AUDIO: David Delaney – Itafos
The CEO of Itafos, a vertically integrated phosphate producer with operations in Idaho and Brazil, says global availability and affordability of phosphate fertilizer continues to be impacted by export bans and conflicts.
David Delaney tells Brownfield, “Sulfur is still the constraint in global phosphate production.” He says, “We’re seeing global operating rates between 50 and 60%. China is the big exporter that just didn’t export any MAP or DAP this year.”
While there have been some improvements to the global sulfur supply picture recently, Delaney says he expects the issues and elevated prices to carry into 2027.
“The Strait of Hormuz, they are getting a few cargoes out every month. It’s probably 25% of normal.” He says, “And of course, Russia and Kazakhstan still are not exporting. But sulfur has been the big driver of the high price.”
Sulfur, which hit record high prices this year, is a key ingredient in the production of phosphate fertilizer.
“I do see prices starting to trend down.” He says, “The last number was $850/ton. The high was, I think, $1,200.”
Delaney says farmers across the globe cut back on phosphate fertilizer applications this year, and he expects continued high prices to further reduce usage in 2027, potentially reducing global crop production.
