The Indian market for Aquaxyl, a patented humectant and moisturizing agent developed by Seppic, is projected to experience a slight price adjustment in the first quarter of 2025. This follows a decline observed in the last quarter of 2024, influenced by multiple economic and industry-specific factors.

Key Takeaways

• Aquaxyl prices in India are projected to see a minor decrease in February 2025 after a decline in late 2024.
• The weakening INR against the USD has raised import expenses, impacting price-sensitive buyers.
• Climate changes and easing retail inflation are shaping Aquaxyl demand in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors.
• Locally manufactured, competitively priced substitutes are pressuring suppliers to adjust Aquaxyl pricing strategies.

Aquaxyl, derived from plant-based sugars such as xylitol and glucose, is widely utilized in the cosmetics and personal care sectors for its superior ability to enhance skin hydration and reinforce the skin barrier. According to ChemAnalyst, the price of Aquaxyl in January 2025 stood at INR 27,556.09 per metric ton, with a slight expected decrease of 0.24% in February 2025.

One of the primary reasons for the weakened demand in late 2024 was the restrictive sales strategy of Aquaxyl, which is primarily distributed by Seppic or its authorized sellers. This limitation on imports contributed to reduced market availability. Additionally, the depreciation of the Indian Rupee against the US Dollar increased import costs, affecting price-sensitive buyers in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. Seasonal variations further influenced the demand for Aquaxyl, as changes in climate affected demand from the Personal Care and Cosmetics industries. While retail inflation in India eased in January 2025, which could potentially boost demand in the coming months, other economic pressures continue to shape market sentiment.

Another factor stabilizing demand for Aquaxyl in India is the increasing presence of domestically manufactured alternatives, which are competitively priced and widely available. The availability of these substitutes has prompted suppliers to reassess their pricing strategies to retain market share. With heightened price sensitivity among buyers, manufacturers have been compelled to adjust their rates to stay competitive in a fluctuating market.

ChemAnalyst suggest that while the short-term outlook indicates a minor price adjustment, long-term trends will be influenced by macroeconomic conditions, import regulations, and consumer preferences. As the Indian personal care and pharmaceutical sectors continue to expand, the demand for effective humectants like Aquaxyl is expected to remain stable, albeit subject to price fluctuations driven by both domestic and global factors.

Market participants will closely monitor currency exchange trends, import policies, and consumer demand shifts in the upcoming months to determine future pricing strategies. Meanwhile, the competitive landscape for Aquaxyl remains dynamic as local alternatives continue to gain traction, posing a challenge to imported specialty ingredients like Aquaxyl.