In the first week of May 2023, the price of Alkyl Ether sulfates (AES) experienced a decline of approximately 5% in the Indian market due to stable demEther and from the downstream surfactant industry. The decrease in prices can be attributed to the ease of availability of AES in the country during this period, as there was a high product supply in the region in anticipation of robust demand.

Earlier traders had anticipated increased demand for AES during this period considering that summer brings higher temperatures and heightened outdoor activities, leading to more sweating, dirt, and grime. The greater need for cleaning agents was the major reason behind traders' anticipation.

Another factor impacting the price of AES in the Indian market was the fluctuating price of the product in China, as India imports most of the product from China.

Furthermore, the sluggish demand faced by feedstock fatty alcohol producers during this week also affected the price of AES. The global economic downturn and weak macroeconomic environment contributed to decreased demand for feedstock fatty alcohols. As feedstock demand slowed, suppliers found an excess inventory of raw materials or intermediate products. To manage their inventory and avoid storage costs, they opted to lower the prices of these inputs. Consequently, the reduction in production costs led to a decrease in the price of AES in the Indian market.

AES is widely utilized as a versatile ingredient in various industries due to its exceptional surfactant properties and ability to enhance other chemicals' effectiveness.

Looking ahead, according to ChemAnalyst, there is a possibility of an increase in the price of AES in the second half of May 2023 as the combination of increased cleaning needs, personal care requirements, laundry demands, industrial activities, and agricultural applications during the summer season is expected to contribute to a higher demand for surfactants, including AES, in India.