HS Code:
Decolorizing earths and fuller's earth (HS Code: 2508.10 for bentonite and similar products, often associated with fuller's earth) are natural clay materials primarily used for their adsorbent properties. These materials are widely utilized in industries such as oil refining, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and wastewater treatment for decolorizing, purifying, and filtering purposes. Fuller's earth, a type of clay rich in montmorillonite, is particularly valued for its ability to absorb impurities and is often used in the production of cat litter, cosmetics, and as a clarifying agent in edible oil processing.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map
$350 million USD
29% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
17% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
$150 million USD
12.5% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$100 million USD
8.3% of global trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU internal trade or USMCA)
Growing demand in edible oil processing
Increased trade volume as fuller's earth is a key decolorizing agent in refining palm and vegetable oils, particularly in Asia-Pacific markets
2021-2023
Rising use in pet care products
Higher exports to North America and Europe due to the popularity of fuller's earth in cat litter production
2020-2022
Shift towards sustainable mining practices
Slight increase in production costs but improved market access in environmentally conscious regions like the EU
2019-2023
India, a major exporter of fuller's earth, has invested in new mining and processing facilities in Rajasthan to meet growing global demand, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
March 2023
Expected to increase India's market share by 5-7% over the next two years, potentially affecting prices due to higher supply.
The European Union has introduced stricter regulations on the importation of clay materials, requiring certification of sustainable mining practices for decolorizing earths.
January 2023
May lead to higher compliance costs for exporters but could favor suppliers with established eco-friendly practices.
A new bilateral agreement has reduced tariffs on industrial minerals, including fuller's earth, between the US and China as part of broader trade negotiations.
September 2022
Likely to boost trade volumes between the two countries, benefiting US exporters and Chinese industrial users.