President Donald Trump declared a national emergency on June 29 tied to phosphate fertilizer supply, authorizing temporary duty-free imports of Moroccan phosphate fertilizers as U.S. growers prepare for fall applications and the 2027 planting season.

The proclamation, issued under Section 318 of the Tariff Act of 1930, aims to address what the administration described as growing threats to fertilizer availability caused by global supply chain disruptions, geopolitical conflicts and trade restrictions in major fertilizer-producing regions.

Phosphate fertilizer is a key input for U.S. crop production, particularly for corn, soybeans and wheat growers. The administration said more than half of annual phosphate fertilizer use occurs between fall and early spring, making reliable supply especially critical in the months ahead.

The White House said domestic phosphate production remains insufficient to fully meet U.S. agricultural demand after exports are accounted for. While federal officials are working with private industry to expand manufacturing capacity, the administration said additional production will not come online quickly enough to address near-term needs.

Under the proclamation, the Treasury and Commerce departments are authorized to allow imports of phosphate fertilizers from Morocco without the collection of duties or estimated duty deposits tied to existing trade statutes. The relief will remain in place for up to eight months or until the emergency declaration is lifted.

The administration said Morocco is positioned to provide immediate, stable shipments of phosphate fertilizer and could help offset disruptions affecting other international suppliers.

The move is intended to stabilize fertilizer availability and reduce procurement challenges for farmers facing elevated input costs and tight supply conditions. Fertilizer access remains a major concern for grain producers as they make nutrient management decisions for the next crop year.

Federal agencies will monitor supply conditions during the emergency period and report actions taken to Congress. The administration also said officials will advise the president if additional measures are needed to protect the U.S. food supply and agricultural economy.

Source: The White House, "DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND AUTHORIZATION FOR TEMPORARY DUTY FREE IMPORTATION OF PHOSPHATE FERTILIZER FROM MOROCCO"