HS Code:
The 'Containing C11 or lower alcohols only' category (likely under HS Code 2905, which covers acyclic alcohols and their derivatives) includes alcohols with carbon chains of 11 or fewer carbon atoms, such as methanol, ethanol, and propanol. These chemicals are widely used in industrial applications, including as solvents, fuels, and raw materials for producing other chemicals, as well as in beverages (ethanol). This category is critical to industries like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and energy, with global trade driven by demand for industrial solvents and biofuel production.
Total Trade Volume
USD 15.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 3.1 billion
20.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.5 billion
16.4% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.8 billion
11.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.5 billion
9.9% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.2 billion
7.9% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA or within WTO member states with specific commitments)
Rising demand for bioethanol as a renewable fuel
Increased exports from countries like Brazil and the US due to global push for sustainable energy solutions
2021-2022
Shift towards green methanol production
Growing investments in sustainable production methods are reshaping trade, with Europe leading in imports of green methanol
2022
Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions
Price volatility and trade rerouting, especially for methanol from Middle Eastern exporters
2022
The European Union introduced new regulations requiring lower carbon footprints for imported alcohols, affecting methanol and ethanol trade.
March 2023
Exporters from non-compliant regions may face higher tariffs or restricted access, pushing for greener production technologies.
A bilateral agreement was signed to reduce tariffs on ethanol trade between the US and Brazil, boosting export volumes.
September 2022
Strengthened trade flows between the two largest ethanol producers, potentially lowering prices in importing countries.
Saudi Arabia announced the completion of a new methanol production facility, increasing its export capacity by 15%.
January 2023
Likely to intensify competition in the Asian and European markets, potentially reducing prices for methanol.