Thoothukudi, March 10 (NationPress) The safety match sector in southern Tamil Nadu is encountering new hurdles as the cost of paraffin wax—an essential ingredient in the production of safety matches—has surged dramatically in the last two weeks.

The price of paraffin wax has escalated from approximately Rs 80 per kilogram to around Rs 130 per kilogram, largely due to import delays from Iran, a primary supplier of this material to Indian manufacturers.

Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, is extensively utilized in various industries such as candle crafting, packaging, and match production because of its properties that enable smooth ignition and consistent burning.

Within the safety match sector, it serves both as a coating on wooden matchsticks and as a vital component in wax safety matches, ensuring that the flame travels effectively along the stick.

Manufacturers in the match-producing regions of Thoothukudi and adjoining districts report that the sharp increase in prices has been instigated by supply disruptions related to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

The turmoil has hindered the movement of shipments from Iran, impacting the availability of premium quality paraffin wax that is crucial for many Indian match manufacturers. Iran stands out as a significant global exporter of paraffin wax, delivering various grades of this petroleum-based product to markets throughout Asia and beyond.

The imported wax is typically favored by match producers due to its superior quality and enhanced oil content, which optimizes matchstick performance during ignition and combustion. In light of insufficient imports, some manufacturers have started sourcing paraffin wax locally from Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL).

Nevertheless, industry experts indicate that domestically produced wax has a comparatively lower oil content and does not measure up to the quality of the imported Iranian wax, rendering it less suitable for specific match production types.

The significant rise in paraffin wax prices is beginning to strain the economics of match manufacturing.

Producers estimate that this price surge could elevate production costs by at least ₹10 per carton, which contains 600 matchboxes.

Despite the uptick in input costs, manufacturers struggle to increase selling prices due to fierce competition and market limitations.

Industry analysts caution that if import disruptions from Iran persist and supplies remain constrained, match manufacturers may soon deplete their stock.

A prolonged shortage of paraffin wax could hinder production across match units in southern Tamil Nadu. The safety match industry in this region provides employment to a significant workforce, especially for women working in small and medium enterprises.

A decline in production could, therefore, have grave economic ramifications, potentially jeopardizing the livelihoods of over five lakh women reliant on this industry for their jobs.