Trump Invokes Defense Act for Phosphorus, Glyphosate

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday invoking the Defense Production Act to prioritize domestic production of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides, aiming to protect U.S. military readiness and agricultural productivity from foreign supply disruptions.

The order declares these materials essential to national security, citing their roles in defense technologies and food systems. Elemental phosphorus serves as a key component in military applications, including smoke and incendiary devices, semiconductors for radar and solar cells, and lithium-ion batteries for weapon systems. Glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, supports crop management and livestock feed production, enabling farmers to maintain high yields and low costs. White House officials stated that current domestic output falls short of demand, with the United States importing more than 6 million kilograms of elemental phosphorus annually. Only one U.S. producer manufactures these substances, heightening risks from potential interruptions by hostile foreign actors.

Under the executive action, authority is delegated to the Secretary of Agriculture, who will prioritize government...