TDD Global’s daily carbon black report published on 22 October 2026 describes a steady price index at 9,537.75 and difficulty achieving higher prices. The report concerns negotiations on the previous day, 21 October. The figure is presented here as an index reading, rather than a confirmed quotation for a particular shipment.
Why an index is not a shipment price
When reading industrial carbon black market news, distinguish a market index from a seller’s asking price and an agreed transaction price. Without its methodology and underlying basket, an index cannot establish a firm price for one grade or an export order. Currency, date, delivery basis and product specifications must be clear before a market number is used commercially.
Two carbon black offers are comparable only when grade, quantity, packaging, payment conditions and the cost of delivery to the destination are aligned. A difference in any of these factors can change the result. For black pigment buyers, tinting performance, dispersion requirements and dosage in the formulation can matter more than an apparent difference in price per kilogram.
Turning market news into purchasing information
To track price changes, keep successive enquiries on the same specification and delivery basis. Changing the grade or the delivery terms during a comparison may create the appearance of a market rise or fall. A general market report is a starting point for an enquiry, which should then be checked against an executable offer for the actual order.
This report does not determine the selling price of Iranian micronized carbon black or the delivered cost of black pigment in an export destination. Exchange rates, freight, insurance and other applicable costs need to be calculated for the actual route and contract. A general carbon black index also cannot replace testing a pigment sample in paint, printing ink or masterbatch.
Analysis
The gap between a requested price and an achievable deal matters to purchasing decisions. A stable index neither establishes that every grade is stable nor proves that customers accept increases. A practical response is to obtain comparable offers and check their validity alongside quality. For pigment users, the cost of achieving the required colour and dependable supply remain relevant. This limited report cannot establish future prices or the direction of the Iranian market; those conclusions require fresh data for the same grade and market.
Related reading: Black pigment and micronized carbon black technical guide.
Sources: TDD Global — 22 October 2026.