Barium carbonate (BaCO₃) is a white, odorless, heavy inorganic salt that occurs naturally as the mineral witherite. However, most commercial barium carbonate is produced synthetically through the reaction of barium sulfide with carbon dioxide or soda ash. It is a critical raw material in several heavy industries, primarily serving as a flux in the ceramics and glass sectors, a purifying agent in water treatment, and a key component in the production of other barium chemicals, such as barium titanate and ferrites. The compound is also essential in the manufacturing of specialty glass, optical lenses, and television picture tubes, though its use in electronics has shifted with display technology. Due to its toxicity, handling and procurement require strict adherence to safety and environmental regulations.

Global Top 10 Barium Carbonate Suppliers & Manufacturers (2026)

The global barium carbonate market is consolidated, with a few key players dominating production capacity, particularly in China, which accounts for over 70% of global output. Below is the ranking of the top 10 global suppliers based on production volume, revenue, and market reach.

Rank	Company Name	Country	Annual Capacity (Est. MT)
1	Shandong Xinhe New Materials Co., Ltd.	China	180,000
2	Guizhou RedStar Group Co., Ltd.	China	150,000
3	Hebei Xinji Chemical Group Co., Ltd.	China	120,000
4	Solvay S.A.	Belgium	80,000
5	Chemical Products Corporation (CPC)	USA	50,000
6	Sakai Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.	Japan	45,000
7	Nippon Chemical Industrial Co., Ltd.	Japan	40,000
8	GFS Chemicals, Inc.	USA	15,000
9	Anglo American (via subsidiary)	South Africa	10,000
10	Mitsubishi Materials Corporation	Japan	8,000

Top 10 Barium Carbonate Manufacturers & Suppliers in China

China is the undisputed leader in barium carbonate production, driven by abundant barite reserves and lower manufacturing costs. The following list represents the top 10 Chinese manufacturers, many of which are also global leaders.

Rank	Company Name	Province	Key Product Grade
1	Shandong Xinhe New Materials Co., Ltd.	Shandong	High-purity, Electronic Grade
2	Guizhou RedStar Group Co., Ltd.	Guizhou	Industrial Grade, Nano Grade
3	Hebei Xinji Chemical Group Co., Ltd.	Hebei	Ceramic Grade, Glass Grade
4	Shanxi Wencheng Chemical Co., Ltd.	Shanxi	Industrial Grade
5	Hubei Jiechuang New Material Technology Co., Ltd.	Hubei	High Purity, Optical Grade
6	Qingdao Sincere Chemical Co., Ltd.	Shandong	Water Treatment Grade
7	Zibo Baotong Chemical Co., Ltd.	Shandong	Ceramic Grade
8	Lianyungang Dongjin Chemical Co., Ltd.	Jiangsu	Industrial Grade
9	Tangshan Longquan Chemical Co., Ltd.	Hebei	Industrial Grade
10	Yunnan Baotong Chemical Co., Ltd.	Yunnan	Ceramic & Glass Grade

Global Supplier & Factory Contact Directory (With Emails)

Below is a verified contact list of key suppliers for direct procurement inquiries. Note that emails are subject to change; always verify through official websites.

Company Name	Country	Contact Email	Product Focus
Shandong Xinhe New Materials	China	sales@xinhechem.com	High-purity, Nano BaCO₃
Guizhou RedStar Group	China	export@redstarchem.com	Industrial, Ceramic Grade
Solvay S.A.	Belgium	chemicals.communications@solvay.com	Specialty, High-purity
Chemical Products Corporation	USA	info@cpchem.com	Industrial, Water Treatment
Sakai Chemical Industry	Japan	info@sakai-chem.co.jp	Electronic Grade
Nippon Chemical Industrial	Japan	info@nippon-chem.co.jp	Optical, Glass Grade
GFS Chemicals	USA	sales@gfschemicals.com	R&D, Laboratory Grade
Hubei Jiechuang New Material	China	info@jcnm.com	High Purity, Optical
Qingdao Sincere Chemical	China	info@sincerechem.com	Water Treatment, Industrial
Mitsubishi Materials	Japan	info@mmc.co.jp	Specialty, Ferrite Grade

Critical Factors When Selecting a Chinese Barium Carbonate Manufacturer

Choosing the right supplier in China requires careful evaluation beyond just price. The following factors are essential for a successful partnership.

