In Q1 2025, the North American sulphuric acid market exhibited bearish sentiments, primarily driven by weak demand, market caution, and trade uncertainties. In January, despite winter-induced supply disruptions, prices remained stable, with sluggish trading activity stemming from the absence of the plantation season and cautious behavior from both buyers and sellers. Domestic suppliers favored long-term contracts over spot purchases, while potential tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico began to weigh on market sentiment.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Sulfuric Acid in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

The sulphuric acid prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 140 USD/MT in September. During this period, the region displayed a strong connection between rising costs and numerous influencing factors. Some factors responsible for the increasing prices are distribution channel disruptions, changes in product demand based on seasons, and international pressures.

Explore IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Sulphuric Acid Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2024 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of sulphuric acid pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

CFR China Sulfuric Acid (Industrial): Oct '23 $40, Oct '24 $52 (+30%). Nov '23 $39, Nov '24 $57 (+45%). Dec '23 $40, Dec '24 $60 (+50%).

After two years of decline, purchases abroad of sulphuric acid and oleum increased by 2.4% to 3.3M tons in 2023.

Graph and download economic data for Producer Price Index by Commodity: Chemicals and Allied Products: Sulfuric Acid (WPU0613020T1) from Jun 1987 to May 2025 about chemicals, commodities, PPI, inflation, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Chemicals and Allied Products: Sulfuric Acid was 270.14500 Index Jun 1987=100 in May of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Chemicals and Allied Products: Sulfuric Acid reached a record high of 357.65300 in June of 2022 and a record low of 89.80000 in August of 2000. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Chemicals and Allied Products: Sulfuric Acid - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on July of 2025.

Find out the latest update on Sulphuric Acid price in Canada. The market price for the chemical has recently dropped by 1%, averaging $135 per ton. Stay informed about the chemical industry and its pricing trends with our expert analysis.

In Q1 2025, North America's Nitrosylsulfuric Acid (NSA) market faced challenges due to economic headwinds and shifts in key industries. The U.S. economy experienced a significant slowdown, with some estimates indicating a contraction in GDP during the first quarter. This economic downturn was partly attributed to businesses stockpiling goods ahead of increased tariffs, leading to a record-high goods trade deficit in March.

In Apr 2022, the average import sulphuric acid price per ton amounted to $146, growing by 8.3% against the previous month.

Russia Avg Producer Price: OKPD2: Chemicals: Sulphuric Acid data was reported at 2,515.520 RUB/Ton in Jan 2019. This records an increase from the previous number of 2,444.840 RUB/Ton for Dec 2018. Russia Avg Producer Price: OKPD2: Chemicals: Sulphuric Acid data is updated monthly, averaging 2,444.840 RUB/Ton from Jan 2017 (Median) to Jan 2019, with 25 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3,024.650 RUB/Ton in Jun 2018 and a record low of 1,839.320 RUB/Ton in Jan 2017. Russia Avg Producer Price: OKPD2: Chemicals: Sulphuric Acid data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Federal State Statistics Service. The data is categorized under Russia Premium Database’s Prices – Table RU.PB010: Average Producer Price: Chemicals.

The sulfuric acid market size is projected to grow from USD 16.95 billion in 2025 to USD 40.05 billion by 2035, representing a CAGR of 8.132%, during the forecast period till 2035

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US Sulfuric Acid Market Size 2025-2029

The US sulfuric acid market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.19 billion at a CAGR of 6.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The Sulfuric Acid market in the US is driven by the expanding demand for this essential chemical in various industries, including fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and oil refining. Notably, the recovery of sulfuric acid at smelters is a significant trend, as it reduces production costs and enhances operational efficiency. However, strict environmental government regulations against the use of sulfuric acid pose a challenge. These regulations necessitate the adoption of advanced technologies to minimize emissions and ensure compliance, which can increase production costs.
Additionally, supply chain inconsistencies, including raw material availability and price fluctuations, temper growth potential in the market. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities must navigate these challenges effectively by investing in sustainable production methods and establishing robust supply chain strategies.

