ECONOMY

Iran conflict pushes fertilizer and fuel costs higher

PUBLISHED Mar 18, 2026, 1:40 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 6

Center 100%

Sources: 6

Bismarck, N.D. Farmers across the United States reported rising fertilizer and fuel costs this week nationwide as the war in Iran disrupted shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, producers and extension agents said. Several farmers reported fertilizer bills up as much as 40 percent and millions of acres rely on nitrogen-based products. Analysts warned that higher input costs and fuel price spikes have raised planting expenses, squeezed farm margins and could translate to higher grocery prices before summer. Officials and university extension agents provided usage data and price comparisons to illustrate impacts. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Shahbaz A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Prior years: Fertilizer and fuel input prices rose gradually before 2026.
Late February 2026: U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran slowed shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
Early–mid March 2026: Farmers in multiple states reported fertilizer bills up to 40% higher and diesel price increases.
Mid March 2026: GasBuddy and local data showed regional retail fuel jumps (example: ~87 cents/gallon in one locality).
Mid–late March 2026: Extension agents and university data highlighted higher nitrogen usage and potential consumer price transmission.

News Intelligence

The Iran conflict is hitting your wallet. Rising fertilizer and fuel costs mean farmers' expenses go up. This could lead to higher grocery prices by summer. Keep an eye on your food budget.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6

Who Benefited

Large fertilizer manufacturers, major agribusiness firms, and energy suppliers may see short-term revenue gains from higher input prices and increased demand for substitute supply chains.

Who Impacted

Small and mid-size farmers, rural communities, and consumers face higher input costs, tighter margins, and the risk of increased grocery prices this planting season.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Large fertilizer manufacturers, major agribusiness firms, and energy suppliers may see short-term revenue gains from higher input prices and increased demand for substitute supply chains.

Who Impacted

Small and mid-size farmers, rural communities, and consumers face higher input costs, tighter margins, and the risk of increased grocery prices this planting season.