Weekly FMCG Update: China’s anti-dumping duties, Akzo India review, FY26 revival

China imposes anti-dumping duties
China has slapped anti-dumping duties of up to 74.9% on polyoxymethylene copolymer plastic imports from the US, European Union, Japan, and Taiwan. This engineering plastic, used in the automotive and electronics sectors, is now at the heart of fresh trade tensions. The move follows US tariff hikes and highlights the growing impact of protectionist policies on the global supply chain. Key industry players will be recalibrating sourcing strategies in response to rising costs.

Akzo India review near finish
Akzo Nobel India may announce a new owner by the end of June, with JSW Paints seen as a frontrunner. Meanwhile, the company plans INR 75–80-crore in capital expenditure to enhance tinting tech and capacity. Anti-dumping duties on Chinese titanium dioxide add cost uncertainty, though immediate price hikes are ruled out. Despite flat profits, Akzo is optimistic about a decorative paint rebound and remains focused on premium positioning and sustainable growth initiatives.

Quick commerce’s sprint, not a marathon
Quick commerce channels like BlinkIt and Zepto doubled sales for FMCG companies in FY25, yet still account for just 2-4% of total sales. Companies like HUL and Dabur say premium products make margins attractive, despite added promo costs. The channel is nibbling away at traditional trade in major metros. There’s growth, but its scale is modest, for now.

FMCG distributors demand level playing field
Distributors of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) are gearing up for renewed protests, citing concerns over companies favouring quick commerce platforms at the expense of traditional retail channels. The All India Consumer Products Distributors Federation argues that aggressive discounting and biased practices are undermining general trade, which still accounts for around 80% of FMCG sales. As eCommerce gains ground, particularly in urban areas, tensions between modern and conventional distribution models are intensifying. While a few companies are reconsidering their approach, many remain unresponsive. The sector now faces a pressing dilemma: how to embrace digital growth without sidelining the backbone of its supply chain.

QSRs cook up retail dreams
Homegrown QSR chains like Wow! Momo are expanding into FMCG with ready-to-eat noodles and frozen snacks. With dine-in growth slowing, brands are chasing shelf space in supermarkets and online. It’s a strategy to diversify, deepen brand identity, and dish out new revenue streams. FMCG aisles are getting crowded.

FMCG firms chase premium buys
Players like Dabur, Marico, and Emami are hunting for premium acquisitions to diversify from slowing urban mass consumption. Expect action in wellness, personal care, and digital-first brands as players chase high-growth niches. Rural markets are growing faster than urban ones, but mergers and acquisitions offer a shortcut to new categories and innovation. The trend? Go where the money (and millennials) are. Think face serums and pet snacks — not just soap and salt.

FMCG giants expect FY26 revival
With inflation slowing and monsoons nearing, FMCG companies are optimistic about the financial year. While they took price hikes in Q4 FY25 (averaging 3.5%), a consumption recovery is expected. Commodities like palm oil and coffee remain volatile, but early signs suggest momentum may return. 

Emami profit rises on volumes
Emami reported a 10.5% rise in Q4 FY25 profit to INR 162 crore, driven by strong domestic volume growth and its core brands like Navratna and BoroPlus. Organised trade now contributes nearly 28% to revenues. The company is doubling down on premium offerings, brand extensions, and international markets. With inflation cooling and a favourable macro outlook, Emami’s strategy is clear: innovate, expand, and celebrate 50 years with some solid dividends.

Mars India braces for merger
Mars Wrigley India is experiencing leadership churn ahead of its global merger with Kellanova. With top executives exiting or relocating, local roles remain uncertain. The company also faces slowing sales, adding to the unease. While the global deal aims for efficiency, the local impact is less sweet. It’s still unclear if this is a temporary sugar crash or a longer-term restructuring recipe.