HS Code:
4-Methylpentan-2-one, commonly known as Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK), falls under HS Code 2914.13. It is an organic compound used primarily as a solvent in industries such as paints, coatings, adhesives, and chemical processing. MIBK is valued for its high solvency, low water solubility, and ability to dissolve a wide range of materials. It is also used in the production of rubber chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and as an intermediate in organic synthesis. Global trade in MIBK is influenced by industrial demand, raw material availability, and environmental regulations.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$320 million USD
26.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$280 million USD
23.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$120 million USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$90 million USD
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Growing demand in the automotive and construction sectors
Increased consumption of MIBK in paints and coatings due to urbanization and infrastructure development, particularly in Asia-Pacific
2021-2023
Shift towards bio-based solvents
Rising environmental concerns and stricter regulations are pushing research into sustainable alternatives to MIBK, potentially reducing long-term demand
2022-2023
Fluctuating raw material prices
Volatility in acetone and isobutylene prices (key feedstocks for MIBK) affects production costs and trade margins
2020-2022
The European Union updated REACH regulations, imposing stricter controls on MIBK usage and requiring detailed safety data sheets for imports.
June 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant countries.
Several Chinese manufacturers announced plans to increase MIBK production to meet domestic and export demand, supported by government incentives.
March 2023
Likely to strengthen China's position as a leading exporter, potentially leading to oversupply and price competition.
The US Department of Commerce imposed anti-dumping duties on MIBK imports from certain countries to protect domestic producers.
October 2022
Trade diversion to other markets and potential price increases for US consumers of MIBK.