Trump Invokes Defense Production Act to Secure Glyphosate, Phosphate Supply

Executive order aims to safeguard domestic manufacturing of key agricultural and military materials

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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President Donald Trump has signed an executive order invoking the Defense Production Act to prioritize the domestic manufacturing of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides. The administration cites the materials' importance to military preparedness and American agriculture, respectively, as the rationale for shielding their supply from potential disruptions by foreign actors.

Why it matters

The move is intended to reduce U.S. reliance on foreign sources for these critical materials and strengthen national security as well as the resilience of the country's food system. However, the decision has drawn criticism from some who are concerned about the broader health and environmental impacts of glyphosate use.

The details

The executive order prioritizes domestic production of elemental phosphorus, which the administration deems vital to military preparedness, and glyphosate, a widely used herbicide that plays a key role in supporting American agriculture. Bayer, currently the only U.S.-based producer of glyphosate, manufactures approximately 40 percent of the global supply at its American facilities.

  • President Trump signed the executive order on February 20, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States who signed the executive order.

Bayer

The only U.S.-based producer of glyphosate, manufacturing approximately 40 percent of the global supply at its American facilities.

Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement

A group that voiced immediate concerns following the announcement, reflecting ongoing debate over the broader health and environmental implications of glyphosate use.

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The takeaway

This executive order highlights the Trump administration's prioritization of domestic production of materials deemed critical to national security and agricultural resilience, even as it faces ongoing criticism from those concerned about the potential health and environmental impacts of glyphosate use.