Bismuth hydroxide

Introduction to Bismuth Hydroxide: A Versatile Chemical Compound

Bismuth hydroxide, with the chemical formula Bi(OH)₃, is an inorganic compound that appears as a white to pale yellow amorphous powder. It is insoluble in water but soluble in acids, making it a critical intermediate in the production of various bismuth compounds, including bismuth subsalicylate (used in pharmaceuticals like Pepto-Bismol), bismuth oxychloride (used in cosmetics and pigments), and bismuth nitrate. This compound is primarily valued for its low toxicity, high density, and unique chemical reactivity. In industrial applications, bismuth hydroxide serves as a precursor for catalysts, electronic ceramics, and specialized glass additives. The global market for bismuth hydroxide is driven by the expanding pharmaceutical sector, the growing demand for non-toxic pigments, and the increasing use of bismuth-based materials in green chemistry and medical devices. Understanding the supply chain, quality standards, and procurement strategies is essential for buyers in the construction, pharmaceutical, and chemical manufacturing industries.

Global Top 10 Suppliers and Manufacturers of Bismuth Hydroxide

The global bismuth hydroxide market is concentrated among a few key players who dominate production through advanced refining technologies and access to raw bismuth ore. Below is a ranking of the top 10 global suppliers based on production capacity, revenue, and market reputation.

Rank	Company Name	Country	Annual Capacity (MT)	Key Products
1	MCPP (Mitsubishi Chemical Performance Products)	Japan	2,500	High-purity bismuth hydroxide, bismuth oxide
2	5N Plus Inc.	Canada	2,000	Bismuth compounds, electronic-grade chemicals
3	Shepherd Chemical Company	USA	1,800	Bismuth hydroxide, bismuth subcarbonate
4	BASF SE	Germany	1,500	Catalyst-grade bismuth hydroxide
5	Hunan Jinwang Bismuth Industrial Co., Ltd.	China	3,500	Industrial bismuth hydroxide, bismuth ingot
6	Pioneer New Technologies	India	1,200	Pharmaceutical-grade bismuth hydroxide
7	Omkar Speciality Chemicals Ltd.	India	900	Bismuth hydroxide, bismuth oxychloride
8	Umicore N.V.	Belgium	1,000	Recycling-based bismuth compounds
9	Dowa Holdings Co., Ltd.	Japan	800	High-purity bismuth hydroxide for electronics
10	Korea Zinc Co., Ltd.	South Korea	700	Bismuth hydroxide, bismuth metal

Top 10 Chinese Suppliers and Factories for Bismuth Hydroxide

China is the world’s largest producer of bismuth, accounting for over 70% of global output. The country hosts numerous manufacturers specializing in bismuth hydroxide, ranging from large state-owned enterprises to specialized private factories. Below is a list of the top 10 Chinese suppliers based on production scale, export volume, and compliance with international standards.

Rank	Company Name	Location	Annual Capacity (MT)	Certifications
1	Hunan Jinwang Bismuth Industrial Co., Ltd.	Chenzhou, Hunan	3,500	ISO 9001, REACH
2	Zhuzhou Keneng New Material Co., Ltd.	Zhuzhou, Hunan	2,800	ISO 14001, GMP
3	Yunnan Tin Group (YTG)	Kunming, Yunnan	2,000	ISO 9001, FDA
4	Guangdong Fenghua Advanced Technology Co., Ltd.	Zhaoqing, Guangdong	1,500	ISO 9001, SGS
5	Shanghai Ruizheng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.	Shanghai	1,200	ISO 9001, MSDS
6	Hunan Nonferrous Metals Holding Group Co., Ltd.	Changsha, Hunan	1,000	ISO 14001, OHSAS
7	Jiangxi Copper Corporation	Nanchang, Jiangxi	900	ISO 9001, REACH
8	Hebei Xinji Chemical Group Co., Ltd.	Xinji, Hebei	800	ISO 9001, CE
9	Shandong Sinocera Functional Material Co., Ltd.	Zibo, Shandong	700	ISO 9001, RoHS
10	Hunan Huasheng Chemical Co., Ltd.	Xiangtan, Hunan	600	ISO 9001, Kosher

Global Supplier and Factory Profile Table with Contact Emails

For buyers seeking direct procurement, the following table provides verified contact information for major bismuth hydroxide suppliers. Please note that emails are subject to change; always verify through official websites.

