundant and nutritious food,” Rosenbusch continued. “These are two minerals where stable supplies are absolutely necessary to fill our plates and feed our communities.”
The National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) also commended the U.S. Department of the Interior for its decision to include potash and phosphate on the nation’s updated list of critical minerals. These minerals are vital components of fertilizer and play a central role in ensuring productive, sustainable wheat production across the United States.
“NAWG applauds the decision to recognize potash and phosphate as critical minerals,” said Sam Kieffer, NAWG CEO. “These inputs are essential for maintaining stable, profitable U.S. wheat production. This is a big win for America’s wheat growers. Ensuring access to domestic supply of fertilizer feedstocks is important not only for farmers, but for the resilience and security of our entire food system. This designation represents an important step toward strengthening domestic supply chains, reducing reliance on foreign sources, and supporting the long-term sustainability of U.S. agriculture.”
***AUDIO*** Hear TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch discuss this news and other fertilizer related topics on the Thursday, November 6th, 2025 episode of Agriculture of America (AOA) below. The segment starts around the 9:30 mark:
