Top Suppliers and Manufacturers of Sulphur in Europe 🇪🇺

Aurubis AG stands as a global leader in the production of non-ferrous metals, particularly excelling in high-quality copper and copper alloy products. Recognized for their broad portfolio, Aurubis manufactures copper cathodes, continuous cast rods, specialty wires, and a variety of industrial rolled products. Their capabilities extend beyond copper to encompass valuable metals such as gold, silver, tin, selenium, lead, nickel, and zinc, along with sulfuric acid and iron silicate.

With a robust international presence, Aurubis operates manufacturing facilities in multiple countries including Germany, Belgium, Bulgaria, the United States, Italy, and Finland. Their products cater to diverse markets across Europe, the Americas, and Asia, reflecting a strong export strategy that supports a wide customer base.

Founded in 1866, Aurubis has evolved significantly from its origins as Norddeutsche Affinerie AG. Noteworthy milestones in their history include the acquisition of Belgian copper producer Cumerio in 2008, leading to their rebranding as Aurubis in 2009. The company has continually expanded its recycling capabilities and has made significant strides in sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.

Aurubis' commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility is evident in their sophisticated recycling processes, which handle complex raw materials and e-scrap efficiently. This focus on sustainability aligns with their goal of achieving a circular economy in the metals industry. Additionally, their dedication to quality and safety ensures they remain at the forefront of the industry.

Employing approximately 6,913 individuals and recording a revenue of 18.52 billion EUR in 2022, Aurubis stands out as a pioneering force in the metal processing sector, dedicated to both operational excellence and responsible business practices.

Desmet Ballestra is a global leader in the engineering and supply of customized plants and equipment for various industries, including food, feed, biofuels, oleochemicals, detergents, surfactants, and fertilizers. Specializing in innovative technologies, the company offers a wide range of high-quality products and services aimed at transforming oilseeds, grains, and tropical oils into essential end products such as protein feed, edible oils, fats, oleochemicals, and biofuels.

One of Desmet Ballestra's key areas of expertise is in the sulfur chemicals sector, particularly in the production of sulphuric acid and other sulfur-based compounds. Their technologies are designed to achieve high efficiency and environmental sustainability, making them a preferred partner for industries requiring these crucial chemicals.

Founded in 1946 by engineer Jean-Albert De Smet, the company has a rich history of innovation and expansion. Over the years, Desmet Ballestra has significantly broadened its international footprint, operating out of 16 locations globally, including significant operational centers in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. This broad geographical reach allows them to serve a diverse client base effectively.

Desmet Ballestra's top products include technologically advanced equipment for oilseed preparation, solvent extraction, oil refining, chemical interesterification, and biofuel production, as well as detergent and surfactant production plants. Their proprietary technologies, such as the Desolventising Toaster and the Qualistock™ bleaching process, reflect their commitment to innovation and quality.

The company employs around 1,200 staff and had a revenue of EUR 450 million in 2023. Recent strategic moves, like the acquisition by Alfa Laval, have bolstered their capabilities in markets related to edible oils, biofuels, and plant- and animal-based proteins, ensuring their ongoing leadership in these areas.

Nuova Solmine S.p.A. is a prominent leader in the production of sulfuric acid and oleum, making it a significant player in the chemical industry both in Italy and internationally. Specializing in high-purity chemicals, the company produces around 560,000 tons of sulfuric acid and 110,000 tons of oleum annually. These essential products are used in various industrial applications such as pigments, plastics, synthetic fibers, metals, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and batteries.

Founded originally in 1962 and later re-established under its current name in 1996, Nuova Solmine has a rich historical tapestry, initially being part of larger industrial conglomerates like Montecatini Edison Company and later the ENI Group. Its state-of-the-art plants are located in Scarlino, Tuscany, and Serravalle Scrivia, Piedmont. The company emphasizes sustainability and technological innovation, operating a cutting-edge double absorption sulfuric acid plant equipped with DuPont™ MECS® ZeCor® technology, which ensures emissions are well below regulatory limits.

As a major sulfuric acid supplier, Nuova Solmine’s market reach extends beyond Italy into the Mediterranean basin, including countries like France, Spain, Morocco, Turkey, and further to Central and South America. The company has robust logistical capabilities, shipping products by sea, rail, and pipelines to meet global demands efficiently.

Nuova Solmine is deeply committed to sustainability and circular economy practices, such as recycling spent sulfuric acid. It actively participates in international bodies like the European Sulphuric Acid Association and initiatives such as the Responsible Care Programme. The company not only focuses on production efficiency but also ensures customer satisfaction through consistent high-quality standards.

