AMAI: DOMESTIC DEMAND FOR CAUSTIC SODA UP BY 4.2% TO 41.38 LAKH MT IN 2022-23

 AMAI report on domestic demand for caustic soda: Industry body Alkali Manufacturers Association of India (AMAI) recently released its Annual Industry Review 2022–23. The Review highlights the performance, policy initiatives,


customs, GST, anti-dumping and safeguard duties, latest trends on the Indian alkali and chloro-vinyl industries. It also gives a picture of the future roadmap for the industry.

According to the AMAI’s Annual Industry Review, the exports of caustic soda exceeded the imports for the third consecutive year. However, imports of soda ash increased by 2.5 per cent to 5.77 lakh MT in 2022–23 over 2021–22. Imports of sodium bicarbonate increased 27.8 per cent YoY to 19.54 KMT. Even imports of polyvinyl chloride saw a massive surge of 51.4 per cent in 2022–23 to 22.66 lakh MT constituting 59% of domestic demand.

ICN reproduces here snapshot of caustic soda, soda ash, sodium bicarbonate and polyvinyl chloride from the Annual Industry Review 2022–23.

Caustic Soda

Installed capacity touched 55.65 Lakh MTPA which represents about 5.5% of the global capacity and chlor-alkali market is expected to expand with growth in economy. Production increased to 44.73 lakh MT, an increase of 8.3% over the previous year. Capacity utilisation reduced to 80%, largely due to higher capacities that were added during the year.

Domestic demand during the year was 41.38 Lakh MT, an increase of 4.2% over last year.

Imports declined to 1.35 lakh MT (Y-o-Y decline of 33%). The average Import CIF Price during the year is 671 USD/MT for Caustic Soda Lye & 694 USD/MT for Caustic Soda Flakes. For the third successive year, exports exceeded imports.

Exports increased to 4.58 lakh MT (Y-o-Y increase of 34%). The average Export FOB Price during the year is 625 USD/MT for Caustic Soda Lye & 695 USD/MT for Caustic Soda Flakes.

Major consuming sectors for caustic soda are Textiles (17.52%), Alumina (14.69%), Inorganics (12.99%), and Pulp & Paper (5.75%). Chlorine

Domestic demand during 2022–23 was 39.63 Lakh MTPA against 36.59 Lakh MTPA in 2021–22, an increase of 8.3%. Major consuming sectors for chlorine are HCl (17.27%), Chloro-methanes (15.08%), CPW (14.28%), Organics (13.73%), and Inorganics (10.92%).

AMAI report on domestic demand for caustic soda

Hydrogen

Majorly hydrogen consumed as fuel (33.06%) and in HCl (30.12%). Production for hydrogen during 2022–23 was 12,524 Lakh Nm3, compared to 11,564 Lakh Nm3 in 2021–22, an increase of 8.3%.

Soda Ash

Installed capacity reached 43.96 Lakh MTPA which represents about 6.2% of the global capacity. Production increased to 37.18 lakh MT, an increase of 4.7% over the previous year. Capacity utilisation increased to 85%, during the year.

Domestic demand during the year was 39.77 Lakh MT, an increase of 0.7% over last year.

Imports increased to 5.77 lakh MT (Y-o-Y increase of 2.5%). The average Import CIF Price during the year is 410 USD/MT for Soda Ash Dense & 442 USD/MT for Soda Ash Light.

Exports declined to 2.04 lakh MT (Y-o-Y decline of 18.6%). The average Export FOB Price during the year is 432 USD/MT for Soda Ash Dense & 392 USD/MT for Soda Ash Light.

Major consuming sectors for soda ash are Soaps & Detergents (38%), Glass (35%), Chemicals (15%), and Silicates (8%)

Sodium Bicarbonate (SBC)

Capacity remained stagnant at 308 KMT. Domestic demand during the year was 272.5 KMT, an increase of 2.1% over last year. Imports increased to 19.54 KMT (Y-o-Y increase of 27.8%). The average Import CIF Price during the year is 445 USD/MT. Exports declined to 16.54 KMT (Y-o-Y decline of 13.8%). The average Export FOB Price during the year is 539 USD/MT.

