Oxalic acid is a colorless and odorless organic compound that occurs naturally in many plants and vegetables. It is also produced commercially through the oxidation of carbohydrates with nitric acid or air. The annual global production of oxalic acid is around 165,000 metric tons, with China being the leading producer, accounting for more than 50% of the total production.

Oxalic acid has a wide range of applications, including as a cleaning agent for rust and stains, in the production of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and chemicals, and as a bleaching agent in textile and wood industries. It is also used in the purification of rare earth metals and in the manufacturing of metal-polishing compounds.

China’s production advantage in oxalic acid comes from its abundant and low-cost raw material sources, such as coal and calcium carbonate, which are used in the production process. Additionally, Chinese manufacturers have developed advanced technologies to improve production efficiency and reduce costs. As a result, China has become a major supplier of oxalic acid to global markets.