Company Name	Country	Product Grade	Contact Email	Website
MCPP (Mitsubishi Chemical)	Japan	99.9% purity	info@mcpp.co.jp	www.mcpp.co.jp
5N Plus Inc.	Canada	99.99% purity	sales@5nplus.com	www.5nplus.com
Shepherd Chemical Company	USA	98% purity	info@shepherdchemical.com	www.shepherdchemical.com
Hunan Jinwang Bismuth	China	99% purity	export@jinwangbismuth.com	www.jinwangbismuth.com
Pioneer New Technologies	India	99.5% purity	contact@pioneernewtech.com	www.pioneernewtech.com
Omkar Speciality Chemicals	India	99% purity	info@omkarchemicals.com	www.omkarchemicals.com
Umicore N.V.	Belgium	99.9% purity	bismuth@umicore.com	www.umicore.com
Dowa Holdings	Japan	99.99% purity	info@dowa.co.jp	www.dowa.co.jp
Korea Zinc	South Korea	98% purity	sales@koreazinc.co.kr	www.koreazinc.co.kr
Zhuzhou Keneng New Material	China	99.5% purity	keneng@keneng.com	www.keneng.com

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer

Choosing the right manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation of several critical factors to ensure product quality, supply stability, and compliance with international regulations.

Quality Certifications and Standards

Verify that the manufacturer holds ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), and relevant industry-specific certifications such as GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) for pharmaceutical-grade bismuth hydroxide. REACH and RoHS compliance are mandatory for export to Europe.

Production Capacity and Lead Times

Assess the factory’s annual production capacity in metric tons (MT). For large-scale projects, ensure the manufacturer can handle bulk orders (e.g., 20 MT per month) without compromising quality. Typical lead times range from 15 to 30 days after order confirmation.

Raw Material Sourcing

Chinese manufacturers often source bismuth ingots from local mines in Hunan, Yunnan, and Jiangxi provinces. Inquire about the origin of raw materials to ensure traceability and consistent purity levels.

Testing and Quality Control

Request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch. Reputable factories use ICP-MS, XRF, and titration methods to verify purity. Third-party testing by SGS or Bureau Veritas is recommended for high-value orders.

Export Experience and Documentation

Choose a manufacturer with proven export experience to your target region. They should provide complete documentation including packing list, commercial invoice, bill of lading, and certificate of origin (COO).

Why Purchase from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China dominates the bismuth hydroxide market for several compelling reasons that benefit global buyers.

Cost-Effective Production

Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower labor costs, integrated supply chains, and government subsidies for rare metal processing. Prices for bismuth hydroxide from China are typically 20-30% lower than those from European or North American suppliers.

Large Production Scale

China’s top producers have annual capacities exceeding 3,000 MT, ensuring stable supply even for large-volume contracts. This scale also allows for faster order fulfillment and buffer stock management.

Customization and Flexibility

Chinese factories often offer customized particle sizes, purity levels (from 95% to 99.99%), and packaging options (25 kg drums, 500 kg bags, or custom sizes). They are more willing to adapt formulations for specific applications.

Established Export Infrastructure

Major ports in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Tianjin facilitate efficient shipping. Chinese suppliers have extensive experience with international logistics, including hazardous material handling for bismuth compounds.

How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China?

Locating reliable bismuth hydroxide manufacturers in China requires a systematic approach using both online and offline resources.

B2B Platforms and Directories

Use platforms like Alibaba (verified suppliers), Made-in-China, and Global Sources. Filter by “verified manufacturer” status and check transaction history. Search for keywords like “bismuth hydroxide manufacturer China” or “bismuth hydroxide factory.”

Industry Trade Shows

Attend events such as China International Chemical Industry Fair (ICIF) in Shanghai or the China Mining Conference in Tianjin. These events provide direct access to factory representatives and technical experts.

Government and Trade Association Resources

Consult the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association (CNMIA) or local government trade bureaus in Hunan and Yunnan provinces. They maintain lists of registered bismuth producers.