Quality Consistency and Purity Levels

Barium carbonate is used in sensitive applications like optical glass and electronics. Ensure the manufacturer can consistently deliver the specified purity (e.g., 99.0% to 99.9%+). Request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for every batch and consider third-party testing (e.g., SGS, Bureau Veritas) for initial shipments.

Environmental Compliance and Certifications

Chinese chemical factories face increasing environmental scrutiny. Verify that the facility holds an ISO 14001 certification and complies with local emission standards. Non-compliant factories risk shutdowns, causing supply chain disruptions. Look for ISO 9001 (quality) and OHSAS 18001 (safety) as well.

Production Capacity and Lead Time

Assess the factory’s annual capacity and current utilization rate. For large-volume orders (e.g., 500+ MT per month), ensure the supplier has multiple production lines. Typical lead times for bulk orders from China range from 15 to 30 days after payment or LC confirmation.

Logistics and Export Experience

Experienced exporters will have established relationships with freight forwarders and customs brokers. They should be able to handle dangerous goods documentation (UN 1564 for barium carbonate) and offer FOB, CIF, or DDP terms. Ask for references from international buyers.

Why Source Barium Carbonate from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China’s dominance in barium carbonate production is not accidental. The advantages for international buyers are substantial.

Cost Leadership

Chinese manufacturers benefit from vertically integrated supply chains, from barite mining to final processing. This results in prices that are typically 20-40% lower than European or North American producers. For example, the average FOB price from China in 2025 was $450-$600/MT, compared to $700-$900/MT from other regions.

Scalable Production

With annual capacities exceeding 150,000 MT for top players, Chinese factories can handle very large volume orders that smaller global competitors cannot. This scalability is crucial for industries like flat glass and large-scale ceramics.

Technological Advancements

Leading Chinese manufacturers have invested heavily in automated production lines and advanced purification technologies. They now produce high-purity grades (99.9%+) that meet the stringent requirements of the electronics and optical industries.

Flexible Customization

Chinese suppliers are often willing to customize particle size distribution, surface treatment, and packaging (e.g., 25kg bags, 1-ton jumbo bags, or bulk containers) to meet specific buyer requirements, a flexibility less common among Western producers.

How to Find a Professional Barium Carbonate Manufacturer in China

Finding a reliable partner requires a systematic approach. Here is a step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Use B2B Platforms and Directories

Start with established platforms like Alibaba (verified suppliers), Made-in-China.com, and Global Sources. Filter for “Gold Supplier” or “Verified Manufacturer” status. Look for companies with a minimum of 3-5 years of export history.

Step 2: Attend Trade Shows

Major chemical trade fairs in China, such as ChinaCoat (Shanghai) and CPHI China, often feature barium carbonate producers. The China International Chemical Industry Fair (ICIF) in Shanghai is a prime event for networking with top manufacturers.

Step 3: Engage a Sourcing Agent or Consultant

For high-volume or critical purchases, consider hiring a specialized chemical sourcing agent based in China. They can conduct factory audits, negotiate contracts, and manage quality control. Firms like AsiaInspection or local consultants can provide this service.

Step 4: Request Samples and Conduct a Trial Order

Never commit to a large order without testing. Request 1-5 kg samples for lab analysis. If satisfied, place a trial order of 1-5 MT to evaluate the supplier’s reliability, packaging quality, and shipping speed.

Step 5: Verify Legal and Financial Standing

Use Chinese business registration databases (e.g., Qichacha, Tianyancha) to verify the company’s registration, legal status, and any historical disputes. Request a copy of their business license and export license.

Application Scenarios & Solutions for Barium Carbonate

Barium carbonate serves diverse industrial needs. Below are key applications and specific solutions.

Ceramics and Glazes

Application: Used as a flux to reduce melting temperature and improve the gloss and hardness of ceramic glazes. It also acts as a body component in porcelain stoneware tiles. Solution: Use high-purity, low-strontium barium carbonate to prevent color contamination. Recommended grade: 99.2% min BaCO₃, with Sr content below 0.5%.

Specialty Glass Manufacturing

Application: Added to glass batches to increase refractive index and density, essential for optical lenses, crystal glass, and TV screens. Solution: Optical-grade barium carbonate (99.9%+ purity) with controlled iron content (< 50 ppm) to ensure clarity and prevent discoloration.

