As countries like the United States compete to increase their ties to Africa and many of the fastest growing economies in the world, strengthening trade with the region is becoming increasingly important.[1] Recently, the U.S. government has acknowledged China and Russia’s growing presence in Africa, building both economic and security ties, and the need for a greater U.S. response.[2] This comes at a time of uncertainty for U.S.-Africa relations as one of the only programs focused on the trade relationship between the United States and Africa -- the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) -- will expire in less than three years.  

Why people are talking about the global fertilizer shortage
 
Prices in the fertilizer industry have been on the rise since the beginning of the pandemic, as supply chain disruptions have decreased accessibility to products which are necessary to produce fertilizers, including natural gas, potash, and other chemicals. Global and regional events have further contributed to supply chain disruptions that are impacting the supply of fertilizer and its inputs.