China Caustic Soda Market Weekly Report: Prices Fall, Inventory Builds as Demand Weakens（Apr 17-23,2026)

The Chinese caustic soda market showed a clear downward trend this week, as weak downstream demand and rising inventories continued to put pressure on prices. Market sentiment remains cautious ahead of the upcoming holiday period.

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📉 Prices Decline Across Key Regions

In Shandong, the benchmark 32% membrane caustic soda price averaged RMB 675/ton, down 6.51% week-on-week. Meanwhile, 50% liquid caustic soda prices dropped more sharply, falling nearly 10%.

Other key observations:

* Low-concentration caustic soda faced sluggish spot demand
* Some producers reduced prices to accelerate shipments
* High-concentration caustic soda export orders fell short of expectations

Overall, the market experienced broad-based price pressure, especially in northern China.

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📦 Supply Adjusts Slightly, Inventory Continues to Rise

Operating rates at major chlor-alkali plants declined slightly:

* Average operating rate: 83.2% (-1.1%)
* Weekly output: 83.7 million tons (-2.2%)

Despite reduced output, inventory levels increased significantly:

* Total inventory: 585,500 tons
* Week-on-week: +4.71%
* Year-on-year: +39.02%

This indicates that demand weakness remains the key issue in the current market.

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🏭 Downstream Demand Remains Weak

Key downstream sectors showed mixed performance:

* Alumina: Demand softened, with buyers maintaining strong price pressure
* Viscose fiber: Operating rates improved slightly, but demand recovery remains limited
* Other sectors: Mainly purchasing based on immediate needs

Overall, downstream industries continue to adopt a cautious and wait-and-see approach.

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💰 Profitability Declines

Falling caustic soda prices combined with weaker chlorine prices significantly reduced profitability:

* Average chlor-alkali profit: RMB 453/ton
* Week-on-week change: -26.5%

Although raw material and energy costs declined, they were insufficient to offset the price drop.

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🔮 Market Outlook

In the short term, the caustic soda market is expected to remain under pressure:

* Prices may continue to fluctuate downward
* Producers will prioritize inventory reduction
* Holiday logistics may impact shipments

However, supply-side adjustments may help stabilize the market later.

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🌍 Supply & Export from China

Despite current market softness, China remains a major global supplier of caustic soda, offering competitive pricing opportunities for international buyers.

Jinan ZZ International Trade Co., Ltd. specializes in exporting:

* Liquid caustic soda (32%, 50%)
* Caustic soda flakes and pearls
* Other industrial chemicals

We provide stable supply, competitive pricing, and reliable global logistics.

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📩 Send Inquiry / Get Latest Price

Looking for reliable caustic soda suppliers in China?

👉 Please send us your inquiry with the following details:

* Product type (Liquid / Flakes / Pearls)
* Concentration (32%, 50%, 99%)
* Quantity
* Destination port

Our team will respond within 24 hours with the latest price and shipping options.