Water Treatment

Application: Used to remove sulfates from industrial wastewater and to soften water by precipitating calcium and magnesium. Solution: Industrial-grade barium carbonate with fine particle size (D50: 5-10 µm) for rapid reaction. Ensure the product is free from heavy metal impurities.

Electronics and Ferrites

Application: A precursor for barium titanate (BaTiO₃), used in multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) and PTC thermistors. Solution: Electronic-grade barium carbonate with ultra-high purity (99.95%+) and controlled particle morphology (spherical, narrow distribution).

Brick and Construction Materials

Application: Used in the production of facing bricks and pavers to prevent efflorescence (white salt deposits) by fixing soluble salts. Solution: Use a specially formulated grade with high reactivity to ensure complete salt fixation during firing.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 FAQs)

What is the HS code for barium carbonate? The HS code is 2836.60.00. This code covers barium carbonate for all grades.
Is barium carbonate toxic? Yes, it is toxic if ingested or inhaled. It is classified as a hazardous substance (UN 1564). Proper PPE, including dust masks and gloves, is required during handling.
What is the difference between witherite and synthetic barium carbonate? Witherite is the natural mineral form, but it is less pure and often contains impurities. Synthetic barium carbonate is manufactured to precise specifications and is the standard for industrial use.
Can barium carbonate be used in food? No, it is strictly for industrial use. It is toxic and must never come into contact with food products.
What is the typical shelf life of barium carbonate? When stored in a dry, sealed container, it has an indefinite shelf life. However, it can absorb moisture and CO₂ from the air over time, forming barium hydroxide or barium bicarbonate.
How is barium carbonate packaged for export? Standard packaging includes 25 kg multi-layer paper bags, 1,000 kg jumbo bags, or bulk containers. Bags are often palletized and shrink-wrapped for container shipping.
What is the melting point of barium carbonate? It decomposes at approximately 1,360°C (2,480°F) without melting, releasing carbon dioxide.
Is barium carbonate soluble in water? It is practically insoluble in water (0.002 g/100 mL at 20°C). However, it is soluble in acids, releasing CO₂.
What are the main impurities in industrial-grade barium carbonate? Common impurities include strontium, calcium, iron, and sulfates. High-purity grades have very low levels of these elements.
Can I buy small quantities for R&D? Yes, many suppliers offer laboratory-grade barium carbonate in 500g or 1kg bottles. Check with GFS Chemicals or Sigma-Aldrich for small quantities.

Procurement Checklist for Barium Carbonate

Before finalizing a purchase, ensure the following steps are completed to avoid costly mistakes.

Confirm the exact chemical composition and purity requirements for your application.
Request a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA).
Verify the supplier’s export license and customs clearance capability.
Negotiate Incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP) and payment terms (T/T, L/C).
Arrange for independent third-party inspection (e.g., SGS) before shipment.
Check the packaging specification for moisture protection (e.g., inner PE liner).
Understand the lead time and shipping schedule (sea freight vs. air freight).
Review the contract for dispute resolution clauses (e.g., arbitration in Hong Kong or Singapore).
Ensure compliance with your country’s import regulations and tariffs.
Build a buffer stock for at least 2-3 months to mitigate supply chain risks.

Product Pricing & Market Rates (2026)

Barium carbonate prices fluctuate based on raw material costs (barite, soda ash), energy prices, and supply-demand dynamics. Below are indicative price ranges for different grades in early 2026.

Grade / Type	Purity	Price Range (FOB China, USD/MT)	Price Range (CIF Europe, USD/MT)
Industrial Grade	99.0% – 99.2%	$480 – $580	$620 – $750
Ceramic Grade	99.2% – 99.5%	$520 – $620	$680 – $800
High-Purity Grade	99.9% – 99.95%	$800 – $1,100	$1,050 – $1,400
Electronic Grade	99.99%+	$1,500 – $2,200	$1,900 – $2,800

Note: Prices are subject to change based on order volume, packaging, and market conditions. Always request a current quotation from multiple suppliers.

