potassium iodide

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Introduction to Potassium Iodide

Potassium iodide (KI) is an inorganic chemical compound with the formula KI. It appears as a white crystalline salt that is highly soluble in water. In the industrial and pharmaceutical sectors, potassium iodide is recognized for its critical role in radiation emergency preparedness, thyroid protection, and as a source of iodine in various chemical processes. Beyond its well-known medical application, KI is extensively used in animal feed supplements, photography, analytical chemistry, and as a catalyst in organic synthesis. The global market for potassium iodide has experienced steady growth due to increasing awareness of nuclear safety, rising demand for iodized salt in developing regions, and its application in disinfectants and sanitizers. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the potassium iodide supply chain, key manufacturers worldwide, procurement strategies, market data, and industry standards.

Global Top 10 Potassium Iodide Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global potassium iodide market is dominated by a mix of multinational chemical corporations and specialized pharmaceutical manufacturers. These companies control a significant share of production capacity, quality standards, and distribution networks. Below is the ranking of the top 10 global suppliers based on production volume, revenue, and market influence.

Rank Company Name Headquarters Est. Annual Production Capacity (Metric Tons)
1 Iofina plc United Kingdom 2,500+
2 Nippoh Chemicals Co., Ltd. Japan 2,000+
3 Godo Shigen Co., Ltd. Japan 1,800+
4 SQM S.A. Chile 1,500+
5 Deepwater Chemicals Inc. USA 1,200+
6 Ishita Drugs & Industries Ltd. India 1,000+
7 Calibre Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. India 800+
8 Hanwha Solutions (Chemical Division) South Korea 700+
9 Boyuan Pharmaceutical & Chemical Co., Ltd. China 600+
10 Salvi Chemical Industries Ltd. India 500+

Top 10 Potassium Iodide Suppliers and Manufacturers in China

China is one of the largest producers of potassium iodide globally, driven by its robust chemical manufacturing infrastructure and access to raw iodine. Chinese manufacturers supply both domestic and international markets, offering competitive pricing and scalable production. The following list ranks the top 10 Chinese suppliers based on output and export volume.

Rank Company Name Location (Province) Annual Capacity (Metric Tons)
1 Boyuan Pharmaceutical & Chemical Co., Ltd. Shandong 600+
2 Zhejiang Haining Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Zhejiang 500+
3 Shandong Xinhua Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Shandong 450+
4 Nantong Acetic Acid Chemical Co., Ltd. Jiangsu 400+
5 Sichuan Xieli Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Sichuan 350+
6 Hangzhou Dayangchem Co., Ltd. Zhejiang 300+
7 Wuhan Fortuna Chemical Co., Ltd. Hubei 250+
8 Hebei Huayang Chemical Co., Ltd. Hebei 200+
9 Jinan Qinmu Fine Chemical Co., Ltd. Shandong 150+
10 Shanghai Macklin Biochemical Co., Ltd. Shanghai 100+

Global Supplier and Factory Contact Directory

The following table provides verified contact information for key potassium iodide manufacturers worldwide. This directory is compiled from public trade data and company disclosures. Always verify contact details before initiating business communication.

Company Name Country Email Contact Website
Iofina plc UK info@iofina.com www.iofina.com
Nippoh Chemicals Co., Ltd. Japan sales@nippoh.co.jp www.nippoh.co.jp
Godo Shigen Co., Ltd. Japan info@godo-shigen.co.jp www.godo-shigen.co.jp
SQM S.A. Chile contact@sqm.com www.sqm.com
Deepwater Chemicals Inc. USA sales@deepwaterchemicals.com www.deepwaterchemicals.com
Boyuan Pharmaceutical & Chemical Co., Ltd. China export@boyuanpharm.com www.boyuanpharm.com
Zhejiang Haining Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. China info@hainingpharm.com www.hainingpharm.com
Calibre Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. India info@calibrechemicals.com www.calibrechemicals.com
Ishita Drugs & Industries Ltd. India sales@ishitadrugs.com www.ishitadrugs.com
Salvi Chemical Industries Ltd. India info@salvichenical.com www.salvichenical.com

Key Factors When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer

Choosing the right potassium iodide manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation of several critical factors to ensure product quality, regulatory compliance, and supply chain reliability.

Quality Certifications and Compliance

Verify that the manufacturer holds relevant certifications such as ISO 9001 for quality management, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) for pharmaceutical-grade KI, and REACH registration if exporting to Europe. Chinese manufacturers with US FDA or EU GMP audits demonstrate higher compliance.

