Discussions

Over the last 5–10 years, the price trend of Caustic Soda (flakes) has shown significant fluctuations driven by changes in demand from key industries, global economic cycles, and shifts in raw material and energy costs. Prices remained relatively stable in the mid-2010s but began rising as demand from paper, textile, alumina, and chemical sectors increased. The market saw sharp price spikes during 2020–2021 due to COVID-19-related supply chain disruptions, reduced plant operating rates, and higher freight costs. In 2022, costs surged further because of global energy price inflation and geopolitical tensions, especially in regions dependent on natural gas for chlor-alkali production. However, in 2023–2024, prices softened as supply improved, new capacities entered the market, and demand growth stabilized. Overall, the long-term trend reflects periods of volatility with alternating cycles of tight supply and price corrections influenced by global manufacturing activity and feedstock availability.