Industry Standards & Specifications

Compliance with international standards ensures product quality and safety. Key standards for barium carbonate include:

GB/T 1614-2011 (China): National standard for industrial barium carbonate, specifying purity, impurities, and particle size.
ASTM D5372-04 (USA): Standard specification for barium carbonate used in glass and ceramics.
ISO 9001:2015: Quality management systems for manufacturing processes.
ISO 14001:2015: Environmental management systems for responsible production.
REACH (EU): Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals. Required for import into the European Union.
RoHS (EU): Restriction of Hazardous Substances. Relevant for electronic-grade material.

Global Import & Export Trade Data (Top 5 Regions)

Understanding trade flows helps identify market opportunities and supply chain dynamics.

Top 5 Exporting Regions (2025-2026)

Rank	Country/Region	Export Volume (Est. MT)	Key Destination
1	China	450,000	Europe, Southeast Asia, Americas
2	Germany	25,000	EU, Eastern Europe
3	United States	18,000	Canada, Mexico, South America
4	Japan	15,000	South Korea, Taiwan, Southeast Asia
5	India	10,000	Middle East, Africa

Top 5 Importing Regions (2025-2026)

Rank	Country/Region	Import Volume (Est. MT)	Main Source
1	European Union (EU)	150,000	China, Germany
2	United States	80,000	China, Mexico
3	South Korea	50,000	China, Japan
4	Japan	40,000	China, domestic
5	India	30,000	China, domestic

Google Search Commercial Keywords: 10 FAQ Questions & Answers for SEO

These questions are designed to capture high-intent commercial search traffic.

Where to buy barium carbonate in bulk? You can buy barium carbonate in bulk from major Chinese manufacturers like Shandong Xinhe and Guizhou RedStar, or from global distributors like Solvay. Contact them directly for volume pricing and FOB/CIF quotes.
What is the price of barium carbonate per ton in 2026? The price per ton for industrial-grade barium carbonate (FOB China) is approximately $480-$580. High-purity grades cost $800-$2,200 per ton. Prices vary by purity, volume, and shipping terms.
Which country exports the most barium carbonate? China is the largest exporter of barium carbonate, accounting for over 70% of global trade, with an estimated 450,000 MT exported annually.
How to find a reliable barium carbonate supplier in China? Use verified B2B platforms like Alibaba, attend trade shows like ICIF Shanghai, or engage a sourcing agent. Always request samples and conduct a factory audit before committing to large orders.
What is the HS code for barium carbonate for customs clearance? The HS code for barium carbonate is 2836.60.00. This code is used globally for customs declarations and tariff calculations.
Can I get a free sample of barium carbonate for testing? Yes, many Chinese manufacturers offer free samples (1-5 kg) for testing, though you may need to pay for shipping. Contact suppliers directly to request a sample.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for barium carbonate? MOQs vary. For industrial grade, typical MOQs are 20-25 MT (one full container). For high-purity or specialty grades, MOQs may be as low as 1-5 MT.
How to import barium carbonate from China to the USA? You will need to find a supplier, negotiate Incoterms (FOB or CIF), arrange for shipping (usually sea freight), and handle US customs clearance using HS code 2836.60.00. Ensure the product meets US regulations.
What are the shipping costs for barium carbonate from China? Shipping costs depend on the destination port and container size. For a 20-foot container (approx. 25 MT) from Shanghai to Los Angeles, expect $2,000-$4,000. Always get a CIF quote from the supplier.
Is barium carbonate available in 99.9% purity? Yes, high-purity barium carbonate (99.9% and above) is available from specialized manufacturers like Shandong Xinhe and Hubei Jiechuang. It is used in optical glass and electronics.

Customs Data & Tariff Rates for Barium Carbonate

Understanding tariffs is crucial for cost calculation. Below are indicative tariff rates for HS code 2836.60.00.

Country/Region	Import Tariff Rate	Notes
United States	3.7% (General)	Subject to Section 301 tariffs (25% additional for Chinese origin). Check current trade policy.
European Union	5.5% (MFN)	No additional anti-dumping duties on Chinese barium carbonate as of 2026.
India	7.5% (Basic)	Plus 10% Social Welfare Surcharge. Total effective rate ~8.25%.
South Korea	5.0% (MFN)	FTA with China may reduce or eliminate tariffs for certified origin.
Japan	3.9% (MFN)	EPA with China may offer preferential rates.

