Global sulfuric acid prices have more than doubled. [4, 8]
Middle East conflict has disrupted sulfur shipments through the Strait of Hormuz since late February 2026. [5, 13, 6]
China is the world’s largest producer of sulfuric acid. [3, 4, 7] The government implemented a total ban on industrial exports on May 1, 2026. [3, 4, 7] This policy protects domestic fertilizer markets. [3, 4, 7]
The resulting shortage curtails phosphate fertilizer production and threatens global food security. [7, 16]
Supply gaps disrupt copper and nickel mining in South America and Africa. [10, 19, 30] These metals are essential for the electronics and electric vehicle industries. [10, 19, 30]