Several geopolitical and domestic headwinds are influencing the cost of agricultural inputs this spring. Fertilizer prices are experiencing their seasonal elevation as other global dynamics impact markets for the long term. Here are 5 trends impacting input costs that farmers should stay informed of:

1. Pipelines in Russia are being discussed and would significantly drop fertilizer prices in the country, particularly as Ukraine could start exporting its own supplies again.
2. The Israel/Hamas conflict could impact larger areas of the Middle East, which accounts for 51% of global urea exports.
3. More unpredictability from China means uncertainty in the markets. New nitrogen restrictions could mean 40% less exports from the country.
4. Weather remains a huge market influencer, particularly as spring water levels will be top of mind for ongoing transportation.
5. Fall fertilizer applications are expected to be high which could contribute to availability and pricing concerns.

Read more on trends impacting farm input markets here.