India
China
Brazil
Philippines
Sri LankaQ1 2025
Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA) prices demonstrated volatility across Asian and South American origins in Q1 2025. Philippines, under CIF port Manila (India) terms, saw an initial price rise in January due to increased demand from surfactant manufacturers and bulk restocking by Indian importers. However, prices declined in February as inventory pressure and subdued detergent manufacturing slowed off-take. March again witnessed a price rebound amid renewed procurement and tighter vessel availability. Sri Lanka (CIF Colombo, India) followed a similar up-down-up trend, influenced by regional supply shifts and steady downstream demand. In contrast, Brazil (CIF Santos, India) showed a consistent price drop across all three months, reflecting slower shipments and weak competitive interest from Indian buyers. The quarter ended with prices at USD 1310/MT, CIF Manila (India), Philippines.
Q4 2024
During Q4 2024, LABSA 90% prices showed mixed regional dynamics. In Brazil, prices under CIF Santos (India) terms trended downward throughout the quarter. The decline was primarily due to reduced procurement from Indian buyers amid ample stock levels and subdued cleaning product demand. Meanwhile, Philippines and Sri Lanka, both under CIF port Manila (India) and CIF Colombo (India) terms respectively, witnessed increasing prices in October and December. This uptrend was driven by seasonal restocking ahead of year-end holidays and steady demand from the personal care and household cleaner segments. However, the Philippines saw a brief dip in November due to shipping delays and high inventories. The quarter concluded with LABSA 90% prices at USD 1350/MT, CIF Santos (India), Brazil.
Q3 2024
At the outset of Q3 2024, the price of LABSA exhibited a downward trend in the APAC region. This trend was influenced by several key factors, including inadequate cost support from the feedstock LAB market, as the prices of raw material LAB declined, further reducing production costs and resulting in a bearish market outlook. Conversely, in Europe, prices remained stable during the first month of Q3 2024, attributed to a narrow gap between demand and supply. Following the decline, the price of LABSA FOB Shanghai is currently approximately USD 1354 per metric ton.
Q2 2024
In Q2 2024, the Asian LABSA market experienced significant price fluctuations due to changes in consumer demand and inventory levels. In China, prices dropped by about 2%, reflecting a slight decline in demand as manufacturers adjusted their purchasing strategies in response to higher stock levels and shifting consumption patterns in end-user sectors. In contrast, the North American market faced challenges, with LABSA prices falling by 7% compared to the previous quarter. This decline was due to weakened demand from key industries, as manufacturers dealt with excess inventory and rising production costs, leading to a more cautious procurement approach. Meanwhile, the European market showed a more positive trend, with pricing fundamentals improving significantly and LABSA prices increasing by approximately 8% during the same period.
Q1 2024
In the APAC region, the Global LABSA market exhibited mixed trend influenced by varying end-user demand and the availability of the commodity. In South Korea, prices experienced a downward trajectory by around 3.5% in Q1 2024 compared to Q4 2023, reflecting a combination of reduced demand from key sectors and increased inventory levels that led to a surplus in the market. This decline suggests a temporary easing in the urgency for procurement as manufacturers recalibrate their production schedules in response to market conditions. Conversely, the price dynamics in China showed a more optimistic trend, with prices rising by 4% during the same period. This increase was attributed to stronger end-user demand, particularly from the detergent and personal care industries.
Q1 2025
Throughout Q1 2025, LABSA prices in India followed a firm upward trajectory across major regions, driven by renewed demand from the detergent, surfactant, and cleaning chemical industries. With the start of the financial year, manufacturers actively restocked inventories to meet Q2 demand projections. Procurement activities were especially strong in Gandhidham, West, and East India, where 90% grade saw consistent buying interest. Feedstock Linear Alkyl Benzene remained costlier, supporting finished product pricing. However, the 96% grade in Kolkata and East India saw limited off-take due to previous overstocking and soft local demand. Export-oriented traders at FOB Mundra also reported stronger overseas inquiries, lending further support. The quarter reflected stable operational conditions and rising consumption in household and institutional cleaning segments. By March-end, the market remained supported across segments, with LABSA 90%, Ex-Kolkata closing at USD 1308/MT.
Q4 2024
LABSA prices in India saw mixed trends during Q4 2024, influenced by regional variations in demand and inventory adjustments. In Gandhidham and West India, 90% grade prices rose steadily as demand surged from institutional cleaning and textile industries. Meanwhile, Kolkata and East India saw weaker performance for the 96% grade, attributed to high base inventories and slower off-take from mid-sized detergent manufacturers. Market sentiment improved in December with festive and year-end restocking. Feedstock prices remained stable, but strategic buying in Western and port-adjacent regions contributed to the firm tone. Export demand from FOB Mundra improved marginally, helping offset slower domestic movement in a few eastern hubs. Despite these mixed signals, the quarter ended on a stronger note, with LABSA 90%, Ex-Gandhidham closing at USD 1285/MT.
