HS Code:
4,6-Dinitro-o-cresol (DNOC) and its salts fall under the category of organic chemicals, specifically nitro derivatives of phenols. DNOC is primarily used as a pesticide, herbicide, and fungicide in agricultural applications, though its use has been heavily restricted or banned in many countries due to its high toxicity to humans and the environment. Classified under HS Code 2908.99, this product is part of the broader category of halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives of phenols or phenol-alcohols. Global trade in DNOC and its salts is limited due to regulatory constraints, with trade primarily occurring in regions where usage is still permitted or for research purposes.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and ITC Trade Map
$500,000 USD
41.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$300,000 USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200,000 USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$100,000 USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$50,000 USD
4.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries for protective measures)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for research purposes in the EU and US)
Declining global demand due to regulatory bans
Significant reduction in trade volume as alternatives like less toxic pesticides gain market share
2020-2022
Shift to niche markets for research and development
Limited trade sustained by academic and industrial research in controlled environments
2021-2023
Increased production in Asia despite global restrictions
Concentration of supply in countries with less stringent regulations, such as China and India
2019-2022
The European Union has further restricted the import and use of DNOC and its salts under REACH regulations, allowing only specific research exemptions with prior authorization.
March 2023
Expected to further reduce trade volumes in Europe, redirecting limited demand to other regions.
Indian chemical manufacturers have increased production of DNOC for export to markets with fewer restrictions, despite international pressure to phase out the chemical.
July 2022
Likely to sustain India's position as a key exporter, though long-term sustainability is uncertain due to potential global bans.
DNOC remains listed under Annex III of the Rotterdam Convention, requiring prior informed consent for international trade, with discussions on a potential global ban gaining traction.
October 2022
Increased administrative barriers to trade, likely deterring smaller exporters and importers.