Vice President JD Vance announced Thursday what he described as a $1.3 billion investment in domestic fertilizer manufacturing in Nebraska, saying the expansion would help lower costs for farmers. Speaking at a rally in North Platte, Vance said two companies would receive funding, including Talus Ag, which he said is opening two manufacturing facilities in the state.
“Today, I am proud to announce $1.3 billion of investment in domestic fertilizer manufacturing right here in the state of Nebraska,” Vance said. He did not identify the second company or specify how the investment would be divided.
Vance said the investment would help provide lower-cost, American-made fertilizer to 32,000 farmers working more than 4 million acres nationwide. He described expanded domestic production as a way to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and support American agriculture.
“And one of the companies, one of the two companies receiving funding, Talus Ag, is opening two manufacturing facilities right here in Nebraska,” Vance said. He did not identify the communities where the facilities would be located or provide construction or opening timelines.
Vance also argued that lower fertilizer costs could reduce the expense of growing cattle feed and eventually lower beef prices for consumers. His remarks did not include estimates of those potential savings.
The announcement did not specify whether the $1.3 billion represents government grants, loans, private investment or a combination of funding sources. Vance also did not provide projected employment figures for the Nebraska facilities.