Sodium bisulfate

Market Dynamics Intelligence on Sodium Acid Sulfate

I. Price Trends
1. Domestic Market: Recently, the price of sodium acid sulfate in the domestic market has shown a slight upward fluctuation. The mainstream quoted price for industrial-grade sodium acid sulfate in East China is between 2,200 and 2,400 RMB/ton, representing an increase of approximately 50–100 RMB/ton compared to the previous month. Prices in South China range from 2,300 to 2,500 RMB/ton, with a similar upward trend.
2. International Market: Prices in Asia have risen to some extent, driven by domestic market trends. The FOB China port price is between 320 and 350 USD/ton, an increase of 10–20 USD/ton from earlier levels. Prices in Europe and America remain relatively stable, but import costs have increased due to global supply chain impacts.

II. Supply Situation
1. Capacity Utilization: The overall capacity utilization rate of domestic sodium acid sulfate producers remains around 75%–80%. Some enterprises have limited capacity due to equipment maintenance or environmental protection requirements, leading to a slight reduction in market supply.
2. Inventory Levels: Producer inventories are generally at moderate to low levels. Large enterprises hold inventories of approximately 1,000–2,000 tons, while small and medium-sized enterprises typically hold less than 500 tons. Trader inventories are also relatively limited, resulting in a tight overall market supply.
3. Import Situation: Recent sodium acid sulfate import volumes have declined, primarily due to rising international shipping costs and adjustments in export policies in some countries, leading to insufficient import supply.

III. Demand Situation
1. Downstream Industry Demand
- Paper Industry: As the primary downstream consumer of sodium acid sulfate, the paper industry has maintained stable operating rates, leading to steady growth in demand. Particularly, the production of high-grade paper products has increased the demand for high-quality sodium acid sulfate due to stricter quality requirements.
- Printing and Dyeing Industry: Entering a traditional peak season, the printing and dyeing industry has seen an increase in orders, correspondingly boosting demand for sodium acid sulfate, which is mainly used as an additive in the dyeing process.
- Other Industries: Sodium acid sulfate is also applied in industries such as glass and ceramics, but its demand share is relatively small, with little recent change.
2. Regional Demand Distribution: East and South China, as major hubs for the paper and printing/dyeing industries, account for the largest demand, representing approximately 60%–70% of total domestic demand. Demand in North and Central China is relatively lower but still holds a certain market share.

IV. Cost Factors
1. Raw Material Costs: The main raw materials for sodium acid sulfate production are sulfuric acid and soda ash. Recently, sulfuric acid prices have risen due to increasing sulfur prices and tight supply. Soda ash prices have also increased due to stronger downstream demand and maintenance at some plants, leading to higher production costs for sodium acid sulfate.
2. Energy Costs: Fluctuations in energy prices such as coal and natural gas significantly impact sodium acid sulfate producers. Recent energy prices have generally trended upward, further driving up production costs.

V. Analysis and Judgment
1. Short-term: Influenced by tight supply, rising costs, and stable growth in downstream demand, sodium acid sulfate prices are expected to continue rising in the short term, with an estimated increase of 50–100 RMB/ton.
2. Medium-term: As maintenance periods end and capacity is gradually restored, market supply will increase. However, supported by strong demand during the peak season, prices are expected to remain high and volatile.
3. Long-term: If raw material and energy prices continue to rise, producers may pass on cost pressures through higher product prices. Conversely, if downstream demand declines significantly or market supply exceeds demand, prices may correct downward.

VI. Forecast
1. Price Forecast: Over the next month, domestic sodium acid sulfate prices are expected to rise further to 2,300–2,500 RMB/ton. International prices will follow domestic trends, with FOB China port prices potentially reaching 330–360 USD/ton.
2. Supply and Demand Forecast: On the supply side, market supply will gradually increase as producers restore capacity. On the demand side, downstream demand may decline after the peak season but is expected to remain at a certain level.
3. Market Risk Warning: Attention should be paid to the impact of fluctuations in raw material and energy prices, changes in environmental policies, and shifts in downstream demand on the sodium acid sulfate market. Production and sales strategies should be adjusted promptly.