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This table presents detailed information on the quantities and values of elemental sulfur exported from the United States to various countries and localities. Elemental sulfur is a critical industrial commodity used primarily in the production of sulfuric acid, fertilizers, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Tracking export data by destination helps to understand trade flows, market demand, and the economic impact of sulfur production on the U.S. economy. These statistics are vital for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and analysts to monitor international competitiveness and to identify emerging markets or shifts in global supply chains.
In 2023, the total quantity of elemental sulfur exported from the U.S. increased to 1,920 thousand metric tons, up from 1,740 thousand metric tons in 2022, reflecting a growth in export volume despite a significant decline in total export value, which dropped from $479 million to $223 million. Brazil remained the largest importer by quantity, rising from 694 thousand metric tons in 2022 to 865 thousand metric tons in 2023, although the value of exports to Brazil fell sharply from $186 million to $108 million. Mexico also saw a notable increase in quantity, from 406 to 598 thousand metric tons, but the export value halved from $136 million to $60.6 million. Other destinations such as Morocco and New Caledonia experienced modest increases in quantity but substantial decreases in value, indicating a general trend of lower sulfur prices or changes in contract terms. The "Other" category saw a steep decline in both quantity and value, dropping from 343 to 93 thousand metric tons and from $74.1 million to $19.7 million, respectively. These shifts suggest evolving market dynamics and pricing pressures affecting U.S. sulfur exports in 2023.
| TABLE 7 | |||||||||
| U.S. EXPORTS OF ELEMENTAL SULFUR, BY COUNTRY OR LOCALITY1 | |||||||||
| (Thousand metric tons and thousand dollars) | |||||||||
| 2022 | 2023 | ||||||||
| Country or locality | Quantity | Value | Quantity | Value | |||||
| Brazil | 694 | 186000 | 865 | 108000 | |||||
| Mexico | 406 | 136000 | 598 | 60600 | |||||
| Morocco | 192 | 55600 | 207 | 20600 | |||||
| New Caledonia | 104 | 27100 | 156 | 14800 | |||||
| Other | 343 | r | 74100 | r | 93 | 19700 | |||
| Total | 1740 | 479000 | 1920 | 223000 | |||||
rRevised.
1Table includes data available through August 29, 2024. Data are rounded to no more than three significant digits; may not add to totals shown.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau.
Source: United States Geological Survey Mineral Resources Program
See also: Sulfur statistics | Mineral commodity prices