Global Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market 2024–2033

Reports Description

According to current market research conducted by the CMI Team, the global Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market is expected to record a CAGR of 10.67% from 2024 to 2033. In 2024, the market size is projected to reach a valuation of USD 13.79 Billion. By 2033, the valuation is anticipated to reach USD 34.34 Billion.

Global Sulfur Production by Country 2022-2023 (in thousand metric tons)

Source: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

Global sulfur production by major countries significantly contributes to the Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market. China produced 18,800 thousand metric tons in 2022, and the United States produced 8,640 thousand tons. Other notable producers include Russia, which produced 7,530 thousand metric tons; Saudi Arabia, which produced 7,500 thousand tons; and India, which produced 3,540 thousand tons.

In 2023, China’s production increased to 19,000 thousand metric tons, maintaining its leadership position. The United States saw a slight decrease to 8,600 metric tons, while Saudi Arabia’s production rose to 8,000 metric tons. Russia experienced a decline to 7,000 thousand metric tons, and India’s production slightly decreased to 3,500 thousand metric tons.

These figures highlight these countries’ critical role in the sulfur market, which directly impacts the availability and pricing of sulfuric acid, a key component in various industrial applications, including fertilizer production, chemical manufacturing, and petroleum refining.

Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market – Significant Growth Factors

The Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market presents significant growth opportunities due to several factors:

• Agricultural Demand: The rising global population necessitates increased agricultural productivity, which drives demand for phosphate fertilizers where sulfuric acid is crucial. This is particularly significant in emerging economies with expanding agricultural sectors like India and Brazil.

• Chemical Manufacturing Expansion: Sulfuric acid is essential in various chemical manufacturing processes, including detergents, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. These industries’ continued growth and diversification fuel a steady demand for sulfuric acid, particularly in developed regions like North America and Europe.

• Metal Processing Needs: The demand for sulfuric acid in metal processing, especially for purifying non-ferrous metals such as copper and zinc, is increasing due to rising industrial activities and infrastructure projects worldwide. Countries with robust mining activities, like Australia and South Africa, see substantial sulfuric acid consumption.

• Petroleum Refining Applications: Sulfuric acid plays a vital role in refining petroleum and producing high-octane gasoline. The growing global energy consumption and the ongoing expansion of the petroleum sector significantly contribute to market demand, particularly in oil-rich regions like the Middle East.

• Automotive Industry Growth: The production of lead-acid batteries for automotive applications relies heavily on sulfuric acid. As global vehicle production, including electric vehicles that use lead-acid batteries for auxiliary power, continues to rise, so does the demand for sulfuric acid. Major automotive manufacturing hubs such as China, Japan, and Germany are key markets.

• Technological Advancements: Innovations in production processes and sulfuric acid recycling enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. These technological advancements, such as more efficient catalysts and emission control technologies, make sulfuric acid more attractive to various industries, boosting market growth.

• Economic Growth in Emerging Markets: Rapid industrialization and urbanization in emerging markets like China, India, and Brazil drive the demand for sulfuric acid across various applications, from agriculture to industrial manufacturing. These markets are also witnessing increased infrastructure investment, further fueling demand.

• Infrastructure Development: Increased investments in infrastructure projects globally, particularly in developing regions, are spurring the demand for sulfuric acid in construction materials and metal processing. Countries with large-scale infrastructure projects, such as India’s urban development initiatives, see a surge in sulfuric acid consumption.

• Regulatory Support for Sustainable Practices: Government regulations promoting sustainable agricultural practices and industrial processes are boosting the demand for sulfuric acid. Policies encouraging high-efficiency fertilizers and environmentally friendly chemical processes contribute to market growth.

• Rising Demand for Specialty Chemicals: The demand for specialty chemicals, which often require sulfuric acid in their manufacturing processes, is increasing. High-purity sulfuric acid is crucial for the electronics, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries, which drives this.

• Expanding Global Trade: The growth in global trade and international supply chains is facilitating the distribution of sulfuric acid to various industrial hubs. Improved logistics and transportation infrastructure enable more efficient supply chain management, supporting market expansion.

• Investment in Research and Development: Companies are investing heavily in R&D to develop new applications and improve production processes for sulfuric acid. These investments lead to innovations that enhance product quality and expand the utility of sulfuric acid across different industries.

Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market: Plant Launches and Acquisitions

The Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market has seen several Plant Launches and Acquisitions in recent years, with companies seeking to expand their market presence and leverage synergies to improve their product offerings and profitability. Some notable examples of product launches in the Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market include:

• In January 2024, Coromandel International Ltd. received board approval to establish new phosphoric and sulphuric acid plants at its Kakinada unit in Andhra Pradesh, with an investment of ₹1,029 crore. The new facilities will add 750 tonnes per day (TPD) of phosphoric acid and 1,800 TPD of sulphuric acid within 24 months, enhancing the existing capacity. This initiative aims to reduce import dependence and make Kakinada an integrated facility.

