Start 30-Day Free Trial
Pricing History
Methodology
Specifications
Glossary

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend and Forecast

sulphuric acid Price Trends by Country

cnChina
jpJapan
mxMexico
esSpain
inIndia
krSouth Korea

sulphuric acid Pricing Trends in India: 

  • Northern India sulphuric acid market price trend
  • Southern India sulphuric acid market price trend
  • Central India sulphuric acid market price trend

Global sulphuric acid Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

In Q2 2025, Sulphuric Acid price trend followed a fluctuating trend. In April 2025, Sulphuric acid prices rose due to stronger demand from the fertilizer and chemical manufacturing sectors in East Asia. Regional export hubs including South Korea, Japan, Mexico, and Spain also experienced upward price movements supported by tight inventories and an uptick in seasonal orders. However, by May, demand from key downstream consumers in China, South Korea, and Japan weakened, leading to a correction in prices. Also track real time Acetic Acid Price analysis.

Buyers showed reduced urgency amid high stock levels and uncertain short-term outlooks. In contrast, Mexico and Spain continued to see price increases driven by steady agricultural consumption and limited regional production. By June, Chinese export prices rebounded as demand from the mining and battery sectors picked up slightly coupled with tightening local supply. According to PriceWatch, Sulphuric acid prices rose to USD 82/MT FOB Qingdao by the end of the quarter.

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

In Q2 2025, Sulphuric Acid prices followed a fluctuating trend. In April 2025, Sulphuric acid prices rose due to stronger demand from the fertilizer and chemical manufacturing sectors in East Asia. Regional export hubs including South Korea, Japan, Mexico, and Spain also experienced upward price movements supported by tight inventories and an uptick in seasonal orders. However, by May, demand from key downstream consumers in China, South Korea, and Japan weakened, leading to a correction in prices.

Buyers showed reduced urgency amid high stock levels and uncertain short-term outlooks. In contrast, Mexico and Spain continued to see price increases driven by steady agricultural consumption and limited regional production. By June, Chinese export prices rebounded as demand from the mining and battery sectors picked up slightly, coupled with tightening local supply. According to PriceWatch, Sulphuric acid prices rose to USD 82/MT FOB Qingdao by the end of the quarter.

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

In Q1 2025, Sulphuric Acid Industrial Grade (98%) prices across China, Japan, South Korea, and the USA followed a fluctuating trajectory. Sulphuric acid prices declined in January due to sluggish demand and steady supply conditions. However, by February, a revival in industrial consumption and firming feedstock costs began to push prices upward.

The uptrend gained momentum in March 2025, driven by heightened demand from manufacturing sectors, restocking activities, and tighter supply. In China, the quarter ended with the price of USD 86/MT FOB Qingdao in March 2025, reflecting the sharpest monthly increase of the quarter.

Similar trends were observed in Japan, South Korea, and the USA where initially prices showed stagnancy, however prices show resurgence in the latter half of the first quarter of 2025.

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

The South Korean Sulphuric Acid (98%) market displayed a mixed trajectory in Q4 2024. Prices declined in October amid weak demand but began recovering in November, gaining momentum in December due to stronger industrial activity and tightening supply. China recorded steady month-on-month price increases, driven by firm consumption.

Japan mirrored South Korea’s trend, while Mexico saw gains in October and November, followed by a dip in December. Spain aligned with China’s consistent growth. After the conclusion of December 2024, Sulphuric Acid prices in South Korea were assessed at USD 52 per MT FOB Busan.

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

In Q3 2024, Japan’s Sulphuric Acid Industrial Grade (98%) market showed a consistent upward trend. Prices increased in July, continued to rise in August, and the upward momentum carried into September. The market was supported by steady industrial demand and firmer supply conditions. In China, prices saw a steady increase throughout the quarter, driven by sustained consumption and stronger downstream activity.

South Korea followed Japan’s trend, with prices rising each month. Mexico, however, faced a downturn, with prices declining month-on-month through the quarter. Spain mirrored China’s trend, with prices consistently rising each month. After the conclusion of September 2024, Sulphuric Acid prices were assessed at USD 45 per MT FOB Tokyo.

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, China’s Sulphuric Acid Industrial Grade (98%) market experienced consistent price growth across all three months April, May, and June driven by strong downstream demand and rising industrial activity. The steady uptrend reflected market confidence supported by higher feedstock costs and ongoing restocking efforts.

In Japan, prices increased in April and May, but remained stable in June, showing signs of market balance. South Korea followed a similar trend, recording gradual increases throughout the quarter. Meanwhile, Mexico witnessed a continuous decline in prices due to weak demand and competitive international supply.

