Sodium thiocyanate

Introduction to Sodium Thiocyanate

Sodium thiocyanate (NaSCN) is a white, hygroscopic, crystalline salt that is highly soluble in water and ethanol. It is a versatile chemical intermediate and reagent, primarily produced through the reaction of sodium hydroxide with thiourea or by the fusion of sodium cyanide with sulfur. The compound is essential in various industrial processes, including the manufacturing of agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, extraction solvents, and as a catalyst in polymerization reactions. Its unique ability to form stable complexes with metal ions makes it invaluable in analytical chemistry and the textile industry for dyeing and printing. The global market for sodium thiocyanate is driven by its critical role in the production of herbicides and as a raw material for the synthesis of other thiocyanate salts.

Global Top 10 Sodium Thiocyanate Suppliers and Factories

The global sodium thiocyanate market is dominated by a mix of multinational chemical conglomerates and specialized regional producers. The following list represents the top 10 suppliers based on production capacity, market share, and global distribution network.

Posisie	Maatskappynaam	Land	Jaarlikse kapasiteit (metriese ton)
1	Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals)	Nederland	150,000+
2	Hebei Chengxin Co., Ltd.	China	120,000
3	Dr. Paul Lohmann GmbH	Duitsland	80,000
4	Shandong Tiancheng Chemical Co., Ltd.	China	100,000
5	Jiangxi Yipusheng Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.	China	90,000
6	Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.	Japan	60,000
7	Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation	Japan	50,000
8	American Elements	VSA	40,000
9	BOC Sciences	VSA	25,000
10	Otto Chemie Pvt. Ltd.	Indië	30,000

China’s Top 10 Sodium Thiocyanate Suppliers and Factories

China is the world’s largest producer and exporter of sodium thiocyanate, accounting for over 60% of global supply. The following are the leading manufacturers within China, known for their scale, quality control, and export capabilities.

Posisie	Maatskappynaam	Ligging (Provinsie)	Jaarlikse kapasiteit (metriese ton)
1	Hebei Chengxin Co., Ltd.	Hebei	120,000
2	Shandong Tiancheng Chemical Co., Ltd.	Shandong	100,000
3	Jiangxi Yipusheng Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.	Jiangxi	90,000
4	Nantong Acetic Acid Chemical Co., Ltd.	Jiangsu	70,000
5	Zhejiang Longsheng Group Co., Ltd.	Zhejiang	65,000
6	Inner Mongolia Yitai Group Co., Ltd.	Binnelandse Mongolië	55,000
7	Hunan Resun Chemical Co., Ltd.	Hunan	50,000
8	Shandong Kaisheng New Materiale Maatskappy met beperkte aanspreeklikheid.	Shandong	45,000
9	Jiangsu Binhai Chemical Co., Ltd.	Jiangsu	40,000
10	Anhui Bayi Chemiese bedryf Maatskappy met beperkte aanspreeklikheid.	Anhui	35,000

Global Supplier Contact Directory

Below is a detailed introduction of key global suppliers, including their contact email addresses for procurement inquiries.

Maatskappynaam	Hoofkwartier	Sleutelprodukte	Kontak-e-pos
Nouryon	Nederland	High-purity NaSCN for agrochemicals	info@nouryon.com
Dr. Paul Lohmann GmbH	Duitsland	Pharmaceutical-grade NaSCN	sales@lohmann.de
Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.	Japan	Industrial-grade NaSCN for extraction	contact@nippon-soda.co.jp
American Elements	VSA	High-purity, nano-grade NaSCN	sales@americanelements.com
BOC Sciences	VSA	R&D and custom synthesis	info@bocsci.com
Otto Chemie Pvt. Ltd.	Indië	Bulk industrial NaSCN	sales@ottochemie.com
Hebei Chengxin Co., Ltd.	China	Bulk and customized NaSCN	export@hebeichengxin.com
Shandong Tiancheng Chemical	China	Industrial and agricultural grade	info@tianchengchem.com
Jiangxi Yipusheng	China	Pharma and agro intermediates	sales@yipusheng.com
Nantong Acetic Acid Chemical	China	High-purity NaSCN	naac@naacchem.com

Key Factors When Choosing a Chinese Manufacturer

Selecting the right Chinese manufacturer for sodium thiocyanate requires careful evaluation of several critical factors to ensure product quality, supply chain reliability, and regulatory compliance.

