A perspective on the Indian and Chinese Colourants Market - Dyes and Pigments

An interesting perspective on the Indian and Chinese colourants market.

Kemira's Pigment Business to remain and NOT be integrated into Pulp & Paper

After an analysis, Kemira has announced that its Pigment Business will remain with Kemira and will continue to be run as part of the Speciality Business along with the ChemSolutions and Chemidet businesses. The option to integrate the Pigment Business into Pulp & Paper will not be pursued. Kemira will now concentrate on improving the profitability and cash flow of the business.

Ciba announce paper chemical price increases

Ciba announced it will initiate price increases for its paper chemicals ranging from 5-20%. The ranges affected are Pergasol dyes, Irgalite pigments, Tinopal optical brightening agents (fluorescent whiteneing agents). The target is to increase prices on 1st August, 2007 or as contracts allow. The price increases are justified on the, '...... significant cost increases in select raw materials coupled with recent changes in duties associated with Chinese exports.'

Again, it will be interesting to see whether the posturing feeds through to actual price increases in the face of significant competition from dollar-based or lower-cost suppliers; particularly those producing OBAs and dyes.