The Asian soda ash market experienced overall price stability during the week ending September 19, 2025, though there were minor movements in main Chinese regions. The market was governed by conservative sentiment, which was expressed through subdued trading and well-balanced supply-demand situation for the week.
Heavy soda ash declined more steeply, from the initial September 2025. Downstream off-take was regular, but the market experienced a moderate drop in capacity and inventories. Buyers were dull, with inexpensive procurement in focus, promoting a stable market atmosphere. Experts predict a wait-and-see atmosphere on the near-term scene.
Central China's picture was mixed. Light soda ash prices crept up modestly. However, heavy soda ash prices fell compared to late August. With the volatility, supply-side production and inventory levels were below and downstream demand was steady but weak. The market played reasonably well, with little price movement and muted buyer interest.
East China also adhered to the same soft price trend. Thick soda ash decreased since September 2. The region witnessed stable operations of manufacturers with no serious changes in supply pressure. Demand remained moderate with stimulation by just-in-time purchasing and weak interest on downstream buyers. Companies still offered competitive prices to induce shipments, and supply and demand remained balanced.
On the demand side, amongst the key consumers of soda ash, the glass sector showed strength. Production units operated normally, and some companies recorded strong shipments. While end-buying from users continued to be small-sized, overall market conditions continued to be positive, offering moderate support to the demand for soda ash.
Briefly, the Asian soda ash market was stable during the week, with domestic price movements strictly contained. Whilst supply-side realignments and judicious downstream purchasing characterized a subdued trading environment, the steady performance of the glass sector continued to anchor market sentiment.
According to ChemAnalyst, the Asian soda ash market will experience mounting supply-side pressure in the fourth quarter of 2025. Though summer demand and maintenance works might restrict inventory expansion in Q3, the ongoing release of new capacity and high running rates might result in escalating inventories and lower prices. Demand in float glass is weak but stable, with lithium carbonate and photovoltaic glass expansion offering weak support. Inventories, both upstream and downstream, will continue to direct price strategies, with manufacturers set to follow volume-driven strategies when inventories expand. Overall, the market should remain stable in the near term but softening trends could begin as supply outstrips demand as the year winds down to its final months.
