China's sulphur imports dropped 65 percent year-on-year in August 2026 to roughly 277,300 tonnes amid Middle East maritime logistics disruptions, according to customs data. The resulting shortage drove average import prices up by nearly 246 percent. Despite broad regional shipping constraints, the UAE, South Korea, and Canada supplied 80 percent of total August imports.
China's sulphur imports declined 65 percent year-on-year in August 2026 to roughly 277,300 tonnes due to Middle East maritime disruptions. Despite sharp drops from several Gulf nations, the UAE, South Korea, and Canada supplied 80 percent of China's August imports. Average import prices surged nearly 246 percent, tightening feedstock for chemical refining and fertiliser production.
Chinese customs data reported on September 24, 2026, revealed that China's sulphur imports fell 65 percent year-on-year in August to roughly 277,300 tonnes. The supply contraction caused average import prices to surge nearly 246 percent, or 3.5 times higher per tonne. The United Arab Emirates, South Korea, and Canada supplied 80 percent of China's August sulphur imports as shipments from other Gulf countries dropped sharply.
Chinese customs data showed August 2026 sulphur imports dropped 65 percent year-on-year to approximately 277,300 tonnes due to Middle East maritime disruptions. Average import prices surged nearly 246 percent, with the UAE, South Korea, and Canada accounting for 80 percent of China's intake.
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