Boliden AB, established in 1924 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, is a prominent player in the mining and metals industry. The company specializes in the production of base and precious metals, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Among its wide array of products, Boliden is renowned for copper, zinc, nickel, lead, gold, silver, and sulfuric acid, which are essential for various industrial applications including automotive, construction, and electronics. Boliden’s operations are strategically distributed across Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Ireland, facilitating efficient mining, smelting, and recycling processes.

The company’s diverse portfolio includes several key mines such as Boliden Aitik, Boliden Garpenberg, Boliden Kevitsa, and Boliden Tara, alongside advanced smelters like Boliden Rönnskär and Boliden Harjavalta. Boliden is particularly notable for being one of the leading recyclers of metals, including electronic scrap, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.

Boliden’s products are exported primarily to European markets, with a solid presence in industries transitioning to greener technologies. The company reported a revenue of SEK 78.554 billion in 2023, reflecting its significant market influence. Boliden employs approximately 5,664 individuals, ensuring a skilled workforce bolstered by innovation and sustainable practices.

With nearly a century of experience, Boliden has a rich history of growth and adaptation. The company has strategically expanded through acquisitions such as that of Outokumpu’s mining and smelting assets in 2003. Boliden prides itself on sustainable practices, including initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and engage responsibly with local communities.

KGHM Polska Miedz S.A. is a leading multinational mining corporation headquartered in Lubin, Poland. Established in 1961, it is internationally recognized for its extensive operations in the mining and smelting industries, specializing in the extraction, enrichment, and refining of copper and precious metals. Over the years, KGHM has grown into one of the world's largest producers of copper and silver.

KGHM offers a diversified product portfolio that includes copper, precious metals (such as gold and silver), molybdenum, rhenium, nickel, lead, selenium, and platinum group metals. Additionally, the company is a significant supplier of sulphuric acid and copper sulphate, which are vital chemicals for various industrial applications, including agriculture and manufacturing.

KGHM operates numerous mining and smelting sites across Poland, including in Lubin, Polkowice-Sieroszowice, and Głogów, as well as international projects in places like Sudbury, Canada, and the Sierra Gorda mine in Chile. This extensive presence enables KGHM to serve a broad array of export markets around the world, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

The company's commitment to sustainable development is reflected in its investment in modern technologies and eco-friendly mining practices, which enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact. KGHM also plays a significant role in the communities where it operates, providing employment to around 34,000 people globally.

With a robust financial position, as evidenced by a reported revenue of approximately $7.6 billion in 2023, KGHM Polska Miedz S.A. continues to solidify its standing as a key player in the global mining sector. Its long history, marked by constant innovation and dedication to responsible practices, positions KGHM not just as a supplier but as a pioneer in the industry.

Kazatomprom is a leading company in the global nuclear market, primarily engaged in the production and extraction of uranium, an essential component for the nuclear energy sector. Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Astana, Kazakhstan, Kazatomprom has grown substantially, accounting for over 40% of the world's primary uranium supply as of 2019. The company's expertise extends to the entire nuclear fuel cycle, from geological exploration to the production of rare metals.

One of Kazatomprom's top products is natural uranium, which is a critical resource for nuclear fuel production. Additionally, the company is involved in the production of other rare metals. While Kazatomprom's primary markets include various countries across Europe, Asia, and North America, recent geopolitical events have increased the company's importance as an alternative supplier to Russian uranium in the European Union.

Despite its state-owned roots, Kazatomprom went public in November 2018 as part of Kazakhstan's Comprehensive Privatization Plan aimed at fostering a competitive economy. This transition has not hindered the company's commitment to sustainability and innovation. Kazatomprom is dedicated to minimizing environmental impact, enhancing local community development, and maintaining high standards in environmental protection, safety, and human rights throughout its operations.

In terms of revenue, Kazatomprom generated approximately KZT 502.3 billion in 2019, showcasing its strong financial performance. With around 20,000 employees, the company continues to expand its capabilities, focusing on technological advancements and refining processes to further establish its position as a key player in the global nuclear supply chain.

Efremov Chemicals, a key player in the sulphuric acid manufacturing industry, is located in Efremov, Chelyabinskaya, Russia. Established in 1982 as the Efremov Chemical Plant or Efremovskij Khimicheskij Zavod, the company specializes in producing high-purity sulphuric acid and oleum. The plant became an affiliated branch of JSC Shchekinoazot in 1999, leading to extensive modernization efforts that positioned it among the largest manufacturers of sulphuric acid in Russia.

Efremov Chemicals has undergone two major modernization stages, significantly boosting its production capacity to 75 tons of high-purity sulphuric acid per month. The company’s main products include high-purity sulphuric acid and oleum, both of which are produced using elemental sulphur as a gas source. These chemicals are vital for various industrial sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.

The company's strategic location allows it to serve the central regions of Russia effectively, ensuring a robust supply chain. Efremov Chemicals not only meets local demand but also has a strong international presence, exporting to numerous countries across Europe and Asia, solidifying its reputation in the global market.