Major consuming sectors for sodium bicarbonate are Food/Baking (36%), Industrial incl. FGT (19%), Animal Feeds (17%), and Health Care (9%).

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Installed capacity marginally increased to 15.95 Lakh MTPA which represents about 2.7% of the global capacity. Production increased to 15.66 lakh MT, an increase of 5% over the previous year. Capacity utilisation increased to 98%.

Domestic demand was 38.32 Lakh MT, an increase of 28.4% over last year.

Imports increased to 22.66 lakh MT (Y-o-Y increase of 51.4%). Imports now constitute 59% of domestic demand.

Major consuming sectors for PVC are Pipes & Fittings (80%), Films & Sheets (8%), and Wires & Cables (7%).

Hossein Moshiri

WA +989124311007

info@chemkraft.ir

Source: https://chemkraft.ir/en/amai-report-on-caustic-soda/

Originally published at https://chemkraft.ir on January 5, 2024.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

IRAN’S CAUSTIC SODA EXPORTS TO IRAQ: NAVIGATING CHALLENGES AND SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES

Image
  Hossein Moshiri IRAN'S CAUSTIC SODA EXPORTS TO IRAQ Introduction: Iraq’s Caustic Soda imports: Iran’s caustic soda industry holds a strategic position in the global chemical market, and neighboring Iraq emerges as a crucial trade partner. This essay explores the dynamics of Iran’s caustic soda exports to Iraq, highlighting the challenges faced and the potential opportunities that can be leveraged to strengthen this bilateral trade relationship. **1.  Historical Trade Relations: Iran and Iraq share a long history of economic and trade relations. Geographical proximity, cultural ties, and mutual economic interests have fostered a robust exchange of goods and services. In recent years, Iran has emerged as a key supplier of various products to Iraq, and caustic soda is one such essential commodity with diverse applications across industries. **2.  Growing Industrial Demand in Iraq: Iraq’s industrial landscape is undergoing significant expansion and modernization, driven by ...
Read more