• In October 2023, Coromandel International commissioned a ₹400 crore sulphuric acid plant at its Visakhapatnam complex. With a capacity of 1,650 metric tonnes per day (MTPD), the new plant increases Coromandel’s sulphuric acid capacity to 1.1 million tonnes per annum from 0.6 million tonnes. This investment supports its phosphoric acid and fertilizer production, enhancing backward integration and self-sufficiency.

• In June 2023, Sumitomo Corporation expanded its market presence and function in the U.S. sulfuric acid business by acquiring Saconix LLC. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance Sumitomo’s supply chain capabilities and strengthen its position in the sulfuric acid market. Saconix LLC, known for its robust distribution network and strong customer base, will enable Sumitomo to serve its clients better and meet the growing demand for sulfuric acid in various industries. This move aligns with Sumitomo’s commitment to expanding its chemical business and providing integrated solutions to its customers.

This Plant Launches and Acquisitions helped companies expand their product offerings, improve their market presence, and capitalize on growth opportunities in the Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market. The trend is expected to continue as companies seek a competitive edge.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE RELATED MARKET

Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market: Significant Threats

The Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market faces several significant threats that could impact its growth and profitability in the future. Some of these threats include:

• Economic Downturns: Economic recessions or downturns can reduce industrial activities and lower consumer spending, impacting sectors like automotive, construction, and manufacturing. This results in decreased demand for sulfuric acid.

• Intense Competition: The market is highly competitive, with numerous global and regional players. This competition can lead to price wars and reduced profit margins, pressuring companies to continually innovate and cut costs to stay competitive.

• Environmental Regulations: Stringent environmental regulations related to sulfuric acid production and use can increase compliance costs and limit production capabilities. Regulations aimed at reducing emissions and controlling waste disposal can impose significant operational challenges.

• Supply Chain Disruptions: Disruptions in the global supply chain, such as raw material shortages, logistics delays, or geopolitical tensions, can affect the availability and cost of sulfuric acid. Such disruptions can hinder production schedules and impact market supply.

• Technological Obsolescence: Rapid technological advancements can render existing production methods obsolete. Companies must continuously invest in new technologies and upgrade their facilities, which can be capital-intensive and risky.

• Health and Safety Concerns: Sulfuric acid is highly corrosive and poses significant health and safety risks during production, handling, and transportation. Accidents or improper handling can have severe consequences, affecting the market’s reputation and potential legal liabilities.

Category-Wise Insights

By Type:

• Concentrated Sulfuric Acid: Widely used in various industrial applications due to its high reactivity and efficiency. It is essential in manufacturing fertilizers and chemicals and metal processing. Demand for high-purity sulfuric acid in these crucial industries drives its demand.

• Tower/Glover Acid: Typically used in producing fertilizers and chemical synthesis. This sulfuric acid type is crucial for processes requiring less concentrated acid, supporting various industrial activities.

• Battery Acid is essential for automotive batteries, and its growing demand is linked to the increasing production of vehicles, including electric vehicles that utilize lead-acid batteries for auxiliary power. The rise in automotive production directly correlates with the demand for battery-grade sulfuric acid.

• Others: This category includes specific grades in niche applications such as pharmaceuticals, food processing, and textile manufacturing. These specialized uses require precise formulations of sulfuric acid, catering to industry-specific needs.

By Application

• Fertilizers: Sulfuric acid is a primary ingredient in phosphate fertilizer production, driving demand due to the rising need for food production and agricultural productivity globally. The agricultural sector’s growth significantly impacts sulfuric acid consumption.

• Chemical Manufacturing: Integral in various chemical synthesis processes, including producing detergents, dyes, and pharmaceuticals, boosting its demand in the chemical industry. The expanding chemical sector fuels consistent demand for sulfuric acid.

• Metal Processing: Used extensively in the purification and processing of metals, sulfuric acid is essential for extracting and refining non-ferrous metals like copper and zinc. Industrial activities in mining and metallurgy heavily rely on sulfuric acid.

• Petroleum Refining: Sulfuric acid’s role in refining petroleum and producing high-octane gasoline makes it crucial in the energy sector, particularly with increasing global energy consumption. The refining industry remains a stable consumer of sulfuric acid.

• Automotive: The production of lead-acid batteries, widely used in automotive applications, heavily relies on sulfuric acid, aligning with the growing automotive industry. The sector’s expansion directly influences sulfuric acid demand.

• Others: Various other industrial applications, including textiles and detergents, utilize sulfuric acid for their specific production processes, contributing to its diverse market demand.

By End Use Industry

• Agriculture: A significant consumer of sulfuric acid due to its use in producing phosphate fertilizers, essential for enhancing crop yields and meeting food demand. Agricultural advancements and practices directly drive sulfuric acid consumption.

• Chemicals: The chemical industry uses sulfuric acid in numerous processes, producing various chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and industrial products. The industry’s growth sustains a steady demand for sulfuric acid.

• Metals & Mining: Sulfuric acid is vital in mining operations for ore processing and metal purification, playing a critical role in extracting valuable metals. Mining activities and metallurgical processes are key areas of sulfuric acid application.

