nitric acid

Nitric acid (HNO₃) is a highly corrosive and toxic strong mineral acid. It is a colorless liquid when pure, but older samples often acquire a yellow cast due to the accumulation of oxides of nitrogen. As one of the most important industrial chemicals, nitric acid serves as a key raw material for the production of ammonium nitrate, a primary component in fertilizers. Beyond agriculture, it is indispensable in the manufacturing of explosives, such as TNT and nitroglycerin, and in the production of adipic acid for nylon. Its oxidizing properties make it essential in metal etching, pickling, and the purification of precious metals like gold and silver. The global nitric acid market is a multi-billion dollar industry, driven by agricultural demand and industrial expansion. This article provides a deep dive into the global supply chain, key manufacturers, procurement strategies, and market dynamics for 2026.

Global Top 10 Nitric Acid Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global nitric acid market is dominated by a mix of multinational chemical conglomerates and specialized regional producers. The following list represents the top 10 manufacturers based on production capacity, revenue, and global reach.

Yara International (Norway) – The world’s largest producer, with massive integrated ammonia and nitric acid facilities.
BASF SE (Germany) – A leading chemical company with significant nitric acid production for captive use in fertilizers and chemicals.
CF Industries Holdings, Inc. (USA) – A major North American producer, focusing on nitrogen fertilizers and industrial nitric acid.
Nutrien Ltd. (Canada) – A global leader in crop inputs, producing nitric acid for ammonium nitrate and urea ammonium nitrate.
EuroChem Group AG (Switzerland) – A vertically integrated fertilizer producer with large-scale nitric acid plants in Russia and Europe.
OCI N.V. (Netherlands) – A major producer of nitrogen fertilizers and industrial chemicals, including nitric acid.
Uralchem (Russia) – One of the largest producers of nitrogen fertilizers in Russia and the CIS region.
Acron Group (Russia) – A significant player in the global nitrogen fertilizer market with substantial nitric acid capacity.
Incitec Pivot Limited (Australia) – A key supplier in the Asia-Pacific region, producing nitric acid for mining explosives and agriculture.
Koch Fertilizer, LLC (USA) – A major player in the North American nitrogen market, with extensive nitric acid production capabilities.

Top 10 Nitric Acid Suppliers and Manufacturers in China

China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of nitric acid. The following companies are the leading domestic manufacturers, many of which also export globally.

China National Chemical Corporation (ChemChina) – A state-owned giant with multiple nitric acid production bases across the country.
Hubei Yihua Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. – A major producer in central China, focusing on ammonium nitrate and nitric acid.
Shandong Hualu-Hengsheng Chemical Co., Ltd. – A leading nitrogen fertilizer producer with advanced nitric acid technology.
Sichuan Lutianhua Co., Ltd. – A historic manufacturer with a strong presence in the southwestern Chinese market.
Henan Xinlianxin Chemical Group Co., Ltd. – A rapidly growing producer with integrated coal-to-nitric acid capabilities.
Yunnan Yuntianhua Co., Ltd. – A key player in the southwest, producing nitric acid for both fertilizer and industrial use.
Anhui Huayi Chemical Co., Ltd. – A specialized producer of industrial-grade nitric acid for the electronics and metal processing sectors.
Jiangxi Black Cat Carbon Black Co., Ltd. – A diversified chemical company with significant nitric acid production capacity.
Inner Mongolia Yuan Xing Energy Co., Ltd. – A low-cost producer leveraging local coal resources for nitric acid synthesis.
Liaoning Huajin Chemical Industry Group Co., Ltd. – A major producer in the northeast, supplying nitric acid to the domestic and export markets.

Global Supplier and Factory Profile Table with Contact Emails

Below is a detailed table of representative global and Chinese suppliers, including contact information for procurement inquiries. Please note that email addresses are for general business inquiries and may require verification.

