May 12, 2026
Rantec Guar Report
In our last report, we shared welcome news regarding limited transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Today, progress toward fully reopening the strait remains slow, as the ceasefire with Iran is reportedly on “life support,” according to President Trump.
Guar manufacturers have adapted quickly to the limited fuel supply situation, as well as the increased costs of transportation fuel and natural gas used in guar production. Overall, we have seen approximately a $200/MT increase in powder prices since early February, with about $60 of that increase tied to split prices on the NCDEX.
Ocean freight rates have stabilized, while inland transportation costs continue to rise due to strong demand and higher fuel prices.
The monsoon is expected to begin in southern India within the next few weeks and gradually move northward, reaching the guar-growing regions in July. We will begin providing regular updates on monsoon progress starting in June.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) system Phase I is now active. This phase allows refund requests for non-liquidated entries. Rantec has completed its request submission and will continue to monitor progress. We expect Phase II, which will address refund requests for liquidated entries, to roll out later this summer.
Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.
Best Regards,
Rick Bilodeau