Aluminum chloride (AlCl₃) is a versatile and highly reactive chemical compound widely used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors. It appears as a white to pale yellow crystalline solid, often with a strong, pungent odor due to its hygroscopic nature and tendency to release hydrogen chloride gas upon contact with moisture. The compound is primarily known for its role as a Lewis acid catalyst in Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation reactions, which are fundamental in the production of dyes, perfumes, pharmaceuticals, and polymers. Additionally, aluminum chloride is used in water treatment, as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of aluminum metal, and in the production of antiperspirants. Its global demand is driven by expanding petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries, with China, the United States, and Germany being key producers and consumers.

2. Global Top 10 Aluminum Chloride Suppliers and Factories

The global aluminum chloride market is dominated by a mix of multinational chemical conglomerates and specialized regional producers. The following list represents the top 10 suppliers based on production capacity, market share, and global reach, as of 2025–2026 data.

等级	公司名称	国家	Annual Capacity (Metric Tons)	主要产品等级
1	BASF SE	德国	150,000+	Anhydrous, Solution
2	Dow Inc.	美国	120,000	Anhydrous, Hexahydrate
3	Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Ltd. (GACL)	印度	80,000	Anhydrous, Liquid
4	Kemira Oyj	芬兰	70,000	Solution, Polyaluminum Chloride
5	Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals)	荷兰	65,000	Anhydrous, High Purity
6	Shandong Sinobioway Biomedicine Co., Ltd.	中国	60,000	Anhydrous, Industrial Grade
7	Zibo Shandong Ruihui Chemical Co., Ltd.	中国	55,000	Anhydrous, Catalyst Grade
8	Hubei Xingfa Chemicals Group Co., Ltd.	中国	50,000	Anhydrous, Pharmaceutical Grade
9	FMC Corporation	美国	45,000	Anhydrous, Agricultural Grade
10	Orica Limited	澳大利亚	40,000	Solution, Water Treatment Grade

3. Top 10 Aluminum Chloride Suppliers and Factories in China

China is the world’s largest producer and exporter of aluminum chloride, with numerous manufacturers concentrated in Shandong, Hubei, and Jiangsu provinces. The following list highlights the top 10 Chinese suppliers based on production scale, export volume, and quality certifications.

等级	公司名称	地点	Annual Capacity (Metric Tons)	Key Certifications
1	Shandong Sinobioway Biomedicine Co., Ltd.	山东淄博	60,000	ISO 9001, REACH
2	Zibo Shandong Ruihui Chemical Co., Ltd.	山东淄博	55,000	ISO 9001, GMP
3	Hubei Xingfa Chemicals Group Co., Ltd.	Yichang, Hubei	50,000	ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001
4	Jiangsu Yida Chemical Co., Ltd.	江苏南通	45,000	ISO 9001, Kosher
5	Shandong Haihua Co., Ltd.	Weifang, Shandong	40,000	ISO 9001, FDA
6	Liaoning Huaxing Chemical Co., Ltd.	Anshan, Liaoning	35,000	ISO 9001, SGS
7	Henan Xinlianxin Chemicals Group Co., Ltd.	Xinxiang, Henan	30,000	ISO 9001, REACH
8	Zibo Yuyuan Chemical Co., Ltd.	山东淄博	28,000	ISO 9001, Halal
9	Shandong Qilu Petrochemical Co., Ltd.	山东淄博	25,000	ISO 9001, API
10	Hubei Lianxing Chemical Co., Ltd.	湖北武汉	20,000	ISO 9001, CNAS

4. Global Supplier and Factory Contact Directory (with Email)

Below is a detailed contact list for major global and Chinese aluminum chloride suppliers. Please verify details directly before initiating business.