A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME: THE HISTORY OF CAUSTIC SODA AND ITS EVOLUTION Hossein MoshiriJanuary 12, 2024 Introduction: Caustic Soda Evolution: The history of caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), spans centuries and reflects the remarkable advancements in chemistry and industry. From ancient alchemy to modern chemical engineering, the journey of caustic soda unveils a narrative of discovery, innovation, and the contributions of prominent figures who shaped its evolution. This article explores the stages of caustic soda’s history, highlighting key milestones and individuals who played pivotal roles in its development. 1. Ancient Alchemy and Discovery: The roots of caustic soda can be traced back to ancient times when alchemists sought to unravel the mysteries of matter. Alchemy, a precursor to modern chemistry, involved the exploration of various substances and their properties. During this era, the concept of alkali substances, including those with caustic properties, began to emerge. 2. Alkali Discovery in the Middle Ages: In the Middle Ages, the knowledge of alkalis expanded, and the production of alkali substances became more systematic. One of the primary sources of alkali was potash, derived from the ashes of burnt plants. Alchemists and early chemists started to recognize the diverse applications of alkalis, laying the foundation for the systematic study of their properties. 3. Early Chemical Investigations: The 18th century witnessed significant progress in chemical investigations. Scientists like Carl Wilhelm Scheele and Joseph Priestley made notable contributions to the understanding of alkalis and their properties. Scheele, in particular, conducted experiments that elucidated the nature of caustic soda and its distinct characteristics. Caustic Soda Evolution 4. Birth of the Chlor-Alkali Industry: The 19th century marked a transformative period in the history of caustic soda with the birth of the chlor-alkali industry. The industrial production of caustic soda became feasible through the development of the chlor-alkali process. This process involves the electrolysis of brine (sodium chloride solution), leading to the simultaneous production of chlorine, hydrogen, and caustic soda. This breakthrough laid the groundwork for large-scale caustic soda manufacturing. See also Unveiling the Caustic Soda Industry: Electrolysis Plants vs. Flaking Units 5. Leblanc Process and Solvay Process: Two influential processes in the 19th century further propelled the production of caustic soda. The Leblanc process, developed by Nicolas Leblanc, involved the conversion of common salt into sodium carbonate, a precursor to caustic soda. The Solvay process, pioneered by Ernest Solvay, offered a more efficient and environmentally friendly method for producing sodium carbonate, further contributing to caustic soda production. 6. Role of Pioneering Chemists: Prominent chemists throughout history have significantly contributed to the understanding and advancement of caustic soda. Sir Humphry Davy’s electrolysis experiments were instrumental in revealing the elemental nature of sodium and furthering the understanding of sodium hydroxide. The contributions of chemists like Friedrich Wöhler, who synthesized sodium metal and investigated alkali metals, and Augustin Jean Fresnel, who studied the physical properties of caustic soda, expanded the scientific knowledge surrounding this essential chemical. 7. 20th Century Advancements: The 20th century witnessed substantial advancements in the caustic soda industry, driven by technological innovations and the increasing demand for chemicals. Improved manufacturing processes, such as membrane cell technology, enhanced the efficiency and sustainability of caustic soda production. 8. Global Expansion and Industrial Applications: As industries diversified and expanded globally, the demand for caustic soda surged. The chemical found widespread applications in various sectors, including pulp and paper, textiles, soap and detergents, metallurgy, and water treatment. Its versatility in both chemical processes and product formulations solidified its status as a cornerstone of industrial chemistry. 9. Environmental Considerations and Sustainable Practices: In recent decades, the caustic soda industry has witnessed a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Research and innovation focus on developing greener processes, minimizing waste, and optimizing energy efficiency. The industry’s commitment to addressing environmental concerns reflects the evolution of societal values and the integration of responsible practices. See also Exploring Opportunities for Iranian Caustic Soda Exports to Kyrgyzstan Caustic Soda Evolution Conclusion: The history of caustic soda is a fascinating journey through the annals of chemistry and industry. From the alchemical pursuits of ancient times to the systematic discoveries of the Middle Ages, the transformative developments of the 19th century, and the technological advancements of the 20th and 21st centuries, caustic soda’s evolution mirrors the progress of scientific inquiry and human ingenuity. Prominent figures such as Leblanc, Solvay, Scheele, and Davy have left indelible marks on the caustic soda narrative, contributing to its understanding and industrial applications. As the chemical industry continues to evolve, with a heightened focus on sustainability and responsible practices, the journey of caustic soda remains an enduring testament to the interplay between science, industry, and the quest for knowledge across the ages. Hossein Moshiri WA +989124311007 Source: https://chemkraft.ir/en/caustic-soda-evolution/ Report content on this page

Image
  A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME: THE HISTORY OF CAUSTIC SODA AND ITS EVOLUTION Hossein Moshiri January 12, 2024 Introduction: Caustic Soda Evolution: The history of caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), spans centuries and reflects the remarkable advancements in chemistry and industry. From ancient alchemy to modern chemical engineering, the journey of caustic soda unveils a narrative of discovery, innovation, and the contributions of prominent figures who shaped its evolution. This article explores the stages of caustic soda’s history, highlighting key milestones and individuals who played pivotal roles in its development. 1. Ancient Alchemy and Discovery: The roots of caustic soda can be traced back to ancient times when alchemists sought to unravel the mysteries of matter. Alchemy, a precursor to modern chemistry, involved the exploration of various substances and their properties. During this era, the concept of alkali substances, including those with caustic properties...
Read more

CAUSTIC SODA DEMAND AND IRAN’S ROLE: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

Image
  Introduction: Possible caustic soda shortage in late 2020 decade: The global caustic soda market is at risk of facing a demand-supply imbalance in the latter half of this decade, as indicated by trends analyzed by Hira Saeed, a chlor-alkali market expert at Tecnon OrbiChem. The potential for a shortfall hinges on the severity of the anticipated global economic downturn outlined by the International Monetary Fund. In 2022, challenges within the chlor-alkali sector are underscored by the elevated prices of caustic soda in Europe, driven by increases in natural gas and electricity costs. High export prices out of Europe in Q2 led to a scarcity of concluded deals, but recent adjustments by European exporters, reducing prices for competitiveness, have begun to improve the situation. However, persistent high freight costs and delays pose ongoing obstacles to successful export strategies. The graph illustrating caustic soda capacity and forecasted consumption reveals a potential imbala...
Read more