Potash (MOP, 0-0-60) is priced at $310–$380 per ton in U.S. Corn Belt markets in spring 2026 — largely flat to up 10% year-over-year. Canadian producers (Nutrien, Mosaic) expanded output following the Belarus sanctions impact of 2022–2023, and supply is now more adequate than the nitrogen or phosphate markets.
Current Signal: BUY
Year-over-year change: Flat to +10%
| Market / Region | Price Range |
|---|---|
| NOLA Barge | $295 – $355/ton |
| Corn Belt Retail (granular) | $320 – $380/ton |
| Pacific Northwest | $315 – $370/ton |
| Northern Plains | $310 – $375/ton |
Nutrien and Mosaic aggressively ramped production at Saskatchewan mines after Belarus potash exports were sanctioned in 2022. By 2025–2026, Canadian export volumes filled much of the Belarus gap, keeping MOP prices relatively stable.
Potash demand tracks crop economics. With corn prices running $4.50–$5.50/bushel in 2026, farmer demand for potash is solid but not price-insensitive. Buyers are not panic-purchasing like in 2022.
China does not dominate potash exports the way it does phosphate. The potash market is less exposed to China export policy, which is why potash prices held steady while DAP and MAP surged.
Potash can be applied in fall or spring with equivalent agronomic effect. This flexibility means buyers can defer spring purchases to fall without agronomic penalty, which moderates spring price spikes.
Potash (MOP, 0-0-60) is $310–$380 per ton at Corn Belt retail in spring 2026. NOLA barge prices are $295–$355/ton.
Relative to its historical norm, potash is the best-priced major fertilizer in 2026. Nitrogen and phosphate prices are elevated 15–30% vs. historical averages, while potash is near 5-year averages.
MOP (muriate of potash, 0-0-60) is the most common potash fertilizer. When people say potash price, they almost always mean MOP. SOP (sulfate of potash, 0-0-50) is a premium product that runs $100–$200/ton higher.
Based on current market conditions — adequate supply, flat year-over-year pricing, and Canadian production expansion — buying potash now at spring prices is reasonable. No strong catalyst to wait for lower fall prices in 2026.
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