Spain’s market dipped in April but showed recovery with price gains in both May and June, indicating improving consumption. After the conclusion of June 2024, Sulphuric Acid prices in China were assessed at USD 46 per MT FOB Qingdao.

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In Q1 2024, China’s Sulphuric Acid Industrial Grade (98%) market experienced a slow start, with prices declining through January and February due to weak demand and comfortable inventory levels amid Lunar New Year holidays. However, March brought a notable rebound as industrial activity picked up and restocking began, pushing prices upward by the end of the quarter.

Japan’s market saw consistent month-on-month price declines, mainly due to sluggish exports and limited domestic consumption. South Korea followed a similar path, mirroring Japan’s downward trend throughout the quarter. Mexico’s prices remained largely stable in the first two months, with a slight uptick observed in March.

Spain followed the same pattern as Japan and South Korea, reflecting continued weakness in industrial demand. After the conclusion of March 2024, Sulphuric Acid prices in China were assessed at USD 37 per MT FOB Qingdao.

India sulphuric acid Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

Sulphuric acid prices in India climbed steadily throughout Q1 2025, closing March 2025 at USD 180-182 per MT Ex-South India. This consistent rise reflects not just recovering demand and escalating feedstock costs, but a decisive regulatory shift in India’s sulphuric acid market.

The government’s policy mandating the use of virgin sulphuric acid over recycled or by-product forms has reshaped procurement dynamics. Compliance enforcement, coupled with penalties for non-adherence, has limited alternative supply routes tightening availability and driving prices upward.

The market now faces structural constraints, with producers and traders aligning closely to the new standards. Unless new virgin acid capacity is added, the current elevated pricing is expected to persist into the next quarter. This trend underscores the increasing influence of policy on industrial commodity markets in India. 

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

In Q2 2025, the Sulphuric Acid market in India saw a downward pricing trend across all major regions for the majority of the quarter. However, in April 2025, Sulphuric acid prices rose due to strong seasonal demand from fertilizer and agrochemical industries during the pre-monsoon sowing cycle. This short-lived bullish sentiment was supported by higher offtakes across West, North, East, and South India.

However, in May, prices began to soften as monsoon forecasts led to cautious bulk buying and improved availability from domestic producers. With sufficient inventories and reduced procurement pressure from downstream users, a bearish sentiment prevailed across all regions.

This downtrend continued through June, when agricultural activity slowed and demand from the mining and chemical processing sectors remained muted. As a result, buyers negotiated lower contracts amid ample supply and soft end-use consumption. According to PriceWatch, Sulphuric acid prices were declined to USD 142/MT Ex-West India, by the end of June 2025. 

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

Sulphuric acid prices showed moderate fluctuations across India in Q1 2024, reflecting early-year industrial resets and cautious procurement. In North India, prices stood at USD 120-125 per MT in March 2024, reflecting steady demand from fertilizer and chemical segments. However, by March, most regions, including East and West India, had registered a soft decline as stock drawdowns and deferred procurement weighed on buying sentiment.

The quarter closed slightly weaker, though not indicative of any fundamental supply-demand shifts rather a seasonal breather as industries recalibrated post-yearend.

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

The second quarter marked a dramatic price correction, with sulphuric acid values plunging due to oversupply and a slowdown in industrial demand. East India prices dropped sharply to USD 65-75 per MT in May 2024, mirroring similar trends nationwide. Seasonal slowdown in downstream sectors, particularly agriculture and textiles, and higher base inventories suppressed buying interest.

The correction was further exacerbated by logistical bottlenecks and reduced exports. This sharp dip, however, was short-lived, setting the stage for a recovery in the second half of the year.

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

Prices began to rebound in Q3 as industrial activity regained pace and domestic demand improved. In South India, sulphuric acid prices rose to USD 110-115 per MT by September 2024, fuelled by a resurgence in fertilizer production and petrochemical processes. The turnaround was supported by tightening supplies and a return of seasonal demand from agrochemical manufacturers.

A gradual rise in feedstock sulphur prices also contributed to the recovery. As production stabilized and inventories normalized, buyers returned to the market, firming prices across all regions.

Sulphuric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

The final quarter of 2024 saw sulphuric acid prices peak, driven by year-end stockpiling, strong industrial demand, and rising input costs. West India registered prices at USD 140.7 per MT in December it’s highest for the year. The quarter’s bullish tone was shaped by robust fertilizer offtake, limited supply from domestic refiners due to maintenance shutdowns, and climbing sulphur costs globally.

Regulatory developments around purity standards and stricter quality compliance also supported higher pricing. Market sentiment closed strong, with expectations of continued firmness into early 2025 unless new capacities emerge.

