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.
A Strait of Hormuz blockade and export bans from Russia and Kazakhstan severely curtailed sulfur supply, pushing global sulfuric acid prices to multi-year highs. The Chinese smelter acid index gained 94% and CFR Indonesia sulfuric acid rose 185% in H1. Despite a post-ceasefire retreat, inventories remain low and supply recovery is slow, keeping prices elevated.
| Product | Region | Incoterm Basis | Price | Last Updated Month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zinc Sulfate | China | FOB | USD 822.52/MT | June 2026 |
| Zinc Sulfate | India | CIF | USD 910.52/MT | June 2026 |
| Zinc Sulfate | USA | CIF | USD 977.52/MT | June 2026 |
| Zinc Sulfate | Germany | CIF | USD 943.52/MT | June 2026 |
| Zinc Sulfate | Canada | CIF | USD 977.52/MT | June 2026 |
Stay updated with the latest Zinc Sulfate prices, historical data, and tailored regional analysis
Asia
In Asia, zinc sulfate prices were stable to slightly firm during Q1 2026. China remained the key regional production center, while demand from fertilizers, feed additives, and agrochemical applications supported steady offtake. Feedstock pressure increased as zinc and sulfuric acid costs strengthened, but buyers resisted aggressive restocking. The Iran war and Strait of Hormuz disruption added freight and energy-related pressure, mainly affecting delivered costs and import sentiment rather than creating a direct supply shortage.
Europe
In Europe, zinc sulfate prices moved on a firm trend as the region faced higher freight, energy, and sulfur-chain uncertainty. The disruption in Middle East-linked sulfur and chemical trade increased concern over sulfuric acid availability and replacement costs. Demand from agriculture, animal nutrition, and industrial water treatment stayed consistent, but buyers kept procurement need-based. Limited spot flexibility and higher logistics costs supported firmer market sentiment through the quarter.
North America
In North America, zinc sulfate prices increased during Q1 2026, with the USA recording a 4.03% rise from January to March 2026. Compared with Q4 2025, USA zinc sulfate prices were also higher by 5.53% in Q1 2026. The increase was supported by firm zinc and sulfuric acid costs, steady demand from fertilizer and feed applications, and broader logistics pressure. However, stronger domestic raw material availability kept the regional market more balanced than Asia and Europe.
Analyst Insight
According to Procurement Resource, near-term zinc sulfate prices may remain stable to firm if zinc, sulfuric acid, and freight costs stay elevated.
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Asia
In Asia, zinc sulfate prices showed a mostly firm to stable trend during Q4’25, supported mainly by rising production costs. Zinc availability remained comfortable as smelter output stayed high, but demand from agriculture, chemicals, and battery-related applications remained steady. At the same time, producers faced strong cost pressure from sulfur and sulfuric acid, which tightened margins. Sulfuric acid supply stayed tight due to limited sulfur availability and high operating costs, especially toward the end of the quarter. Export activity remained cautious, as buyers focused on short-term needs. Overall, cost pressure supported zinc sulfate prices even though demand growth stayed moderate.
Europe
In Europe, zinc sulfate prices moved upward during Q4’25, largely due to severe pressure from soaring sulfur and energy costs. The region faced a shortage of affordable sulfur feedstock, which raised production expenses for zinc sulfate manufacturers. Some producers reduced operating rates or warned of possible shutdowns, which tightened supply. Demand from fertilizers, animal feed, and industrial uses remained stable but cautious, as buyers struggled with higher input costs across the value chain. The large gap between sulfur and sulfuric acid costs highlighted the stress on producers. Despite weak fertilizer market conditions, zinc sulfate prices stayed supported because producers passed on part of the cost burden.
North America
In North America, zinc sulfate prices followed a stable to slightly firm trend during Q4’25. Demand from agriculture and industrial applications remained steady but lacked strong momentum. Buyers avoided long-term commitments and preferred flexible purchasing due to economic uncertainty. Supply remained adequate, but rising sulfuric acid costs increased production expenses. Trade and logistics challenges limited spot availability at times, which supported the market. Overall, zinc sulfate prices stayed balanced, with cost pressure preventing any major decline.
Zinc sulfate or ZnSO4 is a white powder or colorless crystalline solid that is extremely soluble in water. Common uses for zinc sulfate include nutritional supplements to supply the body with critical zinc nutrients, fertilizer in agriculture to make up for zinc deficiency in the soil, and industrial operations such the creation of dyes, pigments, and battery electrolytes. It is also employed in the production of other zinc compounds and in topical medical treatments.
ZnSO4
Fertilizers, Rubber, Dyeing and Printing, Pharmaceuticals, Water treatment
Balaji Industries, Changsha Haolin Chemicals Co Ltd, Tianjin Topfert Agrochemical Co, Rongqing Chemical Co Ltd, Clean Agro, Oasis Fine Chem
White vitriol
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.
The process involves the submersion of zinc metal in the sulfuric acid solution. The final product of this reaction is zinc sulfate and water molecules.
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