U.S. Imports Of Elemental Sulfur, By Country Or Locality

This table provides detailed information on the quantities and values of elemental sulfur imported into the United States from various countries and localities. Elemental sulfur is a critical raw material used extensively in industries such as chemical manufacturing, agriculture (notably in fertilizer production), and petroleum refining. Tracking import sources and volumes helps assess supply chain stability, market trends, and economic dependencies, which are vital for policymakers and industry stakeholders to ensure consistent availability and to anticipate price fluctuations.

In 2023, the total quantity of elemental sulfur imported into the U.S. decreased to 1,460 thousand metric tons from 1,670 thousand metric tons in 2022, while the total declared customs value dropped sharply from $338 million to $138 million. Canada remained the dominant supplier, accounting for 1,340 thousand metric tons in 2023, although this represented a decline from 1,490 thousand metric tons the previous year, and its import value fell significantly from $283 million to $110 million. Notably, imports from Kazakhstan and Russia, which contributed 53 and 51 thousand metric tons respectively in 2022, ceased entirely in 2023. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s shipments remained relatively stable in quantity, decreasing slightly from 54 to 52 thousand metric tons, but the value of these imports fell markedly from $14.7 million to $4.57 million. The United Arab Emirates emerged as a new supplier in 2023, providing 53 thousand metric tons valued at $9.21 million. These shifts highlight changing geopolitical and market dynamics influencing the U.S. sulfur supply chain.