HS Code:
The 'Containing any aromatic or modified aromatic surface-active agent' category, typically classified under HS Code 3402.13, encompasses organic surface-active agents (other than soap) that include aromatic or modified aromatic compounds. These agents are widely used in detergents, emulsifiers, wetting agents, and other industrial applications due to their ability to reduce surface tension between liquids or between a liquid and a solid. This category plays a critical role in industries such as cleaning, cosmetics, textiles, and agriculture, where surface-active properties are essential for product formulation.
Total Trade Volume
USD 5.8 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rising demand for eco-friendly surfactants
Increased investment in bio-based and biodegradable surface-active agents due to environmental concerns and regulatory pressures.
2021-2023
Growth in industrial applications
Higher demand from textiles, agriculture, and personal care sectors, particularly in emerging markets like India and Brazil.
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions
Delays and cost increases due to global shipping bottlenecks and raw material shortages post-COVID-19.
2021-2022
The European Union introduced stricter regulations under REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) for aromatic surface-active agents, requiring detailed safety assessments.
January 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU but also a push towards safer, sustainable products.
Phase One trade agreement between the US and China included provisions to reduce tariffs on chemical products, including surface-active agents, to boost bilateral trade.
March 2022
Facilitated increased exports from China to the US, benefiting Chinese manufacturers.
Major chemical companies like BASF and Dow launched new lines of bio-based aromatic surfactants in response to consumer demand for sustainable products.
September 2022
Shift in market dynamics favoring environmentally friendly products, influencing trade patterns towards countries with advanced R&D capabilities.