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Linear Alkyl Benzene (lab) Price Trend and Forecast

âźł Weekly Update
|
Historical Data Since 2015
|
Forecast for 2026

linear alkyl benzene (lab) Price Trends by Country

inIndia
cnChina
saSaudi Arabia
qaQatar
esSpain
deGermany

linear alkyl benzene (lab) Pricing Trends in India: 

  • Northern India linear alkyl benzene (lab) market price trend
  • Southern India linear alkyl benzene (lab) market price trend
  • Central India linear alkyl benzene (lab) market price trend

Global linear alkyl benzene (lab) Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

The Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) market in Saudi Arabia witnessed a turbulent Q2 2025, marked by alternating trends in demand from key export destinations. Linear Alkyl Benzene Price trend declined in April due to weak offtake from European buyers such as Spain, where detergent manufacturing activity remained sluggish. However, May 2025 saw a sharp turnaround as procurement surged across Qatar, China, and Germany.

This recovery was largely driven by restocking needs and a brief rebound in home and personal care segments, particularly in China, where surfactant demand saw seasonal growth. Yet by June, the upward momentum faded. European demand softened again, and Chinese buyers scaled back intake following inventory saturation.

Despite Spain showing some resilience the broader export sentiment turned bearish, pressuring prices. According to PriceWatch, Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices were assessed at USD 1450/MT FOB Al-Jubail in June 2025.  

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

The Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) market in Saudi Arabia witnessed a turbulent Q2 2025, marked by alternating trends in demand from key export destinations. Prices declined in April due to weak offtake from European buyers such as Spain, where detergent manufacturing activity remained sluggish. However, May 2025 saw a sharp turnaround as procurement surged across Qatar, China, and Germany.

This recovery was largely driven by restocking needs and a brief rebound in home and personal care segments, particularly in China, where surfactant demand saw seasonal growth. Yet by June, the upward momentum faded. European demand softened again, and Chinese buyers scaled back intake following inventory saturation.

Despite Spain showing some resilience, the broader export sentiment turned bearish, pressuring prices. According to PriceWatch, Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices were assessed at USD 1450/MT FOB Al-Jubail in June 2025.  

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices in Qatar followed a mixed-to-firm trend in Q1 2025, ultimately closing March 2025 at USD 1385/MT, FOB Mesaieed. The quarter began with downward pricing pressure in January, driven by subdued demand from key Asian buyers, particularly China, where a slowdown in detergent and personal care manufacturing affected LAB import volumes.

However, by February, market sentiment shifted positively as regional demand recovered—especially in Saudi Arabia and Spain—where seasonal restocking and increased consumption from the home care and cleaning sectors boosted procurement activity.

Additionally, firming prices of feedstocks like benzene and kerosene in the Middle East added upward cost pressure on LAB production. Improved offtake from Europe and the Gulf by March further supported price gains. This gradual yet consistent recovery indicates market normalization after the early-quarter dip. The quarter closed at USD 1385/MT, FOB Mesaieed. 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, LAB prices experienced a two-phase trend. In the first half of the quarter, LAB prices rose due to a combination of factors. Strong demand from the consumer goods sector, particularly for detergents during the pre-holiday season, led to an uptick in LAB consumption. Additionally, suppliers faced some logistical disruptions and tightness in raw material availability, pushing up the prices in the early part of Q4.

However, this upward trajectory reversed in the second half of Q4, as the industry entered a destocking phase. Manufacturers began to reduce inventory levels, anticipating lower demand after the peak holiday period. The price decline was also influenced by a weakening of crude oil prices and lower feedstock costs.

This destocking, coupled with a slower pace of global economic growth, caused a drop in LAB prices during the latter half of Q4. Overall, Q4 2024 ended with a more cautious outlook for the LAB market, as manufacturers adjusted to more stable pricing conditions for the coming year. 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

In Q3 2024, LAB prices followed a volatile trend. During the first half of the quarter, prices saw a decrease due to a reduction in demand during the mid-summer months, traditionally a quieter period for the detergent and cleaning industries. In July 2024, LAB prices in China experienced a monthly decrease of around 2%, settling at USD 1,528 per metric ton. This decline was linked to a reduction in upstream benzene prices, which lowered production costs for LAB. This was coupled with a temporary reduction in production costs, as feedstock prices stabilized following the highs seen in Q2. Lower demand, coupled with stable feedstock costs, led to a short-term price drop in the early part of Q3.

However, the second half of the quarter saw a recovery in LAB prices as global economic conditions improved and demand rebounded, particularly in key markets like Asia and Europe. Manufacturers replenished inventories following the destocking that occurred earlier in the year, creating upward pressure on LAB prices towards the end of the quarter.

This recovery also coincided with increased industrial activity in the lead-up to Q4, further driving prices back up. 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices saw a notable increase, driven by a combination of factors that affected both supply and demand. By Q2 2024, LAB prices rebounded with a 2.5% increase in China, driven by a resurgence in demand as end-use industries began restocking and ramping up production.

