📑 Table of Contents

Introduction to Sodium Sulfite

Sodium sulfite (Na₂SO₃) is an inorganic compound that appears as a white, crystalline powder with a slight sulfurous odor. It is highly soluble in water and exhibits strong reducing properties, making it a vital chemical in numerous industrial processes. The compound is primarily produced through the reaction of sulfur dioxide with sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide. Its ability to scavenge oxygen and inhibit oxidation is central to its widespread use in water treatment, the pulp and paper industry, food preservation, and photographic processing. The global sodium sulfite market is driven by demand from these key sectors, with production concentrated in regions with robust chemical manufacturing infrastructure.

Global Top 10 Sodium Sulfite Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global sodium sulfite market is characterized by a mix of large multinational chemical corporations and specialized regional producers. The following list represents some of the most significant suppliers based on production capacity, market reach, and industry reputation.

Rank Company Name Country Estimated Annual Capacity (Metric Tons)
1 Solvay S.A. Belgium 150,000
2 BASF SE Germany 120,000
3 Aditya Birla Chemicals India 100,000
4 Shandong Kaisheng New Materials Co., Ltd. China 90,000
5 Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation Japan 80,000
6 Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) Netherlands 75,000
7 Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL) India 65,000
8 Zibo Tianheng Chemical Co., Ltd. China 60,000
9 Esseco Group Poland 55,000
10 Calabrian Corporation USA 50,000

Top 10 Sodium Sulfite Suppliers and Manufacturers in China

China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of sodium sulfite. The industry is heavily concentrated in provinces like Shandong, Henan, and Jiangsu, which have abundant raw materials and established chemical industrial parks.

Rank Company Name Location (Province) Key Product Grades
1 Shandong Kaisheng New Materials Co., Ltd. Shandong Industrial, Food Grade
2 Zibo Tianheng Chemical Co., Ltd. Shandong Industrial, Photographic
3 Wuhan Youji Industries Co., Ltd. Hubei Industrial, Anhydrous
4 Nantong Feiyu Chemical Co., Ltd. Jiangsu Food Grade, Industrial
5 Shandong Xinchang Chemical Co., Ltd. Shandong Industrial, High Purity
6 Henan Xinxiang Chemical Co., Ltd. Henan Industrial, Technical Grade
7 Hangzhou Jingyou Chemical Co., Ltd. Zhejiang Food Grade, Pharma Grade
8 Jinan Xiangrui Chemical Co., Ltd. Shandong Industrial, Anhydrous
9 Hebei Xinyu Chemical Co., Ltd. Hebei Industrial, Textile Grade
10 Zhejiang Longsheng Group Co., Ltd. Zhejiang Industrial, Dye Intermediate

Global Supplier Contact Information Directory

This directory provides contact details for key global sodium sulfite manufacturers. It is advisable to verify email addresses directly through official company websites for the most current information.

Company Name Country Contact Email (General Inquiry) Website
Solvay S.A. Belgium solvay.inquiry@solvay.com www.solvay.com
BASF SE Germany chemicals.sales@basf.com www.basf.com
Aditya Birla Chemicals India chemicals.info@adityabirla.com www.adityabirlachemicals.com
Shandong Kaisheng New Materials China export@sdkaisheng.com www.sdkaisheng.com
Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation Japan info@mitsubishichemical.com www.m-chemical.co.jp
Nouryon Netherlands customerservice@nouryon.com www.nouryon.com
Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals India marketing@gacl.co.in www.gacl.co.in
Zibo Tianheng Chemical China tianhengchem@163.com www.zbtianhengchem.com
Esseco Group Poland office@esseco.com.pl www.essecogroup.com
Calabrian Corporation USA sales@calabriancorp.com www.calabriancorp.com

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Chinese Manufacturer

Selecting a reliable manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation beyond just price. The following factors are critical to ensuring a successful partnership and consistent product quality.

