HS Code:
Antihistamines, including those principally used as anti-nauseants, fall under the HS Code 3004.90 (Medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses). This category includes pharmaceutical products used to treat allergic reactions, motion sickness, and nausea. These drugs work by blocking histamine receptors in the body, thereby alleviating symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and vomiting. The global market for antihistamines is driven by the increasing prevalence of allergies, respiratory conditions, and travel-related sickness, alongside growing demand for over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $5.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Statistics
$1.3 billion USD
25% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$900 million USD
17% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$750 million USD
14% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$600 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$500 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for non-drowsy antihistamines
Increased production and trade of second-generation antihistamines like loratadine and cetirizine, boosting market growth in North America and Europe.
2021-2022
Growth in OTC antihistamine sales
Shift towards self-medication for allergies and nausea has expanded market access, particularly in emerging economies like India and Brazil.
2020-2022
Increased focus on generic drugs
Patent expirations of branded antihistamines have led to a surge in affordable generics, enhancing trade volumes from countries like India.
2019-2022
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) introduced stricter guidelines for the approval of antihistamine products, focusing on safety and efficacy data.
March 2023
May lead to short-term delays in market entry for new products but ensures higher quality standards, benefiting consumer trust.
A new bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on pharmaceutical imports, including antihistamines, between the US and China.
January 2023
Expected to increase trade volume of antihistamines from China to the US by 15% over the next two years.
Indian pharmaceutical companies ramped up production of generic antihistamines, supported by government incentives for exports.
October 2022
Strengthens Indiaโs position as a leading exporter, potentially lowering global prices due to increased supply.