HS Code:
4,4'-Isopropylidenediphenol, commonly known as Bisphenol A (BPA), and its salts (HS Code: 290723) are organic compounds primarily used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. These materials are widely utilized in manufacturing consumer goods such as water bottles, food containers, medical devices, and protective coatings for cans. BPA is a key industrial chemical, but its use is controversial due to potential health risks associated with endocrine disruption, leading to regulatory scrutiny and substitution efforts in various markets.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 5.5 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
1.8 million metric tons
32.7% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
0.9 million metric tons
16.4% of global trade of total trade
Stable
0.7 million metric tons
12.7% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
0.5 million metric tons
9.1% of global trade of total trade
Stable
0.4 million metric tons
7.3% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA)
Shift towards BPA-free alternatives
Increased demand for substitute chemicals like Bisphenol S (BPS) and bio-based resins due to health concerns and regulatory pressures
2020-2023
Growth in Asia-Pacific production
China and South Korea have expanded production capacities, driving down global prices and increasing export volumes
2018-2022
Decline in Western markets
Stricter regulations in the EU and North America have reduced domestic production and consumption, shifting trade to Asia
2015-2023
The European Union further restricted the use of BPA in food contact materials, lowering the specific migration limit to 0.05 mg/kg under Regulation (EU) 2023/1442.
July 2023
Reduced exports of BPA-containing products to the EU, pushing manufacturers to adopt alternatives.
Major Chinese chemical companies announced new BPA production facilities, aiming to increase output by 20% to meet domestic and export demand.
March 2023
Strengthened China's position as the leading exporter, potentially leading to oversupply and price reductions.
The US Food and Drug Administration maintained its stance on current BPA exposure levels being safe, despite ongoing public and scientific debate.
January 2023
Stabilized domestic demand in the US but did not reverse the trend towards BPA-free products.