The testing times for laminate industries are not bringing any comfort any time soon, with no relief in rising raw material price trend. Over past two months every ingredient used in producing laminate has witnessed whopping jump in prices, leading to which, an approximate Rs 20 to 55 per sheet increase in decorative laminates were announced by HPL manufacturers. Now the base paper prices have gone up that has impacted decor paper cost by 15 percent.
The Indian laminate manufacturers explained it as highest jump ever noted in one go, in Décor paper prices. This sudden rise has upset the entire cost sheet and viability of Laminate business including both HPL and LPL industry
The unexpected jump has reported because Indian Laminate industry is largely depending of import from China, Europe, Japan and other countries. As per report, the décor base prices have jumped approximately 12 to 15 percent from all overseas countries in last two months
Importers says that the container freight and high dollar prices along with price increased in origin countries are the key factors, which has pushed up the landing cost of all kinds of papers in India. As per new reports, freight cost have witnessed an unexpected jump of around 8 to10 times following container shortage and for now this is the biggest worry for imported raw materials segments.
Décor Paper importers and representatives of overseas décor paper companies are reportedly struggling to serve Indian laminate producers. The agents are unable to meet the supply deadline and finding in tight spot to deliver the commitments. There is reportedly for more than 30 days in many cases, hampering the supply of laminates to customers.
Indian Décor paper printers have also announced the increase in prices because of their print base paper prices have sharply rose in tune to 15 to 20%. India paper giant, ITC has also indicated a price increase. Mr. Arvind Agarwal from Tanish Décor, a leading décor paper print company based in Ahmedabad, says their key raw material i.e. Print base paper imported from China has become costlier by 15 to 20% due to many reasons hence they are compelled to increase the prices. It is noted that due to Chinese New Year holiday for a month from 20th January has also reported to panic buying of décor paper. It is expected that the prices may be normal in March onward.