Sulfuric acid prices rose sharply through the first half of 2026 before retreating from their mid-year peak as supply conditions loosened. Weak downstream demand has contributed to the easing, though the commodity remains a critical revenue buffer for copper smelters facing squeezed processing margins. The price trajectory reflects the interplay between by-product supply dynamics and broader industrial demand.
China's 98% smelting sulfuric acid price eased over the week as spot trading weakened and recovering supply added pressure. Elevated sulfur and metal ore costs provided partial support, but the market faces further downside as lower-priced regional supplies increase competitive pressure.
| Product | Region | Incoterm Basis | Price | Last Updated Month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | China | FOB | USD 600.00/MT | July 2026 |
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | India | CIF | USD 706.81/MT | July 2026 |
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | USA | CIF | USD 787.49/MT | July 2026 |
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | Australia | CIF | USD 698.46/MT | July 2026 |
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | Germany | CIF | USD 733.63/MT | July 2026 |
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | China | FOB | USD 604.69/MT | June 2026 |
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | India | CIF | USD 672.03/MT | June 2026 |
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | USA | CIF | USD 723.88/MT | June 2026 |
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | Australia | CIF | USD 655.53/MT | June 2026 |
| SOP (Potassium Sulfate) | Germany | CIF | USD 698.14/MT | June 2026 |
Stay updated with the latest SOP (Potassium Sulfate) prices, historical data, and tailored regional analysis
Asia
In China, the average monthly price of Potassium Sulfate (SOP) stood at ~USD 605/MT in June. Chinese SOP conditions strengthened during early Q2 as tighter potassium chloride availability and higher sulfuric acid costs raised Mannheim-process production expenses. Operating rates at Mannheim units remained restrained, which limited fresh supply and helped producers maintain firm offers. The market became softer toward late June as downstream fertilizer purchasing slowed and distributors became cautious about replenishment ahead of seasonal demand changes. In India, Potassium Sulfate (SOP) was priced at roughly USD 672/MT on average in June. Indian values remained higher because of import dependence, freight and handling costs, while demand from horticulture and high-value crops supported regular procurement. Buyers nevertheless remained sensitive to elevated fertilizer costs, preventing aggressive stockbuilding.
Europe
For Germany, the average June price of Potassium Sulfate (SOP) came in at ~USD 698/MT. European SOP conditions remained broadly firm during Q2 as energy, freight and raw-material costs kept replacement values elevated. However, farmers remained cautious because fertilizer costs were already elevated, preventing a stronger demand-led rise. Potash markets moved largely sideways by June, while higher logistics and production expenses continued to support SOP values.
North America
Over in the USA, Potassium Sulfate (SOP) averaged around USD 724/MT during June. North American conditions remained stable at elevated levels as potassium feedstock costs and limited SOP supply supported producer positioning. Consumption from fruits, vegetables, nuts and other chloride sensitive crops remained supportive, although buyers kept inventories controlled because of high fertilizer costs and relatively stable supply.
Analyst Insight
According to Procurement Resource, SOP prices are expected to remain stable to firm, with potassium chloride and production costs providing support while cautious fertilizer demand limits stronger gains.
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Asia
In Asia, SOP prices moved upward in Q1’26, mainly due to sulfur and sulfuric acid cost pressure. The Middle East supplied nearly half of global seaborne sulfur, and Asia depended heavily on the region, with 63% of its sulfur imports sourced from there. This made Asian SOP producers more exposed to the Strait of Hormuz closure. Daily sulfur shipments of 45,000-50,000 mt through the route were affected, tightening raw material availability. Potash availability offered some balance, but sulfuric acid pressure and freight risk kept SOP offers firm. Downstream demand from compound fertilizer and spring crop application supported procurement, though buyers resisted sharp increases.
Europe
In Europe, SOP prices were stable to firm during Q1’26. The region faced higher import-cost pressure from freight, insurance, energy, and disrupted fertilizer flows through the Strait of Hormuz. The route carried about 14% of global fertilizer trade before the war, making rerouting and shipping delays relevant for European nutrient markets. Downstream demand from horticulture, fruits, vegetables, and chloride-sensitive crops remained steady. Buyers purchased cautiously, but feedstock and logistics risk prevented price weakness.
North America
In North America, SOP prices were comparatively stable in Q1’26. The region had lower direct sulfur exposure to the Strait of Hormuz, as the Americas depend mainly on Canada and the U.S. Gulf Coast for sulfur supply. However, global freight, fuel, and fertilizer-cost pressure still affected replacement costs. Downstream demand remained steady from specialty crops, turf, and chloride-sensitive fertilizer use.
SOP refers to Sulfate of Potash which is a mixture of both potash and sulfur. The general composition for Sulfate of Potash involves 51% soluble potash and about 18% sulfur. It also includes traces of metals like calcium and magnesium. SOP is majorly used as a fertilizer and acts as an excellent source of potassium and sulfur nutrients. It is a low-chloride type of a fertilizer that aids the plants to resist diseases and pests.
K2SO4
Sulfate of Potash, Potassium Sulfate
Fertilisers, Glass manufacturing, Mining, Propellant
Agrico Canada L.P, Ameropa Australia Pty Ltd, Archean Group, AG CHEMI GROUP s.r.o, AgroLiquid, ArrMaz Gulf Chemicals, Ltd.
CurrencyUS$ (Data can also be provided in local currency)
Supplier Database AvailabilityYes
Customization ScopeThe report can be customized as per the requirements of the customer
Post-Sale Analyst Support360-degree analyst support after report delivery
Note: Our supplier search experts can assist your procurement teams in compiling and validating a list of suppliers indicating they have products, services, and capabilities that meet your company's needs.
SOP (Sulfate of Potash) is produced by Decantation process where Langbeinite is treated with a concentrated solution of Potassium chloride which results in the precipitation of potassium sulfate. The precipitated potassium sulfate is then separated by decantation. SOP can also be prepared by Mannheim Process.
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