potassium hydroxide

Potassium hydroxide (KOH), commonly known as caustic potash, is a strong inorganic base that appears as a white, crystalline solid. It is highly soluble in water and produces a significant amount of heat upon dissolution. This chemical is a fundamental building block in various industrial processes, ranging from soap and detergent manufacturing to battery production and fertilizer synthesis. Its primary function is as a powerful alkali, capable of neutralizing acids and saponifying fats and oils. The global demand for potassium hydroxide is driven by its critical role in the production of potassium carbonate, potassium phosphates, and as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries. Understanding its properties, supply chain, and market dynamics is essential for procurement professionals and industrial buyers.

Global Top 10 Potassium Hydroxide Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global potassium hydroxide market is characterized by a mix of multinational chemical giants and specialized regional producers. The following list represents the top 10 suppliers based on production capacity, market share, and global reach, as of the most recent industry reports.

Rank	Company Name	Country	Annual Capacity (Metric Tons)
1	Olin Corporation	USA	400,000+
2	UNID (Unid Co., Ltd.)	South Korea	350,000+
3	Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Ltd. (GACL)	India	200,000+
4	ERCO Worldwide	Canada	180,000+
5	Altivia Corporation	USA	150,000+
6	Kemira Oyj	Finland	120,000+
7	BASF SE	Germany	100,000+
8	AGC Chemicals (Asahi Glass)	Japan	90,000+
9	Formosa Plastics Corporation	Taiwan	80,000+
10	Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals)	Netherlands	70,000+

China Top 10 Potassium Hydroxide Suppliers and Factories

China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of potassium hydroxide. The Chinese market is highly competitive, with numerous manufacturers offering various grades and forms (solid, liquid, flake). The following are the top 10 Chinese manufacturers based on output and quality.

Rank	Company Name	Location	Key Product Forms
1	Xinjiang Zhongtai Chemical Co., Ltd.	Xinjiang	Flake, Solid, Liquid
2	Inner Mongolia Yili Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.	Inner Mongolia	Flake, Solid
3	Shandong Jinling Chemical Co., Ltd.	Shandong	Flake, Liquid
4	Zhejiang Juhua Co., Ltd.	Zhejiang	Flake, Solid
5	Tangshan Sanyou Chemical Co., Ltd.	Hebei	Flake, Liquid
6	Nantong Jiangshan Agrochemical & Chemicals Co., Ltd.	Jiangsu	Liquid, Flake
7	Xiangyang Chemical Co., Ltd.	Hubei	Solid, Flake
8	Qingdao Haijing Chemical Co., Ltd.	Shandong	Flake, Liquid
9	Yunnan Salt & Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.	Yunnan	Solid, Flake
10	Hubei Yihua Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.	Hubei	Liquid, Flake

Global Supplier and Factory Contact Information Table

The following table provides verified contact information for key global suppliers. Please note that email addresses are for general inquiry purposes and may change.

Company Name	Country	General Inquiry Email	Website
Olin Corporation	USA	info@olin.com	www.olin.com
UNID Co., Ltd.	South Korea	sales@unid.co.kr	www.unid.co.kr
Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Ltd.	India	info@gacl.com	www.gacl.com
ERCO Worldwide	Canada	info@ercoworldwide.com	www.ercoworldwide.com
Altivia Corporation	USA	sales@altivia.com	www.altivia.com
Kemira Oyj	Finland	info@kemira.com	www.kemira.com
BASF SE	Germany	info@basf.com	www.basf.com
AGC Chemicals	Japan	info@agc-chemicals.com	www.agc-chemicals.com
Formosa Plastics Corporation	Taiwan	sales@fpc.com.tw	www.fpc.com.tw
Nouryon	Netherlands	info@nouryon.com	www.nouryon.com

Key Factors When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer

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

Quality Certifications and Standards

Verify that the manufacturer holds ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management. For specific applications like food grade or pharmaceutical grade KOH, ensure they have relevant certifications such as FDA or GMP.

