This week, caustic soda prices remain firm (3.23-3.27)

March 27th, news:

I. Price Trends

According to the commodity analysis system, the caustic soda prices remained firm this week. The average market price at the beginning of the week was 710 CNY/ton, and by the end of the week, it had risen to 730 CNY/ton, an increase of 2.82%, but a decrease of 20.39% compared to the same period last year. On March 26, the chlor-alkali index stood at 786 points, up 10 points from the previous day, down 63.06% from the highest point in the cycle of 2128 points (on October 24, 2021), and up 11.17% from the lowest point of 707 points on February 27, 2026. (Note: The cycle refers to the period from December 1, 2011, to the present.)

2. Market Analysis

According to the commodity analysis system, the caustic soda prices remained firm this week. In Shandong, the mainstream market price for 32% ion-membrane caustic soda is around 690-820 CNY/ton. In Zhejiang, the caustic soda prices are stable, with the mainstream market price for 32% ion-membrane caustic soda at around 1000-1020 CNY/ton. In Inner Mongolia, the caustic soda prices are steady, with the mainstream market price for 32% ion-membrane caustic soda (on a 100% basis) at around 2200-2300 CNY/ton. Due to geopolitical influences, export orders continue, leading to an increase in caustic soda prices. The strong rise in the export price of high-purity caustic soda has driven up the price of 32% liquid caustic soda. Some downstream aluminum plants have a need for replenishing their inventory, resulting in relatively higher purchase prices.

Analysts believe that in the near term, this week's caustic soda prices have been firm. Recently, downstream alumina prices in China have been high, and companies have been actively quoting prices. Market sentiment is strong, and considering the supply and demand dynamics, it is expected that caustic soda prices will continue to remain firm. The specific trend will depend on the downstream market demand.