Global sulphuric acid Supply Chain

Upstream
Downstream
  • Fertilizer
  • Chemical Manufacturing
  • Petrochemicals Refining
  • Textile & Paper Industry
  • Batteries
  • Metal Processing & Mining
  • Pharmaceutical Intermediates
Major supplying countries
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Mexico
  • Spain
Major importing countries
  • India
  • USA
  • Thailand

India sulphuric acid Supply Chain

Upstream
  • Sulphur
Downstream
  • Fertilizer
  • Chemical Manufacturing
  • Petrochemicals Refining
  • Textile & Paper Industry
  • Batteries
  • Metal Processing & Mining
  • Pharmaceutical Intermediates
Major supplying countries
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Mexico
  • Spain
Major importing countries
  • India
  • USA
  • Thailand

Technical Specifications of Sulphuric Acid Price Trends

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

98.08 g/mol

CAS No

7664-93-9

HS Code

280700

Molecular Formula

Hâ‚‚SOâ‚„
sulphuric acid

Sulphuric Acid is a highly corrosive, dense, and oily liquid that is colorless to slightly yellow in appearance and soluble in water with the release of heat. It is one of the most widely used industrial chemicals globally. Sulphuric Acid acts as a vital raw material in the production of fertilizers—especially phosphates—along with applications in petroleum refining, wastewater treatment, metal processing, and chemical synthesis. It is primarily produced via the contact process using Sulphur dioxide (SO₂) derived from elemental sulphur, pyrite, or metal smelting processes. Its strong acidic nature and dehydrating properties make it essential in industries such as agriculture, automotive batteries, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.

Packaging Type

Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) Drum (1.6 MT), Tanker

Sulphuric Acid Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (98%)

Incoterms Used

FOB China, FOB South Korea, FOB Japan, FOB Mexico, FOB Spain, Ex-West India, Ex-East India, Ex-North India, Ex-South India.

Synonym

Hydrogen Sulfate, Dihydrogen Sulfate , Battery Acid, Vitriol, Oil of Vitriol.

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-30 MT

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.

Specifications Table: 
Parameter  Value 
Appearance  Colourless liquid 
Assay  98% w/w minimum 
Residue on ignition  0.2% w/w maximum 
Fe content  0.05% w/w maximum 
Pb content  0.005% w/w maximum 
Boiling point  335°C 
Melting point  -64°C (at 98% purity) 
Specific gravity  1.84 at 20°C 
Vapour density  3.4 (air = 1) 

Sulphuric Acid Industrial Applications

Sulphuric Acid is extensively used as a fundamental industrial chemical across multiple sectors due to its strong acidic and dehydrating properties. It plays a central role in the production of phosphate fertilizers, particularly superphosphate and ammonium sulfate, which are vital for modern agriculture. Additionally, Sulphuric Acid is crucial in petroleum refining processes, including alkylation and desulfurization.

It is also used in metal processing for pickling and cleaning metals, in battery manufacturing (especially lead-acid batteries), and in wastewater treatment. Its applications extend to the synthesis of dyes, detergents, pharmaceuticals, and explosives. As a key input in numerous downstream chemical processes, Sulphuric Acid is indispensable to the chemical, automotive, mining, and textile industries.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Sulphuric Acid prices

India’s Virgin Acid Policy Shift (Late 2024–2025): In late 2024, India introduced strict regulations promoting the use of virgin sulphuric acid over by-product or recycled variants. This shift led to a contraction in available supply, forcing producers to adjust output and traders to source more costly virgin material. Prices rose consistently across major Indian hubs in early 2025, and with penalties for non-compliance, this policy reshaped domestic market dynamics significantly.
China’s Environmental Crackdowns (2022–2023): China’s push for stricter environmental regulations led to the shutdown of several non-compliant sulphuric acid plants. As one of the world’s largest producers and consumers, the supply reduction caused domestic prices to jump and affected global trade flows. Import dependency increased across Asia, pushing up prices in key markets like India, South Korea, and Southeast Asia during this period.
Global Fertilizer Demand Surge (2021–2022): The post-COVID agricultural rebound saw a surge in global fertilizer demand, especially phosphates, which rely heavily on sulphuric acid. Tight supply chains, energy shortages in Europe and China, and rising raw material costs caused sulphuric acid prices to spike globally. Producers faced both logistical and cost pressures, making 2021–2022 one of the most volatile periods for sulphuric acid in recent memory.

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global sulphuric acid price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the sulphuric acid 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 sulphuric acid prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely sulphuric acid market data.

Track PriceWatch's sulphuric acid 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.

