China significantly expanded its chemical exports to India during March and April 2026, capitalising on supply disruptions in West Asia caused by geopolitical tensions and shipping bottlenecks. As India’s traditional suppliers in the Gulf faced logistical challenges, Chinese exporters quickly stepped in to bridge the supply gap. According to an analysis of Ministry of Commerce data, China added US$225.31 million in incremental exports of organic and inorganic chemicals to India during the two-month period, emerging as the biggest beneficiary of the changing trade dynamics.

Organic Chemical Exports from China Register Strong Growth

China witnessed robust growth in organic chemical exports to India throughout the period. In March 2026, exports increased to US$425.52 million, representing a 12.6% year-on-year rise. The growth accelerated further in April, when shipments surged to US$560.82 million, reflecting a substantial 37.4% increase compared to the same month last year. The sharp rise underscores China’s growing importance as a reliable supplier amid disruptions affecting India’s conventional sourcing markets.

Inorganic Chemical Shipments Also Gain Momentum

China also strengthened its position in India’s inorganic chemicals market. Although exports declined slightly in March to $78.72 million, compared to $85.31 million in the previous year, shipments rebounded strongly in April, reaching $109.79 million. This marked a significant 40.4% year-on-year increase over April 2025. The rebound further highlights China’s ability to respond quickly to shifting market demand.

West Asian Suppliers Witness Sharp Decline

Meanwhile, several key Gulf suppliers experienced a steep decline in chemical exports to India, particularly during April. Saudi Arabia recorded the sharpest fall in organic chemical shipments. Exports plunged 82.8%, dropping to $21.94 million in April 2026 from $127.54 million a year earlier. Overall, Saudi Arabia’s organic chemical exports to India declined by more than $100 million across March and April. Other Gulf nations experienced similar disruptions. The downturn reflects the severe impact of regional geopolitical uncertainty and shipping disruptions on chemical trade flows.

Inorganic Chemical Imports from Gulf Countries Also Weaken

The slowdown extended beyond organic chemicals. Saudi Arabia’s inorganic chemical exports to India declined to $8.73 million in April from $25.49 million a year earlier. Likewise, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) witnessed shipments fall sharply to just $0.95 million, compared with $6.53 million in April 2025. These declines further accelerated India’s shift towards alternative suppliers.

China Expands Market Share in India’s Chemical Imports

As sourcing patterns changed, China significantly strengthened its market position. China’s share of India’s organic chemical imports increased to 41.8% in April 2026, up from 29.4% during the corresponding period last year. Similarly, its share in inorganic chemical imports rose from 15% to 17.4%, reinforcing China’s growing role in India’s chemical supply chain.

Changing Trade Dynamics Redefine India’s Chemical Supply Chain

Despite mixed trends in India’s overall chemical imports, the latest trade data clearly indicates a major shift in sourcing strategies. Supply disruptions in West Asia have prompted Indian buyers to diversify procurement, with China emerging as the primary alternative supplier. As reported by moneycontrol.com, the evolving geopolitical landscape, coupled with supply chain resilience strategies, is expected to play a critical role in shaping India’s chemical import patterns and regional trade relationships.

BASF Chemicals India Private Limited (BCIPL), in collaboration with the Pune Knowledge Cluster (PKC) under the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the government of India, celebrated the successful completion of four impactful years of the WEnyan (Women in Education and Knowledge) programme. Held at the BASF Innovation Campus, the event marked an important milestone for the research scholarship initiative, which supports women from disadvantaged communities in Maharashtra in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Since its inception, WEnyan has provided financial assistance, mentorship, and community engagement opportunities to women scholars, creating an inclusive ecosystem that encourages academic excellence and scientific research.

Forty-three Scholars Honoured for Academic Excellence

As part of the celebrations, BASF and PKC felicitated 43 scholars from two graduating cohorts in recognition of their outstanding academic and research achievements. The event also witnessed the release of the WEnyan Compendium 2025–26, showcasing the programme’s achievements and the inspiring journeys of its scholars.

