HS Code:
The category 'Containing 10 percent or more by weight of nylon 12' typically falls under HS Code 3908.10, which includes polyamides in primary forms, specifically nylon 12. Nylon 12 is a high-performance polymer used in various industries due to its excellent mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and flexibility. It is widely utilized in automotive components, industrial applications, electrical insulation, and consumer goods. This category represents a niche but significant segment of the global plastics and polymers market, driven by demand in advanced manufacturing and specialized applications.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$280 million USD
23.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$180 million USD
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$120 million USD
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$90 million USD
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.8% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand in automotive sector
Increased use of nylon 12 in lightweight vehicle components to improve fuel efficiency drives market growth, especially in Europe and North America.
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable materials
Growing interest in bio-based nylon 12 alternatives due to environmental regulations is creating new market segments, though adoption is slow due to cost.
2022-2023
Supply chain disruptions
Global supply chain challenges, including raw material shortages and shipping delays, have led to price volatility and affected trade volumes.
2020-2022
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring detailed environmental impact assessments for imported nylon 12 products to ensure compliance with sustainability goals.
March 2023
This could increase compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially shifting trade flows to less regulated markets.
Recent negotiations between the US and China included discussions on reducing tariffs for specialty polymers, including nylon 12, to boost bilateral trade.
July 2023
If finalized, this could increase Chinese exports to the US, impacting domestic producers and altering market dynamics.
A major German chemical company announced a breakthrough in producing bio-based nylon 12, which could reduce dependency on fossil-based raw materials.
September 2023
This development may attract environmentally conscious buyers and influence long-term trade patterns, though scalability remains a challenge.