Company Name	Country	Product Grade	Annual Capacity (Metric Tons)	Contact Email
Yara International	Norway	Industrial & Fertilizer	8,000,000+	procurement@yara.com
BASF SE	Germany	Industrial & High Purity	2,500,000+	info@basf.com
CF Industries	USA	Fertilizer & Industrial	5,000,000+	sales@cfindustries.com
Nutrien Ltd.	Canada	Fertilizer Grade	4,000,000+	corporate@nutrien.com
EuroChem Group	Switzerland	Fertilizer & Industrial	3,000,000+	info@eurochem.com
ChemChina	China	Industrial & Fertilizer	6,000,000+	export@chemchina.com
Hubei Yihua	China	Fertilizer & Industrial	1,500,000+	yhchemical@yihua.cn
Shandong Hualu-Hengsheng	China	Industrial Grade	1,200,000+	trade@hlhs.com.cn
Sichuan Lutianhua	China	Fertilizer Grade	900,000+	lth@lth.com.cn
Incitec Pivot	Australia	Industrial & Mining	1,000,000+	info@incitecpivot.com.au

Key Factors When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer

Choosing the right nitric acid manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation of several critical factors to ensure product quality, supply stability, and regulatory compliance.

Production Technology and Scale

Assess whether the manufacturer uses advanced dual-pressure or mono-pressure processes. Large-scale producers often have lower unit costs and more consistent quality. Verify the plant’s annual capacity and utilization rates.

Quality Control and Certifications

Request certificates of analysis (COA) for recent batches. Look for ISO 9001 quality management certification. For high-purity applications, ensure the supplier meets specific impurity limits for heavy metals, chlorides, and sulfates.

Logistics and Export Experience

Evaluate the supplier’s experience with international shipping, including hazardous material handling. Check if they have a dedicated export department and can provide necessary documentation like MSDS, shipping manifests, and certificates of origin.

Financial Stability and Reputation

Conduct a credit check through agencies like Dun & Bradstreet or local Chinese equivalents. Request references from other international buyers. A stable financial background reduces the risk of supply disruption.

Compliance with Environmental Regulations

China has strict environmental laws. Ensure the manufacturer has valid environmental permits and a track record of compliance. Non-compliance can lead to sudden plant shutdowns, affecting your supply chain.

Why Purchase from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China has become the world’s workshop for chemical production, and nitric acid is no exception. The advantages of sourcing from China are compelling.

Cost-Effectiveness

Chinese manufacturers benefit from economies of scale, lower labor costs, and integrated supply chains for raw materials like ammonia and coal. This translates to significantly lower prices compared to Western producers, often by 15-30%.

Large and Diverse Production Base

With hundreds of producers, China offers a wide range of grades, from concentrated (98%) to dilute (60%) nitric acid. This diversity allows buyers to find a product that precisely matches their technical specifications.

Flexibility in Packaging and Logistics

Chinese suppliers are highly adaptable to customer requirements, offering various packaging options such as IBC totes, drums, and ISO tank containers. They have extensive experience in handling hazardous chemical logistics for global export.

Continuous Innovation and Investment

Major Chinese chemical companies are investing heavily in technology upgrades, including energy-efficient processes and emission control systems. This results in higher product purity and more sustainable production.

Established Export Infrastructure

China’s major ports, such as Shanghai, Ningbo, and Tianjin, have dedicated facilities for handling hazardous chemicals. This ensures efficient and safe loading and shipping to destinations worldwide.

How to Find Specialized Manufacturers in China?

Locating a reliable nitric acid manufacturer in China requires a strategic approach. Here are the most effective methods.

Leverage B2B Platforms

Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources are primary platforms. Use specific keywords like “industrial nitric acid manufacturer,” “concentrated nitric acid supplier,” or “high purity HNO3 China.” Filter by verified suppliers and check their transaction history.

Attend Industry Trade Shows

Events like ChinaChem (Shanghai) and the China International Chemical Industry Fair are excellent venues to meet suppliers face-to-face, inspect product samples, and build relationships. These shows typically feature hundreds of chemical manufacturers.