The celebration was attended by distinguished members of India’s scientific community, including Dr. Ashish Lele, Director, CSIR–National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune, who served as the Guest of Honour, and Dr. Shailaja Donempudi, Distinguished Scientist and Head of the Business Development Group at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

BASF Launches WESER to Strengthen Women’s Research Careers

Building on the success of WEnyan, BASF further reinforced its commitment to gender diversity in science by introducing WESER (Women Empowered for Science and Engineering Research), a postdoctoral fellowship programme launched earlier this year. The initiative aims to support talented women researchers, particularly those from Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), by providing financial assistance, structured mentorship, and access to world-class research opportunities. A key feature of WESER is its collaboration with leading academic and research institutions, enabling fellows to work alongside renowned faculty members at:

Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay)

Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune (IISER Pune)

CSIR–National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune

Through these partnerships, the programme offers exposure to cutting-edge scientific research and industry-oriented innovation. By addressing critical barriers such as funding, mentorship, and institutional access, WESER seeks to reduce the persistent underrepresentation of women in advanced research roles.

Industry-Academia Collaboration Driving Inclusive Innovation

Alexander Gerding, Managing Director, BASF India Limited and Head – BASF Group Companies in India, said, “We are proud to see how the WEnyan programme has evolved into a meaningful platform that empowers women in science and engineering. The achievements of the students over the past four years reflect the strength of collaboration between industry and academia. Initiatives like WEnyan and our newly launched WESER programme reaffirm BASF’s commitment to fostering diversity, innovation, and inclusive growth in India’s scientific ecosystem.”

Dr. Avinash Kumbhar, CEO, Pune Knowledge Cluster (PKC), said, “The WEnyan Scholarship Programme, sponsored by BASF and implemented by the Pune Knowledge Cluster, has evolved into a transformative platform that nurtures talent, fosters mentorship, and empowers women scholars to emerge as confident leaders and innovators. In doing so, it exemplifies the Pune Knowledge Cluster’s vision of building a future-ready, skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and societal progress.”

Scholar Shares Transformative Experience

Pratiksha Santosh Nigade, a WEnyan Scholarship awardee from the 2025–26 batch pursuing her Master’s degree in Kolhapur, said, “The WEnyan Scholarship has been much more than financial support. It has given me confidence, motivation, and access to learning opportunities that are not easily available at my college. Through the programme, I have gained valuable exposure, interacted with experts, and developed both personally and professionally. I am sincerely grateful to BASF and the Pune Knowledge Cluster for creating such a meaningful platform that empowers women scholars and supports their academic and professional growth.”

BASF India to Lead the Next Phase of WEnyan

BASF announced that the WEnyan programme will now be supported by BASF India Limited (BIL), ensuring the initiative continues to expand its reach and impact. With sustained industry support, stronger academic collaborations, and the launch of WESER, BASF is further strengthening its commitment to empowering women in STEM. As per the press release, together, these initiatives are expected to create greater opportunities for aspiring women scientists, promote inclusive innovation, and contribute to building a more diverse and future-ready scientific workforce in India.

Air Liquide Karabatan Tech Gases LLP (ALKTG) has signed a long-term agreement with Silleno LLP to supply nitrogen and compressed dry air to the company’s upcoming world-scale polyethylene plant in Kazakhstan. As part of the agreement, the Air Liquide Group will invest €70 million through ALKTG, reinforcing its long-term commitment to Kazakhstan’s industrial development. The investment will support Silleno’s flagship petrochemical project, which aims to transform the Karabatan basin in Atyrau into a world-class petrochemical manufacturing hub. The latest project marks a significant expansion of Air Liquide’s operations in Central Asia, where the company has maintained a presence since 2016.

State-of-the-Art Nitrogen Production Units Planned

Under the long-term contract, ALKTG will design, build, own, and operate two advanced nitrogen production units that will deliver high-purity nitrogen and compressed dry air to the new polyethylene facility. The units will incorporate energy-efficient technologies and are expected to rank among the largest industrial gas production facilities in Central Asia. Commissioning of the plants and the commencement of gas supply are scheduled to coincide with the startup of Silleno’s polyethylene complex, which is targeted for the end of 2028.

Strengthening Industrial Infrastructure in Karabatan

The new industrial gas facility will be constructed within the National Industrial Petrochemical Technopark (NIPT) Special Economic Zone, adjacent to ALKTG’s existing Air Separation Unit (ASU). The current ASU already supplies nitrogen to Kazakhstan Petrochemical Industries (KPI). By expanding operations within the same industrial cluster, Air Liquide will strengthen operational synergies while enhancing its industrial footprint in the strategically important Karabatan basin. The investment also builds upon ALKTG’s first major project in the region, launched in 2019, further reinforcing the company’s long-term growth strategy in Kazakhstan.