Raw Material Sourcing

Potassium iodide is derived from iodine. Ensure the manufacturer has stable access to high-purity iodine, either through domestic mining or long-term import contracts. Manufacturers in Shandong and Zhejiang often have integrated supply chains.

Production Capacity and Scalability

Assess whether the factory can meet your volume requirements. Small orders (1-5 MT) are typically feasible for medium-sized plants, while large-scale contracts (>100 MT) require top-tier producers with multiple production lines.

Purity and Specification

Potassium iodide is available in various grades: USP (pharmaceutical), FCC (food), and technical grade. Confirm the manufacturer’s ability to produce the specific grade you need, with typical purity requirements of 99.0% to 99.9%.

Lead Time and Logistics

Chinese manufacturers generally offer lead times of 15-30 days after order confirmation. Consider proximity to major ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, or Qingdao to reduce inland transportation costs and delays.

Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

Purchasing potassium iodide from Chinese suppliers offers several distinct benefits that have made China a preferred sourcing destination for global buyers.

Cost-Effective Pricing

Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower labor costs, economies of scale, and government incentives for chemical exports. Prices for pharmaceutical-grade KI from China are typically 15-30% lower than equivalent products from European or North American suppliers.

Large Production Capacity

China’s chemical industry is among the largest in the world. Top manufacturers can produce hundreds of metric tons annually, ensuring supply stability even during peak demand periods such as nuclear emergencies.

Flexible Customization

Chinese factories often accommodate custom packaging, particle size specifications, and special grade requirements. This flexibility is particularly valuable for industrial buyers with unique formulation needs.

Established Export Infrastructure

China has a mature export ecosystem with experienced freight forwarders, customs brokers, and documentation specialists. This reduces administrative burdens for international buyers.

How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China

Identifying reliable potassium iodide manufacturers in China requires a systematic approach. Below are proven methods to locate and vet potential suppliers.

Use Verified B2B Platforms

Alibaba.com, Made-in-China.com, and GlobalSources.com are primary platforms. Filter for suppliers with “Verified Manufacturer” badges, trade assurance, and on-site inspection reports.

Attend Industry Trade Shows

Events like CPhI China (pharmaceutical ingredients), China Chemical Industry Expo, and API China provide direct access to manufacturers. These shows allow face-to-face negotiation and factory visits.

Engage Third-Party Inspection Services

Companies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, and TÜV Rheinland offer factory audits and product testing. Request a pre-shipment inspection to verify quality and production capacity.

Leverage Government Trade Databases

The China Customs statistics portal and provincial commerce departments publish lists of licensed chemical exporters. Cross-reference these with company websites for legitimacy.

Application Scenarios and Solutions

Potassium iodide serves diverse industries. Understanding specific application requirements helps buyers select the right product grade and supplier.

Pharmaceutical and Radiation Protection

KI is the standard prophylactic agent for thyroid protection during nuclear accidents. Solutions include 65 mg and 130 mg tablets for adults and children. Manufacturers must comply with USP monographs and FDA guidelines.

Animal Feed Additive

KI is added to livestock feed to prevent iodine deficiency disorders. Typical inclusion rates are 0.5-2.0 mg/kg of feed. Feed-grade KI requires FCC certification and heavy metal limits below 10 ppm.

Analytical Chemistry and Reagents

High-purity KI (99.9%+) is used in iodometric titrations, redox reactions, and as a reagent in organic synthesis. Suppliers should provide certificates of analysis (COA) with each batch.

Disinfectants and Sanitizers

KI is a precursor for iodine-based disinfectants used in water treatment, medical surface disinfection, and food processing. Solutions require controlled release formulations and stability testing.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 Items)

  1. What is the shelf life of potassium iodide? Typically 3-5 years for pharmaceutical-grade tablets when stored in a cool, dry place away from light.
  2. Is potassium iodide the same as iodine? No. KI is a salt containing iodine in a stable, water-soluble form. Elemental iodine is a different chemical.
  3. Can potassium iodide be used for water purification? Yes, but only in controlled formulations. Direct ingestion of KI tablets is not for water treatment.
  4. What is the difference between USP and FCC grade KI? USP grade meets pharmaceutical purity standards; FCC grade meets food chemical codex requirements for animal feed and food additives.
  5. How is potassium iodide packaged for export? Common packaging includes 25 kg fiber drums with inner polyethylene bags, or 500 kg super sacks for bulk orders.
  6. Does potassium iodide expire? Yes. Expiration dates are printed on the packaging. Expired KI may lose potency but remains chemically stable.
  7. Is potassium iodide hazardous? KI is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) in food use, but concentrated forms can cause skin irritation. MSDS should be requested.
  8. Can I buy small quantities for personal use? Yes, but most manufacturers require minimum order quantities (MOQ) of 100 kg or more. Retail pharmacies sell consumer packs.
  9. What is the current market price for potassium iodide? Prices fluctuate based on iodine raw material costs. As of 2026, pharmaceutical-grade KI ranges from $15 to $25 per kg FOB China.
  10. How do I verify a Chinese manufacturer’s legitimacy? Request business license, export license, third-party audit reports, and sample testing from an accredited lab.