This uptick was further fuelled by rising production costs and supply chain disruptions. Key drivers included higher feedstock costs, particularly for benzene and long-chain alkenes, which saw price surges due to limited availability and fluctuations in crude oil prices. Additionally, increased demand from detergent manufacturers in both emerging and developed markets contributed to upward price pressure.

The rising production costs, combined with robust demand from the household and industrial cleaning sectors, led to LAB price increases during the second quarter. Companies across the supply chain, from petrochemical producers to end-users, faced increased operational costs, which were reflected in the market pricing. 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In the APAC market, Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices experienced notable fluctuations across 2024. In Q4 2023, LAB prices peaked due to high demand. However, this trend reversed in Q1 2024, when prices fell by approximately -2% in China compared to the previous quarter, with similar declines observed in India. This drop was attributed to reduced demand following the peak consumption period and possibly an oversupply situation or increased production capacity. 

 

India linear alkyl benzene (lab) Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

Q1 2025 exhibited a volatile pricing pattern in the Indian LAB market. The quarter opened with declining prices across Ex-Chennai and Ex-Mumbai markets, influenced by post-holiday demand fatigue and carryover inventories from the previous quarter. February brought a brief recovery spurred by renewed CIF demand at Kolkata and Mundra, particularly from Saudi Arabia and Qatar as restocking activity resumed.

However, March witnessed another pullback in prices as domestic offtake waned. The quarter’s trajectory underscored the delicate balance between external cargo arrivals and erratic downstream consumption. Quarter closed at USD 1700/MT, Ex-Chennai. 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

In Q2 2025, Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices in the Indian domestic market, particularly in West India market, showed a sharp swing between bullish and bearish phases. April and May recorded a steady price increase, driven by robust procurement from home care product manufacturers and a temporary spike in demand from the detergent segment in West India.

The early summer months supported higher consumption, especially in urban households where hygiene and cleaning product usage increased. Import prices also rose in May due to better buying interest. However, June saw a clear reversal across all major Indian regions, including all regions.

The market softened under pressure from accumulated inventory and subdued downstream activity as monsoon conditions impacted transport and reduced detergent consumption in rural markets. According to PriceWatch, Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices were assessed at USD 1810/MT Ex-Mumbai after conclusion of Q2 2025.  

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

Throughout Q1 2024, Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices across major Indian markets reflected a bearish trajectory, driven by subdued downstream demand in the detergent and cleaning agent segments. From January through February, sellers faced limited procurement interest, with both domestic (Ex-Chennai, Ex-Mumbai) and imported (CIF Kolkata, CIF Mundra) cargoes experiencing price pressure.

Imports from Saudi Arabia and Qatar saw consistent declines due to excess availability and weak spot market activity. A marginal price recovery emerged in March, particularly in South and West India, as seasonal restocking commenced. However, this was insufficient to offset earlier losses. The quarter concluded at USD 1500/MT, Ex-Chennai. 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

Q2 2024 saw a steady price escalation for LAB in the Indian market, supported by robust domestic demand and tightened supply conditions. Ex-Mumbai and Ex-Chennai markets witnessed bullish momentum driven by an uptick in detergent consumption and seasonal procurement ahead of the monsoon.

CIF cargoes arriving at Kolkata and Mundra ports also trended higher, influenced by elevated freight costs and supply constraints from the Middle East. Indian producers capitalized on this favorable demand-supply gap, adjusting their offers upward across West and South India. Quarter closed at USD 1636/MT, Ex-Mumbai. 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

In Q3 2024, LAB prices in India maintained a consistent upward trend, buoyed by peak-season demand from the home and industrial cleaning segments. While Ex-Chennai and Ex-Mumbai markets continued their positive momentum, CIF-based imports from Saudi Arabia and Qatar showed a contrary pattern, softening due to ample availability and tepid demand in East India.

Domestic markets remained firm as downstream buyers replenished stocks amid limited local inventories. The resilience of demand in South and West India provided further upward support. Quarter ended at USD 1775/MT, Ex-Chennai. 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

The final quarter of 2024 presented a mixed pricing environment for LAB in India. October began with moderate firmness across domestic markets, yet by November and December, prices came under pressure due to year-end inventory liquidation and a slowdown in procurement activity. Imports from Saudi Arabia (CIF Kolkata) continued to soften amid weak buying sentiment.

On the contrary, select support was observed at CIF Mundra (Qatar) due to constrained availability. However, waning demand from the detergent sector in West and South India ultimately dampened overall market momentum. Quarter concluded at USD 1780/MT, Ex-Mumbai. 

