In a move that underscores the interconnectedness of national security and agricultural productivity, the President has invoked the Defense Production Act of 1950, wielding his authority to bolster the domestic supply of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides. This initiative highlights a critical reality: these substances are not just vital for military readiness but also for the sustenance of American agriculture.
Section 1. Policy and Findings
Elemental phosphorus, as it turns out, is not merely a chemical compound; it plays a starring role in defense supply chains. Its utility spans smoke, illumination, and incendiary devices, and it is indispensable in the semiconductor manufacturing process—think radar, solar cells, and sensors—elements that are foundational to contemporary military technology. Furthermore, as we pivot to greener technologies, phosphorus finds itself increasingly intertwined with modern lithium-ion battery systems utilized across various weaponry.
Moreover, this element is a cornerstone in the production of glyphosate-based herbicides, which are essential for maintaining America’s agricultural edge. These herbicides enable farmers to produce food and livestock feed efficiently, helping to keep wholesome food options accessible to families across the nation. In a world where the alternatives to glyphosate are either non-existent or woefully inadequate, a lack of these herbicides could lead to drastic declines in agricultural productivity, potentially forcing farmers to abandon fields altogether.
With the profit margins for growers already squeezed, any disruptions in glyphosate availability would spell economic disaster, jeopardizing their ability to meet food demands. The ramifications could ripple through the domestic food system, making it not just a matter of agricultural inconvenience but a significant threat to national security.
The stark reality is that the United States is heavily reliant on imports for both elemental phosphorus and glyphosate, with only one domestic producer who falls short of meeting the annual demand. Over six million kilograms of phosphorus are imported each year, a situation that leaves us vulnerable to foreign disruptions and poses a direct threat to military readiness and agricultural capabilities.
Thus, it is imperative to recognize elemental phosphorus as a scarce resource critical to both national defense and food security. The current domestic production levels are insufficient, leaving us exposed to the whims of foreign markets and actors.
Sec. 2 Ensuring an Adequate Supply of Elemental Phosphorus and Glyphosate-Based Herbicides
(a) In light of this pressing need, the President has delegated authority to the Secretary of Agriculture to ensure a stable supply of these critical materials, circumventing previous executive orders that might hinder immediate action.
(b) The Secretary, in collaboration with the Secretary of War, will prioritize the allocation of necessary materials and services to safeguard the availability of phosphorus and herbicides nationwide.
(c) The Secretary will also issue necessary regulations to operationalize this order, ensuring that the domestic production capabilities remain intact and viable.
(d) In executing this authority, the Secretary must keep in mind the President’s assertion that domestic production is vital to national defense, ensuring that no orders jeopardize the corporate viability of current producers.
Sec. 3 Immunity
This order grants immunity as stipulated under section 707 of the Act (50 U.S.C. 4557). Domestic producers of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate herbicides are obligated to comply with this order, as established under 7 C.F.R. part 789.
Sec. 4 General Provisions
(a) It is crucial to clarify that this order does not infringe upon the authority of any executive department or agency.
(b) Implementation of this order will align with existing laws and be contingent on available appropriations.
(c) Importantly, this order does not create enforceable legal rights against the United States or its entities.
(d) Publication costs for this order will be covered by the Department of Agriculture.
DONALD J. TRUMP
THE WHITE HOUSE,
February 18, 2026.