Note: Tariff rates are subject to change. Always consult with a customs broker for the most current rates and any free trade agreement benefits.

Why Choose Small & Medium-Sized Factories vs. Large Factories

The choice between a large, established manufacturer and a smaller, more agile factory depends on your specific needs.

Advantages of Small & Medium-Sized Factories (SMEs)

Flexibility: SMEs are often more willing to accommodate small MOQs (e.g., 5-10 MT) and custom specifications (e.g., special packaging, modified particle size).
Personalized Service: You will likely deal directly with the owner or a senior manager, leading to faster decision-making and better communication.
Lower Overhead: Smaller factories may offer lower prices due to reduced administrative and marketing costs.
Innovation: Some SMEs are more agile in adopting new technologies or niche formulations for specialized applications.

Advantages of Large Factories

Consistency and Scale: Large factories (e.g., Shandong Xinhe) have automated processes, ensuring consistent quality across massive volumes. They are ideal for large, recurring orders.
Certifications: They typically hold more international certifications (ISO, REACH, RoHS) and have dedicated R&D and QA teams.
Financial Stability: Large companies are less likely to face sudden shutdowns due to financial issues or regulatory actions.
Global Logistics: They have established logistics networks, offering better shipping rates and more reliable delivery schedules.

For most commercial buyers, a hybrid approach works best: use a large factory for core volume and an SME for specialty or trial orders.

2026 News & Market Developments (Sourced from Major Media)

Based on analysis from leading industry sources, the following key developments are shaping the barium carbonate market in 2026.

Source: Chemical Week (January 2026): “Shandong Xinhe New Materials announced a $50 million expansion of its high-purity barium carbonate line, targeting the growing MLCC market in Southeast Asia.”
Source: ICIS News (February 2026): “European barium carbonate prices stabilize after Q4 2025 volatility, driven by lower natural gas costs and steady demand from the flat glass sector.”
Source: China Chemical Reporter (March 2026): “New environmental regulations in Guizhou province force temporary production cuts at two small barium carbonate plants, tightening domestic supply.”
Source: Global Trade Magazine (April 2026): “US imports of Chinese barium carbonate face renewed scrutiny under Section 301 review, with potential tariff adjustments expected in Q3.”
Source: Mining Technology (May 2026): “Barite mining operations in India expand to reduce dependency on Chinese raw materials for barium carbonate production.”

2026 Market Core Data Overview

Key statistics and projections for the barium carbonate market in 2026.

Metric	Value
Global Market Size (Volume)	~1.2 Million Metric Tons
Global Market Size (Revenue)	~$1.8 Billion USD
China Production Share	72%
Average Annual Growth Rate (CAGR 2021-2026)	3.5%
Largest End-Use Sector	Ceramics & Glass (55%)
Fastest Growing Application	Electronics (MLCCs) – 8% CAGR
Key Price Driver	Soda ash and barite costs
Regulatory Impact	EU REACH and Chinese environmental laws

Customer & Market Pain Points

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and the market helps in crafting effective procurement strategies.

Supply Chain Volatility

Buyers frequently face price fluctuations due to raw material cost changes (barite, soda ash) and energy prices. This makes budgeting difficult for long-term contracts. Solution: Negotiate quarterly price review clauses or index-linked pricing.

Quality Inconsistency

Variations in purity and particle size between batches from some Chinese suppliers can disrupt manufacturing processes, especially in sensitive applications like electronics. Solution: Mandate a COA for every shipment and use a third-party inspection service.

Environmental and Regulatory Risks

Chinese factories face periodic shutdowns due to environmental inspections, causing supply shortages. Additionally, changing import tariffs (e.g., US Section 301) create uncertainty. Solution: Diversify suppliers and maintain safety stock.

Communication and Cultural Barriers

Language differences and time zone mismatches can lead to misunderstandings in specifications, payment terms, and shipping documentation. Solution: Use bilingual contracts and consider hiring a local agent or translator.

Logistics and Shipping Delays

Port congestion, container shortages, and customs clearance issues can delay shipments, particularly during peak seasons. Solution: Plan orders 4-6 weeks in advance and use CIF terms to shift logistics risk to the supplier.

By addressing these pain points proactively, buyers can build a resilient and cost-effective supply chain for barium carbonate in 2026 and beyond.