Nutrien’s decision to build U.S. export terminal made to meet potash demand

Agricultural product provider Nutrien’s decision this week to build a US$1-billion potash export terminal in Longview, Washington, rather than in Canada was made to “meet rising demand for Saskatchewan-made potash,” according to a report by Reuters.

The news agency said the the Saskatoon-based company expects to make a final investment decision on the idea in 2027. Previously Nutrien said it was considering Canadian locations as well.

In a statement on Friday, the company said it was focused on ensuring Canadian potash continues to meet rising global demand in the most competitive way possible.

“We assess major projects against a disciplined set of operational, commercial, and financial criteria that reflect a multi-decade time horizon,” the company said.

When asked about reports that federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon had requested meetings to persuade them to reconsider the company said: “We meet regularly with government and lines of communication remain open.”

Earlier this month Nutien said it was undertaking a strategic review of its phosphate business and the review could result in reconfiguring of operations, strategic partnerships or a sale.

The company said at the time it intends to “solidify the optimal path” for the division next year.

Nutrien is the second-largest producer of phosphate in North America, with two mines and four upgrade facilities in the United States.