Geopolitical Conflicts Escalate, Chemical Industry Faces Widespread Price Surge

Recent geopolitical tensions and shifts in the global landscape continue to impact international energy supplies and the production of chemical raw materials. Since January 2026, shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has faced ongoing restrictions, causing significant disruptions to key global energy transport routes. Combined with sustained high volatility in international oil prices, this has placed considerable pressure on the global energy and chemical industries.

Dual Cost Drivers: Raw Materials and Logistics Impact the Entire Industry

Force majeure events have occurred across multiple core chemical production regions, putting strain on global energy and chemical raw material supply chains and further tightening market availability. Multiple factors have driven sustained price increases for key basic chemical raw materials, including ethylene, ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, fatty alcohols, and nonylphenol (NP). At the same time, rising crude oil prices have pushed up global shipping, cross-border transport, and domestic freight costs. Route adjustments and detours for certain international shipping lines have extended lead times and increased overall costs.

As a result, the nonionic surfactant market has recently seen notable price fluctuations. Prices for key products such as Nonylphenol Ethoxylate (NPE), Lauryl Alcohol Ethoxylate (AEO), Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), and Alkyl Polyglucoside (APG) have increased significantly since late January, with some grades posting weekly gains of 5%–8%, and overall market supply remains tight.

Across the chemical industry, the simultaneous rise in raw material and logistics costs has become a common challenge. As a specialty manufacturer of surfactants and intermediates, Polykem is no exception. In line with global and domestic market trends, costs for our main product lines—including Nonylphenol Ethoxylate (NPE), Lauryl Alcohol Ethoxylate (AEO), Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), and Alkyl Polyglucoside (APG) continue to rise, and our product pricing has been adjusted in step with the market.

Prices Continue to Fluctuate Across the Industry—Reach Out for Current Quotes

Given the latest market dynamics, uncertainty in the chemical raw material sector persists, with upstream supply and logistics costs remaining at elevated levels. Further price adjustments are likely in the near term. We recommend that our customers plan their orders based on production schedules and actual procurement needs to ensure smooth and continuous operations. For the latest pricing, inventory updates, or to discuss cooperation details, please contact us.