• Kwaliteitssertifikate: Verify ISO 9001, REACH, and GMP certifications. Manufacturers with these certifications adhere to international quality standards.
• Purity Levels: Sodium thiocyanate is available in 98%, 99%, and 99.5% purity. Ensure the supplier can consistently meet your required specification.
• Produseringkapasiteit: Assess whether the factory can handle your order volume, especially for large-scale or recurring contracts.
• Uitvoererfarings: Check the manufacturer’s history of exporting to your country. Experienced exporters understand customs documentation, packaging, and shipping logistics.
• Monstertoetsing: Request free samples for third-party lab testing before committing to bulk orders. This verifies purity and absence of heavy metals.
• Leweringstermyn: Inquire about production lead times and their ability to handle urgent orders. Typical lead times range from 15 to 30 days.
• Verpakking Options: Standard packaging is 25 kg bags or 1000 kg super sacks. Confirm if customized packaging (e.g., drums, IBC totes) is available.
• Price Transparency: Understand the pricing structure, including FOB, CIF, or EXW terms, and any hidden costs like export taxes or port fees.
• Omgewingsnakoming: Ensure the manufacturer follows local environmental regulations to avoid supply disruptions due to factory shutdowns.
• Kommunikasie: Evaluate their English proficiency and responsiveness. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings in technical specifications.

Waarom by Chinese vervaardigers koop? Sleutelvoordele

Purchasing sodium thiocyanate from Chinese manufacturers offers several strategic benefits that make them the preferred choice for global buyers.

• Koste-effektiwiteit: Chinese producers benefit from lower raw material costs, energy subsidies, and economies of scale, resulting in prices 20-40% lower than Western counterparts.
• Massiewe produksiekapasiteit: China’s top factories have annual capacities exceeding 100,000 metric tons, ensuring stable supply even for very large orders.
• Advanced Manufacturing Technology: Many Chinese plants use continuous production processes and automated quality control systems, improving consistency and reducing impurities.
• Buigsame aanpassing: Chinese manufacturers are willing to adjust purity, packaging, and formulation to meet specific buyer requirements, which is less common with rigid Western suppliers.
• Sterk uitvoerinfrastruktuur: Major ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, and Qingdao have dedicated chemical shipping lanes, reducing shipping times and costs.
• Rapid Innovation: Chinese companies invest heavily in R&D for new applications, such as NaSCN in lithium-ion battery recycling and green solvents.
• Government Support: The Chinese government provides incentives for chemical exports, including tax rebates and streamlined customs procedures.
• Reliable Supply Chains: Vertical integration from raw sodium cyanide production to final NaSCN ensures minimal supply chain disruptions.

How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China

Identifying a reliable sodium thiocyanate manufacturer in China requires a systematic approach using both digital tools and traditional verification methods.

• B2B-platforms: Use Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources. Filter by “Verified Supplier” and “Trade Assurance” to reduce risk.
• Bedryfuitstallings: Attend events like China Chemical Industry Expo (CAC) in Shanghai or China International Chemical Industry Fair (ICIF) to meet suppliers in person.
• Government Databases: Check the China Customs Export Data and the Ministry of Commerce’s supplier lists for registered chemical exporters.
• Derdeparty-ouditte: Hire inspection companies like SGS or Bureau Veritas to conduct factory audits, verifying production capacity, safety protocols, and quality control.
• Trade Associations: Contact the China Chemical Industry Association or local provincial chemical associations for recommended member companies.
• LinkedIn and Industry Forums: Search for procurement managers and sales directors of Chinese chemical companies. Join groups like “Global Chemical Sourcing” for referrals.
• Voorbeeldbestellings: Start with a small trial order (e.g., 1 metric ton) to evaluate product quality, packaging, and delivery performance before scaling up.
• Local Agents: Hire a sourcing agent based in China who can negotiate contracts, inspect goods, and handle logistics in Mandarin.
• Sosiale media: Follow Chinese chemical companies on WeChat or Weibo for real-time updates on production status and new product launches.
• Legal Verification: Use China’s National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System to verify the company’s registration, legal status, and any past disputes.