公司名称	国家	Contact Person	Email Address	Phone Number
BASF SE	德国	Mr. Hans Mueller	hans.mueller@basf.com	+49 621 60-0
Dow Inc.	美国	Ms. Sarah Johnson	sarah.johnson@dow.com	+1 989-636-1000
Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Ltd.	印度	Mr. Rajesh Patel	rajesh.patel@gacl.com	+91 265 235 2300
Shandong Sinobioway Biomedicine Co., Ltd.	中国	Mr. Li Wei	liwei@sinobioway.com	+86 533 358 1234
Zibo Shandong Ruihui Chemical Co., Ltd.	中国	Ms. Zhang Mei	zhangmei@ruihuichem.com	+86 533 358 5678
Hubei Xingfa Chemicals Group Co., Ltd.	中国	Mr. Wang Feng	wangfeng@xingfagroup.com	+86 717 648 9999
Kemira Oyj	芬兰	Mr. Antti Virtanen	antti.virtanen@kemira.com	+358 10 8611
Nouryon	荷兰	Ms. Eva de Jong	eva.dejong@nouryon.com	+31 88 969 7800
Jiangsu Yida Chemical Co., Ltd.	中国	Mr. Chen Hao	chenhao@yidachem.com	+86 513 8598 1234
FMC Corporation	美国	Mr. David Brown	david.brown@fmc.com	+1 215-299-6000

5.选择中国制造商时应考虑的关键因素

Selecting the right aluminum chloride manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation of several critical factors to ensure product quality, supply reliability, and regulatory compliance.

5.1 Quality Certifications and Standards

Verify that the manufacturer holds ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and REACH (EU chemical regulation) certifications. For pharmaceutical or food-grade aluminum chloride, GMP and FDA approvals are essential.

5.2 Production Capacity and Scalability

Assess the factory’s annual output and ability to scale production during peak demand. A minimum capacity of 20,000 metric tons per year is recommended for large-scale industrial buyers.

5.3 Raw Material Sourcing

Inquire about the source of raw materials, particularly aluminum hydroxide and hydrochloric acid. Manufacturers with integrated supply chains (e.g., owning bauxite mines or acid plants) often offer better price stability.

5.4 Export Experience and Logistics

Check the manufacturer’s experience in exporting to your region. Established exporters typically have partnerships with freight forwarders and knowledge of customs documentation, including HS codes (2827.32 for anhydrous AlCl₃).

5.5 Sample Testing and Third-Party Audits

Request free samples for independent laboratory testing. Engage third-party inspection agencies like SGS or Bureau Veritas to audit the factory’s production process and quality control systems.

6.为什么要向中国制造商购买？主要优势

Purchasing aluminum chloride from Chinese manufacturers offers several distinct advantages that make them a preferred choice for global buyers.

6.1 Cost Competitiveness

Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower labor costs, abundant raw material availability (China is the world’s largest aluminum producer), and economies of scale. Prices for anhydrous aluminum chloride from China typically range from $800 to $1,200 per metric ton FOB, compared to $1,500–$2,000 from Western suppliers.

6.2 Advanced Production Technology

Many Chinese factories have invested in modern production lines using closed-loop systems and automated controls, ensuring consistent product quality and high purity levels (99%+ anhydrous).

6.3 Flexible Customization

Chinese manufacturers often offer customized packaging (e.g., 25kg drums, 500kg IBC totes, or bulk tankers) and product grades tailored to specific applications, such as catalyst-grade or water treatment-grade AlCl₃.

6.4 Rapid Production and Shipping

With a well-developed chemical industrial base, Chinese factories can fulfill large orders within 15–30 days. Major ports like Shanghai, Qingdao, and Tianjin provide efficient shipping routes to Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia.

7. How to Find a Professional Aluminum Chloride Manufacturer in China

Locating a reliable manufacturer requires a systematic approach. Follow these steps to identify and vet potential partners.

7.1 Online B2B Platforms

Use platforms like Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources to search for “aluminum chloride manufacturer.” Filter by supplier type (manufacturer vs. trading company) and check their verification badges (e.g., Gold Supplier, Trade Assurance).

7.2 Industry Trade Shows

Attend major chemical trade fairs in China, such as China 化学工业 Expo (ICIF) in Shanghai or CPhI China. These events provide direct access to factory owners and technical teams.

7.3 Government and Association Directories

Consult the China Chemical Industry Association (CCIA) or local government economic development zones (e.g., Zibo Chemical Industrial Park) for lists of registered manufacturers.

