Challenges Facing American Farmers Amid Iran War

American farmers are in a tough spot right now.

The ongoing conflict related to Iran has triggered significant price increases for both fuel and fertilizer. With the Strait of Hormuz remaining closed, vital oil and fertilizer supplies are struggling to reach global markets, which just adds to the existing shortages. A recent report from the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) highlights the deepening financial strain on U.S. farmers, who are grappling with soaring diesel costs alongside fertilizer shortages.

Conducted from April 3 to April 11, the survey revealed that about 70% of the 5,700 farmers surveyed indicated that fertilizer prices have escalated to a level where they can’t acquire all the supplies they need through 2026.

Looking at it regionally, nearly 80% of Southern farmers reported they lack sufficient fertilizer for the rest of 2026. A mere 19% of them have “pre-booked” (a method where farmers buy or pledge to buy fertilizer ahead of time) enough for the upcoming planting season.

In the Northeast, the outlook isn’t much better; 69% said they can’t afford the fertilizer they need, with only 30% having made advance purchases.

As for the West, 66% expressed they couldn’t manage the costs of fertilizer, while only 31% stated they pre-ordered. Compared to other regions, the Midwest shows slightly more promise, with only 48% unable to afford fertilizer, and 67% having planned ahead.

AFBF has even put together a helpful graph detailing the situation in each region.

“The rising costs of fuel and fertilizer are compounding the financial difficulties for farmers who have already faced years of losses,” AFBF President Zippy Duvall commented. He noted that without adequate fertilizer, yields will undoubtedly drop, and some farmers may need to cut back on the acreage they cultivate, affecting food and feed resources. While it’s still early to predict the long-term effects on food availability and pricing, Duvall emphasized that this is a concern they’ve brought to the attention of policymakers in Washington. He expressed hope for collaboration to find viable solutions so farmers can keep feeding families nationwide.

Additionally, the AFBF survey found that an overwhelming 94% of participants believe their financial circumstances will either deteriorate or remain unchanged after 2025, with just 6% reporting any improvements.