The price of hydroxyethyl cellulose is influenced by several factors, including raw material costs, production processes, environmental regulations, and market demand. The base material for HEC, cellulose, is sourced primarily from wood pulp, cotton, and other plant fibers. Fluctuations in the availability and prices of these raw materials can significantly impact the overall cost of HEC production. For instance, when there is a surge in global demand for paper products, the price of wood pulp may rise, leading to higher production costs for HEC.