The President has signed an executive order aimed at securing domestic supplies of elemental phosphorus, a material used by the military, and glyphosate-based herbicides, which are common in agricultural production. The order, signed on Wednesday, invokes the Defense Production Act to protect the supply chains for both materials.
According to a statement, the administration believes that any disruption in the supply of these “critical materials” could leave the nation’s defense industrial base and food supply vulnerable. The order directs the Secretary of Agriculture to work with the Defense Department on regulations to ensure a continued supply of the products.
The White House noted there is only one domestic producer of both materials. This move comes as farmers have reportedly warned that tariffs on imported herbicides and fertilizers are increasing crop production costs. While one major fertilizer producer saw its shares rise slightly after the announcement, a core issue for many farmers—import duties on key supplies—appears to remain unaddressed by the order, according to an analysis.
Glyphosate, the active ingredient in many herbicides, has been a point of concern for some scientists and consumers who point to potential health risks, though a federal agency still considers it safe for use. Farmers have stated there is no affordable substitute for the product.
This is not the first time the current administration has used the Defense Production Act. In the past year, it has been invoked to support domestic mineral production, the maritime industry, and nuclear fuel management.
The Secretary of Agriculture praised the order, saying, “If our farmers are reliant on other countries—especially our foreign adversaries—for critical inputs, we will not be able to feed ourselves.” The administration has acknowledged that concerns over food prices are a critical part of the economic debate.