Q3 2024
In Q3 2024, LABSA prices in India were marked by volatility as contrasting trends emerged across regions. July saw patchy demand due to monsoon disruptions and weak off-take in Kolkata and East India. Some recovery was observed in August with increased cleaning chemical consumption in urban areas, but September ended on a bearish note due to excessive inventory and lacklustre export orders. The 96% grade, largely traded in East and Kolkata markets, remained under pressure throughout the quarter. Meanwhile, procurement in Gandhidham and West India fluctuated with inconsistent manufacturing schedules among mid-sized buyers. Feedstock costs were relatively stable, but operational constraints and weak consumer spending in rural zones limited growth. Most regions reported gradual price declines by quarter-end. The quarter closed lower, with LABSA 96%, Ex-Kolkata settling at USD 1343/MT.
Q2 2024
LABSA prices in India registered steady gains throughout Q2 2024 as seasonal demand strengthened, particularly from household cleaning and FMCG sectors. The 90% grade saw strong traction in Kolkata, West, and East India, supported by higher production of liquid detergents during the summer months. Anticipation of monsoon-related logistics disruptions in Q3 further encouraged stockpiling. Feedstock Linear Alkyl Benzene costs edged higher due to firm crude trends, which added cost pressure across production hubs. Exporters at FOB Mundra recorded better international interest, mainly from Southeast Asian buyers, further tightening domestic availability. The 96% grade in East India showed signs of softness initially but later aligned with the broader uptrend. Overall, demand fundamentals remained supportive with stable supply chains and firm institutional procurement. The quarter concluded with LABSA 90%, Ex-Kolkata priced at USD 1275/MT.
Q1 2024
LABSA prices in Q1 2024 showed mild fluctuations across India as markets adjusted post-year-end slowdowns. In early January, cautious procurement and inventory drawdowns weighed on prices in Gandhidham and East India. However, rising demand from cleaning product manufacturers and recovery in institutional consumption boosted sentiment by February. The 90% grade saw more stability across West and Kolkata markets, where detergent production gradually picked up. Meanwhile, 96% grade demand remained subdued in East India due to lack of large-volume buyers. Feedstock prices for LAB remained within a stable range, with no significant cost pressure. Traders at FOB Mundra saw steady inquiries but avoided bulk commitments due to price uncertainty. While regional differences persisted, overall market tone improved toward quarter-end, supported by better downstream performance. The quarter wrapped up on a stable note, with LABSA 90%, Ex-Gandhidham closing at USD 1258/MT.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA) is a key raw material in the production of synthetic detergents. It is a clear, colorless liquid derived from the alkylation of benzene with long-chain alkenes, typically sourced from petroleum feedstocks. LAB plays a critical role in manufacturing surfactants for household cleaning products, industrial detergents, and personal care formulations. The primary production process involves the alkylation of benzene with linear olefins in the presence of a catalyst, followed by purification. Major producers of LAB include companies like Chevron Phillips Chemical, Reliance Industries, and Sinopec. LAB’s high biodegradability and effective cleaning properties make it a popular choice for detergent formulations globally, with significant demand in both developed and emerging markets.
Packaging Type
Grades Covered
Incoterms Used
Synonym
PriceWatch Quotation Terms:
Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.
| Parameter | LABSA 90% | LABSA 96% |
| Active Matter (%) | 90 ± 1 | 96 ± 1 |
| Free Sulphuric Acid (%) | Max 6 | Max 1.5 |
| Color (Klett, 5% Sol.) | Max 50 | Max 35 |
| pH (1% Solution) | 1.5 – 2.5 | 1.5 – 2.5 |
| Free Oil (%) | Max 2 | Max 1 |
| Water (%) | Max 4 | Max 3 |
| Density @ 20°C [g/cm³] | 1.06 – 1.08 | 1.06 – 1.08 |
| Appearance | Clear to slightly hazy brown liquid | Clear to light brown viscous liquid |
| Solubility in Water | Completely soluble | Completely soluble |
| 2-Phenyl Alkane (wt%) | Typically 10–20 | Typically 10–20 |
| Sulphonation Completion (%) | Min 96 | Min 98.5 |
Applications
Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA) is widely used as a high-performance anionic surfactant in various industries. Key applications include:
Crude Oil Price Volatility & Sulphur Feedstock Tightness (2021 – Present)
As crude oil prices fluctuated post-pandemic, feedstock prices for LABSA especially LAB and Sulphuric acid became unstable. Global shipping bottlenecks, container shortages, and rising freight rates further strained supply chains. At the same time, growing detergent and cleaning product demand in both industrial and household sectors intensified raw material consumption. These pressures collectively pushed LABSA prices higher and made procurement unpredictable, especially in countries relying on imports of either LAB or sulphur.
Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022 – Ongoing)
The geopolitical tension in Eastern Europe significantly affected global energy prices, which in turn impacted the cost of LABSA’s upstream raw materials primarily Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) and Sulphuric acid. High crude oil prices raised the cost of LAB, while trade sanctions and disrupted logistics chains affected the import of sulphur and sulphuric acid. These factors drove up production costs, causing sharp upward price trends for LABSA in key markets like India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
COVID-19 Pandemic (Since 2020)
The pandemic led to severe disruptions in supply chains and manufacturing across the globe. LABSA production was affected by temporary plant shutdowns and labour shortages. However, demand surged due to increased consumption of cleaning agents, disinfectants, and household detergents products where LABSA is a critical surfactant. This dual effect of constrained supply and spiking demand resulted in volatile price movements and periodic shortages in the global and domestic markets.
Plant-level visibility is your secret weapon against production delays. Our Downtime Monitor tracks what’s happening inside facilities—so you can respond fast, reduce risk, and plan better.
What You’ll Access
Why It Matters
One hour of unplanned downtime can cost thousands—or more. We give you the intelligence to spot it, solve it, and prevent it.
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid (labsa) price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid (labsa) market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.
In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid (labsa) prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid (labsa) market data.
Track PriceWatch's linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid (labsa) price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.
This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA) pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA) is a key raw material in the production of synthetic detergents. It is a clear, colorless liquid derived from the alkylation of benzene with long-chain alkenes, typically sourced from petroleum feedstocks. LAB plays a critical role in manufacturing surfactants for household cleaning products, industrial detergents, and personal care formulations. The primary production process involves the alkylation of benzene with linear olefins in the presence of a catalyst, followed by purification. Major producers of LAB include companies like Chevron Phillips Chemical, Reliance Industries, and Sinopec. LAB’s high biodegradability and effective cleaning properties make it a popular choice for detergent formulations globally, with significant demand in both developed and emerging markets.
Packaging Type
Grades Covered
Incoterms Used
Synonym
PriceWatch Quotation Terms:
Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.
| Parameter | LABSA 90% | LABSA 96% |
| Active Matter (%) | 90 ± 1 | 96 ± 1 |
| Free Sulphuric Acid (%) | Max 6 | Max 1.5 |
| Color (Klett, 5% Sol.) | Max 50 | Max 35 |
| pH (1% Solution) | 1.5 – 2.5 | 1.5 – 2.5 |
| Free Oil (%) | Max 2 | Max 1 |
| Water (%) | Max 4 | Max 3 |
| Density @ 20°C [g/cm³] | 1.06 – 1.08 | 1.06 – 1.08 |
| Appearance | Clear to slightly hazy brown liquid | Clear to light brown viscous liquid |
| Solubility in Water | Completely soluble | Completely soluble |
| 2-Phenyl Alkane (wt%) | Typically 10–20 | Typically 10–20 |
| Sulphonation Completion (%) | Min 96 | Min 98.5 |
Applications
Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA) is widely used as a high-performance anionic surfactant in various industries. Key applications include:
The price of LABSA is influenced by several factors, including the cost of raw materials like Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB), which is derived from petrochemicals such as benzene and olefins. Fluctuations in crude oil prices, supply-demand dynamics, and production costs in the chemical industry also play a major role. Additionally, changes in transportation and logistics costs, regulatory restrictions, and environmental compliance can further affect the pricing. Understanding these factors helps procurement heads anticipate price shifts and manage their budget more effectively.
Global demand significantly impacts LABSA pricing. As LABSA is a key ingredient in detergents and cleaning products, rising demand from industries such as household cleaning, personal care, and industrial cleaning boosts the need for LABSA. When demand spikes, especially in fast-growing markets like Asia-Pacific, it can lead to supply shortages and higher prices. Procurement heads should monitor global market trends to predict demand-driven price changes and secure contracts accordingly to avoid paying a premium.
Procurement teams can secure the best pricing for LABSA by building strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating long-term contracts to lock in stable prices, and diversifying their supplier base to reduce dependency on a single source. Keeping an eye on market trends, such as feedstock price movements and global demand shifts, allows procurement heads to time their purchases more strategically. Collaborating with suppliers to ensure a reliable and cost-effective supply chain is also key in securing favourable LABSA pricing.
Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Nidhyana Price Watch Data Analytics Private Limited