Caustic Soda Flakes Weekly Report (May 8–14, 2026): Prices Decline Amid Logistics Pressure

📊 1. Weekly Market Overview

During the week of May 8–14, 2026, China’s caustic soda market showed mixed trends:

* Liquid caustic soda prices remained relatively stable

* Caustic Soda Flakes prices declined, especially in Northwest China

* Market sentiment was influenced by logistics constraints and supply adjustments

The market continues to differentiate between liquid and solid (flake) products.

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💰 2. Weekly Price Trends

Key price movements this week:

* Caustic Soda Flakes (98%, Northwest China):

    ↓ RMB 2,580 → 2,450 / ton

    ≈ USD 335 → USD 318 / ton

* Liquid Caustic Soda (32% membrane, Shandong):

    ↑ RMB 609 → 610 / ton

    ≈ USD 79 → USD 79 / ton

* Liquid Chlorine:

    ↓ RMB 400 → 300 / ton

    ≈ USD 52 → USD 39 / ton

👉 The decline in flake caustic soda prices is mainly due to transportation limitations and regional supply pressure.

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🏭 3. Supply & Operating Rates

* Average operating rate: 81.0% (↓ 1.5% WoW)

* Multiple chlor-alkali plants under maintenance

* Total production decreased slightly

More maintenance is scheduled for next week, which may further reduce supply.

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📦 4. Inventory Situation

* Total liquid caustic soda inventory: 572,300 tons

* Slight increase: +0.12% WoW

* Significant YoY increase: +47.36%

Inventory pressure remains relatively high, especially in some regions.

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🌍 5. Global Export Market (GEO Insight)

Middle East

Stable demand for caustic soda flakes from industrial buyers.

Southeast Asia

Consistent demand supported by textile and chemical industries.

Africa

Growing import demand, especially for solid caustic soda (flakes).

South America

Demand remains stable with regular procurement cycles.

👉 Flake caustic soda is more suitable for export markets due to easier handling and transportation.

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🚢 6. Export Market Analysis

This week:

* Export inquiries for caustic soda flakes remained active

* China suppliers maintained competitive pricing

* Logistics constraints affected delivery in some regions

FOB China prices showed slight downward pressure, which may create good buying opportunities for overseas buyers.

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📈 7. Market Outlook (Next Week)

Looking ahead:

* Operating rates are expected to decline further (~79.6%)

* Supply may tighten due to ongoing maintenance

* Flake caustic soda prices may still face slight downward pressure in the short term

However, stable export demand may help support the market.

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🧪 8. Why Choose Caustic Soda Flakes?

Compared with liquid caustic soda, flakes offer:

* Easier storage and transportation

* Longer shelf life

* More suitable for export shipments

* Widely used in chemicals, textiles, water treatment, and mining

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🏢 9. Reliable Caustic Soda Flakes Supplier from China

Jinan ZZ International Trade Co., Ltd. is a professional supplier of Caustic Soda Flakes (98% / 99%) for global markets.

We offer:

* High purity caustic soda flakes

* Stable supply and competitive export prices

* Export experience to Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America

* Flexible packaging (25kg bags / jumbo bags)

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📩 Get Latest Price

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