HS Code:
Alkylphenols (HS Code: 2907.13) are a category of organic compounds derived from phenols with one or more alkyl groups attached. These chemicals are primarily used as intermediates in the production of surfactants, detergents, antioxidants, and other industrial chemicals. They play a critical role in industries such as plastics, lubricants, and personal care products. Nonylphenol and octylphenol are among the most common types within this category, though some alkylphenols, like nonylphenol ethoxylates, face increasing regulatory scrutiny due to environmental and health concerns.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 350 million
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Shift toward eco-friendly alternatives
Demand for traditional alkylphenols like nonylphenol is declining in regions with strict environmental regulations, pushing innovation in biodegradable surfactants.
2021-2023
Growth in industrial applications
Increasing use in lubricants and polymer additives is driving demand in emerging markets like India and Southeast Asia.
2020-2022
Regulatory pressures in developed markets
Stricter regulations in the EU and North America are reducing market access for certain alkylphenols, impacting export volumes from major producers like China.
2019-2023
The European Union has imposed stricter limits on nonylphenol and its ethoxylates in textiles and other consumer goods under REACH regulations.
January 2023
Exporters to the EU must adapt to compliance requirements, potentially increasing production costs or shifting to alternative chemicals.
A new phase of the US-China trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain chemical intermediates, including alkylphenols, to promote bilateral trade.
March 2022
This has boosted exports from China to the US, contributing to China's dominance in the global market.
Major chemical companies in Germany and Japan have announced investments in sustainable alkylphenol alternatives to meet regulatory demands.
September 2022
This could reshape market dynamics by reducing reliance on traditional alkylphenols over the next decade.