Data Collection and Sources​

Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions.
On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Sulphuric acid production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.
Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Sulphuric acid supply chain, from raw material availability to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Sulphuric acid prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing.
Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Sulphuric acid production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the APAC coasts. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks.
Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., fertilizer, chemical synthesis, to predict shifts in Sulphuric acid demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Sulphuric acid production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately.
Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Sulphuric acid production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advance Sulphuric acid. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization.

Demand Forecasting

Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides an in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including fertilizer, chemical synthesis, and refining petrochemicals. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments.
Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Sulphuric acid pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Sulphuric acid prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power.
Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most-scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations.
Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice.

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Sulphuric acid pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

98.08 g/mol

CAS No

7664-93-9

HS Code

280700

Molecular Formula

Hâ‚‚SOâ‚„
sulphuric acid

Sulphuric Acid is a highly corrosive, dense, and oily liquid that is colorless to slightly yellow in appearance and soluble in water with the release of heat. It is one of the most widely used industrial chemicals globally. Sulphuric Acid acts as a vital raw material in the production of fertilizers—especially phosphates—along with applications in petroleum refining, wastewater treatment, metal processing, and chemical synthesis. It is primarily produced via the contact process using Sulphur dioxide (SO₂) derived from elemental sulphur, pyrite, or metal smelting processes. Its strong acidic nature and dehydrating properties make it essential in industries such as agriculture, automotive batteries, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.

Packaging Type

Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) Drum (1.6 MT), Tanker

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (98%)

Incoterms Used

FOB China, FOB South Korea, FOB Japan, FOB Mexico, FOB Spain, Ex-West India, Ex-East India, Ex-North India, Ex-South India.

Synonym

Hydrogen Sulfate, Dihydrogen Sulfate , Battery Acid, Vitriol, Oil of Vitriol.

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-30 MT

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.

Specifications Table: 
Parameter  Value 
Appearance  Colourless liquid 
Assay  98% w/w minimum 
Residue on ignition  0.2% w/w maximum 
Fe content  0.05% w/w maximum 
Pb content  0.005% w/w maximum 
Boiling point  335°C 
Melting point  -64°C (at 98% purity) 
Specific gravity  1.84 at 20°C 
Vapour density  3.4 (air = 1) 

Applications

Sulphuric Acid is extensively used as a fundamental industrial chemical across multiple sectors due to its strong acidic and dehydrating properties. It plays a central role in the production of phosphate fertilizers, particularly superphosphate and ammonium sulfate, which are vital for modern agriculture. Additionally, Sulphuric Acid is crucial in petroleum refining processes, including alkylation and desulfurization.

It is also used in metal processing for pickling and cleaning metals, in battery manufacturing (especially lead-acid batteries), and in wastewater treatment. Its applications extend to the synthesis of dyes, detergents, pharmaceuticals, and explosives. As a key input in numerous downstream chemical processes, Sulphuric Acid is indispensable to the chemical, automotive, mining, and textile industries.

Sulphuric Acid Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for sulphuric acid. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

Sulphuric acid prices are influenced by several key factors. The foremost is feedstock cost, primarily elemental sulphur, which fluctuates based on oil refining and natural gas markets. Demand patterns from fertilizer, chemical, and mining sectors also impact pricing.

Additionally, logistics and regional supply constraints, regulatory changes, and global economic conditions (such as inflation and exchange rates) can affect prices. Environmental regulations and production disruptions, like plant shutdowns or policy shifts, can lead to sudden price hikes or shortages, making the market volatile and regionally sensitive.

Effective negotiation starts with market research know prevailing prices and trends. Leverage volume purchases or long-term contracts to secure better rates. Maintain multiple supplier relationships to increase bargaining power and reduce dependency. Consider flexible payment terms, such as early payment discounts or extended credit.

Also, assess supplier reliability consistent quality, timely delivery, and regulatory compliance can justify better pricing. Highlight your procurement consistency or strategic relevance to the supplier to gain more favourable terms. Regular performance reviews can also help identify opportunities for renegotiation.

Sulphuric acid procurement carries risks such as price volatility, supply chain disruptions, regulatory changes, and quality inconsistencies. Prices can fluctuate due to raw material costs, seasonal demand shifts, or geopolitical tensions. Mitigate these by diversifying suppliers, entering price-lock contracts, and maintaining a safety stock. Regulatory risks, such as purity mandates or import restrictions, require close monitoring and compliance.

Always ensure suppliers meet safety and quality standards to avoid operational downtime or fines. Establishing strong supplier relationships and a responsive procurement strategy helps mitigate most operational and commercial risks.

Start 30-Day Free Trial