Supporting Kazakhstan’s Petrochemical Growth

The agreement underscores Air Liquide’s continued focus on supporting large-scale industrial projects through reliable and sustainable industrial gas solutions. By supplying critical process gases to Silleno’s polyethylene plant, the company will contribute to the development of Kazakhstan’s downstream petrochemical sector while supporting the country’s ambitions to become a major regional manufacturing hub. The project is also expected to strengthen local industrial infrastructure, promote advanced manufacturing technologies, and create long-term economic value.

Air Liquide Reaffirms Long-Term Commitment

Émilie Mouren-Renouard, Member of Air Liquide’s Executive Committee and Head of Operations for Central Asia, described the project as another important milestone in the company’s long-standing presence in Kazakhstan. She said the agreement further strengthens Air Liquide’s strategic partnership with KazMunayGas, the company’s long-term partner in Kazakhstan and a key stakeholder in the Silleno project. She added that the investment reflects Air Liquide’s strategy of combining technological excellence with meaningful regional industrial development while supporting the continued growth of Kazakhstan’s petrochemical sector.

Driving Sustainable Industrial Development in Central Asia

With this latest investment, Air Liquide is expanding its role in one of Central Asia’s most significant petrochemical developments. As per the press release, the project not only reinforces the company’s leadership in industrial gases but also supports the development of a world-class petrochemical ecosystem through advanced, energy-efficient technologies and long-term strategic partnerships.

thyssenkrupp AG and GlobalLogic Inc., a Hitachi Group Company, announced a strategic alliance to accelerate the adoption of Physical Artificial Intelligence (Physical AI) and autonomous robotics across heavy industries. The collaboration combines thyssenkrupp’s deep industrial expertise with Hitachi’s comprehensive digital innovation ecosystem to drive the next phase of industrial transformation. Together, the partners aim to improve operational efficiency, enhance workplace safety, and support global decarbonisation through AI-powered industrial solutions.

‘Lab-to-Scale’ Model to Fast-Track AI Deployment

At the heart of the partnership is a unique “Lab-to-Scale” innovation model that integrates advanced research from Hitachi America R&D, digital strategy and experience design from Method, and enterprise-grade software engineering from GlobalLogic. This end-to-end innovation pipeline seamlessly connects operational data from industrial sites with AI-driven autonomous control systems. As a result, it enables faster deployment of intelligent automation, eliminates engineering bottlenecks, and improves decision-making across complex industrial operations. The alliance also establishes a scalable framework for deploying next-generation digital technologies across the heavy engineering sector.

Physical AI to Transform Industrial Operations

Moving beyond pilot projects and digital experimentation, the two companies plan to jointly develop a portfolio of Physical AI solutions that convert complex industrial data into measurable business outcomes. The solutions will focus on three strategic priorities enhancing operational safety, enabling servitization through intelligent digital services and accelerating the global energy transition. By enabling machines to analyse, learn, and act autonomously, Physical AI is expected to redefine industrial productivity while reducing operational risks.

Unified Data Layer to Enable Autonomous Robotics

One of the key workstreams of the alliance focuses on building a robust Data Intelligence Layer for autonomous operations. GlobalLogic will deploy its Unified Data Layer (UDL) architecture to integrate operational technology (OT) data from factory floors with enterprise IT systems. This unified semantic data foundation will support real-time AI-driven decision-making and autonomous operations. The platform will also enable the deployment of autonomous Robocams and drones across thyssenkrupp’s manufacturing and hazardous industrial environments.

These intelligent systems will perform high-risk inspections and precision measurements, allowing workers to remain outside dangerous zones while receiving accurate, real-time operational insights. Consequently, the solution is expected to improve workplace safety, increase inspection efficiency, and minimise operational downtime.

AI Platform to Accelerate Decarbonisation Projects

The alliance will also focus on increasing engineering productivity to support global decarbonisation initiatives. To achieve this, the partners plan to deploy an AI-powered intelligence platform capable of automatically capturing and interpreting complex offline and unstructured engineering data. By converting technical documentation into actionable digital intelligence, thyssenkrupp aims to significantly shorten engineering workflows and reduce the Quote-to-Cash cycle for green energy projects. The digital acceleration is expected to remove administrative and engineering bottlenecks, enabling faster execution of large-scale decarbonisation projects.

