HS Code:
Amino acids, classified under HS Code 2922 (Oxygen-function amino-compounds) and related subcategories, are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. They are critical in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverages (as nutritional supplements and flavor enhancers), animal feed, and cosmetics. The global trade of amino acids is driven by demand for health supplements, livestock production, and biotechnological applications. Key amino acids traded include lysine, methionine, glutamic acid, and tryptophan, often produced through fermentation or chemical synthesis.
Total Trade Volume
USD 10.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 3.8 billion
36.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.5 billion
14.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.2 billion
11.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 0.9 billion
8.6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 0.7 billion
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Rising demand for amino acids in animal feed
Increased trade volume due to growth in global livestock production and focus on sustainable feed additives to reduce antibiotic use.
2021-2022
Growing popularity of dietary supplements
Boosted imports of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and other health-related amino acids in North America and Europe.
2020-2022
Shift toward bio-based production methods
Increased investment in fermentation technology, leading to higher exports from countries with advanced biotech capabilities like Japan and South Korea.
2019-2022
The European Union imposed provisional anti-dumping duties on lysine imports from China, citing unfair pricing practices that harmed local producers.
June 2023
Potential shift in trade flows as EU buyers may source lysine from alternative suppliers like the US or South Korea, increasing costs in the short term.
Phase One trade agreement between the US and China includes provisions to reduce tariffs on certain amino acid categories, facilitating smoother trade.
January 2023
Expected to increase Chinese amino acid exports to the US, benefiting feed and supplement industries with lower input costs.
A leading Japanese firm announced a new fermentation process reducing carbon emissions in amino acid production by 30%, gaining traction in eco-conscious markets.
March 2023
Likely to enhance Japan’s export competitiveness in the EU and other regions with strict environmental regulations.