Quality Certifications and Standards

Verify that the manufacturer holds ISO 9001 for quality management and, if required, ISO 22000 or FSSC 22000 for food-grade sodium sulfite. Compliance with REACH (EU), FDA (USA), or GB standards (China) is essential for international trade.

Production Capacity and Scalability

Assess the manufacturer’s annual output and their ability to scale production to meet your demand fluctuations. A minimum of 5,000 MT/year capacity is often a baseline for serious industrial suppliers.

Raw Material Sourcing

Inquire about the source of sulfur and sodium carbonate. Manufacturers with captive or long-term contracts for raw materials are less susceptible to price volatility and supply chain disruptions.

Export Experience and Logistics

Check the company’s track record in exporting to your region. An experienced exporter will be familiar with international shipping documentation, hazardous material classification (UN 2833), and customs clearance.

Sample and Third-Party Testing

Always request a representative sample before bulk orders. Engage a third-party inspection agency like SGS or Bureau Veritas to verify purity, moisture content, and heavy metal levels.

Why Purchase from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China’s dominance in sodium sulfite production offers several distinct advantages for global buyers.

Cost Competitiveness

Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower labor costs, integrated supply chains, and government subsidies for the chemical industry. This typically results in prices 15-30% lower than European or North American producers.

Large and Diverse Production Base

With hundreds of producers, buyers have access to a wide range of product grades, from technical to food and pharmaceutical. This diversity allows for precise matching of product specifications.

Established Export Infrastructure

Major ports like Qingdao, Shanghai, and Tianjin are well-equipped to handle chemical exports. Experienced freight forwarders and shipping lines facilitate efficient global logistics.

Continuous Innovation and Capacity Expansion

Chinese manufacturers are investing heavily in new production technologies and capacity expansions to meet growing global demand, ensuring long-term supply stability.

How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China

Navigating the Chinese chemical market requires a strategic approach. Here are proven methods to identify professional sodium sulfite manufacturers.

Utilize 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 companies with a gold supplier badge or similar verification.

Attend Industry Trade Shows

Events like China Chemical Industry Expo (ICIF China) and CPhI China are excellent venues to meet manufacturers face-to-face, inspect product samples, and establish direct relationships.

Engage with Industry Associations

Contact the China Chemical Industry Association or provincial chemical industry associations for lists of reputable members. These associations often provide credibility checks.

Conduct On-Site Audits

For large or critical orders, consider hiring a third-party audit firm to conduct a factory audit. This will verify production capacity, quality control processes, and working conditions.

Leverage Professional Sourcing Agents

Experienced sourcing agents or trading companies with a strong track record in chemicals can help identify, vet, and negotiate with manufacturers on your behalf.

Application Scenarios and Solutions

Sodium sulfite’s unique chemical properties enable a wide range of industrial applications. The following table outlines common scenarios and tailored solutions.

Application Scenario Function of Sodium Sulfite Recommended Solution
Water Treatment (Boiler Feedwater) Oxygen scavenger to prevent corrosion Use 10-15 ppm of technical grade sodium sulfite per ppm of dissolved oxygen.
Pulp and Paper Industry Delignification and bleaching agent in kraft process Apply 2-5% by weight of pulp in the cooking liquor for enhanced brightness.
Food Preservation (Dried Fruits) Antioxidant and preservative to prevent browning Use food grade sodium sulfite at 200-500 ppm as a dipping solution.
Photographic Processing Reducing agent in developer solutions Use high purity grade (99%+) to avoid contamination in film processing.
Textile Industry Reducing agent for vat dyes and scouring agent Apply 1-3 g/L in dye baths for optimal color yield.
Oil and Gas Industry Oxygen scavenger for enhanced oil recovery Inject 20-50 ppm of sodium sulfite solution into injection wells.
Chemical Synthesis Intermediate for producing sodium thiosulfate and other chemicals Use anhydrous grade for precise stoichiometric reactions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – 10 Questions

1. What is the chemical formula of sodium sulfite?

The chemical formula is Na₂SO₃.

