HS Code:
Isoxaflutole, chemically known as (5-Cyclopropyl-1,2-oxazol-4-yl)(α,α,α-trifluoro-2-mesyl-p-tolyl)methanone (CAS No. 141112-29-0), is a selective herbicide used primarily in agriculture for the control of broadleaf weeds and grasses in crops such as maize and sugarcane. Classified under HS Code 2934.99.15, it falls within the category of other heterocyclic compounds. It acts by inhibiting the enzyme 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD), disrupting carotenoid biosynthesis in targeted weeds, and is valued for its effectiveness and relatively low application rates. The global trade of Isoxaflutole is driven by demand in major agricultural markets, with production concentrated in a few key countries due to the specialized nature of its synthesis and regulatory approvals required for its use.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $250 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
Estimated data based on industry reports, UN Comtrade, and ITC Trade Map
$90 million USD
36% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$60 million USD
24% 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
Increasing
$20 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries with protective agricultural policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-US or within Mercosur)
Increasing demand for sustainable herbicides
Growing preference for low-dose, high-efficacy herbicides like Isoxaflutole due to environmental concerns, driving market growth in regions with large-scale maize cultivation.
2021-2023
Regulatory tightening in the EU
Stricter EU regulations on pesticide residues and environmental impact have led to reduced usage approvals, affecting export volumes to European markets.
2020-2022
Rise of generic formulations
Patent expiration in key markets has led to increased production of generic Isoxaflutole, reducing prices and boosting trade volumes in price-sensitive regions like Latin America and Asia.
2019-2023
The European Union conducted a reassessment of Isoxaflutole's environmental impact, leading to conditional approvals with stricter usage guidelines in member states.
March 2023
This has reduced export potential to the EU market but encouraged manufacturers to focus on alternative markets like South America and Asia.
A major agrochemical company opened a new production facility for Isoxaflutole in China, aiming to cater to the growing demand in Asia-Pacific regions.
September 2022
This development is expected to lower production costs and increase trade volumes in the region, intensifying competition with European producers.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved Isoxaflutole for use on additional crops, including specific varieties of soybeans, expanding its market potential.
June 2021
This has led to a surge in domestic demand and stabilized US trade volumes, with potential for increased exports to neighboring countries.