What will be the size of the US Sulfuric Acid Market during the forecast period?

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In the dynamic US sulfuric acid market, various industries drive demand for this versatile chemical. The absorption process is a crucial aspect of battery technology production, where sulfuric acid plays a pivotal role. Acid purity and concentration are essential factors in acid transportation and handling, ensuring safety protocols are adhered to during transit and use. Acid emissions from petroleum refining processes and mining operations necessitate stringent regulations and sustainability initiatives, such as acid recycling and catalytic oxidation. In fertilizer production, acid grades and disposal methods are critical, while food processing techniques require acid reactivity control and safety assessments.
Sulfur recovery processes generate acid waste, necessitating efficient water treatment technologies and disposal methods. Agricultural applications, textile manufacturing, paper production, and chemical manufacturing all rely on sulfuric acid's unique properties. Metal extraction processes also benefit from its high acidity. Acid safety, hazard assessment, and corrosion mitigation are paramount in various industries, ensuring efficient and safe operations. Acid sustainability initiatives continue to gain momentum, driving innovation in acid production and use.

How is this market segmented?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Raw Material

  Elemental sulfur
  Base metal smelters
  Pyrite ore
  Others


Application

  Fertilizer
  Chemical production
  Metal processing
  Others


Production Process

  Contact Process
  Wet Sulfuric Acid Process


Grade

  Commercial Grade
  Analytical Grade


End-use Industry

  Agriculture
  Industrial
  Energy
  Automotive


Geography

  North America

    US

By Raw Material Insights

The elemental sulfur segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Sulfuric acid, a versatile inorganic compound, plays a significant role in various industries in the US market. Elemental sulfur, a primary byproduct in the production of sulfuric acid, accounted for the largest revenue share due to its lower emissions compared to pyrite ore or base metal smelting. In sulfur recovery units (SRUs), hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is thermally processed to produce elemental sulfur, which serves as a crucial building block in the synthesis of chemicals such as sulfuric acid, carbon disulfide, and organo-sulfur compounds used in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Safety and sustainability are paramount in sulfuric acid production.

Hazards include corrosion, handling, and disposal challenges. Innovations in sulfuric acid technology, such as absorption towers and filtration systems, ensure compliance with regulations and minimize environmental impact. Sulfuric acid's applications span across industries, including the fertilizer industry, where it is a vital component in producing phosphate and potassium fertilizers. In the mining industry, it is used for ore processing and acid mining. In food processing, it acts as a preservative and a leavening agent. In the manufacturing sector, sulfuric acid is used in the production of sulfur trioxide, a key component in the contact process for producing sulfuric acid.

It is also used in metal processing, paper and pulp, battery production, petroleum refining, and water treatment. The agriculture industry relies on sulfuric acid for fertilizer production, while the demand for sulfuric acid in the agriculture industry is driven by the need for sustainable farming practices. Sulfuric

The U.S. sulphuric acid market expanded to $2.7B in 2024, surging by 3.7% against the previous year. In general, the total consumption indicated pronounced growth from 2012 to 2024: its value increased at an average annual rate of +4.1% over the last twelve-year period. The trend pattern, however, indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. Based on 2024 figures, consumption increased by +55.6% against 2021 indices.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global sulfuric acid market size will be USD 15200.0 million in 2025. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.90% from 2025 to 2033.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 6080.00 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.1% from 2025 to 2033.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 4560.00 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 3496.00 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% from 2025 to 2033.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 760.00 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.3% from 2025 to 2033.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 304.00 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.6% from 2025 to 2033.
The elemental sulfur currently holds the major share of the sulfuric acid market.