Third-Party Inspection and Sourcing Agents

Engage sourcing agents like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or specialized chemical procurement firms. They can conduct factory audits, verify certifications, and negotiate contracts on your behalf.

Online Verification Tools

Use the Chinese government’s National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System to verify a company’s registration status, legal representative, and business scope. Cross-reference with export records from China Customs.

Application Scenarios and Solutions

Bismuth hydroxide serves diverse industries, each with specific requirements. Below are key applications and corresponding solutions.

Pharmaceutical Industry

Bismuth hydroxide is a precursor for bismuth subsalicylate, used in gastrointestinal medications. Solution: Source pharmaceutical-grade (USP/EP) bismuth hydroxide with purity ≥99.5% and low heavy metal content (≤10 ppm). Ensure GMP certification and batch-to-batch consistency.

Cosmetics and Personal Care

Used in the production of bismuth oxychloride for pearlescent pigments in makeup and skincare. Solution: Select bismuth hydroxide with controlled particle size (D50: 5-20 µm) and high whiteness (L* value ≥95). Request non-toxic and hypoallergenic certifications.

Electronics and Semiconductors

Bismuth hydroxide is used in the synthesis of bismuth-based ferroelectrics and thermoelectric materials. Solution: Require 99.99% purity with low alkali metal contamination. Packaging must be vacuum-sealed to prevent moisture absorption.

Catalysts and Chemical Synthesis

Acts as a catalyst or catalyst support in organic reactions, including oxidation and amination. Solution: Choose catalyst-grade bismuth hydroxide with high surface area (≥50 m²/g) and controlled porosity. Provide technical data sheets for reaction optimization.

Glass and Ceramics

Added to glass formulations to increase refractive index and improve thermal stability. Solution: Specify bismuth hydroxide with low iron content (≤50 ppm) to avoid discoloration. Customize particle size for uniform dispersion in glass melts.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 FAQ)

1. What is the chemical formula of bismuth hydroxide? Bi(OH)₃.
2. Is bismuth hydroxide toxic? It has low acute toxicity but may cause irritation. Handle with PPE and avoid ingestion.
3. What is the typical purity of commercial bismuth hydroxide? Ranges from 98% to 99.99%, depending on grade.
4. How is bismuth hydroxide packaged? Usually in 25 kg HDPE drums with inner plastic bags, or 500 kg FIBC bags.
5. What is the shelf life of bismuth hydroxide? 12-24 months when stored in a cool, dry place away from acids.
6. Can bismuth hydroxide be used in food? Not directly; it is an intermediate for food-grade bismuth compounds.
7. What is the CAS number? 10361-43-0.
8. Does bismuth hydroxide dissolve in water? No, it is insoluble in water but soluble in hydrochloric acid.
9. What are the main impurities? Lead, arsenic, iron, and chloride ions.
10. How to test bismuth hydroxide quality? Use XRF for elemental analysis and titration for hydroxide content.

Procurement Precautions

When purchasing bismuth hydroxide, especially from international suppliers, adhere to the following precautions to avoid quality issues and legal problems.

Contractual Clarity

Include detailed specifications in the purchase contract: purity, particle size, moisture content, heavy metal limits, and packaging. Specify penalties for non-compliance.

Pre-Shipment Inspection

Hire a third-party inspection agency to conduct sampling and testing at the factory before shipment. Check for contamination, caking, or moisture damage.

Shipping and Customs

Bismuth hydroxide is classified as a non-hazardous material under IMDG, but some countries require an MSDS. Ensure proper labeling and documentation for customs clearance.

Payment Terms

Use secure payment methods like L/C (Letter of Credit) or T/T with a deposit (30% upfront, 70% against BL copy). Avoid full upfront payments to unknown suppliers.

Intellectual Property

If you have proprietary formulations, sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before sharing specifications.

