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.
Copper smelters are relying on by-product sulfuric acid revenues to offset losses from negative concentrate treatment charges. Strong acid prices are supporting smelter profitability, with prices remaining elevated. The trend underscores the key role of sulfuric acid in smelter economics and suggests continued price strength.
| Product | Region | Incoterm Basis | Price | Last Updated Month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alum | China | FOB | USD 147.59/MT | June 2026 |
| Alum | India | CIF | USD 235.13/MT | June 2026 |
| Alum | Germany | CIF | USD 269.07/MT | June 2026 |
| Alum | Australia | CIF | USD 213.67/MT | June 2026 |
| Alum | Brazil | CIF | USD 319.19/MT | June 2026 |
| Alum | China | FOB | USD 144.08/MT | May 2026 |
| Alum | India | CIF | USD 211.42/MT | May 2026 |
| Alum | Germany | CIF | USD 237.53/MT | May 2026 |
| Alum | Australia | CIF | USD 194.91/MT | May 2026 |
| Alum | Brazil | CIF | USD 276.08/MT | May 2026 |
Stay updated with the latest Alum prices, historical data, and tailored regional analysis
In China, Alum prices edged up during the available Q2 period, moving from ~USD 144.08/MT in April to ~USD 148.00/MT in June, showing a ~2.7% increase. The increase was mainly cost-driven, as sulfuric acid became significantly more expensive during April and remained under pressure from tight sulfur availability. However, comfortable domestic alum supply and competitive supplier offer prevented a stronger rise. India recorded a stronger upward movement, with prices rising from ~USD 211.42/MT to ~USD 235.10/MT during the quarter. Higher acid-related production costs combined with steady municipal water-treatment procurement supported the market; an April government tender for ferric alum at water-treatment facilities also indicated continued public-sector consumption. Germany saw Alum prices firm notably, reaching ~USD 269.10/MT in June. European producers faced particularly firm sulfuric-acid replacement costs, while drinking-water treatment remained a key demand outlet. The sharper German increase therefore reflected stronger input-cost pressure rather than unusually strong downstream growth.
Analyst Insight
According to Procurement Resource, alum markets are expected to remain firm and balanced, as persistent sulfur-related cost pressure offsets adequate supply and relatively steady water-treatment demand.
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Global alum prices remained firm during Q1’26 as higher sulfuric acid and alumina-related feedstock costs increased production expenses across major regions. The Iran conflict and disruptions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz intensified freight volatility and delayed chemical shipments, increasing supply-chain uncertainty throughout the quarter. Rising transportation and energy costs further pressured manufacturing economics, particularly across Asia and Europe. Demand from municipal water treatment facilities remained stable globally, while paper manufacturing, textiles, and construction-related applications maintained steady consumption patterns. Industrial buyers largely adopted cautious procurement strategies due to fluctuating raw material costs and geopolitical uncertainty, although downstream demand fundamentals remained comparatively resilient. Asian markets witnessed firm consumption from infrastructure-linked water treatment activity, while European buyers faced additional pressure from elevated logistics and energy expenses. North American markets remained relatively balanced due to stable domestic industrial demand and moderate procurement activity.
Alum is the hydrated double sulfate salt of aluminium which consists of one X cation. This cation can be substituted by many elements depending on which the properties of Alum changes. The most common Alum is the aluminium potassium sulfate, where the X cation is replaced with a Potassium ion. It has been widely used as a flocculation agent since ancient times. It is used widely in several industries like textiles, paper processing, leather, etc.
KAl(SO4)2 or AlKO8S2
Electroplating, Pulp and Paper Processing, Disinfectants or Biocides, Sewer and Wastewater Treatment, Leather Tanning and Processing, Textiles
Aluminium potassium sulfate, Potassium alum, Potash alumAluminium potassium bis(sulphate)
Merck KGaA, Zibo Dazhong Edible Chemical, Nutrien
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.
An equimolar mixture of hydrated aluminium sulfate and potassium sulfate is dissolved in minimal quantity of water in the presence of sulfuric acid. This mixture is subjected to crystallization, and crystals of potash alum are obtained.
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