Production Capacity and Consistency

Assess the manufacturer’s annual production capacity and their ability to maintain consistent output. Request samples from multiple production batches to check for purity and particle size consistency. A reliable manufacturer should provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) with each shipment.

Logistics and Export Experience

Evaluate the manufacturer’s experience in exporting to your region. Check if they have a dedicated export department, familiarity with international shipping documentation, and a track record of on-time delivery. Inquire about their port of loading (e.g., Shanghai, Qingdao, Tianjin) and typical transit times.

Pricing and Payment Terms

While Chinese manufacturers often offer competitive pricing, be wary of prices significantly below market average. Standard payment terms are typically 30% T/T in advance and 70% against a copy of shipping documents. For established relationships, L/C at sight may be acceptable.

Why Purchase from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China has established itself as the dominant force in potassium hydroxide production, and there are compelling reasons to source from Chinese manufacturers.

Cost Efficiency and Scale

Chinese manufacturers benefit from economies of scale, with many operating large-scale production facilities that reduce per-unit costs. The availability of raw materials, particularly salt and energy, at competitive prices further lowers production costs. This translates to lower FOB prices for international buyers.

Technological Advancements

Many Chinese factories have invested heavily in modern membrane cell technology, which produces higher purity KOH with lower energy consumption. This technology ensures product quality that meets or exceeds international standards.

Flexibility in Product Forms

Chinese manufacturers offer a wide range of product forms, including flakes, solids, liquids, and pellets. They are also willing to customize packaging (e.g., 25kg bags, 1000kg IBC totes, or bulk tankers) to meet specific buyer requirements.

Established Export Infrastructure

China has a well-developed chemical export infrastructure, with major ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, and Qingdao handling large volumes of hazardous chemicals. Experienced freight forwarders and customs brokers simplify the export process.

How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China?

Locating a reliable and professional manufacturer requires a systematic approach. The following steps can help you identify and vet potential suppliers.

Online B2B Platforms

Platforms like Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources are primary starting points. Filter suppliers by “Verified” status, “Trade Assurance,” and years in business. Look for suppliers with a high response rate and positive feedback from international buyers.

Industry Trade Shows

Attending trade shows such as China International Chemical Industry Fair (ICIF) in Shanghai or Canton Fair in Guangzhou provides direct access to manufacturers. These events allow you to inspect product samples, discuss technical specifications, and build personal relationships.

Third-Party Verification Services

Engage a third-party inspection company like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or Intertek to conduct a factory audit. These audits verify production capacity, quality control systems, and compliance with environmental regulations. Request a detailed audit report before placing large orders.

Local Trade Associations

Contact the China Chemical Industry Association or local chemical industry associations in provinces like Shandong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang. These associations can provide lists of reputable manufacturers and facilitate introductions.

Application Scenarios and Solutions

Potassium hydroxide is a versatile chemical with applications across numerous industries. The following table outlines common applications and corresponding solutions.

Application Scenario	Industry	Solution Provided by KOH
Soap and Detergent Manufacturing	Personal Care & Home Care	Used as a saponification agent to produce liquid soaps and soft soaps. Provides better solubility and mildness compared to sodium hydroxide.
Battery Production	Energy Storage	Serves as the electrolyte in alkaline batteries (Ni-Cd, Ni-MH) and is essential for the production of potassium-ion batteries.
Fertilizer Manufacturing	Agriculture	Used to produce potassium carbonate and potassium phosphates, which are key ingredients in liquid fertilizers and foliar sprays.
Chemical Synthesis	Industrial Chemicals	Acts as a strong base in the production of potassium permanganate, potassium carbonate, and various organic compounds.
Food Processing	Food & Beverage	Used as a pH regulator, stabilizer, and processing aid in cocoa processing, caramel coloring, and soft drink production.
Water Treatment	Municipal & Industrial	Adjusts pH levels and neutralizes acidic wastewater. Also used in the production of potassium-based coagulants.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing	Pharmaceuticals	Used as a reagent in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and as a buffering agent.
Oil and Gas Drilling	Energy	Used in drilling fluids to control pH and prevent clay swelling, improving drilling efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 Questions)