Leadership Highlights Strategic Importance of the Partnership

Miguel López, CEO of thyssenkrupp AG and thyssenkrupp Decarbon Technologies, said the company is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history. He noted that the partnership with Hitachi and GlobalLogic provides access to world-class digital capabilities that will help thyssenkrupp lead the industrial sector towards a more sustainable and data-driven future. He added that integrating advanced AI technologies will simplify the technical and administrative complexity associated with the energy transition while accelerating project execution.

Srini Shankar, President and CEO of GlobalLogic and CEO of Hitachi Digital Services, said the future of industry will depend on organisations that successfully combine advanced AI, edge computing, intelligent data platforms, and deep industrial expertise. He added that GlobalLogic’s experience in Physical AI, industrial automation, operations intelligence, and servitization complements thyssenkrupp’s leadership in heavy engineering, creating a strong competitive advantage.

Physical AI to Drive Next-Generation Industrial Innovation

Nadja Håkansson, COO of thyssenkrupp Decarbon Technologies and CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde, described Physical AI as the next major step in industrial transformation. She said the technology enables machines to sense, analyse, and act autonomously, unlocking unprecedented levels of efficiency, scalability, and operational safety. According to her, Physical AI is becoming a core pillar of thyssenkrupp’s long-term business strategy and will strengthen its ability to deliver sustainable, high-performance industrial solutions.

Timothy Morey, Head of Method, a GlobalLogic company, emphasised that successful industrial innovation requires combining human-centred design with advanced engineering. He noted that the partnership brings together multidisciplinary expertise to reduce implementation risks while ensuring technology continues to support the people working on the front lines of global industry.

Alliance Sets New Benchmark for AI-Driven Industrial Transformation

As per the press release, by combining industrial engineering expertise with advanced AI, robotics, and intelligent data platforms, thyssenkrupp and GlobalLogic are positioning themselves at the forefront of Industry 4.0. The strategic alliance is expected to accelerate digital transformation, improve industrial safety, streamline engineering processes, and support the global transition towards cleaner and more sustainable manufacturing.

Ongoing Use Despite International Bans  

India’s continued use of the pesticide Carbofuran has reignited concerns over environmental safety and pollinator protection. Although several countries have already banned the chemical due to its high toxicity, it still finds use in parts of India’s agricultural sector. Consequently, questions are rising over regulatory gaps and enforcement challenges in the country.

Pollinator Crisis and Environmental Risks

Carbofuran is widely known for its extreme toxicity to bees and other pollinators. Since pollinators play a crucial role in crop production and biodiversity, experts warn that its continued use may worsen the ongoing pollinator crisis. Moreover, environmental studies link such pesticides to soil and water contamination, which further threatens ecological balance.

Export Pressure and Food Safety Concerns

India’s agricultural exports are also facing scrutiny. As per The Economic Times, global buyers have increasingly rejected shipments due to pesticide residue concerns, including chemicals like Carbofuran. This has added pressure on Indian farmers and policymakers to align with stricter international food safety standards.

Policy Debate and Industry Pushback

However, the debate remains complex. While environmental groups call for a complete phase-out, sections of the agrochemical industry argue that farmers still depend on such pesticides for crop protection and yield stability. As a result, regulatory decisions continue to face delays and resistance.

Way Forward for Sustainable Farming

Ultimately, the issue highlights the need for a balanced approach. Transitioning toward safer alternatives, strengthening regulatory oversight, and promoting sustainable farming practices could help reduce dependence on hazardous chemicals. In addition, improved scientific review mechanisms may ensure both agricultural productivity and environmental protection move forward together.

IMCD has opened a new technical hub in New Jersey, strengthening its support for customers in the pharmaceutical and food & nutrition sectors. The facility will serve as a center for formulation development, application testing, and technical collaboration, helping customers accelerate innovation and bring products to market more efficiently. 

Hub Designed to Foster Collaboration

The new center brings together technical expertise, advanced laboratory capabilities, and customer-focused services under one roof. As a result, customers can work closely with IMCD’s specialists to develop formulations, validate ingredients, and address product development challenges.

As per IMCD’s press release, the hub reflects the company’s continued investment in expanding its technical capabilities and strengthening partnerships across key industries. The facility also supports faster product development by enabling hands-on collaboration and customized application solutions. 

Supporting Growth Across Key Industries

Furthermore, the technical hub is expected to enhance IMCD’s ability to respond to evolving market demands in pharmaceuticals as well as food and nutrition. By combining technical knowledge with local customer support, the company aims to help manufacturers improve product performance, streamline development processes, and accelerate commercialization. 

