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Middle East Conflict Skyrockets Fertilizer Prices, Halts Saffron Exports

3/8/2026

45 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The ongoing Middle East conflict disrupts China's access to sulfur as the Strait of Hormuz is effectively closed.
China imports 47% of its sulfur from Persian Gulf nations, and fertiliser prices averaged US$520 in early 2026.
Shipping disruptions push fertiliser prices higher, and the conflict has halted over 90% of global saffron exports, affecting pharmaceuticals and raw material supply.

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Story summary

The ongoing Middle East conflict disrupts China's access to sulfur as the Strait of Hormuz is effectively closed.
China imports 47% of its sulfur from Persian Gulf nations, and fertiliser prices averaged US$520 in early 2026.
Shipping disruptions push fertiliser prices higher, and the conflict has halted over 90% of global saffron exports, affecting pharmaceuticals and raw material supply.