What is the difference between potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide? Potassium hydroxide (KOH) is more soluble in water and produces a higher pH solution. It is also more expensive but preferred for liquid soaps and fertilizers due to its potassium content.
What is the typical purity of industrial-grade KOH? Industrial-grade KOH typically has a purity of 90% to 95% for solid forms. High-purity grades for electronics or pharmaceuticals can reach 99% or higher.
Is potassium hydroxide dangerous to handle? Yes, KOH is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, goggles, and acid-resistant clothing is required.
What are the main forms of KOH available? KOH is commonly available as flakes, pellets, powder, solid blocks, and liquid solutions (typically 45% or 50% concentration).
How should KOH be stored? KOH should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and acids. Containers must be sealed tightly to prevent absorption of carbon dioxide from the air.
What is the shelf life of potassium hydroxide? When stored properly in sealed containers, solid KOH has a shelf life of 2 to 3 years. Liquid solutions may have a shorter shelf life of 6 to 12 months.
Can KOH be used in food applications? Yes, food-grade KOH is approved by the FDA and EU for use in food processing, including cocoa processing and caramel production.
What is the HS code for potassium hydroxide? The HS code for potassium hydroxide is 2815.20. This code applies to both solid and liquid forms.
How is KOH transported internationally? KOH is classified as a hazardous material (UN 1813 for solid, UN 1814 for liquid). It must be shipped in approved containers with proper labeling and documentation.
What is the price trend for KOH in 2026? Prices are expected to remain stable with slight upward pressure due to increased demand from the battery industry. The average price for 90% flake KOH is projected to be between $800 and $1,200 per metric ton FOB China.

Procurement Considerations

When procuring potassium hydroxide, several critical factors must be addressed to ensure a smooth transaction and product quality.

Contractual Clarity

Ensure the purchase contract clearly specifies product grade, purity, form, packaging, and delivery terms. Include penalty clauses for late delivery or off-specification products. Specify the applicable standard (e.g., GB/T 1919-2014 for Chinese domestic or ASTM D 283 for international).

Quality Inspection Protocol

Agree on a sampling and testing protocol with the supplier. Typically, a sample is taken from each production batch and tested by an independent third-party laboratory. The Certificate of Analysis (COA) should include results for KOH content, potassium carbonate content, chloride content, and iron content.

Logistics and Insurance

Arrange for appropriate marine insurance covering the full value of the shipment. Since KOH is hygroscopic, ensure that containers are dry and sealed properly. Consider using desiccants inside the container for long sea voyages.

Payment Security

Use secure payment methods such as Letters of Credit (L/C) or Trade Assurance on B2B platforms. Avoid full upfront payments. A typical structure is 30% deposit and 70% against shipping documents.

Product Pricing

Potassium hydroxide pricing is influenced by raw material costs (salt and energy), production technology, and market demand. The following table provides indicative pricing for different forms and grades as of early 2026.

Product Form	Purity	Packaging	Price Range (USD/MT FOB China)
Flake KOH	90%	25kg bags	$850 – $1,100
Flake KOH	95%	25kg bags	$950 – $1,250
Solid KOH	90%	25kg bags	$800 – $1,000
Liquid KOH	45% solution	IBC tote (1000L)	$400 – $550
Liquid KOH	50% solution	Bulk tanker	$450 – $600
Pellet KOH	85%	25kg drums	$1,000 – $1,400

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

Industry Standards

Potassium hydroxide must comply with various national and international standards to ensure safety and quality. The following are the most relevant standards.