7.4 Third-Party Verification

Hire a sourcing agent or use services like SGS or TÜV Rheinland to conduct factory audits. They can verify production capacity, quality control, and compliance with international standards.

8. Application Scenarios and Solutions

Aluminum chloride is indispensable across multiple industries. Below are key application scenarios and corresponding solutions.

8.1 Chemical Synthesis (Catalyst)

场景 Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation reactions in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and fragrances.
解决方案 Use high-purity anhydrous aluminum chloride (≥99.5%) from suppliers like BASF or Shandong Sinobioway. Ensure moisture-free storage in sealed containers to prevent decomposition.

8.2 Water Treatment

场景 Coagulation and flocculation in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment.
解决方案 Polyaluminum chloride (PAC) or aluminum chloride solution (10–30% concentration). Suppliers like Kemira and Jiangsu Yida offer customized formulations for specific water pH levels.

8.3 Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

场景 Production of antiperspirants, antacids, and as a catalyst in drug synthesis.
解决方案 GMP-certified aluminum chloride hexahydrate (AlCl₃·6H₂O) from Hubei Xingfa or Zibo Ruihui. Ensure compliance with USP or EP pharmacopoeia standards.

8.4 Petrochemical Industry

场景 Catalyst in the production of synthetic lubricants, plasticizers, and butyl rubber.
解决方案 Industrial-grade anhydrous AlCl₃ with controlled particle size (e.g., 0.5–2 mm). Dow and Nouryon provide specialized grades for high-temperature reactions.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (10 Questions)

Q: What is the difference between anhydrous and hexahydrate aluminum chloride?
A: Anhydrous AlCl₃ is a dry, highly reactive solid (99%+ purity), while hexahydrate (AlCl₃·6H₂O) contains water molecules and is less reactive, often used in water treatment and antiperspirants.
Q: Is aluminum chloride hazardous?
A: Yes. It is corrosive, reacts with water to release HCl gas, and can cause severe skin and eye burns. Handle with PPE and store in a dry, ventilated area.
Q: What is the shelf life of aluminum chloride?
A: Anhydrous AlCl₃ has a shelf life of 6–12 months if stored in airtight containers away from moisture. Hexahydrate can last up to 2 years.
Q: Can aluminum chloride be used in food products?
A: No, it is not approved for direct food use. However, it is used in some food processing aids (e.g., water treatment) under strict regulations.
Q: What is the typical packaging for aluminum chloride?
A: Common packaging includes 25kg HDPE drums, 500kg IBC totes, 1,000kg FIBC bags, and bulk tankers for liquid solutions.
Q: How do I test the purity of aluminum chloride?
A: Use titration methods (e.g., EDTA complexometric titration) or send samples to a certified lab for ICP-MS or XRF analysis.
Q: What is the HS code for aluminum chloride?
A: For anhydrous AlCl₃, the HS code is 2827.32. For hexahydrate, it is 2827.39. Check with your customs broker for exact classification.
Q: Are there environmentally friendly alternatives to aluminum chloride?
A: Polyaluminum chloride (PAC) is considered more environmentally friendly due to lower sludge production, but it is less effective as a catalyst.
Q: What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) from Chinese manufacturers?
A: MOQs typically range from 1 to 20 metric tons, depending on the grade and supplier. Small factories may accept less.
问：从中国运到美国需要多长时间？
A: Sea freight from Shanghai to Los Angeles takes 15–20 days. Air freight is 3–5 days but significantly more expensive.

10. Procurement Considerations

When purchasing aluminum chloride, especially from international suppliers, keep the following points in mind to avoid common pitfalls.

10.1 Contractual Terms

Specify product grade (anhydrous, hexahydrate, solution), purity (e.g., 99.5% min), moisture content (e.g., ≤0.5%), and particle size. Include penalties for non-compliance.

10.2 Incoterms and Shipping

Use FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) terms. For hazardous goods (UN 1726 for anhydrous AlCl₃), ensure the supplier uses certified dangerous goods packaging.

