Global Sulfuric Acid Market Grows at a Staggering CAGR of 11.4%

Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is a highly corrosive, colorless, to slightly yellow liquid known for its strong acidic properties. It ranks among the most widely used industrial chemicals, essential in fertilizer production, chemical manufacturing, petroleum refining, and wastewater treatment. Most sulfuric acid is used in phosphate fertilizer production, particularly for superphosphates and ammonium sulfate. Additionally, it is a key component in lead-acid batteries, explosives, detergents, and metal processing. Industrially, sulfuric acid is produced through contact, in which sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is oxidized and absorbed in water to form the acid. Due to its strong dehydrating properties, sulfuric acid is a vital reactant in chemical synthesis and various industrial applications.

The global sulfuric acid market is experiencing steady growth, driven by its critical role in fertilizer production, chemical manufacturing, and industrial applications. The rising demand for phosphate-based fertilizers, especially in agriculture-dependent economies, is a key factor fueling market expansion. Additionally, sulfuric acid is vital in refining petroleum, wastewater treatment, and metal processing, further boosting global consumption. The increasing need for sustainable energy solutions, including battery storage technologies like lead-acid batteries for electric vehicles, also contributes to the market’s growth.

Market Dynamics

Rising demand for sulfuric acid across various industries drives market growth

Sulfuric acid is increasingly utilized in chemical manufacturing, metal processing, and petroleum refining. The metals sector, in particular, has witnessed surging demand due to the adoption of copper and nickel leaching technologies. As economies worldwide prioritize investments in electrification and renewable energy, sulfuric acid consumption is expected to increase, particularly in battery metal processing. Technologies like high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) for nickel extraction and sulfate-based precursor production for battery cathodes drive this demand.

• In July 2021, BASF, Zhejiang Jiahua Energy Chemical Industry Co. Ltd., and Zhejiang Jiafu New Material Technology Co. Ltd. signed an agreement to expand electronic-grade sulfuric acid production capacity, further strengthening the sulfuric acid market.

The increasing use of sulfuric acid in wastewater treatment presents significant opportunities

Sulfuric acid is integral in wastewater treatment, primarily for pH level restoration. The treatment process is crucial for environmental protection, as it neutralizes pH levels, assists in the removal of solid particles like ferric chloride, polymers, and alums, and eliminates disease-causing bacteria. Furthermore, sulfuric acid helps control and prevent unpleasant odors in wastewater systems and is essential in chemical treatments to separate sludge from water.

• According to a study published in the Journal of Water Research, sulfuric acid eliminates 99% of tested waterborne bacteria. Additionally, Bell Chem, a water treatment ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL, maintains a diverse stock of products in its 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, reinforcing sulfuric acid’s significance in water treatment applications.

Regional Analysis

The Asia-Pacific region leads the global sulfuric acid market, driven by rapid industrialization, agricultural expansion, and a strong chemical manufacturing sector. Countries such as China, India, and Japan consume substantial amounts of sulfuric acid due to its extensive use in fertilizers, metal processing, and chemical synthesis. The region’s focus on sulfur recovery initiatives and regulatory frameworks also shapes the market’s long-term sustainability.

• According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), agricultural production in Asia-Pacific surged by 80% over the last two decades, underscoring the increasing demand for fertilizers, which remains the largest application of sulfuric acid.

Moreover, rising investments in battery manufacturing and renewable energy sectors, particularly in China and South Korea, are further propelling sulfuric acid demand for lead-acid battery production. Major market players are expanding production capacity, forming strategic partnerships, and enhancing environmental compliance to maintain a strong foothold in this dominant region.

Key Highlights

• The global sulfuric acid market size was valued at USD 18.46 million in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 20.39 million in 2025 to USD 64.58 million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 11.4% during the forecast period (2025-2033).
• Based on raw material, the global market is segmented into elemental sulfur, pyrite ores, base metal smelters, and others. The Elemental Sulfur owns the highest market share.
• Based on the applications, the global sulfuric acid market is segmented into fertilizers, metal processing, pulp & paper, petroleum refining, textile industry, automotive, and chemical manufacturing. The Fertilizers own the highest market share.
• Based on region, the global market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. Asia-Pacific is the most significant shareholder in the global sulfuric acid market and is forecasted to exhibit a CAGR of 3.11% during the forecast period.

Market Segments

1. By Raw Material
   1. Elemental Sulfur
   2. Pyrite Ores
   3. Base Metal Smelters
   4. Others
2. By Applications
   1. Fertilizers
   2. Metal Processing
   3. Pulp & Paper
   4. Petroleum Refining
   5. Textile Industry
   6. Automotive
   7. Chemical Manufacturing
   8. Others
3. By Region
   1. North America
   2. Europe
   3. Asia-Pacific
   4. Middle East & Africa
   5. Latin America