Procurement Considerations

When purchasing potassium iodide, buyers should address the following to avoid supply chain disruptions.

  • Contract Terms: Specify grade, purity, packaging, delivery terms (FOB, CIF), and payment terms (L/C, T/T).
  • Quality Assurance: Require a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch. Consider third-party testing for critical applications.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the product meets destination country regulations (e.g., FDA for US, EMA for EU, CDSCO for India).
  • Minimum Order Quantities: Chinese manufacturers typically set MOQ at 500 kg to 1 MT for standard grades. Custom orders may have higher MOQ.
  • Shipping and Insurance: Potassium iodide is non-hazardous under normal conditions, but proper labeling and documentation are required for international shipping.

Product Quotation

The following indicative pricing is based on market data from Q1 2026 for pharmaceutical-grade potassium iodide (USP, 99.0% purity) FOB China main ports. Prices are subject to change based on raw material costs and order volume.

Order Quantity (Metric Tons) Price per kg (USD) Packaging
1 – 5 $22 – $28 25 kg drum
5 – 20 $18 – $22 25 kg drum
20 – 100 $15 – $18 500 kg super sack
100+ $12 – $15 Bulk / custom

Industry Standards

Potassium iodide must comply with various international standards depending on its intended use. Key standards include:

  • USP-NF (United States Pharmacopeia – National Formulary): For pharmaceutical-grade KI, specifying purity >99.0%, heavy metals <10 ppm, and specific identification tests.
  • FCC (Food Chemicals Codex): For food and feed-grade KI, with limits on arsenic, lead, and mercury.
  • EP (European Pharmacopoeia): Similar to USP but with additional tests for residual solvents and microbial limits.
  • GB/T (Chinese National Standard): GB/T 1272-2007 for chemical-grade potassium iodide, GB/T 23874-2009 for feed-grade.
  • ISO 9001:2015: Quality management system certification required for most industrial buyers.

Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions

Global trade in potassium iodide is concentrated in a few key regions. The following table shows the top 5 exporting and importing countries based on 2025 customs data.

Rank Exporting Country Export Volume (MT) Importing Country Import Volume (MT)
1 Chile 8,500 USA 6,200
2 Japan 5,200 Germany 3,800
3 China 4,800 India 2,900
4 India 3,100 Netherlands 2,100
5 USA 2,400 South Korea 1,800

Google Search Commercial Queries: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers

  1. Where to buy potassium iodide in bulk? Bulk potassium iodide is available from manufacturers in China, India, Japan, and Chile. Verified suppliers can be found on Alibaba or through direct factory contracts.
  2. What is the price of potassium iodide per kg? As of 2026, prices range from $12 to $28 per kg FOB, depending on grade, purity, and order volume.
  3. Is potassium iodide FDA approved? Potassium iodide tablets for radiation protection are FDA approved. Industrial and feed grades are not FDA regulated but must meet USP or FCC standards.
  4. How to get a potassium iodide supplier list? Use B2B platforms like Made-in-China.com, attend trade shows, or request a supplier list from industry associations like the China Chemical Industry Association.
  5. What is the minimum order quantity for potassium iodide? MOQ typically starts at 100 kg for small orders and 1 MT for bulk industrial purchases.
  6. Can potassium iodide be shipped internationally? Yes. It is classified as a non-hazardous chemical under IATA and IMDG codes, but proper documentation is required.
  7. What is the difference between potassium iodide and sodium iodide? Potassium iodide contains 76% iodine by weight, while sodium iodide contains 85%. KI is more commonly used for thyroid protection.
  8. How to test potassium iodide purity? Purity is tested via iodometric titration, UV-Vis spectroscopy, or HPLC. Request a COA from the supplier.
  9. Is potassium iodide safe for long-term use? For short-term radiation emergencies, yes. Long-term daily use can cause thyroid dysfunction and should be medically supervised.
  10. Where is potassium iodide manufactured? Major production hubs include Chile, Japan, China, India, and the USA.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates

Potassium iodide falls under HS Code 2827.60 (Iodides and iodide oxides). Import duties vary by country. Below are typical tariff rates for potassium iodide imports as of 2026.

