Chemicals News Today

Curcumin prices surged 8–9% this week on supply disruptions from heavy monsoons and firm demand from pharma and nutraceuticals. Regulatory shifts, including the U.S. crackdown on artificial dyes, are driving global adoption of Curcumin E100. With tight feedstock availability and bullish fundamentals, buyers are advised to secure inventories early.

HPM Chemicals & Fertilizers Ltd.'s license suspended after farmers in three MP districts report crop damage due to substandard herbicide *Chlorimuron Ethyl 25% WP*. Nationwide inspections ordered.

Turkmenistan showcased various petrochemical products like bentonite powder, liquefied petroleum gas, paraffin slack, and polypropylene at its Commodity Exchange.

India's cement industry leads globally in energy optimization and blended cement (75%), exceeding European benchmarks. However, reducing emissions from limestone burning remains a challenge, requiring government-industry collaboration for carbon capture.

Domestic polypropylene (PP) prices decreased by Rs. 1500/MT starting August 21, 2025. Price protection on non-contractual sales is valid until August 31, 2025, or the next revision.

Granules India saw a 14% year-over-year decline in API sector revenue during the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, ending June 30, while the pharmaceutical formulation intermediates division experienced growth.

Japan is investigating allegations of BPA dumping from South Korea and Taiwan. Mitsubishi Chemical and Mitsui Chemicals have requested antidumping duties.

South Korea's petrochemical industry will cut ethylene capacity by 2.7-3.7 MMt/y to address overcapacity. The government will provide financial and other support after companies submit restructuring plans.

Indian met coke prices held steady due to tight supply and firm coal costs, despite weak steel margins. BF-grade met coke was at INR 29,000/t ex-Jajpur and INR 30,000/t ex-Gandhidham.

Paraxylene (PX) prices are increasing in Europe as of August 22, 2025.