China
Turkey
Singapore
Thailand
United States
India
Indonesia
Australia
South Africa
Spain
Belgium
Canada
Mexico
South KoreaThrough Q1 2025, China FOB Shanghai, Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate prices are expected to decline again to $239/MT, falling -7% from Q4 2024. The weakening will likely be anchored by ongoing weak pharma, detergent, and food demand.
While there will be some of the demand from China’s water treatment and pharmaceutical industries that can sustain the market, it will not be enough to offset the massive supply in China and India. Without a significant recovery in these large industries, prices will remain low as the market will still be struggling with poor demand and production costs.
According to the PriceWatch, China Sodium Bicarbonate Food-Grade dropped to USD 183 per metric ton in Q2 2025 from the previous quarter-on-quarter decrease of -13.68%. Softness was dominated by weakening broad demand, especially Western markets via the post-holiday destocking cycle. Export shipments decreased with cross-border buyers’ pre-stocking and cutting new purchases.
Geopolitical risk and shipping route risk also assisted to underpin shipping planning, with a portion of the buyer rescheduling orders or altering supply arrangements elsewhere. The quarter closed on a bearish note with dismal demand, tight domestic supply, and exchange rates continuing to exert tight bearish pressures on Chinese Sodium Bicarbonate prices.
Other problems also affected the production industry, such as production beyond measures at the cost of power instability and adherence to regulations. Chinese local producers responded by cutting the level of output so that they would not create more inventories. Market analysts still reported that food processing companies, the biggest buyers of food-grade Sodium Bicarbonate by custom, dropped sharply on purchases.
This was supported by uneven demand and risk hedging stock management plans by downstream customers. Players in the market in the short term seek price volatility to continue in the context of ongoing world economic uncertainty, and that recovery would ride on the tightening of world trade relations and normalization of the supply chain.
Compounding the bearishness was the concurrent decline in feedstock prices, primarily Soda Ash, which experienced sharp price corrections for the quarter. The dip in raw material prices eased some pressure on manufacturers’ input costs but concurrently created expectations of additional price reductions on the finished product.
The world Sodium Bicarbonate market during Q1 2024 witnessed a mild decreasing trend in China, USA and India primarily due to weak demand in food, pharma, and detergent industries. In China FOB Shanghai, the mean price of Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate (Purity >99%) was $263/MT, falling 5.73% from the previous quarter.
This fall was attributable to reduced demand in the food industry, owing to economic recession, and lower export volumes to Europe and North America, where inflationary factors affected bulk purchases. In addition, the pharmaceutical industry too showed slow growth, thus leading to reduced demand for Sodium Bicarbonate in antacids and pharmaceutical formulations.
In Q2 2024, the prices FOB Shanghai of Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate rose to $274/MT, 4.18% higher than Q1. Prices were boosted by rising production costs as well as regional supply tightness caused by stricter China environmental regulations. The price surge despite, the APAC region’s excess supply weakened the market because of China’s and India’s continued high outputs in the face of poor demand.
Weaker demand from European exports and flat performance in the detergents market also limited market expansion, with manufacturers reducing bulk orders in the face of economic uncertainty. Robust demand from the water treatment and pharmaceutical sectors stabilized the market from a steeper decline.
In Q3 2024, China FOB Shanghai, Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate prices were unchanged at $274/MT and did not see any variation from the previous quarter. The stability was mainly attributed to weak demand from the pharmaceutical and water treatment industries that offset the excess supply of Sodium Bicarbonate in the market.
Food and detergent industries continued to see weak demand, and exports to Europe and North America were weaker than expected. Environmental controls in China also affected production but did not cause significant price shifts. Generally, though the market was soft, there was some support from specific industries, such as pharmaceuticals, to stem further price declines.
Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate prices in China FOB Shanghai fell slightly to $257/MT in Q4 2024, -6.20% lower than Q3. This was when demand in the food, pharmaceutical, and detergent industries did not pick up. The food industry did not see a significant boost, while the detergent segment still fell behind.
The pharmaceutical industry stayed flat, but not a lot of price improvement was seen there. China’s environmental controls, although still in effect, did not generate dramatic disruptions, yet the overall market was under tension due to the excess supply and poor demand in core industries.