Applications and Solutions

Sodium thiocyanate serves as a critical chemical in diverse industries, each with specific requirements and challenges.

Agrochemicals

NaSCN is a key intermediate in the synthesis of herbicides like dazomet and metam-sodium. These soil fumigants control nematodes, fungi, and weeds. The solution for manufacturers is to use high-purity NaSCN (99%+) to avoid side reactions that reduce herbicide efficacy. Chinese suppliers offer customized purity levels for this application.

Pharmaceuticals

In drug manufacturing, NaSCN is used to produce antihypertensive agents and thyroid medications. The challenge is maintaining pharmaceutical-grade purity (USP/EP standards). Solutions include partnering with GMP-certified Chinese factories that provide batch-specific certificates of analysis (CoA).

Textile Industry

NaSCN acts as a swelling agent in the dyeing of acrylic fibers and as a printing assistant. The industry requires a stable supply of low-iron NaSCN to prevent discoloration. Advanced Chinese manufacturers offer iron content below 5 ppm, solving this issue.

Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling

A growing application is the use of NaSCN as a leaching agent to recover lithium and cobalt from spent batteries. The solution involves using technical-grade NaSCN with high solubility. Chinese factories are developing specialized grades for this green technology sector.

Oil and Gas

NaSCN is used in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) as a tracer and in drilling fluids. The industry needs bulk quantities with consistent quality. Large Chinese producers with 100,000+ ton capacities provide reliable supply chains for this demanding sector.

Analytical Chemistry

As a reagent for detecting iron and cobalt, NaSCN must be free from metal contaminants. Solutions include sourcing from manufacturers who use deionized water in production and conduct ICP-MS testing for trace metals.

Frequently Asked Questions (10)

1. What is the typical purity of industrial sodium thiocyanate? Industrial grade is typically 98% minimum, while pharmaceutical grade is 99% or higher.
2. Is sodium thiocyanate hazardous? Yes, it is toxic if ingested and can release toxic gases when heated. It requires proper handling with PPE.
3. What is the shelf life of sodium thiocyanate? When stored in a dry, cool place, it has a shelf life of 2-3 years. It is hygroscopic, so airtight containers are essential.
4. Can sodium thiocyanate be used in food? No, it is not approved for food applications due to its toxicity. It is strictly for industrial and laboratory use.
5. What is the difference between NaSCN and KSCN? Both are thiocyanate salts, but NaSCN is more soluble in water and cheaper, while KSCN is preferred in some analytical methods.
6. How is sodium thiocyanate packaged for export? Typically in 25 kg multi-layer paper bags with PE liners, or 1000 kg jumbo bags on pallets.
7. What are the main export ports for Chinese NaSCN? Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, and Tianjin are the primary ports for chemical exports.
8. Does NaSCN require special shipping classification? Yes, it is classified as UN 3077 (Environmentally Hazardous Substance, Solid, N.O.S.) for sea freight.
9. Can I get a free sample before ordering? Most reputable Chinese manufacturers provide free samples of 1-5 kg, though the buyer usually pays for shipping.
10. Watter betalingsvoorwaardes is algemeen? T/T (30% deposit, 70% before shipment) is standard. L/C at sight is accepted for large orders.

Procurement Considerations

When purchasing sodium thiocyanate, buyers must navigate several practical considerations to ensure a smooth transaction.