Efremov Chemicals is also noted for its commitment to energy efficiency and production cost reduction, thanks to their state-of-the-art control systems. This efficient approach has further enhanced the company’s operational capabilities and customer satisfaction, making it a trusted supplier for high-quality chemical products globally.

With a rich history of innovation and strategic growth, Efremov Chemicals continues to evolve, contributing significantly to the chemicals industry. It operates from a strategically located facility that enables efficient distribution of its vast range of products, adhering to international standards of quality and safety.

Nyrstar N.V. is a global leader in the mining and metals industry, specializing in the production of essential metals such as zinc, lead, and silver. Additionally, Nyrstar is known for its production of sulphuric acid, a crucial chemical used in various industrial applications including fertilizers, chemicals production, and mining processes. The company's extensive operations include mining, smelting, and alloying activities, making it a vital player in the global supply chain for these metals and chemicals.

Nyrstar was founded in 2007, through the merging of Zinifex’s smelting operations with Umicore's zinc smelting business. The company quickly established itself as a significant entity within the metals market, listing on the Euronext Brussels stock exchange shortly after its formation. In 2019, Nyrstar became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Trafigura, a major commodity trading and logistics firm.

Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, Nyrstar operates multiple production facilities across Europe, the Americas, and Australia. These strategic locations enable the company to efficiently serve diverse international markets, including Europe, North America, and Asia. The company's commitment to sustainability and innovation ensures that it meets high market standards while addressing environmental and societal concerns. Nyrstar’s operations are backed by a robust workforce, comprising approximately 4,000 employees dedicated to driving the company forward.

Over the years, Nyrstar has adapted to industry changes and challenges by modernizing its facilities and improving its processes. This focus on innovation and resilience has solidified its position as a key supplier of high-quality metals and sulphuric acid, catering to a wide spectrum of industries such as construction, automotive, and electronics.

Outokumpu is a leading Finnish company renowned for its expertise in the production of stainless steel. Established in 1910 and headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, the company has evolved from its origins in copper mining to become a global giant in the metallurgical industry.

The company specializes in high-quality stainless steel and offers a diverse range of products including stainless steel sheets, plates, and long products, making it a vital supplier to industries such as construction, automotive, and engineering. While Outokumpu primarily focuses on stainless steel, they also have a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation in their production processes.

Outokumpu exports its products to various international markets, including Europe, North America, and Asia. This global reach is supported by strategic production facilities located across Europe and North America. The company's prominent assets, such as the Kemi chromium mine and the Tornio steelworks, reinforce its strong position in the market. Outokumpu's workforce of about 9,395 employees plays an essential role in maintaining high standards of manufacturing and customer service.

With a reported revenue of €7.7 billion for the year 2021, Outokumpu stands as the largest producer of stainless steel in Europe. The company's dedication to sustainability and continuous research and development keeps it at the forefront of the metal industry, cementing its status as a trusted partner for high-performance metal products.

Outokumpu's legacy is built on over a century of history, marked by strategic acquisitions and mergers such as the acquisition of Inoxum in 2012, which made it the largest manufacturer of stainless steel in Europe. Their ongoing commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation positions them to continue leading in the market for years to come.

Priargunsky Industrial Mining is a distinguished mining company based in Russia, specifically in Krasnokamensk, known for its specialization in uranium extraction and production. The company operates the Streltsovsk ore field, one of Russia's largest domestic uranium mining sites. Apart from uranium, Priargunsky also delves into the production of other minerals including lignite, manganese ore, and sulfuric acid—a critical chemical in various industrial applications.

Founded in the early 20th century, Priargunsky has played a significant role in the mining sector, establishing itself as a major player in both domestic and international markets. Its production portfolio includes high-quality uranium oxides, essential for nuclear fuel production, and sulfuric acid, which is vital for uranium leaching processes.

The company’s strategic location in the Transbaikal region facilitates efficient access to vital infrastructure and transportation networks, boosting its operational capabilities. Additionally, Priargunsky maintains a strong focus on sustainability, employing advanced extraction techniques like the shaft and in-situ recovery (ISR) methods to minimize environmental impact.

Priargunsky is integral to ROSATOM, reflecting its dedication to innovation and responsibility in mining practices. It caters to a wide range of export markets including Europe, Asia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Namibia, and Canada, thereby supporting global uranium supply chains and contributing to energy security and cleaner energy transitions worldwide.

The firm’s substantial resource potential and extensive operational capabilities not only bolster its prominence in the energy sector but also enhance the economic framework of the region. With its commitment to high-quality production and sustainable practices, Priargunsky Industrial Mining continues to be a pivotal entity in the global mining landscape.

