Sulfur, Sulfuric Acid Supply Stable in Zambia and DRC; Prices Volatile and Elevated

Published: Apr 20, 2026 13:54

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According to SMM’s recent on-the-ground survey, there has not yet been a significant shortage of sulfur or sulfuric acid supply in Zambia and the DRC, nor has there been any substantive impact on copper and cobalt smelting output in the two countries. Zambia remains largely self-sufficient in sulfuric acid, while supply pressure is concentrated in the DRC. At present, feedstock can still be procured normally in the DRC, although prices remain elevated and volatile, with delivered sulfuric acid prices ranging from USD 1,000–1,400/mt and peaking at USD 1,400/mt. Sulfur is quoted at USD 1,500–1,800/mt on a DAP basis and USD 2,300–2,500/mt on a DDP basis. There are sulfur inventories at the Port of Dar es Salaam, most of which are being held back by traders awaiting higher prices.

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