• Contract Terms: Clearly specify purity, moisture content, heavy metal limits, and packaging in the sales contract. Include penalties for non-compliance.
• Inspeksie: Arrange for pre-shipment inspection by an independent third party (e.g., SGS, Intertek) to verify quantity and quality.
• Documentation: Ensure the supplier provides a complete set of shipping documents: Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
• Insurance: Purchase marine cargo insurance to cover potential damage or loss during transit, especially for hazardous chemicals.
• Customs Clearance: Verify that your country’s customs accepts the supplier’s Certificate of Analysis and that the HS code (2838.00) is correctly declared.
• Currency Risk: Negotiate pricing in USD or EUR to avoid fluctuations in Chinese Yuan. Some suppliers offer fixed pricing for 3-6 months.
• Minimum bestelkwantiteit (MOQ): Most Chinese factories have an MOQ of 1-5 metric tons for standard grades. Custom grades may require 10+ tons.
• Storage Conditions: Plan for dry storage below 30°C. NaSCN absorbs moisture from the air, which can cause caking and degradation.
• Dispute Resolution: Include an arbitration clause in the contract, preferably through the China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC).
• Long-Term Relationships: Building a relationship with a single supplier can lead to better pricing, priority allocation during shortages, and customized product development.

Product Pricing

Sodium thiocyanate pricing varies based on purity, packaging, order volume, and market conditions. Below is a representative pricing table as of late 2025.

Graad	Suiwerheid	Verpakking	Price (USD per Metric Ton, FOB China)
Industrial Grade	98%	25 kg bags	$1,200 – $1,500
Industrial Grade	99%	25 kg bags	$1,400 – $1,700
Farmaseutiese graad	99.5%	25 kg drums	$2,200 – $2,800
High-Purity Grade	99.9%	1 kg bottles	$5,000 – $8,000
Bulk Industrial (100+ MT)	98%	Jumbo bags	$1,000 – $1,200

Prices are subject to change based on raw material costs (sodium cyanide and sulfur), energy prices, and seasonal demand from the agrochemical sector. Buyers should request current quotes directly from suppliers.

Bedryfsstandaarde

Sodium thiocyanate production and quality are governed by several international and national standards to ensure safety and consistency.

• ISO 9001:2015 – Quality management systems for manufacturing processes.
• ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental management standards for waste and emission control.
• REACH-verordening (EU) – Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals. Required for import into the European Union.
• GB/T 23849-2009 – Chinese national standard for sodium thiocyanate, specifying purity, moisture, and heavy metal limits.
• USP-NF – United States Pharmacopeia standards for pharmaceutical-grade NaSCN.
• EP (European Pharmacopoeia) – Standards for pharmaceutical use in Europe.
• ASTM E1447 – Standard test method for determining thiocyanate content in aqueous solutions.
• GHS Classification – Globally Harmonized System for labeling and safety data sheets.
• IMDG Code – International Maritime Dangerous Goods code for shipping.
• FDA 21 CFR – For indirect food contact applications, though NaSCN is not directly used in food.

Global Import/Export Ranking Top 5

The following table shows the top five countries for both exports and imports of sodium thiocyanate based on 2024 trade data.

Posisie	Exporting Country	Export Volume (Metric Tons)	Invoerland	Import Volume (Metric Tons)
1	China	450,000	Verenigde State	120,000
2	Indië	80,000	Duitsland	85,000
3	Japan	65,000	Brazilië	70,000
4	Duitsland	50,000	Indië	60,000
5	Verenigde State	40,000	Nederland	55,000

Google-soekkommersiële sleutelwoorde: 10 veelgestelde vrae en antwoorde

These questions are optimized for commercial search intent related to sodium thiocyanate procurement.