JSC Priyargunsky is a significant player in the global sulphuric acid market, recognized for its commitment to quality and excellence in production. The company is part of a broader landscape where sulphuric acid plays a crucial role in various industries, including fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and chemical production. Located in Russia, JSC Priyargunsky specializes in producing sulphuric acid, which is integral to the manufacturing of phosphate fertilizers such as DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) and MAP (Monoammonium Phosphate). These fertilizers are essential for enhancing soil fertility and supporting agricultural productivity.

The company leverages advanced manufacturing technologies to produce high-purity sulphuric acid that meets stringent international quality standards. Established in the mid-20th century, JSC Priyargunsky has built a strong reputation over the decades, serving multiple export markets across Asia, Europe, and beyond. Their ability to consistently deliver high-quality products has positioned them well within the competitive landscape, where they stand alongside other key players in the industry, such as Aurubis and Boliden AB.

Moreover, JSC Priyargunsky's strategic location allows it to cater to various industries, including agrochemicals, metal processing, and chemical manufacturing. The firm’s production capabilities are bolstered by its advanced facilities and skilled workforce, ensuring that it meets the stringent quality and safety standards required in various industrial applications.

JSC Priyargunsky remains committed to innovation and sustainability, aiming to adapt to changing market dynamics and environmental regulations. Its continuous growth trajectory underscores its important role in the region’s economic landscape and its commitment to supporting various industries through high-quality chemical supplies.

• Top Products: Sulphuric Acid
• Specialization: Phosphate Fertilizer Production
• Export Markets: Asia, Europe, and others
• Location: Russia
• History: Established in the mid-20th century

UPM-Kymmene is a distinguished global leader in the forest products industry, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, UPM's extensive operations are organized into several key segments: UPM Biorefining, UPM Energy, UPM Raflatac, UPM Specialty Papers, UPM Communication Papers, and UPM Plywood. Each segment emphasizes UPM's dedication to responsible sourcing and production, offering a diversified range of high-quality products.

UPM Biorefining focuses on the production of pulp, timber, and biofuels, providing renewable materials that meet the growing global demand for sustainable solutions. This segment highlights UPM's integration of eco-friendly practices by promoting the utilization of renewable resources. Although not directly linked to sulfur supply, UPM's commitment to sustainability and innovation in the forest products and biochemicals industries positions it as a key player in offering alternatives to traditional chemical processes.

UPM Raflatac specializes in self-adhesive label materials, supporting various industries with efficient product and information labeling solutions. The UPM Specialty Papers segment delivers high-quality label papers and release liners, catering to markets across Europe and Asia, including packaging and logistics sectors. UPM Energy leverages renewable resources for electricity production, emphasizing the company's role in promoting sustainable energy solutions.

Founded in 1996 through a merger, UPM-Kymmene's history is rich, with roots tracing back to industrial developments in the 19th century and the late 15th century in some of its predecessor companies. UPM has a significant international presence, operating production plants in 11 countries and employing approximately 17,200 people.

UPM-Kymmene's financial strength is reflected by its substantial revenue, reaching approximately €11.72 billion in 2021. The company's shares are publicly traded on the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki stock exchange, and it is the only paper company listed in the global Dow Jones Sustainability Index, underscoring its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable growth.

JSC Khiagda is a prominent entity in the uranium production sector, operating primarily in the Republic of Buryatia within the Vitimskoye uranium-ore district. Known for its significant mineral resource base, the company taps into an estimated potential of over 350,000 tons of uranium.

Founded in 1992, JSC Khiagda functions as a subsidiary under ARMZ Uranium Holding, benefitting from cutting-edge technology and resources essential for efficient uranium extraction. The company primarily specializes in in-situ leaching (ISL) technology for uranium mining, a technique noted for its operational efficiency and minimal environmental impact.

Among JSC Khiagda's notable products is the natural uranium concentrate, commonly referred to as “yellow cake,” alongside recently expanded capabilities in sulphuric acid production—a vital chemical in uranium mining for dissolving uranium oxides. The establishment of a sulphuric acid plant in May 2015 facilitated the integration of this key chemical in their operations, thus enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of their mining processes.

JSC Khiagda has been expanding its production, with 442.6 tons of uranium produced in 2014 and plans to increase this to 2000 tons annually. This growth is supported by the company’s strategic location and robust infrastructure, including power transmission lines, electric substations, and extensive road networks.

The company's operations are rooted in a strong commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, implementing intelligent monitoring systems and patented groundwater resource management methods to minimize environmental impacts.

JSC Khiagda exports its products to various international markets, playing a crucial role in the global nuclear fuel supply chain. With a focus on maintaining high safety and efficiency standards, JSC Khiagda continues to contribute meaningfully to the broader energy sector, ensuring a stable supply of critical raw materials for nuclear energy production.