HS Code:
The category 'Containing other hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) but not containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)' refers to chemical compounds used primarily as refrigerants, foam-blowing agents, and propellants. These substances are part of the broader group of fluorinated gases that have a high global warming potential (GWP) but were introduced as alternatives to ozone-depleting substances like CFCs and HCFCs under the Montreal Protocol. This category falls under HS Code 2903.39, which covers halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons. The trade of HFCs is heavily regulated under international agreements such as the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which aims to phase down HFC usage to mitigate climate change.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Reports
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements and for countries in the EU single market)
Shift to low-GWP alternatives
Demand for HFCs is declining in developed markets due to regulatory pressure and the adoption of alternatives like hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) and natural refrigerants.
2021-2023
Increased production in developing countries
Countries with less stringent regulations are seeing a temporary rise in HFC production and export, though this is expected to decline with phasedown schedules.
2020-2022
Technological innovation in refrigeration
Advancements in cooling technologies are reducing reliance on HFCs, affecting long-term trade volumes in this category.
2022-2023
As of 2023, over 150 countries have ratified the Kigali Amendment, committing to a phasedown of HFCs by up to 85% by 2047. This has led to stricter trade controls and monitoring mechanisms.
October 2023
Reduced global trade volumes for high-GWP HFCs and increased scrutiny on cross-border shipments.
The European Union updated its F-Gas Regulation in 2023, accelerating the phase-out of HFCs and imposing stricter quotas on imports and usage.
April 2023
Significant reduction in HFC imports into the EU, redirecting trade flows to other regions.
The United States implemented the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, targeting an 85% reduction in HFC production and consumption by 2036.
January 2023
Decline in US HFC imports and a push for domestic production of alternatives.