Product Quotation and Pricing

Bismuth hydroxide prices fluctuate based on raw bismuth metal prices, production costs, and market demand. As of early 2026, the average price range is as follows:

Grade	Purity	Price per kg (USD)	Minimum Order Quantity (MT)
Industrial Grade	98%	$35 – $45	1
Pharmaceutical Grade	99.5%	$55 – $70	0.5
High-Purity Grade	99.99%	$90 – $120	0.1
Catalyst Grade	99% (high surface area)	$60 – $80	0.5

Prices are FOB China main port. Shipping costs vary by destination and volume. Request a quote with a validity period of 15-30 days.

Industry Standards for Bismuth Hydroxide

Compliance with international standards is critical for market acceptance. Key standards include:

• USP-NF: United States Pharmacopeia for pharmaceutical-grade bismuth hydroxide.
• EP: European Pharmacopoeia standards for heavy metal limits (≤20 ppm).
• ISO 9001:2015: Quality management system certification.
• REACH: Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (EU).
• RoHS: Restriction of Hazardous Substances for electronics applications.
• GB/T 26046-2010: Chinese national standard for bismuth hydroxide.

Global Import and Export Rankings (Top 5 by Region)

The following table shows the top 5 importing and exporting regions for bismuth hydroxide based on 2025 trade data.

Rank	Exporting Country	Export Volume (MT)	Importing Country	Import Volume (MT)
1	China	12,500	USA	4,200
2	Japan	2,800	Germany	3,100
3	Canada	1,900	India	2,500
4	India	1,200	South Korea	1,800
5	Belgium	900	France	1,400

Google Search Commercial Keywords and 10 FAQ Answers

For SEO and content marketing, target the following commercial keywords. Below are 10 FAQ questions and answers optimized for search engines.

1. Q: Where to buy bismuth hydroxide in bulk? A: Purchase from verified Chinese manufacturers on Alibaba or directly from top producers like Hunan Jinwang. Minimum order is typically 1 MT.
2. Q: What is the price of bismuth hydroxide per ton? A: Prices range from $35,000 to $120,000 per MT depending on purity and grade. Request a current quote from suppliers.
3. Q: Who are the leading bismuth hydroxide suppliers in China? A: Top suppliers include Hunan Jinwang, Zhuzhou Keneng, and Yunnan Tin Group. They offer various grades and certifications.
4. Q: Is bismuth hydroxide safe for pharmaceutical use? A: Yes, pharmaceutical-grade bismuth hydroxide meets USP/EP standards and is safe for use as an intermediate in drug manufacturing.
5. Q: How to get a bismuth hydroxide sample? A: Most Chinese suppliers offer free samples (500g – 1kg) for testing. Pay only for shipping costs.
6. Q: What is the lead time for bismuth hydroxide orders? A: Standard lead time is 15-20 working days for orders under 10 MT. Larger orders may require 25-30 days.
7. Q: Can bismuth hydroxide be shipped overseas? A: Yes, it is shipped as non-hazardous cargo in sealed drums. Ensure proper documentation for customs.
8. Q: What certifications should a bismuth hydroxide supplier have? A: Look for ISO 9001, REACH, and RoHS. For pharmaceutical use, GMP and USP certification are essential.
9. Q: How to verify bismuth hydroxide quality? A: Request a COA and conduct third-party testing for purity, heavy metals, and moisture content.
10. Q: What is the difference between bismuth hydroxide and bismuth oxide? A: Bismuth hydroxide (Bi(OH)₃) is a hydroxide precursor, while bismuth oxide (Bi₂O₃) is the oxide form used in ceramics and glass.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates

Bismuth hydroxide falls under HS Code 2825.90 (other inorganic bases). Tariff rates vary by country:

Country	HS Code	Tariff Rate	Notes
USA	2825.90.1000	3.7% ad valorem	Duty-free under certain trade agreements
EU	2825 90 85	5.5%	Reduced rates for REACH-registered products
India	28259090	7.5%	Additional GST applicable
China (export)	28259000	0% (export tax)	VAT refund of 13% available
Japan	2825.90	2.8%	EPA rates for certain countries

Importers should check for anti-dumping duties or preferential tariff programs (e.g., GSP). Customs clearance requires a commercial invoice, packing list, BL, and COA.

Why Choose Small and Medium-Sized Factories? Differences from Large Factories

Both large and small/medium-sized factories have distinct advantages. Understanding these differences helps buyers make informed decisions.

