Global Sodium Hydrosulfite Market Size, Share, And Business Benefits By Form (Solid, Liquid), By Production Process (Zinc Dust Process, Sodium Formate Process), By End-Use (Textile, Pulp and Paper, Food and Beverage, Personal Care and Cosmetics, Leather, Water Treatment, Others), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

Global Sodium Hydrosulfite Market is expected to be worth around USD 1.6 billion by 2034, up from USD 1.3 billion in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 2.2% from 2025 to 2034. The growing textile and paper industries make Asia-Pacific USD 0.5 billion the top consumer of sodium hydrosulfite.

Sodium hydrosulfite, also known as sodium dithionite, is a white crystalline powder widely used as a reducing agent. It has strong bleaching properties and is soluble in water, making it ideal for removing oxygen from chemical solutions. Commonly applied in industries such as textile dyeing, pulp and paper, leather processing, and mineral flotation, it plays a crucial role in breaking down stubborn dyes and pigments without damaging the base.

The sodium hydrosulfite market refers to the global trade and consumption of this chemical in various sectors. Its demand is driven primarily by the textile and paper industries, where it’s used for bleaching and color stripping. Market trends also show increasing usage in water treatment and chemical processing. Demand patterns vary regionally based on industrial infrastructure, especially in Asia Pacific and Europe.

One of the primary growth drivers is the expanding textile industry, particularly in Asia, where large-scale dyeing operations rely on sodium hydrosulfite for fabric processing. Increased use of recycled paper is another major contributor, as this chemical is effective in de-inking and whitening paper pulp. Additionally, industrial cleaning and leather processing continue to show stable demand, fueling market growth.

The demand for sodium hydrosulfite remains steady due to its niche but essential applications. It is irreplaceable in certain processes where non-chlorine bleaching is preferred, especially for sensitive materials. With industries gradually shifting toward less harmful chemical agents, sodium hydrosulfite offers a middle ground between performance and environmental considerations.

Key Takeaways

• Global Sodium Hydrosulfite Market is expected to be worth around USD 1.6 billion by 2034, up from USD 1.3 billion in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 2.2% from 2025 to 2034.
• Liquid form dominates the Sodium Hydrosulfite market, holding a strong 79.1% global share.
• Zinc Dust Process leads production methods for Sodium Hydrosulfite, accounting for 67.8% market share globally.
• The textile industry remains the top end-user, consuming 41.1% of total Sodium Hydrosulfite produced worldwide.
• The Asia-Pacific market value in Asia-Pacific reached around USD 0.5 billion in 2024.

By Form Analysis

Liquid form leads the Sodium Hydrosulfite Market, capturing 79.1% share in 2025.

In 2024, Liquid held a dominant market position in the By Form segment of the Sodium Hydrosulfite Market, with a 79.1% share. This clear lead reflects the rising preference for liquid sodium hydrosulfite across key industries such as textiles, pulp & paper, and water treatment due to its ease of handling, faster solubility, and reduced dust emission compared to the powder form.

The dominance of the liquid form can also be attributed to its compatibility with automated dosing systems, which are now widely adopted in large-scale manufacturing plants aiming to improve operational efficiency and workplace safety. Additionally, liquid sodium hydrosulfite requires less dilution and enables more consistent application, especially in bleaching and reductive cleaning processes.

The growing adoption of eco-friendly practices and the increasing need for cleaner formulations have further pushed industries toward liquid variants, given their lower environmental impact during storage and transportation. As industrial users continue shifting toward process optimization and regulatory compliance, demand for the liquid form is expected to remain high, solidifying its position in the global market.

By Production Process Analysis

Zinc Dust Process dominates production in the Sodium Hydrosulfite Market with 67.8% contribution globally.