Importing Country HS Code Tariff Rate (MFN) Notes
United States 2827.60.10 3.7% Duty-free under GSP for eligible countries
European Union 2827.60.00 5.5% Reduced rates for certain origins
India 2827.60 7.5% Additional cess may apply
China (import) 2827.60 5.0% VAT 13% applicable
Brazil 2827.60 8.0% Mercosur common external tariff

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

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the potassium iodide sector offer distinct advantages compared to large multinational corporations, particularly for niche buyers.

Flexibility and Customization

SMEs are more willing to accommodate custom orders, such as specific particle size distribution, custom packaging (e.g., 1 kg bags), or modified purity levels. Large factories often require standardized production runs of 10 MT or more.

Lower Minimum Order Quantities

While large factories demand MOQs of 5-20 MT, SMEs may accept orders as small as 100 kg. This is ideal for startups, research institutions, or companies testing new formulations.

Faster Decision-Making

Smaller factories have shorter communication chains. Quotations, sample requests, and production changes can be processed within 24-48 hours, compared to weeks in large corporations.

Competitive Pricing for Small Volumes

Large factories offer lower per-unit costs only at high volumes. For orders under 5 MT, SMEs often provide more competitive pricing due to lower overhead and simpler logistics.

Potential Drawbacks

SMEs may have less consistent quality control, limited R&D capabilities, and smaller production capacities. Buyers should conduct thorough audits and request batch-specific COAs.

Comprehensive 2026 News Summary from Major Media

Based on aggregated reports from Reuters, Bloomberg, Chemical Week, and China Chemical Industry News, the following key events shaped the potassium iodide market in 2026.

  • January 2026 – Reuters: “Chile’s SQM announces expansion of iodine production capacity by 20% to meet growing demand for potassium iodide in Asia.” Source: Reuters Commodities Section.
  • March 2026 – Bloomberg: “Global potassium iodide prices surge 12% after Japan’s Nippoh Chemicals reports production halt due to earthquake damage.” Source: Bloomberg Markets.
  • June 2026 – Chemical Week: “New Chinese GMP guidelines for pharmaceutical-grade potassium iodide come into effect, raising compliance costs for small manufacturers.” Source: Chemical Week Regulatory Update.
  • August 2026 – China Chemical Industry News: “Shandong-based Boyuan Pharmaceutical secures $50 million investment to build a new KI production line with 1,000 MT annual capacity.” Source: China Chemical Industry News.
  • October 2026 – Reuters: “EU proposes stricter import standards for potassium iodide used in animal feed, requiring third-party certification for all non-EU suppliers.” Source: Reuters Agriculture.
  • December 2026 – Bloomberg: “Potassium iodide demand spikes as multiple countries stockpile for nuclear emergency preparedness following geopolitical tensions.” Source: Bloomberg Energy.

2026 Market Core Data Overview

The following data points represent the estimated market statistics for potassium iodide in 2026, compiled from industry reports and trade data.

Metric Value Source
Global Market Size (USD) $1.2 Billion Grand View Research
Annual Production Volume (MT) 45,000 MT IHS Markit
Average Price (Pharma Grade, USD/kg) $18.50 Market Analysis Q1 2026
Top Producing Country Chile (35% share) UN Comtrade
Top Consuming Region Asia-Pacific (40% share) Frost & Sullivan
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR 2021-2026) 4.8% MarketResearch.com
Number of Active Manufacturers Globally ~120 Industry Estimate

Customer and Market Pain Points

Buyers and end-users of potassium iodide face several recurring challenges that impact procurement and application.

Price Volatility

Potassium iodide prices are highly sensitive to iodine raw material costs, which fluctuate based on mining output, geopolitical events, and demand from the electronics industry. Buyers struggle with budget forecasting.

Quality Inconsistency

Particularly from smaller manufacturers, batch-to-batch purity variations can exceed acceptable limits. This is critical for pharmaceutical and food applications where strict compliance is mandatory.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Natural disasters, factory shutdowns, and shipping delays (e.g., port congestion in China) can cause lead time extensions of 2-4 weeks, affecting emergency stockpiling programs.

Regulatory Complexity

Navigating different import regulations, documentation requirements (e.g., REACH, FDA registration), and tariff classifications across countries creates administrative burdens for international buyers.

Counterfeit and Substandard Products

The market sees occasional entry of counterfeit or adulterated KI, especially in developing regions. Buyers must invest in supplier verification and third-party testing to mitigate risks.

Limited Supplier Transparency

Some manufacturers are reluctant to share detailed production processes, raw material sources, or quality control data, making it difficult for buyers to assess true capability.