The soda ash market has been anything but predictable. 2024 saw dramatic shifts: mainland China, a major importer earlier in the year, became a net exporter by year-end, leading to depressed prices and producers operating below cost. While apparent demand in mainland China soared, driven by solar glass and lithium, real demand growth, accounting for inventory build-up, was significantly lower, leaving 2025’s outlook uncertain.
Globally, the picture is mixed. Growth in solar glass demand in regions like India and Southeast Asia is promising, but high inventory levels of both glass and PV panels temper short-term expectations. Meanwhile, weakness in container glass demand, coupled with sluggish global construction activity impacting flat glass, presents significant challenges. The potential impact of evolving U.S. trade policies adds further complexity.
Supply-side dynamics are equally complex. New capacity in mainland China, including a major new plant and a significant trona discovery, contrasts with delayed expansions in the U.S. and the closure of the UK’s last synthetic soda ash plant.
World Soda Ash 2025 offers a crucial opportunity to navigate this turbulent landscape. Join global experts and industry leaders to gain:
The conference kicks off with an interactive workshop on “The Commercial Impact of Soda Ash,” followed by two days of insightful market content and exceptional networking opportunities. Don’t miss this critical event.
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