Market Conditions Price Update

Staying Informed on Global Supply Trend

1st February 2026

At Livingstone International, we prioritise providing you with reliable products at the best possible value. To maintain this commitment, we closely monitor global markets to navigate the current complexities in the supply chain.

The first half of 2026 has seen significant shifts in the cost of essential materials like Polypropylene (PP), Nitrile (NBR), Polyethylene (PE) and Aluminium. These changes are driven by the crisis in the Middle East that impacts how goods are made and delivered to Australia.

Current Market Drivers

• Raw Material Fluctuations: The cost to produce plastics and rubber has risen sharply since early February. Essential materials like Polypropylene and Nitrile are closely linked to global energy prices, which have climbed due to international tensions.

• Global Shipping Challenges: Changes in major international shipping routes have led to longer travel times. Most shipments are now being diverted, adding approximately 21 days to transit times. This has resulted in higher freight costs and additional security surcharges for all goods arriving in Australia.

• Rising Energy Costs: Operating and transport costs within Australia are also affected by a nearly 10% increase in energy import prices this year. This impact is felt across the entire process, from manufacturing to final delivery.

Updates on Shipping and Logistics Costs

Australia Post and Star Track

In addition to the rising costs of raw materials, we are seeing significant increases in the domestic and international transport sector. These adjustments are necessary to account for the rising cost of fuel required to deliver your orders across Australia.

Upcoming Fuel Surcharge Adjustments From 1 June 2026, our primary logistics partners, Australia Post and StarTrack, will be implementing a significant increase to their Fuel Surcharges:

Domestic and International Shipping Surcharge Adjustments

These surcharges are applied by carriers to reflect the actual cost of fuel at the time of transit. Recent historical data shows a sustained rise in fuel prices, which directly impacts the operational costs of local delivery networks.

Our Continued Commitment

While these global trends are outside of our direct control, we are working hard to:

1. Secure Inventory: We are managing our stock levels proactively to minimise the impact of shipping delays on your business.

2. Provide Data-Backed Pricing: Our price adjustments are strictly based on the actual rise in material transport costs.

3. Ensure Transparency: We will update this page regularly to keep you informed as the global market stabilises. 

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and trust in Livingstone International.

Livingstone International Management Team