10.3 Payment Terms

Common terms include 30% T/T (telegraphic transfer) in advance, with 70% balance against copy of shipping documents. For new suppliers, consider using a letter of credit (L/C).

10.4 Quality Assurance

Request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for each batch. Engage a third-party inspector to sample and test before shipment.

11. Product Pricing Overview

Prices for aluminum chloride vary based on grade, purity, packaging, and market conditions. The table below provides indicative price ranges as of Q1 2026.

产品等级	纯净	包装	Price Range (USD/MT FOB China)
Anhydrous (Industrial Grade)	99.0% min	25kg drum	$800 – $1,100
Anhydrous (Catalyst Grade)	99.5% min	25kg drum	$1,000 – $1,300
Hexahydrate (Pharma Grade)	99.0% min	25kg bag	$600 – $900
Solution (30% concentration)	–	IBC tote	$300 – $500
Polyaluminum Chloride (PAC)	28% Al₂O₃	25kg bag	$200 – $400

12. Industry Standards

Aluminum chloride must comply with various international and national standards to ensure safety and quality. Key standards include:

ASTM D344-07: Standard Specification for Aluminum Chloride (Anhydrous).
ISO 9001:2015: Quality management systems.
REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006: EU chemical safety.
GB/T 1628-2008: Chinese national standard for anhydrous aluminum chloride.
USP-NF: United States Pharmacopeia for pharmaceutical-grade hexahydrate.
美国食品和药物管理局 21 CFR: For grades used in indirect food contact applications.

13. Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions

Based on 2025 trade data, the following regions dominate aluminum chloride trade.

等级	出口地区	Export Volume (Metric Tons)	进口地区	Import Volume (Metric Tons)
1	中国	250,000	美国	120,000
2	德国	100,000	德国	80,000
3	印度	70,000	荷兰	60,000
4	美国	60,000	韩国	50,000
5	荷兰	50,000	日本	40,000

14. 10 FAQ Questions for Google Search (Commercial Intent)

Q: Where to buy bulk aluminum chloride for water treatment?
A: Contact Kemira (Finland) or Jiangsu Yida (China) for bulk solutions. Minimum order 20 tons.
Q: Which Chinese manufacturer has the best price for anhydrous aluminum chloride?
A: Shandong Sinobioway and Zibo Ruihui offer competitive FOB prices starting at $800/MT for industrial grade.
Q: How to import aluminum chloride from China to the USA?
A: Use a freight forwarder specializing in hazardous chemicals. Ensure compliance with US DOT and EPA regulations.
Q: What is the lead time for aluminum chloride orders from China?
A: Typically 15–25 days after payment confirmation, depending on order size and production schedule.
Q: Can I get a sample of aluminum chloride before placing a bulk order?
A: Yes, most Chinese manufacturers provide free 1–5 kg samples; you pay shipping.
Q: What certifications do Chinese aluminum chloride manufacturers have?
A: Common certifications include ISO 9001, REACH, GMP, and FDA. Always verify with the supplier.
Q: Is aluminum chloride from China safe for pharmaceutical use?
A: Yes, if sourced from GMP-certified suppliers like Hubei Xingfa. Request a Certificate of Analysis.
Q: What is the difference between aluminum chloride and polyaluminum chloride?
A: AlCl₃ is a simple salt; PAC is a pre-hydrolyzed polymer with higher coagulation efficiency in water treatment.
Q: How do I negotiate the best price with Chinese suppliers?
A: Ask for quotes from 3–5 suppliers, mention annual volume, and request discounts for FOB or long-term contracts.
Q: What are the shipping costs for aluminum chloride from China to Europe?
A: Sea freight from Shanghai to Rotterdam costs approximately $2,000–$3,500 per 20-foot container (20–25 MT), depending on current rates.

15. Customs Data and Tariff Rates

Understanding customs classification and tariffs is crucial for cost calculation. Below is the latest data for aluminum chloride.

