HS Code:
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) carbonate, also known as diethylhexyl carbonate (CAS No. 14858-73-2), falls under HS subheading 2920.90.51. It is an organic compound classified as an ester of carbonic acid, primarily used as a plasticizer, solvent, or intermediate in the production of various chemical products. This compound is utilized in industries such as cosmetics (as an emollient in skincare products), plastics manufacturing, and specialty chemicals due to its low volatility and good compatibility with other materials. Its trade is niche but significant within the chemical sector, often tied to industrial demand for high-performance materials.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
Estimated based on data from UN Comtrade and industry reports
$15 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$8 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$3 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
8% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Growing demand in cosmetics industry
Increased use as a sustainable and skin-friendly emollient in personal care products is driving export growth, especially in Europe and North America.
2021-2023
Shift towards bio-based plasticizers
Rising environmental concerns are pushing manufacturers to explore bio-based alternatives, slightly reducing demand for traditional diethylhexyl carbonate in some markets.
2022-2023
Industrial expansion in Asia-Pacific
Rapid industrialization in countries like China and South Korea is boosting demand for specialty chemicals, including diethylhexyl carbonate, for plastics and coatings.
2020-2023
The European Union has introduced stricter REACH compliance requirements for carbonate esters, including diethylhexyl carbonate, to ensure environmental and consumer safety.
January 2023
Exporters to the EU must invest in compliance measures, potentially increasing costs but ensuring market access.
A major chemical manufacturer in China announced the opening of a new production plant for specialty carbonates, increasing supply capacity for diethylhexyl carbonate.
March 2022
This development is expected to lower regional prices and boost exports from China to neighboring markets.
The United States granted temporary tariff waivers on certain chemical imports, including products under HS 2920.90.51, to support domestic manufacturing.
July 2022
This has facilitated increased imports from key partners like Germany, benefiting US industries reliant on these chemicals.