HS Code:
This product category falls under HS Code 2933.91, which includes a range of benzodiazepines and related compounds such as Alprazolam, Diazepam, Lorazepam, and others, along with their salts. These substances are primarily used as anxiolytics, sedatives, hypnotics, anticonvulsants, and muscle relaxants in medical settings. Due to their psychoactive properties, they are subject to strict regulatory controls globally, classified under various international drug control conventions like the 1971 UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Trade in these products is heavily monitored to prevent misuse and diversion into illicit markets.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Customs Organization Reports
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (imposed by certain developing countries with strict drug import controls)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for humanitarian medical shipments)
Increased demand for generic benzodiazepines
Driven by cost-saving measures in healthcare systems, particularly in developing countries, leading to higher export volumes from countries like India.
2020-2022
Stricter regulations on prescription drugs
Reduced trade volumes in certain markets due to tightened controls to combat opioid and benzodiazepine abuse, notably in North America.
2019-2022
Rise in API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) exports
Countries like India and China are increasingly exporting raw materials for benzodiazepine production, shifting trade patterns towards intermediate goods.
2021-2022
The World Health Organization updated its Essential Medicines List to include specific benzodiazepines like Diazepam and Lorazepam for palliative care, influencing trade priorities for humanitarian shipments.
October 2021
Increased tariff waivers and prioritized imports in low-income countries for medical use.
The European Union introduced stricter import controls on benzodiazepines to curb illicit trade and non-medical use, requiring additional documentation and reporting.
March 2022
Slight reduction in trade volume to EU countries and increased compliance costs for exporters.
India announced incentives for domestic production of generic drugs, including benzodiazepines, under the 'Make in India' initiative to strengthen export capabilities.
January 2022
Significant rise in export volumes from India, positioning it as a global leader in this category.