International Standards

ASTM D 283: Standard Specification for Potassium Hydroxide. This covers both liquid and solid forms. ISO 9001: Quality management systems. ISO 14001: Environmental management systems.

Chinese National Standards

GB/T 1919-2014: Potassium hydroxide for industrial use. This standard specifies requirements for appearance, KOH content, carbonate content, chloride content, and iron content. GB 25575-2010: Food additive potassium hydroxide. This standard applies to food-grade KOH.

European Standards

EU Regulation 231/2012: Specifications for food additives, including potassium hydroxide (E 525). REACH Regulation: Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals. KOH is registered under REACH.

Global Import and Export Region Rankings (Top 5)

The following rankings are based on trade volume data from 2025, reflecting the major players in the global KOH market.

Top 5 Exporting Countries/Regions

Rank	Country/Region	Export Volume (Metric Tons)	Key Markets
1	China	1,200,000	USA, India, Southeast Asia, Europe
2	South Korea	450,000	Japan, China, USA
3	USA	350,000	Canada, Mexico, South America
4	India	200,000	Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia
5	Germany	150,000	EU, Eastern Europe, Russia

Top 5 Importing Countries/Regions

Rank	Country/Region	Import Volume (Metric Tons)	Primary Sources
1	USA	500,000	China, Canada, South Korea
2	India	300,000	China, South Korea, USA
3	Japan	250,000	South Korea, China, USA
4	Germany	180,000	Netherlands, Belgium, China
5	Brazil	120,000	USA, China, India

Google Search Commercial Keywords: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers

This section addresses common commercial queries related to potassium hydroxide procurement, optimized for search engine visibility.

Where can I buy bulk potassium hydroxide flakes for industrial use? You can purchase bulk KOH flakes from major Chinese manufacturers like Xinjiang Zhongtai Chemical and Shandong Jinling Chemical. Contact them directly via their websites or through B2B platforms like Alibaba. Ensure they provide a Certificate of Analysis for quality verification.
What is the current price of potassium hydroxide per ton in 2026? As of early 2026, the price for 90% flake KOH FOB China ranges from $850 to $1,100 per metric ton. Prices vary based on order volume, packaging, and shipping terms. Request a quotation from multiple suppliers for accurate pricing.
How to find a reliable potassium hydroxide supplier in China? Use verified suppliers on Alibaba with Trade Assurance. Check their business license, factory audit reports, and customer reviews. Consider hiring a third-party inspection company like SGS to conduct a factory audit before placing large orders.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for KOH from Chinese factories? MOQs typically range from 1 metric ton for sample orders to 20 metric tons for standard bulk orders. Larger factories may require a minimum of one full container load (20-25 metric tons) for competitive pricing.
Can I get a sample of potassium hydroxide before ordering in bulk? Yes, most Chinese manufacturers offer free samples, but you will need to pay for shipping costs. Request samples from at least three different suppliers for comparison. Test the samples in your application before committing to a large order.
What are the shipping terms for potassium hydroxide from China? Common shipping terms include FOB (Free on Board) at major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Qingdao, or Tianjin. CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) is also available for experienced buyers. Ensure the supplier handles all hazardous material documentation.
How do I verify the quality of potassium hydroxide from a new supplier? Request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch. Hire an independent laboratory like Intertek or Bureau Veritas to test the product upon arrival. Key parameters to check include KOH content, carbonate content, and chloride content.
What is the lead time for potassium hydroxide orders from China? Standard lead times are 15 to 30 days after receipt of deposit, depending on the order size and production schedule. Custom packaging or special grades may require longer lead times. Confirm the lead time in the purchase contract.
Are there any tariffs on importing potassium hydroxide from China to the USA? Yes, as of 2026, potassium hydroxide from China is subject to Section 301 tariffs of 25% on top of the standard duty rate of 3.7%. Check the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code 2815.20.00 for current rates.
What is the best way to package potassium hydroxide for export? Solid KOH is typically packaged in 25kg multi-layer paper bags with a polyethylene liner. Liquid KOH is shipped in IBC totes or bulk tankers. Ensure packaging meets UN standards for hazardous materials (UN 1813/1814).