Strengthening IMCD’s Innovation Network

The New Jersey facility forms part of IMCD’s broader strategy to expand its global innovation network and deliver specialized technical services closer to customers. Through this investment, the company seeks to foster innovation while reinforcing its commitment to providing high-value formulation and application expertise across multiple markets.

Representatives from 10 countries and international organizations recognized Peru as a leading global producer of strategic minerals during the 27th World Mining Congress (WMC). The high-level roundtable focused on the mining sector’s role in supporting the global energy transition and addressing future industry challenges.

Peru’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Waldir Ayasta Mechán, chaired the meeting. Delegates from the European Union and countries across Europe, the Americas, and Asia praised Peru’s strategic importance in the global minerals market. Ayasta highlighted the country’s rich polymetallic resources while acknowledging the need to accelerate digital transformation and simplify administrative processes.

Global Leaders Back Sustainable Mining

As per the press release, the European Union described critical minerals as central to the global agenda and reaffirmed Peru’s role as a reliable supplier for the energy transition. The EU also stressed that strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards will remain essential for sustainable mining.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom highlighted its long-standing partnership with Peru, particularly in copper and zinc production. It also emphasized the importance of renewable energy and an efficient regulatory framework for mineral exploration.

Focus on Cooperation and Community Benefits

The Netherlands called for stronger international cooperation, greater investment in sustainability and digital education, and long-term infrastructure planning to ensure mining projects continue benefiting communities even after operations end.

Similarly, Malaysia urged countries to strengthen resilient mineral supply chains, promote sustainable production, and build trust through international collaboration. Brazil praised Peru’s geological potential and stressed that mining should create tangible benefits for local communities while supporting climate-conscious industrial development.

Commitment to a Sustainable Mining Future

The roundtable concluded with a shared commitment to promote environmentally and socially responsible mining investments. Participants also pledged to strengthen international cooperation, expand value-added industries, improve regulatory stability, and advance education and digital transformation to secure the future of the global mining sector.

Envision Energy India, in collaboration with Juniper Green Energy, has commissioned India’s largest wind turbine, marking a major milestone for the country’s renewable energy sector and strengthening Juniper’s growing wind energy portfolio.

The newly deployed EN182|5MW wind turbine features a 5 MW capacity, a 182-metre rotor diameter, and a 105.56-metre tubular steel tower, making it the largest wind turbine by rotor diameter installed in India. Compared with Envision’s EN156/3.3MW platform, the new turbine increases annual energy output by more than 40%.

Moreover, the platform delivers improved efficiency with a larger swept area, reliable operation at ambient temperatures of up to 50°C, and 98% machine uptime even in high-wind conditions.

Juniper Expands Wind Energy Portfolio

Juniper Green Energy has commissioned 20 MW of wind power capacity across Surendranagar and Rajkot in Gujarat, along with 75.6 MW in Barmer, Rajasthan, as of June 2026. The company also plans to commission an additional 246.4 MW at these locations over the coming months.

As per the press release, this expansion follows the recent addition of 305 MW of renewable energy capacity in Gujarat and the launch of India’s first Firm and Dispatchable Renewable Energy (FDRE) project in Rajasthan, further strengthening Juniper’s diversified clean energy portfolio.

Industry Leaders Highlight the Achievement

RPV Prasad, Managing Director of Envision Energy India, said the commissioning represents a breakthrough for the wind energy sector. He added that the partnership with Juniper Green Energy demonstrates how next-generation technology can significantly improve energy generation, project efficiency, and support India’s clean energy transition.

Ankush Malik, CEO of Juniper Green Energy, said the successful deployment reflects the company’s focus on expanding its wind portfolio through advanced technology and strong execution. He noted that transporting and installing the approximately 89-metre-long blades posed significant logistical and engineering challenges. Nevertheless, the company completed the installation of 51 EN182 turbines across multiple project sites within six months, highlighting the team’s planning and execution capabilities.

Envision Marks a Decade in India

Envision Energy India will complete 10 years of operations in July 2026. Over the past decade, the company has expanded its presence among independent power producers through its smart wind turbine portfolio.

Furthermore, Envision plans to scale its manufacturing capacity to 5 GW per year while increasing localisation from 60% to 80%. These efforts align with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s localisation goals and the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.