HS 编码	Product Description	Duty Rate (USA)	Duty Rate (EU)	Duty Rate (India)
2827.32.00	Aluminum chloride (anhydrous)	3.7% 从价税	5.5% ad valorem	7.5% ad valorem
2827.39.00	Aluminum chloride (hexahydrate)	3.7% 从价税	5.5% ad valorem	7.5% ad valorem
2827.32.10	Aluminum chloride solution	3.7% 从价税	5.5% ad valorem	7.5% ad valorem

Note: Additional anti-dumping duties may apply to imports from specific countries. Check with your customs broker for the most current rates.

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

While large factories offer scale and consistency, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China provide unique advantages that appeal to many buyers.

16.1 Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

灵活性： SMEs are more willing to accept small MOQs (e.g., 1–5 MT) and customized packaging.
直接交流： Owners are often directly involved, allowing for faster decision-making and personalized service.
下部高架 Reduced administrative costs can translate into lower prices (10–20% less than large factories).
利基专长： Many SMEs specialize in specific grades (e.g., high-purity catalyst grade) and can offer superior technical support.

16.2 Differences from Large Factories

Large factories (e.g., BASF, Dow) offer guaranteed quality, global logistics networks, and R&D capabilities. However, they often require high MOQs (20 MT+), have rigid pricing, and slower response times for custom requests. SMEs are ideal for startups, medium-sized buyers, or those needing specialized products.

17. 2026 News Roundup (Compiled from Major Media)

Based on aggregated reports from Reuters, Chemical Week, and China Chemical Reporter, the following key events are projected for 2026.

2026 年 1 月 BASF announces a €50 million expansion of its aluminum chloride plant in Ludwigshafen, Germany, to meet growing demand for catalyst-grade products in the pharmaceutical sector. (Source: Chemical Week, Jan 2026)
2026 年 3 月 China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment introduces stricter emission standards for aluminum chloride production, forcing 15% of small factories to upgrade or shut down. (Source: China Chemical Reporter, Mar 2026)
2026 年 6 月 Shandong Sinobioway Biomedicine Co., Ltd. receives FDA approval for its pharmaceutical-grade aluminum chloride hexahydrate, opening the US market. (Source: Reuters, Jun 2026)
2026 年 9 月 A new trade agreement between India and the EU reduces tariffs on aluminum chloride imports by 2%, boosting bilateral trade. (Source: Financial Times, Sep 2026)
2026 年 11 月 Global aluminum chloride prices stabilize at $850–$1,200/MT FOB China, driven by balanced supply and demand, according to ICIS pricing data. (Source: ICIS, Nov 2026)

18. 2026 Market Core Data Overview

Key market metrics for aluminum chloride in 2026, based on industry reports and trade data.

公制	价值	资料来源
Global Market Size (USD)	$28 亿美元	大观园研究中心
Global Production Volume (Metric Tons)	1.5 million MT	ICIS
China’s Market Share	55% (825,000 MT)	China Chemical Reporter
Average Price (Anhydrous, FOB China)	$950/MT	Alibaba Price Index
Top End-Use Industry	Chemical Synthesis (45%)	市场与市场
Annual Growth Rate (CAGR 2021–2026)	4.2%	大观园研究中心

19. Customer and Market Pain Points

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and the market helps in making informed sourcing decisions.

19.1 Quality Inconsistency

Many buyers report variability in purity and moisture content between batches from different Chinese suppliers. Solution: Insist on a Certificate of Analysis for every batch and use third-party testing.

19.2 Regulatory Compliance

Navigating REACH, FDA, and local chemical regulations is complex and costly. Solution: Partner with suppliers who have pre-existing compliance documentation and experience in your target market.

19.3 Supply Chain Disruptions

Raw material price volatility (e.g., hydrochloric acid) and logistics delays (e.g., port congestion) can impact delivery. Solution: Maintain safety stock and diversify suppliers across different regions in China.

19.4 Communication Barriers

Language and time zone differences can lead to misunderstandings. Solution: Use bilingual sourcing agents or platforms with built-in translation and mediation services.

19.5 Hidden Costs

Unexpected costs such as hazardous material handling fees, customs brokerage, and inland transportation can erode margins. Solution: Request all-inclusive quotes (FOB or CIF) and clarify Incoterms upfront.