Engage Third-Party Inspection Services

Companies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, and TÜV Rheinland offer supplier audits and product inspection services in China. They can verify the manufacturer’s capabilities, quality control systems, and production capacity on your behalf.

Utilize Government and Trade Association Resources

The China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation (CPCIF) maintains directories of member companies. Local government investment promotion agencies can also provide lists of licensed chemical producers in their regions.

Direct Factory Visits and Audits

If possible, visit the factory personally or send a trusted representative. A physical audit allows you to assess the plant’s condition, safety protocols, and operational efficiency firsthand. This is the most reliable method for vetting a supplier.

Application Scenarios and Solutions

Nitric acid is a versatile chemical with applications across numerous industries. Below are key scenarios and the solutions provided by specific grades of nitric acid.

Fertilizer Production

Application: Production of ammonium nitrate (AN) and calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) fertilizers. Solution: Use 60-70% nitric acid in a neutralization reaction with ammonia. This is the largest volume application, accounting for over 75% of global nitric acid consumption.

Explosives and Mining

Application: Manufacturing of ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO) and water gel explosives. Solution: High-concentration nitric acid (98%) is used to produce ammonium nitrate prills, which are then mixed with fuel oil for blasting in mining and quarrying.

Metal Processing and Etching

Application: Pickling of stainless steel, etching of copper and aluminum, and passivation of metal surfaces. Solution: A mixture of nitric acid and hydrofluoric acid (aqua regia) is used for stainless steel pickling. For electronics, high-purity nitric acid (99.999%) is required for wafer cleaning.

Chemical Synthesis

Application: Production of adipic acid (for nylon), nitrobenzene (for aniline), and toluene diisocyanate (for polyurethane). Solution: Nitric acid acts as a nitrating agent. Precise control of concentration and temperature is critical to achieve high yields and minimize by-products.

Precious Metal Refining

Application: Dissolving gold, silver, and platinum from ores and scrap. Solution: Aqua regia, a 3:1 mixture of hydrochloric acid and nitric acid, is used to dissolve gold. Nitric acid alone is used to separate silver from gold in the refining process.

Procurement Considerations

Procuring nitric acid involves navigating complex regulatory, safety, and logistical challenges. Key considerations include:

Regulatory Compliance

Nitric acid is a controlled substance in many countries due to its use in explosives. Ensure your supplier and your own company have the necessary licenses and permits for purchase, storage, and transport. In the US, the DHS regulates it under the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS). In the EU, it falls under REACH regulations.

Contract Terms and Pricing

Given price volatility, consider long-term contracts with price adjustment clauses linked to ammonia or natural gas indices. For spot purchases, request quotes from multiple suppliers and compare on a delivered cost basis, including freight, insurance, and duties.

Quality Assurance

Define clear acceptance criteria in your purchase order. Require a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each shipment. Consider using a third-party laboratory for independent testing, especially for high-purity grades.

Logistics and Packaging

Specify packaging requirements (e.g., 20-liter carboys, 200-liter drums, 1000-liter IBC totes, or ISO tanks). Ensure the supplier uses proper hazardous material labeling and that the shipping company is licensed to transport corrosive chemicals.

Payment Terms

Standard terms for international transactions are often 30% to 50% upfront with the balance against shipping documents (L/C or T/T). For new suppliers, consider using a letter of credit (L/C) to mitigate risk.

Product Quotation

Pricing for nitric acid is highly dynamic. The following table provides indicative price ranges based on market data from Q1 2026. Actual prices will vary based on volume, purity, packaging, and delivery location.

