HS Code:
Dichlorotrifluoroethanes, commonly known as HCFC-123, fall under the category of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) with the HS Code 2903.77. HCFC-123 is primarily used as a refrigerant in industrial and commercial cooling systems, as a fire extinguishing agent, and as a solvent. Due to its ozone-depleting potential, its production and use are heavily regulated under the Montreal Protocol, leading to a global phase-down in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives like HFCs and natural refrigerants.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$15 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$12 million USD
24% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$8 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$3 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries under environmental protection clauses)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for countries in compliance with Montreal Protocol phase-out schedules)
Global phase-down of HCFCs
Significant reduction in production and trade as countries transition to HFC alternatives and natural refrigerants under international agreements.
2020-2023
Increased demand for recycling and reclamation
Growing market for reclaimed HCFC-123 in regions with slower phase-out schedules, driven by cost savings and regulatory allowances for recycled materials.
2021-2023
Shift to low-GWP alternatives
Declining demand for HCFC-123 as industries adopt refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP) to meet climate goals.
2019-2023
The European Union has introduced stricter import controls on HCFC-123, limiting trade to only reclaimed or recycled materials for specific industrial uses.
January 2023
Reduction in EU imports, pushing suppliers to focus on alternative markets or transition to HFC production.
Several developing countries achieved their 2022 reduction targets for HCFC consumption under the Montreal Protocol, leading to decreased global production.
December 2022
Further contraction of the HCFC-123 market, with trade shifting toward recycling and stockpiling in compliant nations.
The US Environmental Protection Agency announced plans to accelerate the phase-out of HCFCs, including HCFC-123, aligning with global climate objectives.
October 2022
Significant drop in US exports and imports of HCFC-123, encouraging investment in alternative refrigerants.