Market Dynamics of Sulfuric Acid Market

Key Drivers for Sulfuric Acid Market

Technological Advancements in Sulfuric Acid Production Methods Drives Market Growth

Technological advancements in sulfuric acid production methods are playing a pivotal role in driving the growth of the sulfuric acid market. Innovations in production technologies have improved the efficiency of sulfur extraction and acid production, leading to reduced energy consumption and environmental impact. The development of more sustainable processes, such as the use of cleaner catalysts and better sulfur recovery techniques, has made production more cost-effective. Automation and digitalization in sulfuric acid plants have further optimized production schedules and safety protocols. These advancements also ensure higher purity levels, increasing the demand for sulfuric acid across industries like chemicals, fertilizers, and mining. As such, technological progress is a key factor propelling market expansion. For instance, in October 2023, Nornickel inaugurated the Sulfur Program at the Nadezhda Smelter, launching Russia’s most ambitious environmental project aimed at significantly reducing sulfur dioxide emissions in Norilsk. The construction took over three years, with icebreakers transporting equipment. The project, including a large sulfuric acid facility, created around 500 new jobs.

(Source: https://nornickel.com/news-and-media/press-releases-and-news/nornickel-unveils-major-sulfur-initiative-in-norilsk/)

Increasing Demand for Sulfuric Acid in the Production of Detergents Fuels Market Growth

The increasing demand for sulfuric acid in the production of detergents is significantly fueling the growth of the sulfuric acid market. Sulfuric acid plays a crucial role in the manufacture of surfactants, a primary ingredient in detergents, by facilitating the sulfonation process. As global consumer demand for cleaning products rises, particularly in emerging economies, the need for surfactants in laundry detergents, dishwashing products, and household cleaners grows, directly boosting sulfuric acid consumption. Additionally, the shift toward higher-quality and more effective cleaning agents further drives market expansion. The expansion of detergent production across both domestic and industrial sectors is expected to maintain a steady demand for sulfuric acid in the coming years.

Restraint Factor for the Sulfuric Acid Market

Competition from Other Types of Acids in Specific Applications Hampers Market Growth

Competition from other types of acids, such as hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, and phosphoric acid, hampers the growth of the sulfuric acid market in specific applications. In industries like metal processing, pickling, and textile processing, these alternatives offer similar benefits at times with reduced costs or lower environmental impact. For instance, hydrochloric acid is often preferred over sulfuric acid for certain metal cleaning processes due to its milder nature and lower corrosiveness. Similarly, phosphoric acid finds applications in fertilizer production and food processing, competing directly with sulfuric acid in some cases. This competition creates pricing pressure and ...

Sulfuric Acid Market valuation is estimated to reach USD 28.21 Bn in 2025 and is anticipated to grow to USD 39.46 Bn by 2032 with annual growth rate of 4.9%

India Wholesale Price Index: 82p: Average: Manufactured Products: Chemicals: Basic Heavy Inorganic Chemicals: Sulphuric Acid data was reported at 178.700 1981-1982=100 in Mar 2000. This records an increase from the previous number of 168.300 1981-1982=100 for Feb 2000. India Wholesale Price Index: 82p: Average: Manufactured Products: Chemicals: Basic Heavy Inorganic Chemicals: Sulphuric Acid data is updated monthly, averaging 149.650 1981-1982=100 from Apr 1982 (Median) to Mar 2000, with 216 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 244.900 1981-1982=100 in Apr 1997 and a record low of 84.100 1981-1982=100 in Feb 1984. India Wholesale Price Index: 82p: Average: Manufactured Products: Chemicals: Basic Heavy Inorganic Chemicals: Sulphuric Acid data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Inflation – Table IN.IH137: Wholesale Price Index: 1981-82=100: Manufactured Products: Chemicals.

After two years of decline, overseas purchases of sulphuric acid and oleum increased by 113% to 624K tons in 2023.

United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Chemicals and Allied Products: Inorganic Acids, Including Hydrochloric, Sulfuric Acid and Other was 135.03400 Index Dec 2008=100 in May of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Chemicals and Allied Products: Inorganic Acids, Including Hydrochloric, Sulfuric Acid and Other reached a record high of 171.95400 in June of 2022 and a record low of 73.80000 in February of 2010. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Chemicals and Allied Products: Inorganic Acids, Including Hydrochloric, Sulfuric Acid and Other - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on July of 2025.

Global Electronic Grade Sulphuric Acid market size 2025 was XX Million. Electronic Grade Sulphuric Acid Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.