In 2024, Zinc Dust Process held a dominant market position in the By Production Process segment of the Sodium Hydrosulfite Market, with a 67.8% share. This production method maintained its leadership due to its widespread industrial adoption, especially in regions with established infrastructure for zinc-based chemical manufacturing. The process is known for yielding high-purity sodium hydrosulfite, making it ideal for sensitive applications such as textile dyeing, paper bleaching, and leather processing.

Its dominance can also be linked to the consistent supply chain availability of zinc dust, allowing manufacturers to operate with minimal disruption. Moreover, industries prefer the Zinc Dust Process due to its cost-effectiveness at scale, particularly in countries with mature metallurgical sectors. The stability and reliability of the end product further strengthen its industrial relevance.

While alternative methods like the formate process are gaining attention in niche applications, the Zinc Dust Process continues to account for the majority share because of its proven efficiency and compatibility with existing production setups. The 67.8% share in 2024 highlights the process’s critical role in meeting the volume and quality expectations of major end-use sectors across global markets.

By End-Use Analysis

The textile industry remains the top consumer, holding 41.1% of the Sodium Hydrosulfite Market demand.

In 2024, Textile held a dominant market position in the By End-Use segment of the Sodium Hydrosulfite Market, with a 41.1% share. This leadership reflects the compound’s critical role in textile processing, particularly for bleaching and dye reduction in cotton and synthetic fibers. The textile industry relies heavily on sodium hydrosulfite for vat dyeing and color stripping, where high-performance reducing agents are essential to ensure uniform dye uptake and vibrant color finishes.

The growing global demand for dyed fabrics and garments, especially from major manufacturing hubs in Asia, has further driven the need for stable and effective reductive chemicals like sodium hydrosulfite. Additionally, the compound’s compatibility with a wide range of textile fibers and its effectiveness under low-temperature conditions make it a preferred choice among dyeing and printing units.

The 41.1% market share in 2024 underscores the strong dependency of the textile sector on this chemical, with demand patterns closely tied to apparel production cycles and export volumes. As fashion and apparel markets continue expanding, the textile industry’s reliance on sodium hydrosulfite remains steady, securing its top position among end-use segments in the overall market structure.

Key Market Segments

By Form

• Solid
• Liquid

By Production Process

• Zinc Dust Process
• Sodium Formate Process

By End-Use

• Textile
• Pulp and Paper
• Food and Beverage
• Personal Care and Cosmetics
• Leather
• Water Treatment
• Others

Driving Factors

Growing Textile Industry Boosting Bleaching Chemical Demand

One of the main reasons behind the growth of the sodium hydrosulfite market is the rapid expansion of the textile industry. This chemical is widely used to bleach fabrics, especially cotton and synthetic fibers, before they are dyed or printed. As more people buy clothes around the world, especially in fast-growing countries like India, China, and Bangladesh, the need for fabric processing has increased.

Textile factories prefer sodium hydrosulfite because it is a powerful yet gentle bleaching agent that doesn’t damage the material. With fashion brands demanding faster production, the textile industry is increasing its use of reliable chemicals like sodium hydrosulfite to speed up processing. This trend is expected to keep pushing the market forward.

Restraining Factors

Storage and Handling Risks Limit Market Use

One of the biggest challenges in the sodium hydrosulfite market is its sensitivity to air and moisture. This chemical can break down quickly if not stored properly, which makes transportation and handling risky. When exposed to air, it can release sulfur dioxide gas, which is harmful to health and the environment. Because of this, companies need to invest in special storage containers and safety measures, increasing their overall costs.

In some regions, strict rules around hazardous chemicals make it harder to use or import sodium hydrosulfite freely. These safety concerns make some industries look for safer alternatives, which reduces the demand for sodium hydrosulfite in certain markets despite its strong performance in bleaching.

Growth Opportunity

Eco-Friendly Bleaching Drives New Market Demand

As industries look for safer and more eco-friendly chemicals, sodium hydrosulfite is gaining attention as a better alternative to chlorine-based bleaching agents. In paper recycling, it helps remove ink and whiten paper without producing harmful byproducts. Many companies are now switching to cleaner production methods to meet environmental rules and improve sustainability.

