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Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) is a capable and strong material that has the characteristics of high flexibility, temperature resistance, and biocompatibility that make it useful in numerous applications.
LSR is heavily implemented in healthcare, automotive, and electronics production. This polymer is also a major part of the manufacturing of household and consumer products. The objective of this article is to present the current situation of Pakistan’s silicone rubber prices. Thus, knowing key factors affecting LSR price, its dynamics, and the present market situation, a buyer will not only be able to make wise choices in terms of buying liquid silicone rubber but also be able to act adequately in response to the changes.
Factors Affecting LSR Prices in Pakistan
The combination of several factors is responsible for the final price of LSR in Pakistan. These factors come from the local or international market conditions.
Global Market Trends: Pricing of LSRs in Pakistan is subject to influences by the global market forces. As seen across different industries, the demand for LSR across the global market is constantly on the rise. Sudden shifts in global supply chains and production capacities, as well as shifts in international trade policies, can affect prices in local markets.
Raw Material Costs: LSR is made from silicon, which is obtained from sand and some chemical additives. The costs of raw materials, especially silicon, are subject to fluctuations that are influenced by market forces and the availability of the raw material. These resources are thus a direct determinant of LSR prices, depending on the global availability and trade conditions.
Exchange Rates: A major portion of LSR in Pakistan is imported from China, Germany, and the United States; hence, exchange rate trends have a significant influence on LSR prices. The fluctuating exchange rate of the Pakistani rupee against major international currencies has a direct impact on the LSR prices since the material’s cost rises as the rupee weakens against the dollar, yen, euro, and any other currency that might be used in the purchasing of the LSR.
Domestic Demand and Supply: Demand and supply forces at the local level also have a significant impact on the price of liquid silicone rubber in Pakistan. An increase in the demand from certain industries, say the healthcare sector or automobile industry, may increase the prices where supply cannot match up to the demand. Inversely, low demand or excess supply can lead to a lowering effect on prices.
Price Trends in Pakistan
The liquid silicone rubber price in Pakistan has been through several changes recently. This is because of changes in the supply chain, availability of raw materials, and changes in exchange rates. Let’s look at these factors in depth.
Historical Price Fluctuations
Over the last five years, the cost of LSR in Pakistan experienced small fluctuations and larger hikes in the range of 0.5 to 10%. Due to radical changes in the supply chain that began in 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the prices for LSR have increased. However, as global production and supply chain bounced back in 2021 and 2022, we saw prices normalize again. LSR price was at an average price of between PKR 1,800 and PKR 2,500 per kg throughout this period.
Current Market Conditions
Liquid silicone rubber prices in Pakistan have remained somewhat stable in 2024, but they are still sensitive to global conditions. The average cost of general-use LSR is PKR 2,200 per kg, while that of medical-grade LSR starts at PKR 3,500 per kg. Other influences, like an increase in power usage and import duty charges, have exerted pressure on the prices. But these increases have been partly offset by improvements in local manufacturing practices.
Price Comparisons with Neighboring Countries
In the same way, as compared to the countries in the region, such as India and China, the prices of LSR in Pakistan are comparatively higher. In India, LSR prices currently range between PKR 1,600 and PKR 2,000 per kg, whereas in China, because of huge production and relatively lower cost, it can cost as low as PKR 1,500 per kg. The imported price of the LSR is high in Pakistan due to the existence of import tariffs, currency exchange rates, and lower local production.
Price Analysis by Type
About price, it is important to understand that the cost of liquid silicone rubber differs according to the grade of the material as well as its usage. Here is a list of liquid silicone rubber types and their general prices.
- Food-Grade LSR: The food-grade LSR is applied in molds, kitchenware, and packaging that is in direct contact with foods. The average cost of food-grade LSR in Pakistan stands between PKR 2,000 and PKR 2,800 per kilogram. The price difference is caused by compliance with high safety and regulatory standards of food contact materials.
- Medical-Grade LSR: Medical-grade silicone rubber is used to manufacture medical instruments and mechanical implants because of its biocompatibility. This grade is the most costly, with the prices ranging between PKR 3,000 and PKR 3,500 per kg. This is because of the many tests and certifications that will be needed to qualify as a ‘medical’ grade LSR.
- General-Purpose LSR: Automotive, electronics, and consumer goods industries employ general-purpose LSR. That is the lowest grade that can be bought at between PKR 1,800 and PKR 2,200 per kg. This grade provides a wide range in several applications that are not sensitive and can easily be found in the market.
Important Tips for the Buyers
If you are looking to buy liquid silicone rubber in Pakistan, here are some guidelines for acquiring the best product in the market without compromising on quality:
- Negotiate Better Prices: Customers can usually negotiate for better LSR prices if they order in bulk. This order practice is usually cheaper, and you can get even more discounts if you buy from established suppliers. Another parameter is the exchange rates, since it may be economically beneficial to buy goods when the rupee is strong.
- Quality Considerations: Make sure that the LSR that you buy fulfills the necessary certification and quality features for your intended use. For medical or food-grade LSR, it is necessary to look for permits and approvals such as FDA or ISO.
- Sourcing Reliable Suppliers: It is important to get your LSR from reliable suppliers able to deliver consistently and timely. In general, while purchasing products from outsourcing suppliers, individuals and organizations should take their time to analyze the credibility of the suppliers and their products. Look at customer feedback and ask for product samples to avoid getting the wrong product.
Insilicone: Market Leader for LSR Products
If you want to find the highest quality LSR products on the market, look no further than Insilicone. These reliable and impressive products are only a click away, making liquid silicone purchases easier than ever. You can access the best liquid silicone rubber product anytime and from anywhere. Whether you are a concerned parent looking for the safest products for their baby or someone who just wants a little protection for their new phone, Insilicone has got you covered.
This supplier offers its products in multiple sizes, colors, and designs, so you can always find the right one for you. So if you want to end your search for the most reliable LSR supplier, visit Insilicone today.
Conclusion
Liquid Silicone Rubber is important in a wide range of industries in Pakistan. Its volatile prices are due to fluctuations in the cost of raw materials, exchange rates, and prevalent market conditions. Liquid silicone rubber prices in this country have experienced major changes in the past few years but they have finally stabilised. Although there is a possibility of an increase due to elevated energy and import costs.
Buyers can minimize costs with bulk purchases, emphasizing quality, and sourcing from credible suppliers. Overall, the LSR price movement within Pakistan will be influenced by commodity prices within the global economy, local manufacturing development, and changes in manufacturing demand. For the best outcome, stay updated with market conditions to make the best choices.
