US to Face Widespread Chlorine Shortage, Price Hikes, as Pandemic Boosts Demand The United States is set to face a widespread chlorine shortage this summer, as demand for chemicals from pool owners across the country surges amid the ongoing CCP viruspandemic. Americans are spending more time at home due to the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic, and as pool season approaches, prices of the chemical have started to creep up. In some parts of the country, chlorine tablet prices have doubled from last year. Supplies are also running low due to a major fire incident at Bio-Lab pool and spa treatment products factory, a chemical plant in Louisiana on Aug. 27 last year, caused by Hurricane Laura.