19:21 4 August 2026
Groupa Azoty to increase market share in sulfuric acid market as Middle East war blocks trade
Disruptions to key Middle Eastern trade routes have turned sulfuric acid into a strategic commodity, creating an opportunity for Grupa Azoty. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted nearly 47% of global seaborne sulfur exports, while additional export restrictions have tightened supply. Sulfur prices in China reached a record level in June, rising 205.85% y/y. Grupa Azoty benefits from vertical integration and access to more than 500,000 tons of domestic sulfur annually through Siarkopol, allowing its plants in Police and Gdańsk to maintain production while competitors face shortages.
This could help the company gain European market share. However, high prices are weakening global demand, while debt, labor disputes, and uncertainty surrounding the conflict remain significant risks.
