- Global potash prices remained firm in Q2’26 as stronger fertilizer demand and supplier discipline balanced available production capacity.
- Feedstock and supply conditions were influenced by production levels, export availability and delayed new mining projects.
- Downstream demand from agriculture supported consumption, although farmer purchasing remained cautious due to fertilizer affordability concerns.
Asia
Potash prices in China declined to ~RMB 4.06/kg in April and ~RMB 3.54/kg in the following month, showing a ~12.7% decrease. Despite the monthly decline, Asian markets received support from stronger international contracts and supplier negotiations. A new MOP contract between major suppliers and Indian buyers was established at a higher level than the previous agreement, reflecting firm global benchmarks and export availability constraints. Demand from China, India and Southeast Asia supported regional consumption, while offshore supply commitments remained strong. However, domestic purchasing patterns and inventory management limited immediate price increases in some Asian markets. Agricultural demand remained the main driver, with crop economics influencing fertilizer buying decisions.
Europe
Potash prices in Germany showed a firmer trend, supported by seasonal fertilizer demand and higher producer pricing. European markets benefited from spring application activity, which improved order flow across agricultural regions. However, weak grain economics and farmer sensitivity toward fertilizer costs limited stronger price increases. Supply availability remained adequate, preventing significant shortages, while higher production and logistics costs provided some support to supplier offers. Demand growth remained moderate as farmers balanced crop requirements with input affordability.
North America
Potash prices in the United States declined to ~USD 743.67/MT in April and ~USD 709.83/MT in May, showing a ~4.6% decrease. Retail markets remained relatively stable as available inventories and cautious farmer purchasing limited direct price movements. Producer pricing remained stronger due to improved offshore demand and firm international markets, but higher production volumes helped maintain supply availability. Potash output increased among major producers, reducing the risk of tight supply conditions. Delays in new mining capacity development supported long-term supply concerns but had limited impact on Q2 availability.
Analyst Insight
According to Procurement Resource, potash prices are expected to remain supported by agricultural demand and supplier discipline, while inventories and farmer purchasing decisions will influence short-term movements.