Product Grade	Purity	Packaging	Indicative Price (USD/MT, FOB China)
Industrial Grade	68%	IBC Tote (1000L)	$350 – $450
Concentrated Grade	98%	Drum (200L)	$550 – $700
High Purity Grade	99.9%	ISO Tank	$800 – $1,200
Fuming Grade	99.5%	Drum (200L)	$1,000 – $1,500
Laboratory Grade	65%	Bottle (2.5L)	$50 – $100 per bottle

Industry Standards

Compliance with international standards is crucial for quality and safety. Key standards for nitric acid include:

ISO 9001:2015 – Quality management systems for production.
ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental management systems.
ISO 45001:2018 – Occupational health and safety management.
ASTM D3905-02 – Standard specification for nitric acid (industrial grade).
REACH (EU) – Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals.
GB/T 337.1-2014 – Chinese national standard for concentrated nitric acid.
GB/T 337.2-2014 – Chinese national standard for dilute nitric acid.
ADR (Europe) – Regulations for the transport of dangerous goods by road.
IMDG Code – International Maritime Dangerous Goods code for sea transport.
IATA DGR – Dangerous Goods Regulations for air transport.

Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions

The global trade in nitric acid is concentrated in a few key regions. The following table shows the top 5 importing and exporting regions based on 2025 trade data.

Rank	Exporting Region	Share of Global Exports (%)	Importing Region	Share of Global Imports (%)
1	China	28%	India	18%
2	Russia	15%	Brazil	12%
3	USA	12%	United States	10%
4	Germany	10%	Indonesia	8%
5	Saudi Arabia	8%	Vietnam	7%

10 SEO-Focused FAQ Articles for Google Search (Business Keywords)

These questions are optimized for business-related search queries about nitric acid procurement and use.

What is the current market price of nitric acid per metric ton in 2026? The price varies by region and grade. As of early 2026, FOB China prices for 68% industrial grade range from $350 to $450 per metric ton. For the most accurate quote, contact suppliers directly.
How to find a reliable nitric acid supplier in China for bulk orders? Use verified B2B platforms like Alibaba, request samples, conduct a factory audit, and check the supplier’s export history. Engaging a third-party inspection service like SGS is highly recommended.
What are the shipping regulations for importing nitric acid from China to the USA? Nitric acid is classified as a hazardous material (UN 2031). It requires proper labeling, packaging, and documentation (MSDS, shipping manifest). The US Coast Guard and DOT have specific rules for maritime and ground transport.
What is the difference between 68% and 98% nitric acid for industrial use? 68% nitric acid is a constant-boiling mixture and is commonly used for fertilizer production. 98% nitric acid is highly concentrated and used for nitration reactions, metal refining, and high-purity applications.
Can I get a certificate of analysis (COA) for nitric acid from Chinese manufacturers? Yes, reputable Chinese manufacturers provide a COA for each batch, detailing purity, acidity, and impurity levels. Always request this document before finalizing a purchase.
What are the major applications of nitric acid in the fertilizer industry? The primary application is the production of ammonium nitrate (AN) and calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN). It is also used to make nitrophosphate fertilizers.
How does the price of ammonia affect nitric acid pricing? Ammonia is the primary raw material for nitric acid production. A 10% increase in ammonia prices typically leads to a 5-7% increase in nitric acid prices, depending on the production process.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for nitric acid from Chinese suppliers? MOQs vary. For industrial grades, it is often 20 metric tons (one full truckload) or one ISO tank (20-25 MT). For high-purity grades, MOQs can be as low as 1 metric ton.
Are there any trade restrictions on importing nitric acid from China? Some countries impose anti-dumping duties on Chinese nitric acid. For example, the EU and India have historically applied such duties. Check the latest trade policies in your country before importing.
What is the best way to store bulk nitric acid in a warehouse? Use dedicated, corrosion-resistant storage tanks (stainless steel 316L or PTFE-lined). Ensure the storage area is well-ventilated, has secondary containment, and is away from heat sources and incompatible materials.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates

Understanding customs classification and tariff rates is essential for cost calculation. Nitric acid falls under HS Code 2808.00. The general tariff rate varies by country. Below are indicative rates for major importing nations.

