Miller-Meeks Introduces Lowering Input Costs for American Farmers Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) today introduced the Lowering Input Costs for American Farmers Act, legislation aimed at reducing fertilizer costs, strengthening supply chains, and supporting farmers facing rising input expenses.

The bill eliminates certain trade-related duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco, increases access to a critical global supply, and ensures timely refunds of previously collected deposits. These changes are designed to provide immediate relief to farmers and improve long-term stability in the agricultural sector.

Fertilizer remains one of the largest input costs in farming, accounting for up to 36% of operating costs for corn, 28% for soybeans, and 38% for wheat. Rising costs and global supply disruptions have placed additional pressure on producers, particularly family farms operating on tight margins.

“As a representative of one of the most productive agricultural states in the country, I hear directly from farmers about the challenges they are facing, and input costs are at the top of that list,” said Rep. Miller-Meeks. “This bill takes a commonsense approach to lowering fertilizer costs by improving access to a reliable global supply while maintaining a strong domestic industry. By easing unnecessary cost pressures, we can help farmers stay competitive, strengthen rural economies, and support a stable and affordable food supply for American families.”

Background

Phosphate fertilizer is a critical nutrient for crop production, but the United States is not self-sufficient in its production. Domestic output has declined significantly in recent decades while demand continues to grow, making imports essential to meeting the needs of American agriculture.

Global supply chains have faced increased strain due to geopolitical instability, including the Russia-Ukraine war and unrest in the Middle East. These disruptions have limited access to key inputs and contributed to higher prices for farmers.

Existing duties on Moroccan phosphate imports have further constrained supply and reduced competition in a highly concentrated global market. According to analysis from Texas A&M University’s Agricultural and Food Policy Center, these duties increased fertilizer costs for U.S. farmers by approximately $6.9 billion between 2021 and 2025.

The Lowering Input Costs for American Farmers Act addresses these challenges by removing barriers to imports from one of the world’s largest phosphate producers, helping to stabilize supply and reduce costs for producers.

Lower input costs not only benefit farmers, but also help keep food prices stable for American families and support long-term economic growth in rural communities.

Support

The legislation is supported by leading agricultural organizations, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Corn Growers Association, National Taxpayers Union Foundation,Taxpayers Protection Alliance American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Cotton Council, Rice USA, and the Iowa Soybean Association.

“Iowa soybean farmers appreciate Congresswoman Miller-Meeks’ leadership in addressing the increased costs of phosphate fertilizer imports through the Lowering Input Costs for American Farmers Act,” said Tom Adam, President of the Iowa Soybean Association. “At a time when farmers are dealing with elevated input expenses on all fronts, existing countervailing duties only add unnecessary financial strain. Soybean farmers need access to reliable, affordable fertilizer to remain competitive in the global marketplace.”

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