HS Code:
2-Ethoxyethyl acetate, also known as Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate (HS Code: 2915.39), is a colorless liquid with a mild odor, commonly used as a solvent in coatings, paints, varnishes, and industrial cleaning products. It is valued for its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances and its slow evaporation rate, making it ideal for applications requiring uniform film formation. This chemical is part of the broader category of esters of acetic acid and is often used in industries such as automotive, construction, and electronics. Due to its chemical properties, it is subject to strict regulations in many countries regarding handling, transportation, and environmental impact.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $250 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$70 million USD
28% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$50 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$40 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$30 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$20 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Shift towards eco-friendly solvents
Increasing demand for bio-based or less toxic alternatives to 2-Ethoxyethyl acetate, potentially reducing market share in regions with strict environmental regulations like the EU.
2021-2023
Growth in automotive and construction sectors
Rising demand for high-performance coatings and paints in emerging economies like India and Brazil, driving trade volume for this chemical.
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions
Pandemic-related disruptions and geopolitical tensions have led to temporary shortages and price volatility, affecting consistent supply in key markets.
2020-2021
The European Union updated its REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations, imposing stricter limits on the use of 2-Ethoxyethyl acetate due to potential health and environmental risks.
June 2023
Reduced imports into the EU market and increased compliance costs for exporters.
As part of ongoing trade negotiations, tariffs on certain chemical products, including 2-Ethoxyethyl acetate, were reduced, facilitating smoother trade between the two largest economies.
January 2023
Boosted export volumes from China to the US, contributing to a rise in overall trade.
Major chemical manufacturers in South Korea and China announced expansions in production facilities to meet growing regional demand for solvents like 2-Ethoxyethyl acetate.
March 2022
Expected to stabilize prices and increase export potential from Asia in the coming years.