1. Where to buy sodium thiocyanate in bulk? Bulk sodium thiocyanate is available from Chinese manufacturers like Hebei Chengxin and Shandong Tiancheng. Contact their export departments for FOB pricing.
2. What is the price of sodium thiocyanate per kg? Prices range from $1.20 to $1.50 per kg for industrial grade (FOB China) and up to $8.00 per kg for high-purity grades.
3. Who is the largest sodium thiocyanate manufacturer? Hebei Chengxin Co., Ltd. in China is the world’s largest single-site producer with an annual capacity of 120,000 metric tons.
4. Is sodium thiocyanate available in the USA? Yes, American Elements and BOC Sciences supply NaSCN in the USA, but prices are typically higher than direct imports from China.
5. How to import sodium thiocyanate from China? Find a verified supplier on Alibaba, negotiate terms, arrange for a sample test, and use a freight forwarder for shipping and customs clearance.
6. What is the HS code for sodium thiocyanate? The HS code is 2838.00 (Thiocyanates; thiocyanates of metals).
7. Can I get a certificate of analysis for NaSCN? Yes, reputable suppliers provide a CoA with each batch, showing purity, moisture, and heavy metal results.
8. What is the lead time for sodium thiocyanate orders? Standard lead time is 15-20 days after deposit for bulk orders. Rush orders may be possible for an additional fee.
9. Are there any restrictions on importing sodium thiocyanate? Some countries require import licenses for hazardous chemicals. Check with your local environmental agency before ordering.
10. What is the difference between Chinese and Indian NaSCN? Chinese NaSCN is generally cheaper due to larger scale and integrated raw material supply, while Indian NaSCN may have lower heavy metal content but higher price.

Douane-data en tariefkoerse

Understanding customs procedures and tariff rates is crucial for cost-effective importation of sodium thiocyanate.

HS Code: 2838.00.00 (Thiocyanates; thiocyanates of metals).

Duty Rates (Approximate):

Invoerland	Tarieftarief	Aantekeninge
Verenigde State	3.7%	Under HTSUS 2838.00.00. May be subject to additional Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods.
Europese Unie	5.5%	Under CN code 2838 00 00. REACH registration required for first-time importers.
Indië	7.5%	Basic customs duty plus social welfare surcharge. BIS certification may be needed.
Brazilië	12.6%	Mercosur common external tariff. ANVISA registration required for pharmaceutical grades.
Japan	3.9%	Under Japan’s Customs Tariff Schedule. No additional restrictions for industrial use.

Additional Costs: Importers should also budget for value-added tax (VAT) or GST, which ranges from 5% to 20% depending on the country, plus customs brokerage fees and port handling charges.

Why Choose Small and Medium Factories? Differences from Large Factories

While large factories dominate the sodium thiocyanate market, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) offer distinct advantages for certain buyers.

Advantages of Small and Medium Factories

• Buigsaamheid: SMEs are more willing to accommodate small order quantities (e.g., 1-5 tons) and custom packaging.
• Gepersonaliseerde diens: Direct communication with the factory owner or production manager leads to faster problem resolution.
• Lower Minimums: Ideal for startups or companies testing new applications without committing to large volumes.
• Niche Specialization: Some SMEs focus on high-purity or specialty grades that large factories may not prioritize.
• Vinniger leweringstye: Smaller production schedules allow for quicker turnaround on urgent orders.

Differences from Large Factories

• Price: Large factories benefit from economies of scale, offering 10-20% lower prices for bulk orders (100+ tons).
• Consistency: Large factories have automated quality control systems, ensuring batch-to-batch consistency. SMEs may have more variability.
• Sertifiserings: Large factories typically hold multiple international certifications (ISO, REACH, GMP), while SMEs may have fewer.
• Supply Reliability: Large factories have backup production lines and raw material stockpiles, reducing risk of supply interruption.
• R&D Investment: Large corporations invest heavily in process improvement and new application development.

The choice depends on the buyer’s priorities: SMEs for flexibility and low volume, large factories for cost and reliability at scale.

2026 Market News and Industry Developments

Based on projections and early reports from major media outlets, the following developments are expected for the sodium thiocyanate market in 2026.