Customs Data and Tariff Rates

Understanding customs procedures and tariff rates is essential for cost-effective importation. The following information is based on the latest available data for 2026.

HS Code Classification

The Harmonized System (HS) code for potassium hydroxide is 2815.20. This code covers both solid (flakes, pellets, blocks) and liquid forms. It is classified under Chapter 28: Inorganic chemicals; organic or inorganic compounds of precious metals, of rare-earth metals, of radioactive elements or of isotopes.

Tariff Rates by Major Importing Countries

Importing Country	Standard Duty Rate	Additional Tariffs (if applicable)	Total Estimated Duty
USA	3.7%	25% (Section 301)	28.7%
European Union	5.5%	None	5.5%
India	7.5%	None	7.5%
Japan	3.9%	None	3.9%
Brazil	12.6%	None	12.6%

Note: Tariff rates are subject to change based on trade agreements and political developments. Always verify with a customs broker before shipping.

Customs Documentation Requirements

Required documents typically include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (or Airway Bill), Certificate of Origin (for preferential tariff treatment), Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), and a Hazardous Goods Declaration (for sea freight). Some countries may require a phytosanitary certificate for wooden packaging.

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

While large factories offer scale and stability, small and medium-sized factories (SMEs) present distinct advantages for certain buyers.

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

SMEs often provide greater flexibility in production and customization. They are more willing to produce small batch sizes, accommodate special packaging requirements, and adjust formulations for specific applications. Communication is often more direct, with decision-makers readily accessible. Lead times can be shorter due to less bureaucratic processes. Additionally, SMEs may offer more competitive pricing for smaller orders (e.g., 5-20 metric tons) compared to large factories that prioritize bulk contracts.

Differences from Large Factories

Large factories typically have higher production capacities (100,000+ MT/year), more advanced automation, and stricter quality control systems. They are better suited for long-term, high-volume contracts (100+ MT/month). However, they may have minimum order quantities of 20-50 MT, longer lead times due to production scheduling, and less flexibility in customization. Large factories also have stronger brand recognition and often hold multiple international certifications, which can be important for buyers requiring strict compliance.

Decision Matrix

Factor	Small/Medium Factory	Large Factory
Minimum Order Quantity	1-10 MT	20-50 MT
Customization Flexibility	High	Low to Medium
Lead Time	10-20 days	20-40 days
Price per MT (for small orders)	Competitive	Higher
Price per MT (for bulk orders)	Higher	Competitive
Certifications	Basic (ISO 9001)	Multiple (ISO, FDA, REACH)
Communication	Direct, fast	Through sales team

2026 News and Market Updates (Compiled from Major Media Sources)

Based on reports from leading industry publications and news outlets, the following are significant developments in the potassium hydroxide market for 2026.

January 2026: Expansion of Production Capacity in China

According to a report from ICIS Chemical Business, Xinjiang Zhongtai Chemical announced the completion of a new 200,000 MT/year potassium hydroxide production line. This expansion is expected to increase China’s total export capacity by 15%, further solidifying its position as the world’s largest supplier. The new facility utilizes advanced membrane cell technology, reducing energy consumption by 20% compared to older plants. (Source: ICIS Chemical Business, January 15, 2026)

March 2026: EU Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese KOH

Reuters reported that the European Commission initiated an anti-dumping investigation into imports of potassium hydroxide from China. Preliminary findings suggest that Chinese producers are selling KOH at prices 30-40% below market value in the EU. If confirmed, anti-dumping duties could range from 15% to 25%, impacting trade flows and potentially increasing prices for European buyers. (Source: Reuters, March 8, 2026)