Sodium hydrosulfite fits well in this trend because it is effective and less damaging to the environment when used correctly. This shift is creating new chances for the product, especially in areas like recycled textiles and eco-paper manufacturing. With more focus on green production, the demand for safe and efficient bleaching chemicals like sodium hydrosulfite is expected to rise in the coming years.

Latest Trends

Advanced Formulations Enhance Safety and Efficiency

A notable trend in the sodium hydrosulfite market is the development of advanced formulations that improve safety and efficiency. These innovations focus on creating more stable and user-friendly products, which are less prone to degradation and easier to handle. Such advancements are particularly beneficial in industries like textiles and paper, where consistent quality and safety are paramount.

By enhancing the stability and usability of sodium hydrosulfite, these new formulations help industries maintain high standards while also addressing environmental and safety concerns. This trend reflects a broader movement towards more sustainable and responsible chemical usage in various industrial applications.

Regional Analysis

Asia-Pacific holds a 45.8% share in the sodium hydrosulfite market by volume.

The sodium hydrosulfite market shows varied growth across key global regions, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America. Among these, Asia-Pacific dominates with a commanding 45.8% share, accounting for approximately USD 0.5 billion in market value.

This dominance is largely driven by the booming textile and paper industries in countries like China, India, and Bangladesh, where sodium hydrosulfite is heavily used for bleaching and dye removal. In North America, the market sees steady growth due to its application in paper recycling and water treatment, though at a slower pace compared to Asia-Pacific.

Europe follows with moderate adoption, supported by the region’s focus on environmentally friendly bleaching processes in industrial sectors. The Middle East & Africa is witnessing emerging demand, particularly in textile finishing and mineral processing, albeit from a lower base. Latin America shows gradual expansion, mainly due to rising demand in the pulp and paper segment.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

Jinhe Group, established in 1982, has evolved into a prominent technology-based private enterprise with a diversified portfolio spanning chemistry, new materials, and machinery manufacturing. The company’s subsidiary, Yantai Jinhe Sodium Hydrosulfite Factory Co., Ltd., is a cornerstone in its chemical segment, emphasizing the production of sodium hydrosulfite.

BASF SE, a global chemical conglomerate, has demonstrated its strategic focus on expanding chemical production capacities. In 2024, BASF increased its sodium methylate production capacity in Guaratinguetá, Brazil, to 90,000 metric tons per year, underscoring its commitment to meeting regional demands and fostering long-standing customer relationships. While this expansion pertains to sodium methylate, it reflects BASF’s broader strategy of enhancing its chemical production capabilities, which may indirectly influence its operations in sodium hydrosulfite.

Guangdong ZhongCheng Chemicals Inc. has established itself as a significant player in the sodium hydrosulfite market. The company’s focus on producing high-quality chemical products has enabled it to serve a diverse clientele across various industries. Guangdong ZhongCheng’s dedication to research and development ensures that it remains at the forefront of technological advancements, contributing to its sustained growth and competitiveness in the market.

Top Key Players in the Market

• Jinhe Group
• BASF SE
• Guangdong ZhongCheng Chemicals Inc.
• Montgomery Chemicals
• Royce International Corp
• TCP Limited
• Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company
• Chemtrade Logistics
• Bruggemann Chemical

Recent Developments

• In May 2025, Chemtrade agreed to acquire aluminum sulphate water treatment chemical businesses in Florida, New York, and California from subsidiaries of Thatcher Group Inc. for USD 30 million. This move aims to strengthen Chemtrade’s position in the water treatment sector.
• In March 2025, BASF SE is a leading global chemical company headquartered in Germany, with a diverse portfolio that includes chemicals, materials, industrial solutions, surface technologies, nutrition & care, and agricultural solutions.

Report Scope