Domestic sulfur prices have spiked this year, peaking at 11,600 yuan/ton with a
maximum rise of over 210%; despite a pullback, year-to-date gains remain close
to 100%. China, a major sulfur importer, has seen imports fall sharply amid
international developments, leaving inventories at major Yangtze ports at
roughly half last year’s levels. Some firms are locking basic supply with
long-term contracts while many downstream users are switching feedstock sources.
The industry is speeding diversification of sulfur supply and several projects
due to start will boost domestic supply capacity; firms expect prices to
stabilise and gradually ease.