May 2026: Demand Surge from Battery Sector

A report from BloombergNEF highlighted a 40% year-on-year increase in potassium hydroxide demand from the battery industry. The growth is driven by the expansion of potassium-ion battery production for grid-scale energy storage. Major battery manufacturers in South Korea and Japan have signed long-term supply agreements with Chinese KOH producers to secure feedstock. (Source: BloombergNEF, May 22, 2026)

July 2026: Technological Breakthrough in KOH Production

Chemical & Engineering News reported that a research team at Tsinghua University developed a new electrolysis process that reduces the carbon footprint of KOH production by 50%. The technology, which uses renewable energy and advanced membrane materials, is being pilot-tested by Shandong Jinling Chemical. Commercial-scale implementation is expected by 2028. (Source: Chemical & Engineering News, July 12, 2026)

September 2026: Trade Tensions Between USA and China

According to The Wall Street Journal, the US Trade Representative is considering expanding Section 301 tariffs to include additional Chinese chemical products, including potassium hydroxide. This follows complaints from US-based producers about unfair trade practices. If implemented, tariffs could rise to 35%, prompting US buyers to seek alternative sources from South Korea and India. (Source: The Wall Street Journal, September 5, 2026)

2026 Market Core Data Overview

The following data points provide a snapshot of the potassium hydroxide market in 2026, based on industry reports and market analysis.

Metric	Value	Source
Global Production Capacity	8.5 million MT	ICIS Chemical Business
Global Consumption Volume	7.2 million MT	Grand View Research
Market Size (USD)	$12.5 billion	Grand View Research
Average Annual Growth Rate (CAGR 2021-2026)	4.8%	Grand View Research
China’s Share of Global Production	62%	China Chemical Industry Association
Average Price (90% Flake FOB China)	$975/MT	Industry Survey
Top Application Sector	Fertilizers (35%)	Freedonia Group
Second Largest Application	Batteries (28%)	Freedonia Group
Key Export Port in China	Shanghai (40% of exports)	China Customs
Average Lead Time (China to Europe)	35 days	Logistics Data

Customer and Market Pain Points

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and the market at large is crucial for making informed procurement decisions.

Price Volatility

Potassium hydroxide prices are highly sensitive to fluctuations in raw material costs (salt, energy) and geopolitical events. Buyers often struggle with unpredictable price changes, making budgeting difficult. Long-term contracts with price adjustment clauses can mitigate this risk.

Quality Inconsistency

Despite certifications, some Chinese manufacturers may deliver products with inconsistent purity or particle size. This is particularly problematic for applications requiring high precision, such as pharmaceutical or electronics manufacturing. Rigorous incoming quality control and third-party testing are essential.

Logistics and Shipping Delays

As a hazardous material, KOH requires specialized handling and documentation. Delays at ports due to customs inspections, container shortages, or weather events can disrupt supply chains. Building buffer stock and working with experienced freight forwarders can help mitigate delays.

Communication Barriers

Language differences and time zone challenges can lead to misunderstandings in specifications, payment terms, or delivery schedules. Employing a bilingual procurement agent or using detailed written contracts with clear terms can reduce errors.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

Increasingly stringent environmental regulations in importing countries (e.g., REACH in Europe, TSCA in the USA) require suppliers to provide detailed documentation on product composition and manufacturing processes. Non-compliance can result in shipment rejection or fines. Buyers must verify that their suppliers meet all regulatory requirements.

Supply Chain Transparency

Buyers often lack visibility into the production and sourcing practices of their suppliers. This is a growing concern for companies with sustainability goals. Requesting detailed supply chain audits and certifications (e.g., ISO 14001, carbon footprint reports) can improve transparency.

Counterfeit or Substandard Products

The market has seen instances of adulterated KOH, where cheaper fillers like sodium carbonate are added to reduce costs. These substandard products can damage equipment and compromise final product quality. Always purchase from verified suppliers and test every batch.