• Petroleum: Used in refining petroleum products, sulfuric acid is essential for producing cleaner fuels and high-octane gasoline, which supports the energy sector. The refining processes consistently need sulfuric acid.

• Automotive: The automotive industry relies on sulfuric acid to manufacture lead-acid batteries and essential vehicle components. Growth in vehicle production directly impacts sulfuric acid demand.

• Others: This category includes applications in textiles, detergents, and other industrial processes where sulfuric acid is used for its reactive properties. Diverse industrial activities ensure a broad base of sulfuric acid applications.

By Distribution Channel

• Online: The convenience of e-commerce platforms is causing the online distribution channel for sulfuric acid to grow quickly. Online sales benefit from frequent discounts, promotions, and a wider range of products available than in physical stores, making it a preferred choice for many buyers.

• Offline: The offline distribution channel includes traditional retail stores, specialty chemical suppliers, and direct sales. These channels offer the advantage of physical inspection and immediate product availability, catering to customers who prefer direct interaction and hands-on evaluation of sulfuric acid quality.

Report Scope

Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market: Regional Analysis

The Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market is segmented into various regions: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. Here is a brief overview of each region:

• North America: Strong industrial activity and significant agricultural demand drive North America’s industrial sulfuric acid market. The presence of well-established chemical manufacturing industries, particularly in the United States and Canada, supports market growth. The region benefits from advanced production technologies and a strong regulatory framework that ensures high product quality. Moreover, the growing automotive industry, especially in the U.S., contributes to the demand for sulfuric acid in battery production. Additionally, North America’s focus on sustainable agricultural practices further drives the use of sulfuric acid in fertilizer production.

• Europe: Europe represents a significant market for industrial sulfuric acid, with extensive use in chemicals, fertilizers, and automotive industries. Major contributors include Germany, the UK, France, Italy, and Spain, where the chemical and automotive sectors are well-developed. The region’s stringent environmental regulations drive the adoption of cleaner production technologies and high-quality sulfuric acid. Europe’s agricultural sector also plays a crucial role, particularly in countries like France and Italy, where sulfuric acid is essential for fertilizer production. The focus on sustainable practices and green technologies is expected to boost market growth further.

• Asia-Pacific: Industrialization and agricultural development drive the region’s rapid industrial sulfuric acid market growth. Key markets include China, India, Japan, and South Korea, with strong demand for sulfuric acid in chemical manufacturing, metal processing, and fertilizer production. China’s extensive industrial base and India’s growing agricultural sector are significant drivers. The region also witnesses increasing investments in infrastructure and automotive industries, further boosting sulfuric acid demand. Technological advancements and government initiatives promoting sustainable practices are expected to enhance market growth in this region.

• LAMEA: Increasing urbanization, industrial activity, and agricultural development are driving the emerging industrial sulfuric acid market in LAMEA. Brazil stands out as a major market in Latin America due to its large agricultural sector and the growing use of sulfuric acid in fertilizer production. The Middle East and Africa are witnessing a rise in industrial projects and mining activities, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia and South Africa. These regions also focus on enhancing their industrial capabilities and infrastructure, which is expected to drive the demand for sulfuric acid. Adopting modern agricultural practices and developing the chemical sector further contribute to market expansion in LAMEA.

Competitive Landscape: Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market

The Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market is highly competitive, with many manufacturers and retailers operating globally. Some of the key players in the market include:

• BASF SE
• Akzo Nobel N.V.
• DuPont
• The Mosaic Company
• Chemtrade Logistics Inc.
• Southern States Chemical
• PVS Chemicals
• Aditya Birla Group
• Khaitan Chemicals & Fertilizers Limited
• Aurubis AG
• Eco Services Operations LLC
• Vale Fertilizantes S.A.
• Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd.
• Agrium Inc.
• Oxbow Corporation
• Honeywell International Inc.
• KMG Chemicals
• Stepan Company
• Tessenderlo Group
• Ineos Enterprises Limited
• Others

These companies operate in the market through various strategies such as product innovation, mergers and acquisitions, and partnerships.

New players entering the Industrial Sulfuric Acid market are adopting various growth strategies to establish their presence and compete effectively with established companies. These strategies leverage technological advancements, address market demands, and create a competitive edge.

These players often focus on developing advanced products, customization, targeting emerging markets, establishing competitive pricing, adopting customer-centric approaches, offering eco-friendly solutions, and a higher focus on marketing and branding activities.

The Industrial Sulfuric Acid Market is segmented as follows:

By Type

• Concentrated Sulfuric Acid
• Tower/Glover Acid
• Battery Acid
• Others

By Application

• Fertilizers
• Chemical Manufacturing
• Metal Processing
• Petroleum Refining
• Automotive
• Others

By End Use Industry

• Agriculture
• Chemicals
• Metals & Mining
• Petroleum
• Automotive
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Online
• Offline

Regional Coverage:

North America

• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico
• Rest of North America

Europe

• Germany
• France
• U.K.
• Russia
• Italy
• Spain
• Netherlands
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India
• New Zealand
• Australia
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Egypt
• Kuwait
• South Africa
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America