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.
⸻
📉 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.
⸻
📦 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.
⸻
🏭 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.
⸻
💰 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.
⸻
🔮 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.
⸻
🌍 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.
⸻
📩 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.
