HS Code:
Amfepramone (INN), methadone (INN), and normethadone (INN), along with their salts, fall under the category of controlled substances primarily used in medical contexts. Amfepramone is an appetite suppressant, while methadone and normethadone are synthetic opioids used in pain management and opioid dependency treatment. Due to their potential for abuse, these substances are subject to strict regulatory controls under international agreements like the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. Trade in these products is limited to licensed entities, often for pharmaceutical or research purposes, and is closely monitored to prevent diversion to illicit markets.
Total Trade Volume
USD 120 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) Reports
USD 45 million
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 25 million
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 15 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 10 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 8 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries for non-medical imports)
Lowest Rate
0% (under preferential trade agreements for medical use)
Increasing demand for methadone in opioid substitution therapy
Higher trade volumes in regions with rising opioid addiction rates, particularly North America and Europe
2021-2022
Stricter regulations on amfepramone due to abuse potential
Reduced trade in non-essential markets, with focus shifting to controlled medical applications
2020-2022
Growth in generic production in India and China
Lower costs and increased accessibility for developing countries, though quality control remains a concern
2019-2022
The International Narcotics Control Board issued updated guidelines tightening the reporting requirements for methadone and related substances to curb illicit trade.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters but enhanced global monitoring of trade flows
The U.S. government expanded access to methadone treatment programs under new public health initiatives to combat the opioid crisis.
January 2023
Boost in import demand for methadone, particularly from European and Indian suppliers
The European Union imposed stricter controls on amfepramone due to concerns over cardiovascular risks and abuse potential.
October 2022
Significant decline in trade volume within and to the EU market for non-essential uses