Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) — Global Market Reaches 74.88 Billion RMB in 2025, Calibration Gas Demand Rises with Environmental Regulations

THe globalsulfur dioxide (SO₂)market Continues its moderate expansion, reaching an estimated 74.88 billion RMB in 2025, according to the “2026–2031China Sulfur Dioxide Industry Operational Trends and Investment Prospects Research Report.” China’s share of this market stands at 20.57 billion RMB, representing 27.5% of the global total.

Applications and demand drivers: SO₂ serves multiple industrial roles. Its most prominent use in the specialty gas sector is as a calibration standard for continuous emission monitoring systems (CEMS), which are mandatory for compliance with EPA, EU, and Chinese environmental regulations. Additionally, SO₂ is used in the production of sulfuric acid, as a food preservative (though declining), in water treatment, and in the pulp and paper industry. The tightening of global sulfur emission limits has actually increased demand for accurate SO₂ calibration gases.

Price trends: As of April 24, 2026, 99.9% purity sulfur dioxide in Shandong province is quoted at approximately 3,000 RMB per ton. However, upstream sulfur prices have risen sharply—SunSirs reported sulfur at 5,943 RMB per ton on April 1, up 52% from the beginning of the previous month—which could pressure SO₂ production costs in coming months.

Supply-chain considerations: SO₂ is often produced either as a byproduct of smelting operations (non‑ferrous metal production) or via direct combustion of sulfur. Fluctuations in smelting activity and sulfur availability directly affect SO₂ output. Currently, sulfur shortages are the main supply risk.

Outlook: The SO₂ market will likely see modest price increases if sulfur costs remain elevated. Calibration gas demand will continue to grow with environmental monitoring requirements. Industrial users should monitor upstream sulfur trends and consider longer-term procurement arrangements.