On March 24, news reported that from January to February 2026, China's solid caustic soda imports amounted to 1,618.05 tons, marking a month-on-month increase of 141.08% and a year-on-year increase of 38.57%. The average import price was $1,005.71 per ton, reflecting a month-on-month decrease of 24.66% and a year-on-year decrease of 17.53%.

Chempricehub's analysis of caustic soda indicates a bearish sentiment with a score of -1.5. The significant month-on-month surge of 141.08% and year-on-year growth of 38.57% in solid caustic soda imports during January–February 2026 suggests a substantial expansion in supply. Meanwhile, the average import price declined by 24.66% month-on-month and 17.53% year-on-year, indicating reduced cost pressures. This situation exerts notable downward pressure on spot prices of caustic soda, as increased supply may exacerbate market oversupply and restrain price rebounds.

Despite recent upward trends in major futures contracts, such as SH2605 (closing at 2,634 yuan per ton, up 66.00), the import data reinforces expectations of ample supply, potentially triggering a correction in the futures market and intensifying short-term bearish sentiment.