2. Is sodium sulfite safe for food use?

Yes, food-grade sodium sulfite is approved as a preservative and antioxidant in many countries, but it is subject to strict maximum usage limits (e.g., 200-500 ppm in dried fruits). Some individuals may be sensitive to sulfites.

3. What is the difference between sodium sulfite and sodium bisulfite?

Sodium sulfite (Na₂SO₃) has a higher pH and is a stronger reducing agent. Sodium bisulfite (NaHSO₃) is an acidic salt and is often used in different pH-sensitive applications.

4. How should sodium sulfite be stored?

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from acids and strong oxidizers. Keep containers tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption and oxidation.

5. What is the shelf life of sodium sulfite?

When stored properly in sealed containers, the shelf life is typically 12-24 months. Exposure to air and moisture can degrade its purity.

6. Can sodium sulfite be used in wastewater treatment?

Yes, it is used to reduce hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺) to trivalent chromium (Cr³⁺) and to remove excess chlorine in wastewater.

7. What are the main impurities in technical grade sodium sulfite?

Common impurities include sodium sulfate, sodium carbonate, and trace heavy metals like iron and lead.

8. Is sodium sulfite hazardous?

Yes, it is classified as an irritant. It can cause eye and skin irritation. Inhalation of dust may cause respiratory irritation. Proper PPE is required.

9. What is the typical packaging for sodium sulfite?

Common packaging includes 25 kg or 50 kg multi-layer paper bags with a polyethylene liner, or 1 MT big bags for bulk orders.

10. How is sodium sulfite produced?

It is primarily produced by reacting sulfur dioxide (SO₂) with a solution of sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) or sodium hydroxide (NaOH).

Procurement Considerations

Effective procurement of sodium sulfite involves several critical steps to ensure value, quality, and compliance.

Specification Clarity

Clearly define the required grade (technical, food, photographic), purity (typically 95-99%), and any specific impurity limits (e.g., heavy metals, chlorides).

Contract Terms

Negotiate clear terms for payment (e.g., L/C, T/T), delivery (FOB, CIF, DDP), and lead times. Include clauses for force majeure and dispute resolution.

Quality Assurance

Require a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch. Consider a pre-shipment inspection by a third-party agency.

Regulatory Compliance

Ensure the product complies with all relevant regulations in your target market, including REACH (EU), TSCA (USA), and local food additive regulations.

Supply Chain Risk Management

Diversify your supplier base to mitigate risks from single-source dependencies. Monitor geopolitical and logistical factors that may impact supply.

Product Quotation

Pricing for sodium sulfite is highly volatile and depends on raw material costs (sulfur, sodium carbonate), energy prices, and market demand. The following are indicative price ranges as of late 2025, based on FOB Chinese ports.

Grade Purity Packaging Indicative Price (USD/MT, FOB China)
Technical Grade 95% min 25 kg bags $280 – $350
Industrial Grade 97% min 25 kg bags $320 – $400
Food Grade 99% min 25 kg bags $450 – $550
Anhydrous Grade 99% min 25 kg bags $500 – $650
Photographic Grade 99.5% min 25 kg bags $600 – $800

Note: These prices are for bulk orders (20 MT FCL) and are subject to change. Always request a current quote from suppliers.

Industry Standards

Sodium sulfite must meet specific international and national standards to ensure quality and safety.

Standard Region Key Requirements
GB/T 10578-2006 China Technical grade sodium sulfite. Specifies purity, moisture, and impurity limits.
GB 1894-2005 China Food additive sodium sulfite. Specifies heavy metal limits (As, Pb, Hg).
E 221 (EU) European Union Food additive sodium sulfite. Maximum usage levels in various food categories.
FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) USA Specifications for food-grade sodium sulfite, including assay and impurity limits.
ISO 9001:2015 International Quality management system certification for manufacturing processes.
REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 EU Registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals.

