Introduction
Phosphoric acid is a key player in global chemical trade. It supports agriculture, food processing, and industrial operations. As global consumption rises, understanding how to trade phosphoric acid effectively becomes more important. This guide covers what you need to know before entering the market.
What Is Phosphoric Acid?
Phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) is a clear, non-volatile acid produced by treating phosphate rock with sulfuric acid. It serves many industries but is most commonly used in manufacturing phosphate-based fertilizers. Moreover, it functions as an acidity regulator in food products and a cleaning agent in metallurgy.
Global Producers and Buyers
Major producers include China, the United States, Morocco, and Russia. These countries have rich phosphate reserves and efficient production systems. On the other hand, major importers like India, Brazil, Turkey, and Vietnam purchase large quantities for agriculture and industry.
Why Is It in Demand?
Due to its wide range of applications, phosphoric acid is in constant demand. In agriculture, it enhances soil fertility. In the food sector, it acts as a preservative. Furthermore, industries rely on it for surface treatments and metal cleaning processes.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Standard Value |
|---|---|
| P₂O₅ Content | ≥ 52% (industrial grade) |
| Purity | ≥ 85% (technical/food) |
| Appearance | Clear or light yellow |
| Specific Gravity (20°C) | 1.685 – 1.695 |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm |
Buyers usually request detailed certificates and regular quality tests before shipment.
Shipping and Safety
Because phosphoric acid is corrosive, exporters must follow strict safety rules. Typically, they use ISO tanks or plastic drums with chemical-resistant linings. In addition, labels and safety data sheets must accompany each shipment. Planning ahead helps avoid delays at customs.
Documents You’ll Need
To complete international deals, companies must prepare:
- Certificate of Analysis (COA)
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
Depending on the destination, local regulations may demand extra documentation. Always check the import rules beforehand.
Trade Challenges
Of course, trading phosphoric acid involves certain difficulties. Transporting hazardous materials requires special permits. Prices can fluctuate due to changes in raw material costs. Additionally, some regions impose trade restrictions or complex compliance standards.
Leading Import Markets
| Country | Annual Volume | Main Application |
|---|---|---|
| India | 1.8M MT | Fertilizer |
| Brazil | 1.2M MT | Agribusiness |
| Turkey | 450K MT | Industrial use |
| Vietnam | 400K MT | Food & fertilizer |
These countries seek reliable suppliers who can meet volume and safety standards.
Price Outlook
Prices for phosphoric acid vary by origin, purity, and global supply trends. Typically, FOB rates fall between $850–$1,200 per metric ton. Costs rise with higher-grade products or extra certifications.
Why Export Phosphoric Acid?
Trading this chemical offers several benefits:
- It serves essential global industries.
- Market demand remains stable.
- Products have long shelf lives.
- There is room for high-margin deals in niche sectors.
Conclusion
If you want to succeed in the phosphoric acid trade, focus on quality, compliance, and timely delivery. Partnering with the right logistics and documentation experts makes a big difference. With proper planning, this market offers long-term profitability.
Technical Expertise Is Vital
ATABAŞ GRUP delivers certified phosphoric acid tailored to international standards. Our team ensures seamless documentation, safe packaging, and punctual shipping. We help our clients build trust in competitive global markets.
Phosphoric acid plays a vital role in several industries, but not all types are the same. The two most common classifications are food grade and industrial grade phosphoric acid. While they may appear similar, each serves a different purpose, follows different purity standards, and meets separate regulatory guidelines. Understanding these distinctions is essential for safe and successful trading.
What Makes Food Grade Phosphoric Acid Different?
Food grade phosphoric acid is manufactured under strict hygienic conditions. It must meet the requirements set by food safety authorities such as the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) or EFSA (European Food Safety Authority). This type is used in soft drinks, jams, canned goods, and meat products. It acts as an acidity regulator and helps preserve shelf life.
Typical Specifications – Food Grade
| Parameter | Standard Value |
|---|---|
| Purity | ≥ 85% |
| Appearance | Clear and colorless |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 5 ppm |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 1 ppm |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 1 ppm |
Additionally, food grade phosphoric acid must be produced using food-safe equipment. Any trace contamination can make it unfit for consumption.
Where Is Food Grade Used?
Food and beverage companies use this acid primarily in:
- Carbonated drinks (for sharp taste)
- Cheese production (as a coagulant)
- Processed meats (to stabilize pH)
- Jams and jellies (for flavor and shelf life)
It must comply with Codex Alimentarius and include a detailed Certificate of Analysis in every shipment.
What About Industrial Grade Phosphoric Acid?
Unlike the food version, industrial grade phosphoric acid is made for non-edible applications. It often has a slightly lower purity level and may contain higher trace metals. That’s not an issue because industries use it for cleaning, fertilizing, or chemical reactions—never in consumables.
Typical Specifications – Industrial Grade
| Parameter | Standard Value |
|---|---|
| P₂O₅ Content | ≥ 52% |
| Purity | 75–85% |
| Appearance | Light yellow or clear |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Free Acidity | ≤ 1.0% |
Because it’s less refined, this version is usually cheaper and easier to obtain in bulk.
Where Is Industrial Grade Used?
Companies use industrial phosphoric acid in:
- Fertilizer production (especially DAP and MAP)
- Rust removal and metal cleaning
- Water treatment
- Detergents and soap making
- Flame retardants in plastics
Due to its corrosive nature, it must be stored and transported with great care. Most countries require it to be listed as a hazardous chemical under HS Code 2809.20.
How to Choose the Right Grade?
Here are some quick tips:
- If it touches food, use food grade. No exceptions.
- If it’s for agriculture or industrial cleaning, use industrial grade.
- Check purity and metal content before you buy.
- Review buyer regulations—some countries have very specific import rules.
Trade and Documentation
Both types of phosphoric acid require proper documentation. However, food grade usually needs more:
- HACCP or ISO 22000 certifications
- Food safety handling procedures
- Additional lab testing (especially for heavy metals)
For industrial grade, standard COA and SDS documents often suffice.
Conclusion
Both food grade and industrial grade phosphoric acid serve important purposes, but they are not interchangeable. By understanding their differences and following the right procedures, traders can reduce risk and increase trust with clients. Whether you supply to a beverage company or a fertilizer plant, choosing the correct grade is critical for success.
Expertise You Can Trust
ATABAŞ GRUP provides both food and industrial grade phosphoric acid. We follow global standards and offer full traceability from factory to delivery. With certified facilities and reliable logistics, we help clients access exactly what they need—safely and on time.