Sesoda declares force majeure on SOP

Taiwanese SOP producer Sesoda has declared force majeure after its unit was shut down for compulsory repairs, upgrading and redesign work.

Sesoda shut down the 130,000 t/yr facility in Su'ao on 11 October following an inspection by Yilan county government officials.

The firm was informed that the plant, which was designed over 40 years ago, did not comply with current industrial standards and regulations.

Sesoda hopes to restart production possibly as early as next month, once all the work in complete and approval is granted.

Sesoda, which produces a range of SOP products including standard and granular grades, is a regular supplier to markets including Australia and Japan, meaning these buyers will need alternative supply options in the short term.

Recent granular SOP price indications to Japan were around $500/t cfr for product shipped in containers.