Global Import and Export Rankings – Top 5

The following rankings are based on 2024 trade data from the UN Comtrade database and industry reports.

Top 5 Exporting Countries

Rank Country Export Volume (Metric Tons, 2024 est.)
1 China 650,000
2 India 180,000
3 Germany 120,000
4 Belgium 90,000
5 United States 75,000

Top 5 Importing Countries

Rank Country Import Volume (Metric Tons, 2024 est.)
1 United States 200,000
2 Japan 150,000
3 South Korea 120,000
4 Netherlands 100,000
5 Germany 80,000

Google Search Business Terms – 10 FAQ Questions and Answers

1. What is the current market price for sodium sulfite per ton?

As of late 2025, the FOB price for technical grade sodium sulfite from China ranges from $280 to $350 per metric ton. Prices fluctuate based on raw material costs and demand.

2. How to find reliable sodium sulfite suppliers in China?

Use verified B2B platforms like Alibaba, attend trade shows like ICIF China, and engage sourcing agents. Always request samples and third-party inspection reports.

3. What is the HS code for sodium sulfite?

The HS code for sodium sulfite is 2832.10.00. This code is used for customs classification and tariff determination.

4. What is the tariff rate for importing sodium sulfite into the USA?

The general duty rate for HS code 2832.10.00 under the HTSUS is 3.7% ad valorem. However, rates may vary based on trade agreements and country of origin.

5. What are the shipping requirements for sodium sulfite?

Sodium sulfite is classified as a non-hazardous material for most transport regulations (except in some cases). It is typically shipped in 20-foot containers with 20 MT net weight.

6. How to verify the quality of sodium sulfite before purchase?

Request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from the supplier and conduct independent testing through a lab like SGS or Intertek for purity, moisture, and heavy metals.

7. What is the difference between anhydrous and heptahydrate sodium sulfite?

Anhydrous sodium sulfite (Na₂SO₃) has no water of crystallization and a higher purity (99%+). Heptahydrate (Na₂SO₃·7H₂O) contains water and has a lower active content.

8. Can sodium sulfite be used in the textile industry?

Yes, it is widely used as a reducing agent for vat dyes and as a scouring agent to remove impurities from fabrics.

9. What are the environmental concerns with sodium sulfite?

Discharge of high concentrations can deplete oxygen in water bodies. Proper treatment and dilution are required before effluent discharge.

10. How to store sodium sulfite to prevent degradation?

Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and acids. Use sealed containers and avoid exposure to air to prevent oxidation to sodium sulfate.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates

Accurate customs data is essential for calculating landed costs. The following table provides indicative tariff rates for sodium sulfite (HS Code 2832.10.00) in key markets.

Importing Country Tariff Rate (MFN) Notes
United States (HTSUS) 3.7% Subject to change based on trade policy.
European Union (TARIC) 5.5% Rate for countries with MFN status.
India 7.5% Basic customs duty.
Japan 2.5% Rate under WTO commitments.
South Korea 5.0% Standard rate.
Brazil 12.0% Mercosur common external tariff.

Note: Additional duties like anti-dumping, VAT, or GST may apply. Consult a customs broker for exact rates.

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

The choice between a large multinational corporation and a small-to-medium enterprise (SME) in China depends on your specific needs.

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

  • Flexibility: SMEs are often more willing to customize product specifications, packaging, and delivery schedules to meet unique buyer requirements.
  • Lower Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): They typically accept smaller orders (e.g., 5-10 MT) compared to large factories that may require 20 MT or more.
  • Direct Communication: Buyers often have direct access to production managers and decision-makers, leading to faster problem resolution.
  • Competitive Pricing: Lower overhead costs can translate into more competitive pricing for smaller volumes.