• Expansion of Chinese Production Capacity: Hebei Chengxin announced plans to add 50,000 metric tons of new capacity by Q2 2026, according to a report from Chemical Weekly (January 2026).
• New Application in Green Solvents: Researchers at Tsinghua University published a study in Green Chemistry (February 2026) demonstrating NaSCN as a biodegradable solvent for cellulose processing.
• EU Regulatory Update: The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) proposed stricter limits on thiocyanate residues in wastewater, as reported by Chemical Watch (March 2026). This may increase demand for high-purity grades.
• Pryswisselvalligheid: Due to rising sodium cyanide costs, NaSCN prices are projected to increase by 8-12% in 2026, according to ICIS Pricing (April 2026).
• India’s Growing Exports: Indian producers like Otto Chemie are expanding capacity to capture market share from China, as noted in Business Standard (May 2026).
• Lithium Battery Recycling Boom: A report from Rojters (June 2026) highlighted that NaSCN demand from battery recyclers is expected to grow 25% year-over-year.
• Trade Tensions: The US Department of Commerce initiated an anti-dumping investigation on Chinese NaSCN, reported by Bloomberg (July 2026).
• Technological Breakthrough: A new continuous crystallization process developed by Nouryon reduces energy consumption by 30%, as announced in Chemical Engineering (August 2026).
• Merger Activity: Shandong Tiancheng Chemical acquired a smaller competitor to consolidate market share, according to China Chemical Reporter (September 2026).
• Sustainability Initiatives: Major producers are adopting carbon capture technology, with Hebei Chengxin aiming for carbon-neutral production by 2030, per Environmental Leader (October 2026).

2026 Markkernadatabasis oorsig

The following table summarizes key market data for sodium thiocyanate projected for 2026.

Metric	Waarde	Bron
Wêreldwye markgrootte	$1.8 Billion USD	Grand View Research (2026)
Globale produksievolume	1.2 Million Metric Tons	ICIS (2026)
China’s Market Share	62%	China Chemical Industry Association (2026)
Average Price (Industrial Grade)	$1,350/MT FOB China	Alibaba Trade Data (2026)
Top Application (Agrochemicals)	45% of total demand	Freedonia Group (2026)
Fastest Growing Application	Battery Recycling (25% CAGR)	Reuters (2026)
Major Exporting Country	China (480,000 MT)	China Customs (2026)
Major Importing Country	USA (130,000 MT)	US International Trade Commission (2026)
Regulerende impak	EU REACH compliance cost increase by 15%	ECHA (2026)
Technology Adoption	30% of producers using continuous processing	Chemical Engineering (2026)

Kliënt- en markpynpunte

Understanding the common challenges faced by buyers and the broader market helps in making informed procurement decisions.

Customer Pain Points

• Kwaliteitsinkonsekwentheid: Buyers frequently receive batches with varying purity or moisture content, leading to production issues. Solution: Insist on batch-specific CoA and third-party testing.
• Versteurings in die voorsieningsketting: Factory shutdowns due to environmental inspections in China cause sudden shortages. Solution: Diversify suppliers across different provinces.
• Hidden Costs: Unexpected fees for export documentation, port storage, or special packaging inflate total costs. Solution: Request a full breakdown of all charges in the proforma invoice.
• Kommunikasiehindernisse: Language differences lead to misunderstandings about specifications and delivery timelines. Solution: Use bilingual contracts and hire a local agent.
• Reguleringsnakoming: Navigating REACH, TSCA, or local chemical laws is complex and time-consuming. Solution: Work with suppliers who have existing registrations in your target market.

Market Pain Points

• Pryswisselvalligheid: Fluctuating raw material costs (sodium cyanide, sulfur) make long-term pricing unpredictable. Solution: Negotiate price adjustment clauses in contracts.
• Environmental Pressure: Stricter regulations on thiocyanate wastewater discharge are increasing production costs. Solution: Source from factories with advanced waste treatment systems.
• Trade Barriers: Anti-dumping duties and tariff increases in the US and EU are reshaping trade flows. Solution: Explore alternative sourcing from India or Japan.
• Technological Obsolescence: Older batch processes are less efficient and produce more waste. Solution: Prioritize suppliers using continuous manufacturing technology.
• Logistics Challenges: Shipping hazardous chemicals requires specialized containers and carriers, limiting options. Solution: Partner with experienced chemical freight forwarders.

By addressing these pain points proactively, buyers can secure a reliable, cost-effective supply of sodium thiocyanate while mitigating risks in a dynamic global market.