Introduction

Sulphuric acid market conditions in the Asia-Pacific paper industry for 2026 point to steady growth supported by stable paper production across the region. While overall supply remains sufficient, several paper-producing countries continue to rely on imports for consistent quality and volume. These dynamics shape procurement planning for pulp and paper manufacturers, especially those operating large-scale or export-oriented mills.

 

Market Signals – Sulphuric Acid (Asia-Pacific, 2026)

Demand trend: Steady – Sulphuric acid consumption in pulp and paper remains stable, supported by routine use in pH control, bleaching preparation, and wastewater treatment. Ongoing upgrades in paper mills and a shift toward cleaner bleaching methods help maintain regular demand rather than rapid growth.

Supply condition: Import-reliant – Asia-Pacific exported around 9.7 million tons of sulphuric acid while importing 7.8 million tons in 2024. Major paper-consuming countries such as Indonesia and India continue to source material from China, Japan, and South Korea to meet quality and supply needs.

Pricing pressure: Moderate – Prices in China increased to about USD 55 per metric ton by late 2024 before leveling off in 2025. Balanced supply and demand across industrial sectors, including paper, are expected to keep prices relatively stable into 2026.

Buyer risk level: Medium – Excess production capacity in China supports regional availability. However, transport reliability, port congestion, and strict purity requirements for paper processing add sourcing risks that buyers must manage carefully.

 

Current Market Snapshot

Asia-Pacific accounted for roughly 51% of global sulphuric acid consumption in 2024, reflecting the region’s strong industrial base. The market is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of about 4.1% through 2030, driven by continued use in fertilizers, refining, and pulp and paper manufacturing.

Trade data shows the region remains a net exporter. In 2024, exports reached 9.7 million tons, exceeding imports of 7.8 million tons. China plays a leading role, shipping more than 1.5 million tons to Southeast Asia. India and Indonesia remain among the largest importers, with growing demand tied to paper production and downstream manufacturing.

After price increases in 2024, the market entered a more stable phase. Inventory levels remain adequate, and paper sector demand focuses on consistent supply rather than short-term volume spikes. This creates a relatively predictable sourcing environment for 2026.

 

Key Demand Drivers

Paper and pulp producers rely on sulphuric acid mainly for pH control, bleaching support, and effluent neutralization. These uses remain essential regardless of market cycles, keeping demand steady. Growth in packaging paper, driven by food delivery, retail, and logistics, indirectly supports acid consumption.

Wider industrial and agricultural activity across Asia-Pacific also strengthens paper demand, especially for sacks, cartons, and printed materials. Fertilizer and refining sectors consume large volumes of sulphuric acid, helping maintain production scale and supply stability for paper buyers. Infrastructure development in countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines further supports long-term paper usage.

 

Supply & Availability Signals

China produces about 45% of Asia-Pacific’s sulphuric acid, making it the region’s main supply anchor. Japan and South Korea also contribute reliable output, especially for higher-purity grades required in paper processing. Import-dependent markets such as India and Indonesia continue to rely on these producers to fill domestic gaps.

Logistics infrastructure across the region supports steady distribution. Major ports, including Map Ta Phut in Thailand, have expanded tank storage capacity to handle bulk chemicals. While purity specifications and occasional inventory adjustments can tighten supply briefly, import volumes grew by 5.4% in 2024, indicating improving availability ahead of 2026.

 

Buyer Considerations

Paper manufacturers should focus on suppliers that meet environmental and quality standards, as sulphuric acid used in paper processing must support strict wastewater and bleaching regulations. Consistent concentration and low impurity levels are critical for stable mill operations.

Lead times vary by source, with shorter delivery windows from China and longer timelines for specialized grades. Prices remain linked to energy costs and overall industrial demand, making multi-source procurement strategies advisable. Reliable logistics partners and bulk handling capability help reduce exposure to delays in high-import markets.

paperchemicalsasia offers market visibility and sourcing support as a trusted partner, helping buyers navigate regional supply conditions with reliable supplier networks and up-to-date market insight.

 

Conclusion

The sulphuric acid market for the paper industry in Asia-Pacific is expected to remain stable in 2026. Strong regional production capacity supports availability, while import reliance in key paper-producing countries keeps procurement planning essential. Demand from pulp and paper manufacturers will continue at a steady pace, driven by routine processing needs rather than rapid expansion. Buyers that secure reliable suppliers, diversify sourcing, and plan around logistics risks will be best positioned to maintain cost control and uninterrupted operations in the year ahead.