Fact check: Could Trump replace Canada's potash with Belarus?

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on September 21, 2026 that the United States will continue purchasing Canadian potash despite seeking a cheaper price. The statement came during a bilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the United Nations General Assembly. This decision follows Trump's earlier remarks about exploring a deal to buy cheaper potash from Belarus to reduce the U.S.'s dependence on Canada.

Saskatchewan, the world's largest producer of potash, is the United States' largest customer. Potash, a key component in fertilizers, is essential for plant growth, crop yield, disease resistance, and water preservation. However, the deal faced criticism from Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, who denounced Belarusian potash as unethical due to the country's involvement in Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Over 40 countries, including Canada and its allies, have imposed sanctions on Belarus in support of Ukraine.

In response to Trump's proposal, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated that his country cannot supply the U.S. with large volumes of potash. Trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. had already collapsed last month after the latter rejected last-minute terms, including restrictions on Canada entering into new trade deals.

Following the breakdown of negotiations, Trump has imposed multiple rounds of tariffs and import restrictions on Canada. The U.S. Geological Survey says that no substitutes exist for potash in the agriculture industry, making it a critical input for food security.