HS Code:
6-Chloro-4-N-ethyl-2-N-propan-2-yl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine, commonly known as Atrazine, is a widely used herbicide primarily for controlling broadleaf and grassy weeds in crops such as corn, sugarcane, and sorghum. Classified under HS Code 2933.69.60, it belongs to the category of heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atoms. Atrazine is a systemic herbicide that inhibits photosynthesis in target plants. Due to environmental and health concerns, its usage is heavily regulated or banned in several countries, impacting its global trade patterns.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $500 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$200 million USD
40% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$100 million USD
20% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$75 million USD
15% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$50 million USD
10% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$25 million USD
5% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries with protective agricultural policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or in countries with no domestic production)
Declining demand in Europe
Due to bans and strict regulations on Atrazine use in the EU since 2004, trade volumes to European countries have significantly decreased, redirecting exports to markets in Asia and the Americas.
2022
Rising demand in developing agricultural economies
Countries in Asia and Africa with expanding agricultural sectors are increasing imports of Atrazine to boost crop yields, driving trade growth in these regions.
2022
Shift towards alternative herbicides
Growing environmental awareness and regulatory pressures are pushing markets towards bio-based or less toxic herbicides, potentially reducing long-term demand for Atrazine.
2022
Australia introduced tighter controls on Atrazine usage, limiting application rates and mandating buffer zones near water bodies to prevent contamination.
March 2023
This may reduce import volumes to Australia as farmers seek alternative solutions, affecting exporters targeting this market.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completed a re-evaluation of Atrazine, maintaining its approval for use but imposing stricter guidelines on application to protect aquatic ecosystems.
October 2022
This ensures continued demand in the U.S., the largest market, but may increase compliance costs for manufacturers and exporters.
China, a major producer of Atrazine, has expanded manufacturing capabilities to meet growing global demand, especially in Asia and Africa.
June 2023
This could lead to lower global prices due to increased supply, benefiting importers but creating competitive pressure for other producers.