SITCSection 5
U.S. imports of potassium chloride fertilizers (SITC 56231) totaled $377.9M in April 2026, traded with 15 countries.
Importers of Potassium Chloride Fertilizers paid $7K in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 10% on $69K in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule. Potassium Chloride Fertilizers imports of $377.9M in April 2026 ran 19% above the year-to-date monthly average of $318.6M.
Last updated: April 2026 dataPotassium chloride — commercially known as muriate of potash (MOP) — is the dominant potassic fertilizer in global trade, supplying the potassium nutrient essential for crop quality, disease resistance, and water regulation. Global potash supply is highly concentrated among a small number of producing nations, and trade disruptions or sanctions affecting major producers can cause significant price and availability volatility for US importers. MOP is traded in standard grades by K₂O content and granule size (standard, granular, and coarse), and these physical specifications affect both agronomic suitability and bulk handling logistics at receiving terminals.
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Standard, granular, and coarse MOP grades differ in particle size distribution, which affects blending compatibility with other dry fertilizers and application equipment requirements. For customs classification purposes, all grades of potassium chloride fertilizer fall within the same heading, but commercial contracts and quality specifications should clearly define the grade to avoid disputes at delivery. Granular MOP commands a premium for bulk blending operations, while standard grade is preferred for direct application.
Potash mining is concentrated in Canada, Russia, and Belarus, among a handful of other producers. Geopolitical events, export restrictions, or sanctions affecting major producing countries can rapidly tighten global MOP supply and drive price spikes. US importers with large annual potash requirements often diversify sourcing across multiple origins and use forward purchasing or long-term supply agreements to manage concentration risk, particularly ahead of spring planting season when demand peaks.
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| Country | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| CANADA | $359.0M | $450K | -$358.5M |
| BRAZIL | $7K | $81.6M | +$81.6M |
| CHINA | -- | $47.6M | +$47.6M |
| JAPAN | $81K | $11.2M | +$11.2M |
| KOREA, SOUTH | -- | $10.6M | +$10.6M |
Monthly import values over time