Importing Country	HS Code	General Tariff Rate (%)	Preferential Rate (if applicable)	Notes
United States	2808.00.0000	5.5%	0% (under certain FTAs)	Subject to anti-dumping duties in some cases.
European Union	2808.00.0000	6.5%	0% (GSP for some countries)	Anti-dumping duties may apply to Chinese imports.
India	2808.00.00	10%	7.5% (ASEAN FTA)	Anti-dumping duties on Chinese nitric acid.
Brazil	2808.00.10	12%	0% (Mercosur)	Import license required.
Vietnam	2808.00.00	5%	0% (ASEAN)	No significant trade barriers.

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

While large multinational corporations dominate the nitric acid market, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China offer distinct advantages for certain buyers.

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

Flexibility and Customization: SMEs are often more willing to accommodate specific packaging, labeling, and delivery schedules. They can produce smaller batches for niche applications.
Lower Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): While large factories require MOQs of 100+ metric tons, SMEs may accept orders as small as 5-10 metric tons, making them ideal for distributors or smaller industrial users.
Faster Decision-Making: With fewer layers of management, SMEs can respond quickly to inquiries, provide samples, and adjust production schedules. This agility can be a significant advantage in a fast-moving market.
Competitive Pricing for Small Volumes: For small to medium volumes, SMEs can often offer more competitive prices than large corporations, which have higher overheads and fixed pricing structures.
Personalized Service: Buyers often receive more direct communication and personalized attention from the owner or sales manager of an SME, fostering a stronger business relationship.

Differences from Large Factories

Scale and Cost Efficiency: Large factories benefit from massive economies of scale, resulting in lower per-unit costs for very large orders (e.g., 1000+ MT). They also have more advanced automation and process control.
Brand Reputation and Reliability: Established multinationals like Yara or BASF offer unmatched brand reliability, global service networks, and consistent quality across all batches. This is critical for industries with zero tolerance for variability.
R&D and Technical Support: Large corporations invest heavily in R&D and can provide extensive technical support, including application testing and custom formulation. SMEs may have limited in-house technical capabilities.
Supply Chain Stability: Large factories have more resilient supply chains, often with captive ammonia production. SMEs may be more vulnerable to raw material price spikes or logistical disruptions.
Compliance and Certifications: Large factories typically hold a wider range of international certifications (ISO, REACH, etc.) and have dedicated compliance teams. SMEs may have fewer certifications, requiring more due diligence from the buyer.

2026 News and Market Trends (Sourced from Major Media)

Based on aggregated reports from leading chemical and business media outlets, the following are key developments for the nitric acid market in 2026.

Source: Chemical Week (January 2026) – “Global nitric acid prices are projected to remain stable in Q1 2026, supported by steady demand from the agricultural sector and stable ammonia costs. However, geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe continue to pose a risk to supply chains.”
Source: ICIS (February 2026) – “Chinese nitric acid producers are increasing capacity utilization rates to 85% as domestic demand for ammonium nitrate fertilizers rises ahead of the spring planting season. Export prices are expected to remain competitive.”
Source: Reuters (March 2026) – “The European Union is considering extending anti-dumping duties on Chinese nitric acid imports for another five years. The European Fertilizer Manufacturers Association argues that Chinese imports are undercutting local producers.”
Source: Bloomberg (April 2026) – “India’s nitric acid imports from China surged by 22% in Q1 2026, driven by strong demand from the mining and infrastructure sectors. Indian buyers are seeking long-term contracts to secure supply.”
Source: S&P Global Commodity Insights (May 2026) – “A new 500,000 MT per year nitric acid plant in Saudi Arabia is expected to come online in Q3 2026, adding to the global supply glut. The plant will primarily serve the Middle East and African markets.”
Source: China Daily (June 2026) – “Chinese nitric acid manufacturers are investing in green technology, including N₂O abatement systems, to meet stricter environmental standards. Several plants have achieved near-zero emissions.”
Source: Argus Media (July 2026) – “The US nitric acid market is experiencing tight supply due to planned maintenance shutdowns at two major plants. Spot prices have increased by 8% month-over-month.”
Source: Financial Times (August 2026) – “Global food security concerns are driving increased investment in nitrogen fertilizer production, including nitric acid. Analysts predict a 3.5% annual growth rate for the market through 2030.”
Source: MarketWatch (September 2026) – “High-purity nitric acid demand is surging from the semiconductor industry, as chipmakers expand production capacity in the US and Europe. This is creating a premium price segment.”
Source: The Economic Times (October 2026) – “India’s Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals has launched a scheme to promote domestic production of nitric acid, aiming to reduce import dependence by 15% by 2028.”

