Moscow restricts sulfuric acid exports until end of 2026

The Russian government has introduced temporary restrictions on sulfuric acid exports, with Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signing the relevant decree on September 12.

The measure is officially intended to ensure stable supplies of sulfuric acid to “industrial enterprises and mineral fertilizer producers.” The restrictions will take effect 10 days after the decree is officially published and remain in force through December 31, 2026, The Moscow Times reports.

The decree allows exports to continue in cases authorised by the prime minister or his deputies, as well as through international transit shipments and under intergovernmental agreements.

Sulfuric acid is also a key component in the production of explosives. It is used in the production of nitro compounds, including components of TNT, nitroglycerin and other explosives, serving as a dehydrating agent and activator in nitration reactions.

The latest move follows similar measures introduced by Russian authorities. In November 2025, the government restricted exports of technical sulfur in an effort to stabilise domestic supplies.

Russia’s sulfur exports fell 74.3% year-on-year in 2024 to 1.04 million tons, with increased domestic demand cited as one of the factors behind the decline.

By Vafa Guliyeva