Conflict in Middle East Triggers Global Sulfuric Acid Supply Shortfall — WSJ
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has adversely affected global sulfuric acid supplies, driving prices higher, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
The US-based publication explained that sulfuric acid plays a crucial role in various industrial processes, including the production of phosphate fertilizers, extraction of copper and other metals from ore, wood pulp processing, steel pickling, leather tanning, and rubber vulcanization.
A significant portion of the world’s sulfur originates from oil refineries and gas plants in the Persian Gulf, but supplies have been severely disrupted due to blockades at the Strait of Hormuz.
Compounding the issue, China recently imposed export restrictions on sulfuric acid. The Wall Street Journal quoted Freda Gordon, Director at Acuity Commodities and a sulfur market expert, who noted that concerns over fertilizer markets and food security have led China—the largest sulfur producer globally—to limit exports this month, thereby pushing prices up and tightening availability further.
The conflict escalated when the United States and Israel launched a military operation against Iran on February 28. In response, Tehran closed the Strait of Hormuz to vessels linked to the US, Israel, and their allies. On April 7, Washington announced a mutual two-week ceasefire with Iran.
Subsequent negotiations took place in Islamabad on April 11, but both Tehran and Washington reported that they could not reach a long-term resolution due to persistent disagreements.