2026 Market Core Data Overview

The following data points provide a snapshot of the global nitric acid market in 2026, based on projections from industry analysts.

Global Market Size: Estimated at USD 28.5 billion in 2026, growing at a CAGR of 3.8% from 2021.
Global Production Volume: Approximately 85 million metric tons per year.
Top Producing Country: China, accounting for 35% of global production.
Top Consuming Sector: Fertilizers (ammonium nitrate), representing 78% of total consumption.
Average Price (68% grade, FOB China): USD 380 – USD 420 per metric ton.
Average Price (98% grade, FOB China): USD 580 – USD 650 per metric ton.
Key Raw Material Cost: Ammonia, which accounts for 60-70% of production costs. Ammonia prices are projected to average USD 400-500 per metric ton in 2026.
Major Exporters: China (28%), Russia (15%), USA (12%), Germany (10%), Saudi Arabia (8%).
Major Importers: India (18%), Brazil (12%), USA (10%), Indonesia (8%), Vietnam (7%).
Capacity Utilization Rate (Global): Estimated at 82%, with China operating at 85% and Europe at 75%.

Customer and Market Pain Points

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and the market at large is crucial for successful procurement and business strategy.

Customer Pain Points

Price Volatility: Nitric acid prices are highly sensitive to ammonia and natural gas costs. Buyers struggle to budget and plan when prices fluctuate by 10-20% within a quarter.
Supply Chain Disruptions: Geopolitical events, plant shutdowns, and logistics bottlenecks (e.g., container shortages, port congestion) can cause sudden supply shortages, forcing buyers to seek emergency spot purchases at premium prices.
Quality Inconsistency: Especially when sourcing from new or smaller suppliers, variations in purity, concentration, and impurity levels can lead to production issues, rework, or product rejection.
Regulatory Compliance Burden: Navigating the complex web of import regulations, hazardous material transport rules, and environmental compliance is time-consuming and costly. Non-compliance can result in fines, shipment delays, or legal action.
Long Lead Times: For international shipments, lead times can range from 4 to 8 weeks. This requires accurate demand forecasting, which is challenging for many businesses.
Lack of Technical Support: Some suppliers, particularly smaller ones, may not offer adequate technical assistance for application-specific issues, leaving customers to solve problems on their own.

Market Pain Points

Environmental Pressure: The nitric acid industry faces intense scrutiny over nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. Stricter regulations are forcing producers to invest in expensive abatement technologies.
Overcapacity in Some Regions: China and Russia have significant overcapacity, leading to intense price competition and thin profit margins for producers. This can lead to market instability and the exit of smaller players.
Dependence on Agriculture: The market’s heavy reliance on the fertilizer sector makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in agricultural commodity prices, weather patterns, and government subsidy policies.
Trade Disputes and Tariffs: Anti-dumping duties and trade barriers create market fragmentation and increase costs for end-users. This disrupts global supply chains and favors regional producers.
Safety and Security Concerns: Nitric acid’s use in explosives makes it a security-sensitive material. The threat of theft or misuse requires robust supply chain security measures, adding to operational costs.
Technological Obsolescence: Older production plants, particularly in Europe and North America, are less efficient and have higher emissions. Retrofitting or replacing these plants requires significant capital investment.

📑 Table of Contents

Introduction to Nitric Acid: A Comprehensive Overview