10.05.2026 23:42
Sulfuric acid, the unsung hero of global industry, has reached 'gold' value after China's export ban and the war in the Strait of Hormuz. When the supply of this critical chemical, described as the lifeblood of industry, was cut off, prices in nickel and copper giants Indonesia and Chile skyrocketed by up to 100 percent. It is feared that the shortage of this acid, used in everything from fertilizer to computer chips, will soon trigger a massive wave of price hikes in food and technology products, sending global inflation soaring.
The global crisis in sulfuric acid, used in many fields from fertilizer production to the electronics industry, is escalating. China's halt on exports and disruptions in shipments due to the war in the Strait of Hormuz have driven the chemical's price to record levels in a short time. Experts warn that these developments could trigger a new wave of price increases in food and technology products.
CHINA CLOSES THE EXPORT VALVE
China, one of the world's largest sulfuric acid producers, has imposed restrictions on exports to protect domestic fertilizer demand. Following this decision, which led to a tightening of supply in global markets, tensions in the Strait of Hormuz also negatively affected the shipping chain.
NICKEL AND COPPER PRODUCERS ON ALERT
Indonesia and Chile stand out among the countries most severely affected by the crisis. In Indonesia, where nickel production is dependent on sulfuric acid, prices have reportedly risen by over 80% in recent weeks, while in Chile, one of the world's largest copper producers, costs have doubled.
ELECTRONICS AND FOOD PRICES MAY BE AFFECTED
Experts speaking to the Wall Street Journal stated that the sulfuric acid crisis could affect not only industrial production but also daily life. They noted that the decline in fertilizer production could raise global food prices, and production issues with copper and critical minerals could lead to price increases for smartphones, computers, and electronic products.
USA SEEKS ALTERNATIVE SUPPLIES
The USA is expected to avoid major problems in the short term with supplies from Mexico and Canada. However, experts state that declining global stocks could affect the American market in the long run and that rising costs could strengthen inflationary pressure.