Alkaline protease (EC 3.4.21) is a class of enzymes that exhibit high hydrolytic activity on proteins under alkaline conditions (pH 9–11). It is one of the most widely used industrial enzymes, accounting for roughly 25 % of global industrial-enzyme output. Its applications span multiple sectors, with the detergent industry as the dominant consumer, followed by textiles, leather, food, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and environmental protection.

       China is a major producer and exporter of alkaline protease worldwide. The bulk of Chinese exports are low- to mid-temperature alkaline proteases used in local detergents, feed, and food processing. Imports, by contrast, are high-end grades—heat-resistant, high-alkali-tolerant, or ultra-pure enzymes—sourced mainly from Europe (e.g., Novozymes of Denmark and DSM of the Netherlands) and Japan.

       Customs data show that China exported US$1.7087 million worth of alkaline protease in January–May 2025, up 39.06 % year-on-year. Export volume reached 2.08 million tonnes, a 70.17 % increase over the same period last year, and displayed pronounced volatility. Monthly analysis reveals a clear seasonal pattern: January, April, and May are peak months, representing 24.96 %, 26.56 %, and 22.08 % of total export volume, respectively. February and March were comparatively weak, with February accounting for only 5.57 % of the total.

       The latest 2025 data show that China’s alkaline-protease exports are concentrated in four core markets—Colombia, Peru, Mexico, and Malaysia—which together account for 47.9 % of total export volume. Vietnam and Laos also remain active buyers, while Brazil, despite uneven monthly shipments, continues to provide stable demand as a traditional market.

       Owing to tariff measures, exports to the United States—now ranked third—plunged in the first four months and ceased entirely from May onward. To offset this risk, Southeast Asia has become the strategic focus; customs figures indicate that exports to the region already exceed those to the U.S. by 4.8 times.

       Advances in domestic fermentation and enzyme-engineering technologies have driven a sustained rise in export volumes while steadily reducing import dependence. Emerging demand for green detergents, eco-friendly leather processing, and functional foods is lifting the added value of exported products. As a highly efficient and environmentally friendly biocatalyst, alkaline protease is poised for broad application under China’s industrial-upgrade and environmental-protection policies, offering substantial market potential.

       As China's first data company, Guomaotong provides import and export customs data for over 90 countries from 2010 to present. It can accurately analyze market distribution and transaction details of import and export enterprises online, and analyze transaction volumes, prices, and supply cycles. It offers reliable data for foreign trade enterprises and industry consulting firms.

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