LAB Price Trend 2026 | Global Price Trends, Forecast, Chart, Prices & Index

The LAB Price Trend in the second quarter of 2026 showed a sharp increase across major global markets. Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) prices rose by approximately 51.8% to 68.8% compared with the first quarter, mainly because of higher benzene and kerosene costs, steady demand from detergent manufacturers, and uncertainty in international energy and shipping markets. These factors increased production expenses and made it more expensive for buyers to source LAB from different regions. However, the market started showing signs of correction in June 2026, when prices declined by around 10% to 13% across most major markets.

Linear Alkyl Benzene is an important raw material used in the production of surfactants, which are widely used in household detergents, dishwashing liquids, laundry powders, and other cleaning products. Since these products are part of everyday life, LAB demand is closely connected to the cleaning and personal care industries. At the same time, the cost of producing LAB depends heavily on its feedstocks, particularly benzene and kerosene-based materials. When these raw materials become more expensive, LAB producers generally face higher operating costs.

During Q2 2026, the combination of rising production costs, healthy demand, and geopolitical uncertainty created strong upward pressure on prices. The LAB Price Chart reflected this movement across exporting and importing countries, while the LAB Price Index remained supported by elevated feedstock and transportation costs. The decline in June showed that the market could also respond quickly when raw material costs eased and buyers became more cautious.