During Q1 2025, the Indian Ex-Mumbai Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate market witnessed an abrupt correction as prices fell to $370/MT, witnessing a –10.84% decline from Q4 2024. The fall in prices was primarily due to excess supply within the domestic market and reduced demand owing to the post-festive downturn.
Many buyers had stocked up during Q4, thus creating lackluster fresh bookings. Also, pre-year maintenance work in some of the downstream sectors helped to lead to lower consumption, and therefore sellers reduced prices to sustain market activity.
According to the PriceWatch, During the Q2 of 2025, Sodium Bicarbonate Food Grade prices in India (Ex-Mumbai) decreased to USD 349.73 per metric ton, down -5.82% quarter-on-quarter. The primary driver of prices falling was a retraction in domestic demand, notably from sectors such as food and pharmaceuticals, who were slow to react to price, as they continue to procure product with high existing inventory.
Export orders were low too, as buyers from most of the regions in the world were seeking lower-priced supply from their other Asian suppliers, which created additional pressure on Indian suppliers. The world market was in relatively short supply but faced little seasonal pull from all the main importing markets and was also retaining plentiful supply. Therefore, the supply market could not exploit its best pricing position against highly competitive risk and unacceptable gross margins.
Overall, ready closing in Q2 reflected a bearish sentiment from the Ex-Mumbai price with weak domestic demand trends, no export activity and little cost support to buoy pricing. Manufacturing facilities in the Mumbai region also suffered as result of operational constraints to logistics impact due to the monsoon, and a general increase in raw materials cost of soda ash feedstock.
Local distributors experienced longest payment cycles from end-users, making cash-flow even worse, putting additional pressure on other suppliers to provide discounts to maintain market share. In addition, the Indian rupee’s volatility against the dollar was providing currency impact on export pricing.
In Q1 2024, the Ex-Mumbai Indian Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate market also saw a minor decline with quotes at $380/MT, reflecting a –1.30% quarter-on-quarter drop. The drop mainly came due to tempered demand across large industries such as food processing, pharma, and animal feed.
Many customers had previously booked inventories in the last year festive period in Q4 2023, which softened new enquiries. Besides, moderate business during the first half of the year led to a more balanced market tone.
In Q2 2024, the Ex-Mumbai prices of Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate surged higher to $425/MT, an +11.84% quarter-on-quarter increase from Q1. This price rise was underpinned by rising demand in the healthcare segment, especially for pharmaceutical and dialysis-grade applications.
The food processing and bakery industries also had seasonal rises that contributed to the upward pressure. Increased logistics and raw material costs also played a role in the price appreciation, along with lower availability from local manufacturers in the presence of robust downstream demand.
By Q3 2024, Ex-Mumbai prices of Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate softened to $415/MT, a –2.35% decrease from Q2. This was tempered by the monsoon season, typically marked by decelerating consumption in industrial and food-grade segments.
The detergent and animal feed industries stabilized, whereas bulk procurement slowed down as distributors postponed fresh acquisitions anticipating improved prices post the monsoon season. Adequate supply and improved production efficiency at domestic manufacturing units also helped to check price pressures.
During Q4 2024, Ex-Mumbai Food-Grade Sodium Bicarbonate prices remained unchanged at $415/MT, with 0.00% movement from the previous quarter. The market stayed in balanced mode, driven by stable food-grade and pharma segments demand during the holiday season.
Personal care and the cleaning industries were also positive on the back of seasonal consumption hikes of consumer items. However, the steady supply through domestic players as well as importers kept the price from delivering any significant move in the period.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Sodium Bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a white, odorless powder with a slightly salty taste, widely used across various industries. In the food industry, it acts as a leavening agent in baking, while in healthcare, it serves as an antacid for indigestion and is used in some medical treatments. It is also a key ingredient in cleaning products, water treatment, and fire extinguishers due to its ability to neutralize acids and regulate pH. Additionally, sodium bicarbonate is used in industrial applications such as chemical manufacturing, textiles, and detergents. Being non-toxic and eco-friendly, it is a safe and versatile compound with numerous everyday uses.
