Potash Supply: US Seeks to Reduce Reliance on Canada

The United States is working to secure its supply of potash, a key ingredient in potassium fertilizer, as geopolitical factors disrupt global trade. The war in Iran and sanctions against Russia and Belarus have constrained fertilizer availability, driving up prices. While the US produces significant amounts of phosphate and nitrogen fertilizers, it imports 92 percent of its potash, largely from Canada.

The Trump administration designated potash a critical mineral and proposed initiatives to boost domestic mining, but US deposits are deep and expensive to develop. Washington is now exploring a multi-pronged approach including diversifying imports, establishing a strategic stockpile via Project Vault, and investing in technologies to recover potassium from domestic waste.

Ultimately, the US recognizes that complete self-sufficiency in potash is unrealistic in the short term and advocates for international cooperation to secure critical mineral supply chains, beginning with fertilizers. The country is also coordinating with partners through initiatives like the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (FORGE).