Sesoda approved for SOP restart, force majeure remains

Taiwanese SOP producer Sesoda has received final approval to restart following a compulsory shutdown for repairs, upgrading and redesign work. But the company's force majeure declaration remains in place pending a successful restart and operations.

Sesoda received the final approval notice earlier this week and plans to restart imminently, with the aim of manufacturing marketable product within the week.

Sesoda shut down the 130,000 t/yr facility in Su'ao on 11 October 2018 following an inspection by Yilan county government officials.

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

The east Asia SOP market has changed significantly since the October shutdown, with spot prices rising notably and China scrapping its previous 600 yuan/t export tax, which will possibly see competition among exporters rise.

Sesoda, which produces a range of SOP products including standard and granular grades, is a regular supplier to markets including Australia and Japan.