The Mosaic Company is an American chemical company based in Tampa, Florida. As one of the largest fertilizer mining companies globally, it mines phosphate, potash, and collects urea for fertilizer with operations across 8 countries.
Looking back, what is the greatest change or transformation you've observed at Mosaic and the industry overall?
I've been in this industry my entire career, and one of the biggest changes has been consolidation. When I started, there were more than 20 different companies in the Southeast region, particularly in Florida. Now, there are essentially one or two. That consolidation has had ramifications, but also many benefits. One potential drawback is fewer voices advocating for the industry. A diversified set of owners is used to engage stakeholders in different ways. For example, major petroleum companies like Exxon Mobil and even US Steel were once involved in fertilizer production, bringing a different perspective to the table.
However, out of that consolidation, we’ve retained the best technology, assets, and people and we’ve seen a rise in innovation and efficiency, ensuring the sustainability of this business for decades to come. Having a consolidated voice means we can be hyper-focused on crop nutrition. It’s no longer a secondary business to a larger company but our core mission. This specialization allows us to drive technological advancements and attract top talent, which outweighs the downsides.
What are Mosaic’s core products and how does the current demand in 2025 for phosphate and potash compare to previous years?
We are the largest global producer of concentrated phosphate and potash fertilizers. Plants need three essential nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). We provide phosphate and potash, which are key to plant growth. Our fertilizers are sold in bulk and blended to create customized solutions for farmers. Retailers buy from us and then mix these components to develop the best nutritional formulas for crops, ensuring farmers can maximize their yields based on soil type and crop needs.
Last year was a near-record year for both products. Global shipments reached about 72 million tons of potash and 75 million tons of phosphate. Demand is steadily increasing, with projections showing continued growth due to rising global food needs. Looking ahead, we anticipate a 1.5% annual growth in phosphate demand and a 2-2.5% growth in potash demand. By the end of the decade, we expect global demand to exceed 80 million tons for both products. New production projects are already underway in Canada, Russia, and Laos to help meet these needs.
With the global population expected to surpass 9 billion by 2050, how prepared is the industry for the rising food demand?
We closely track supply and demand trends, and industry projections align with steady growth. While phosphate demand will rise at a moderate pace, potash demand is accelerating as more people recognize its importance. Historically, potash was under-applied, but education is driving its increased use.
New projects in Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and Northern Africa are expanding supply. Mosaic’s focus isn’t just on producing more but on improving efficiency. Our performance fertilizers, like MicroEssentials, enhance yield per acre. We’ve also launched Mosaic Biosciences, using biological solutions to improve soil health and maximize crop productivity.
Why in your opinion has fertilizer innovation lagged behind advancements in other spaces like biologicals?
For decades, there was plenty of farmland available, and basic commodity fertilizers were sufficient. But as arable land becomes limited, efficiency is now the priority. In regions like the U.S. and Europe, where expansion isn’t possible, innovation is necessary to get more yield from existing acres.
Countries like Brazil still have room for agricultural expansion, but in mature markets, growth must come from better technology. That’s why we’re investing in specialty fertilizers and biologics to improve efficiency rather than just increasing output. For us, the biggest opportunity is in the Americas, particularly Brazil.
We are the largest producer and distributor of phosphate and potash fertilizers there, and we have an extensive retail footprint. Brazil continues to be a key market for agricultural expansion, and we’re well-positioned to support that growth with innovative products.
Agriculture is largely cyclical by nature, but you’ve implied that the challenges in 2025 are unprecedented - what are they?
Volatility is a major issue, whether it’s political, economic, or climate-related. Supply chain disruptions due to global conflicts and shifting weather patterns require companies to be resilient and adaptable.
We mitigate these risks by maintaining a strong presence in key agricultural regions: China, India, South America, and North America. Our global footprint allows us to pivot based on changing conditions, ensuring we can supply the markets that need our products most.
Farmers now have the task of producing more food on the same land. How do you ensure that solutions are cost-effective for farmers balancing tight margins?
Farmers make their money based on how much they can grow per acre. Our job is to provide products that boost yields at a cost-effective rate. A 4% increase in bushels per acre at the same input cost means higher profitability for the farmer.
We achieve this through tailored fertilizers, micronutrients, and now biologics that improve soil health. We also advocate for best practices through industry groups and our own agronomists, helping farmers apply nutrients efficiently to maximize returns.
What’s next for Mosaic in terms of leveraging technological innovation and pursuing sustainability?
We’re focusing on biosciences, with several new products in development to help farmers grow more on the same amount of land. We’re also investing in supply chain efficiencies and strategic partnerships to improve market access.
On the technology side, we’re pioneering autonomous mining operations. Our potash mines operate with fully autonomous underground miners, enhancing safety and efficiency. We’re also using remote-controlled equipment in phosphate operations, reducing risk while improving productivity. These innovations keep us at the forefront of sustainable and efficient agriculture.
