Elemental Sulfur Market Summary

The global elemental sulfur market size was estimated at USD 12,808.7 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 16,779.7 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2025 to 2030. This steady market expansion is primarily driven by increasing demand from the agricultural sector, where sulfur plays a vital role in improving crop yield and soil fertility. As agricultural activities intensify worldwide, the requirement for sulfur as a key input material continues to rise.

Sulfur is a key component in the production of fertilizers, specifically ammonium sulfate and phosphates, which are essential for crop growth and soil health. With the rising global population, the demand for food production has surged, necessitating higher agricultural output and subsequently boosting the demand for sulfur-based fertilizers. Additionally, the growing adoption of advanced agricultural techniques in developing countries further fuels market growth, as these methods often require higher-quality and nutrient-balanced fertilizers to ensure consistent productivity and sustainable farming practices.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• The Asia Pacific region dominates the global elemental sulfur market with a revenue share of 42.3% in terms of revenue in 2024. This dominance is supported by strong agricultural activities, large-scale industrial production, and the presence of major sulfur-producing countries across the region.
• The China elemental sulphur market is expected to grow during the forecast period, driven by increasing fertilizer consumption, expanding industrial applications, and continued investments in agricultural and chemical industries.
• Based on end use, the metallurgy segment is expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period, owing to the increasing use of sulfur in metal processing and refining applications.
• Based on end source, the gas processing segment is expected to register the fastest CAGR over the forecast period, as sulfur recovery from natural gas processing becomes more prominent due to environmental regulations and increased gas production.

Order a free sample PDF of the Elemental Sulfur Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 12,808.7 Million
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 16,779.7 Million
• CAGR (2025-2030): 4.7%
• Asia Pacific: Largest market in 2024

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some of the key players operating in the market include ADNOC Group and China Petrochemical Corporation

• ADNOC Group is a key player in the industry, producing sulfur as a byproduct of its natural gas and crude oil refining processes. The company’s sulfur production is integral to its refining operations, with sulfur being primarily used for sulfuric acid manufacturing, fertilizers, and various chemical applications.
• China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec) offers elemental sulfur, sulfuric acid, and other sulfur-based chemicals that are used in a variety of industries, such as agriculture, petrochemicals as a raw material for various chemical processes, and metallurgy for ore processing.

Key Players

• ADNOC Group
• China Petrochemical Corporation
• Georgia Gulf Sulfur Corporation
• Intrepid Potash
• JOHN H. CARTER COMPANY
• Motiva Enterprises LLC
• Saudi Arabian Oil Co.
• Shell plc
• Suncor Energy Inc.
• Valero
• Grupa Azoty

Explore Horizon Databook – The world's most expansive market intelligence platform developed by Grand View Research.

Conclusion

The elemental sulfur market is poised for steady growth, supported by rising agricultural demand and expanding industrial applications. Its critical role in fertilizer production makes it essential for meeting global food requirements, while growth in metallurgy and gas processing further strengthens market prospects. Asia Pacific’s dominance and China’s growth outlook highlight strong regional demand. As sustainable farming practices and industrial activities continue to expand, the demand for elemental sulfur is expected to remain consistent throughout the forecast period.