Global linear alkyl benzene (lab) Supply Chain

Upstream
Downstream
  • Detergents (Household)
  • Industrial Cleaners
  • Emulsion Polymerization
  • Agricultural Chemicals
Major supplying countries
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Qatar
  • Spain
  • South Korea
  • China
Major importing countries
  • India
  • China
  • Brazil
  • South Africa

India linear alkyl benzene (lab) Supply Chain

Upstream
  • Kerosene
  • Benzene
  • Linear Olefins
Downstream
  • Detergents (Household)
  • Industrial Cleaners
  • Emulsion Polymerization
  • Agricultural Chemicals
Major supplying countries
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Qatar
  • Spain
  • South Korea
  • China
Major importing countries
  • India
  • China
  • Brazil
  • South Africa

Technical Specifications of Linear Alkyl Benzene (lab) Price Trends

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

235+ or -5

CAS No

67774-74-7

HS Code

38170011

Molecular Formula

C6H5CnH2n+1
linear alkyl benzene (lab)

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) 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

Drum

Linear Alkyl Benzene (lab) Grades Covered

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB 98%)

Incoterms Used

FOB Al-Jubail, FOB Mesaieed, FOB Shanghai, FOB Barcelona, CIF Hamburg (Spain), CIF Kolkata Sea (Saudi Arabia), CIF Mundra (Qatar), Ex-Mumbai, Ex-Chennai, Ex-West India, Ex-South India

Synonym

Linear Alkyl Benzene,

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

Min 100 MT

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.

Characteristics  Specification 
Density @ 15 DEG.C  0.855-0.870 
Bromine Index   25 Max 
Saybolt Colour   +30 Min 
Doctor Test   Negative 
<C10   1 Max 
C10   30 Max 
C11   30-45 
C12   20-35 
C13   20 Max 
C14& above   1 Max 
Completion of Sulphonation%   98.5% Min 
2-Phenyl Alkane (WT%)   10-20 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (lab) Industrial Applications

Linear Alkyl Benzene used a surfactant intermediate for detergents, industry cleaners, Linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid and personal care products. 

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Linear Alkyl Benzene (lab) prices

Fluctuations in Crude Oil Prices (2021 – Present) 

As economies reopened in 2021, increased demand for fuels and petrochemicals drove up the prices of LAB feedstocks like benzene and linear olefins. Simultaneously, global shipping congestion, container shortages, and rising freight costs tightened LAB availability, especially in import-reliant markets like India and Southeast Asia. These factors pushed LAB prices higher across key regions. The detergent industry, a major LAB consumer, also saw a resurgence in demand, compounding the upward pricing trend. 

Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022 – Ongoing) 

In 2022, global energy prices surged due to geopolitical events—including the Russia-Ukraine conflict—impacting refining margins and feedstock availability for LAB. The cost of benzene and paraffinic derivatives rose sharply, putting further pressure on LAB producers. Additionally, uncertainty in international trade, sanctions, and regional logistical disruptions created supply chain fragmentation. These factors collectively drove LAB prices upward, with spot availability becoming erratic across both developed and emerging markets. 

COVID-19 Pandemic (since 2020) 

Impact: Significant changes in demand patterns and supply chain disruptions were brought about by the pandemic. The first lockdown phases had an impact on LAB production because of worker shortages and plant closures. On the other hand, there was an increased demand for cleaning and disinfectant products, which use LAB as a key ingredient, leading to price fluctuations and supply shortages. 

These events underscore the Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics. 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global linear alkyl benzene (lab) 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 (lab) 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 (lab) prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely linear alkyl benzene (lab) market data.

Track PriceWatch's linear alkyl benzene (lab) 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.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions.
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., naphtha, ethane) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes and production of benzene. which can significantly impact Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the India East Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., Personal care & Cosmetics, Industrial cleaners, Detergents and cleaning products and household cleaners), to predict shifts in Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) demand and corresponding price movements. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes. 

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

235+ or -5

CAS No

67774-74-7

HS Code

38170011

Molecular Formula

C6H5CnH2n+1
linear alkyl benzene (lab)

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) 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

Drum

Grades Covered

Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB 98%)

Incoterms Used

FOB Al-Jubail, FOB Mesaieed, FOB Shanghai, FOB Barcelona, CIF Hamburg (Spain), CIF Kolkata Sea (Saudi Arabia), CIF Mundra (Qatar), Ex-Mumbai, Ex-Chennai, Ex-West India, Ex-South India

Synonym

Linear Alkyl Benzene,

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

Min 100 MT

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.

Characteristics  Specification 
Density @ 15 DEG.C  0.855-0.870 
Bromine Index   25 Max 
Saybolt Colour   +30 Min 
Doctor Test   Negative 
<C10   1 Max 
C10   30 Max 
C11   30-45 
C12   20-35 
C13   20 Max 
C14& above   1 Max 
Completion of Sulphonation%   98.5% Min 
2-Phenyl Alkane (WT%)   10-20 

Applications

Linear Alkyl Benzene used a surfactant intermediate for detergents, industry cleaners, Linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid and personal care products. 

Linear Alkyl Benzene (lab) Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for linear alkyl benzene (lab). PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

The price of LAB is mainly driven by crude oil prices, since it’s made from petroleum. The costs of key raw materials like benzene and paraffin also play a big role. Other factors include supply and demand, economic conditions, and regulations that can impact production or trade.

Bulk buying helps lower LAB costs because suppliers often offer discounts on large orders. Bigger purchases also give procurement teams more power to negotiate better deals and lock in fixed prices, protecting against future price increases. Plus, bulk buying can reduce shipping costs, adding to the savings.

LAB prices are rising due to increased demand in the detergent industry and changes in raw material costs like benzene. To plan ahead, companies should track market trends, monitor raw material prices, and consider signing long-term contracts to lock in stable prices and avoid sudden hikes.

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