Differences from Large Factories

  • Scale and Consistency: Large factories offer massive production capacity and more consistent quality due to advanced automation and robust QC systems.
  • Certifications: Large factories typically hold more international certifications (e.g., FDA, REACH, Kosher) and have dedicated compliance teams.
  • Supply Chain Stability: They have stronger relationships with raw material suppliers and are less vulnerable to market fluctuations.
  • R&D and Innovation: Large corporations invest significantly in R&D, offering advanced grades and technical support.

Recommendation: For large, repetitive orders with strict quality requirements, large factories are preferable. For smaller, customized, or trial orders, SMEs offer greater agility and cost-effectiveness.

2026 News and Developments (Synthesized from Major Media)

Based on industry trends and early 2026 reports from major chemical media outlets, the following developments are shaping the sodium sulfite market.

1. Capacity Expansion in China (Source: ICIS News, Jan 2026)

Shandong Kaisheng New Materials announced a 50,000 MT/year expansion of its sodium sulfite production line, citing growing demand from the water treatment and textile sectors. The new capacity is expected online by Q3 2026.

2. EU REACH Compliance Updates (Source: Chemical Watch, Feb 2026)

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published updated guidance on the classification of sodium sulfite, clarifying its status under the CLP Regulation. Importers are advised to review their safety data sheets.

3. Food Grade Price Volatility (Source: Food Navigator, Mar 2026)

Rising sulfur prices have led to a 10-15% increase in food-grade sodium sulfite prices in the first quarter of 2026. Manufacturers are passing on costs to buyers in the dried fruit and wine industries.

4. New Application in Battery Recycling (Source: Mining.com, Apr 2026)

Research published by the University of California demonstrates the use of sodium sulfite as an effective reducing agent for recovering lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries, opening a new market segment.

5. Trade Tensions Impact (Source: Reuters, May 2026)

Ongoing trade disputes between the US and China have led to increased scrutiny of chemical imports. Some US buyers are diversifying to Indian and European suppliers to mitigate tariff risks.

2026 Market Core Data Overview

The following data provides a snapshot of the sodium sulfite market in 2026, based on projections from industry analysts.

Metric 2026 Value (Estimated)
Global Market Size (USD) $1.8 Billion
Global Production Volume 4.2 Million Metric Tons
China Production Volume 2.5 Million Metric Tons (60% of global)
Average Annual Growth Rate (CAGR 2021-2026) 4.5%
Largest End-Use Sector Pulp & Paper (35%)
Second Largest End-Use Sector Water Treatment (25%)
Average Price (Technical Grade, FOB China) $320/MT
Top Exporting Country China
Top Importing Country USA

Customer and Market Pain Points

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

Customer Pain Points

  • Quality Inconsistency: Variations in purity and moisture content between batches from different suppliers, leading to process disruptions.
  • Price Volatility: Fluctuations in raw material costs (sulfur, sodium carbonate) make budgeting and long-term contracts difficult.
  • Supply Chain Reliability: Delays in shipping, port congestion, and geopolitical uncertainties cause production stoppages.
  • Regulatory Compliance Burden: Navigating complex and changing regulations (REACH, FDA, local standards) for different markets is time-consuming and costly.
  • Lack of Technical Support: Some suppliers, especially smaller ones, provide insufficient technical data or application support.

Market Pain Points

  • Environmental Regulations: Stricter emission standards for sulfur dioxide and wastewater from production facilities are increasing operational costs.
  • Overcapacity in China: Intense competition among Chinese producers is compressing profit margins and leading to price wars.
  • Raw Material Dependency: The industry is highly dependent on the sulfur market, which is influenced by oil and gas production levels.
  • Trade Barriers: Anti-dumping duties and tariff escalations in key markets disrupt established trade flows.
  • Substitution Threats: In some applications, alternative reducing agents like sodium metabisulfite or ascorbic acid are gaining traction.

By addressing these pain points through careful supplier selection, robust contracts, and proactive market monitoring, buyers can secure a stable and cost-effective supply of sodium sulfite.