India’s February import market saw a sharp upswing in CIF values as stronger end use demand, rising feedstock costs, and currency movements combined to lift landed prices. Oilfield services accelerated pre monsoon procurement, while pharmaceutical exporters increased output of brominated intermediates, tightening spot availability. Suppliers raised offers to reflect higher liquid bromine and energy tariffs, with only limited relief from easing container freight as war risk insurance and bunker surcharges continued to elevate logistics costs. A 6% rise in brominated intermediate shipments reinforced buying interest, while a 1.6%-rupee depreciation pushed up dollar denominated import costs. Market participants reported brisk replenishment activity from distributors and formulators, keeping sentiment firm. ChemAnalyst projects continued near term strength for sodium bromide, with gains expected through May before mild mid year softening. Freight risks tied to Middle East tensions and precautionary buying by drilling and water treatment users remain key variables shaping the sodium bromide outlook.
