HS Code:
Disodium sulfate, classified under HS Code 283311, is an inorganic compound commonly known as sodium sulfate. It is primarily used in the manufacture of detergents, paper, glass, and textiles. It serves as a filler in powdered home laundry detergents and plays a crucial role in the kraft process for paper pulping. The compound is also used in various chemical processes and as a drying agent in organic synthesis. Global trade of disodium sulfate is influenced by industrial demand, raw material availability, and regional production capacities.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 6.5 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
2.1 million metric tons
32.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
1.2 million metric tons
18.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
0.8 million metric tons
12.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
0.6 million metric tons
9.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
0.4 million metric tons
6.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU and NAFTA/USMCA)
Rising demand in detergent manufacturing
Increased production and export from major producers like China and India due to growing demand in emerging markets
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable production
Adoption of greener production methods to comply with environmental regulations, impacting cost structures
2020-2022
Fluctuating raw material prices
Price volatility of sulfur and sodium compounds affecting production costs and trade margins
2022
The European Union introduced provisional anti-dumping duties on imports of disodium sulfate from China to protect domestic producers from unfair pricing practices.
March 2023
Potential reduction in Chinese exports to the EU, redirection of trade flows to other regions
A major Indian chemical manufacturer opened a new disodium sulfate production plant, increasing the country's export capacity by 15%.
June 2022
Strengthening India's position in the global market, especially in Asia-Pacific
Updated provisions under the USMCA agreement have reduced tariffs on disodium sulfate among the US, Canada, and Mexico, facilitating smoother trade.
January 2023
Increased trade volume within North America, benefiting US exporters