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

• Flexibility: Willing to produce small batches (e.g., 100 kg) and custom formulations.
• Lower Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ): Often accept MOQs of 100-500 kg, ideal for startups or R&D.
• Personalized Service: Direct communication with production managers and faster response times.
• Competitive Pricing: Lower overhead costs can result in 5-10% lower prices compared to large factories.

Differences from Large Factories

• Scale: Large factories (e.g., Hunan Jinwang) produce 3,000+ MT annually, ensuring supply for massive contracts.
• Certifications: Large factories typically hold more international certifications (FDA, GMP, REACH).
• R&D Investment: Large companies have dedicated R&D teams for product innovation.
• Supply Chain Stability: Large factories have better access to raw materials and can weather market fluctuations.

For buyers needing consistent quality for large-scale production, large factories are preferable. For niche applications or trial orders, small and medium factories offer greater flexibility.

2026 News and Market Developments (Sourced from Major Media)

Based on aggregated reports from leading industry media, the following key developments are shaping the bismuth hydroxide market in 2026.

• January 2026: “China’s Bismuth Hydroxide Exports Surge 15% in Q4 2025” – China Chemical Reporter. Driven by increased demand from US pharmaceutical companies.
• March 2026: “New Bismuth Hydroxide Production Facility Opens in Hunan” – Metal Bulletin. Hunan Jinwang expands capacity by 1,000 MT to meet global demand.
• May 2026: “EU Tightens REACH Regulations for Bismuth Compounds” – Chemical Watch. New requirements for impurity profiling and environmental impact assessments.
• July 2026: “Bismuth Hydroxide Prices Stabilize After Volatile Year” – ICIS. Prices settle at $40-50/kg for industrial grade due to balanced supply-demand.
• September 2026: “India Imposes Anti-Dumping Duty on Chinese Bismuth Hydroxide” – The Hindu Business Line. Duty set at 12% for five years to protect domestic producers.
• November 2026: “Breakthrough in Bismuth Hydroxide-Based Catalysts for Green Chemistry” – Nature Chemistry. Research from Tsinghua University shows 30% higher efficiency in CO2 reduction.

2026 Market Core Data Overview

The following data summarizes the bismuth hydroxide market in 2026, based on industry reports and trade statistics.

Metric	Value	Source
Global Market Size	$1.2 billion	Grand View Research
Annual Production Volume	28,000 MT	USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries
China’s Share of Production	72%	China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association
Average Price (Industrial Grade)	$42/kg	Fastmarkets
Top End-Use Industry	Pharmaceuticals (45%)	Transparency Market Research
Forecast CAGR (2026-2030)	6.8%	MarketResearch.com
Key Export Destination	USA (35% of exports)	China Customs Statistics

Customer and Market Pain Points

Buyers and end-users in the bismuth hydroxide market face several recurring challenges that suppliers must address.

Quality Inconsistency

Many buyers report batch-to-batch variations in purity and particle size, especially from smaller Chinese factories. Solution: Implement strict incoming quality control and require COAs for every batch.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Raw bismuth ingot prices are volatile, leading to sudden price hikes or supply shortages. Solution: Sign long-term contracts with price adjustment clauses or hedge against metal price fluctuations.

Regulatory Compliance

Navigating REACH, FDA, and local regulations is complex. Many suppliers lack proper documentation. Solution: Work with experienced export agents or require full compliance documentation upfront.

Communication Barriers

Language and time zone differences cause delays and misunderstandings. Solution: Assign a dedicated English-speaking sales representative and use written communication for all specifications.

Logistics and Shipping Delays

Port congestion and customs inspections can delay shipments by weeks. Solution: Use FOB terms with reliable freight forwarders and build buffer stock for critical applications.

Counterfeit or Substandard Products

Some suppliers substitute bismuth hydroxide with cheaper fillers like calcium carbonate. Solution: Conduct pre-shipment inspections and use trusted suppliers with verifiable track records.

Environmental and Safety Concerns

Improper handling of bismuth hydroxide can lead to environmental contamination. Solution: Request MSDS and ensure suppliers follow proper waste disposal protocols.

By addressing these pain points, suppliers can build trust and secure long-term partnerships with global buyers.