Packaging Type
Sodium Bicarbonate Grades Covered
Incoterms Used
Synonym
PriceWatch Quotation Terms:
Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.
| Test Parameter | Standard |
| Appearance (Color) | White |
| Appearance (Form) | Crystalline Powder |
| Solubility (Turbidity) (5% hot aq. solution) | Clear |
| Solubility (Color) (5% hot aq. solution) | Colorless |
| Assay (Purity) (min.) | 99% |
| Chloride (Cl) (max.) | 0.01% |
| Sulphate (SO₄²⁻) (max.) | 0.01% |
| Iron (Fe) (max.) | 0.001% |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) (max.) | 0.001% |
Sodium Bicarbonate Applications
Sodium Bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, has a wide range of applications across various industries. It is primarily used in baking as a leavening agent, helping dough rise. In healthcare, it serves as an antacid to relieve heartburn and indigestion. It is also widely used in cleaning products due to its ability to neutralize odors and remove stains. Additionally, Sodium Bicarbonate plays a key role in water treatment, firefighting, and certain industrial processes like textile and chemical manufacturing.
These events underscore the Sodium Bicarbonate market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics.
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global sodium bicarbonate price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the sodium bicarbonate market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.
In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence sodium bicarbonate prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely sodium bicarbonate market data.
Track PriceWatch's sodium bicarbonate price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.
This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers accurate, timely, and actionable Sodium Bicarbonate pricing assessments, enabling our clients to stay ahead of market trends and make informed decisions in an ever-changing market.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Sodium Bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a white, odorless powder with a slightly salty taste, widely used across various industries. In the food industry, it acts as a leavening agent in baking, while in healthcare, it serves as an antacid for indigestion and is used in some medical treatments. It is also a key ingredient in cleaning products, water treatment, and fire extinguishers due to its ability to neutralize acids and regulate pH. Additionally, sodium bicarbonate is used in industrial applications such as chemical manufacturing, textiles, and detergents. Being non-toxic and eco-friendly, it is a safe and versatile compound with numerous everyday uses.
Packaging Type
Grades Covered
Incoterms Used
Synonym
PriceWatch Quotation Terms:
Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.
| Test Parameter | Standard |
| Appearance (Color) | White |
| Appearance (Form) | Crystalline Powder |
| Solubility (Turbidity) (5% hot aq. solution) | Clear |
| Solubility (Color) (5% hot aq. solution) | Colorless |
| Assay (Purity) (min.) | 99% |
| Chloride (Cl) (max.) | 0.01% |
| Sulphate (SO₄²⁻) (max.) | 0.01% |
| Iron (Fe) (max.) | 0.001% |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) (max.) | 0.001% |
Applications
Sodium Bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, has a wide range of applications across various industries. It is primarily used in baking as a leavening agent, helping dough rise. In healthcare, it serves as an antacid to relieve heartburn and indigestion. It is also widely used in cleaning products due to its ability to neutralize odors and remove stains. Additionally, Sodium Bicarbonate plays a key role in water treatment, firefighting, and certain industrial processes like textile and chemical manufacturing.
Sodium bicarbonate prices are primarily influenced by factors such as raw material costs, including natural soda ash and carbon dioxide, energy prices, and labor costs. Demand from end-use industries, including food processing, pharmaceuticals, water treatment, and chemicals, also plays a significant role. Additionally, supply chain disruptions, trade policies, environmental regulations, and fluctuations in currency exchange rates can further impact pricing.
The availability of sodium bicarbonate is crucial for pricing trends. Factors such as production capacity, regulatory policies, and transportation logistics can affect supply levels. When production is hindered by regulatory challenges or natural disasters, prices tend to rise due to limited availability. Conversely, an increase in production capabilities or the discovery of new reserves can lead to price reductions. Procurement heads should stay informed about market developments to navigate these fluctuations effectively.
Sodium bicarbonate prices can vary significantly across regions due to differences in production costs, transportation expenses, and local demand. For instance, regions with abundant natural soda ash resources, like the United States and China, may offer lower prices compared to areas reliant on imported sodium bicarbonate. Procurement teams should analyze regional market conditions and consider local sourcing options to optimize costs and ensure a stable supply chain. Adapting procurement strategies based on these regional insights can lead to more efficient purchasing decisions.