HS Code:
Esters of acetic acid (HS Code: 2915.31 to 2915.39) include a range of organic compounds such as ethyl acetate, vinyl acetate, and butyl acetate, which are widely used as solvents in paints, coatings, adhesives, and in the production of synthetic fibers and plastics. This category is critical in industrial applications due to its chemical properties, including volatility and solvency. The global trade of acetic acid esters is driven by demand in the automotive, construction, and packaging industries, with production often concentrated in regions with strong chemical manufacturing bases.
Total Trade Volume
USD 3.8 billion
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local chemical industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Shift towards bio-based acetic acid esters
Growing environmental concerns and regulations on VOC emissions are pushing manufacturers to develop sustainable alternatives, increasing R&D investments but also raising production costs.
2021-2023
Rising demand in Asia-Pacific
Rapid industrialization and growth in the automotive and construction sectors in countries like India and Vietnam are driving higher consumption of acetic acid esters as solvents and intermediates.
2020-2022
Supply chain disruptions
Global supply chain issues, including raw material shortages and shipping delays post-COVID-19, have led to price volatility and affected trade flows, particularly for smaller importers.
2021-2022
The European Union imposed provisional anti-dumping duties ranging from 8% to 15% on imports of ethyl acetate from China to protect domestic producers from unfairly priced imports.
March 2023
This is expected to reduce Chinese exports to the EU, potentially redirecting trade flows to other regions like Southeast Asia, while increasing costs for EU buyers in the short term.
A leading chemical manufacturer announced the opening of a new facility in Texas to produce bio-based ethyl acetate, aiming to meet growing demand for sustainable solvents in North America.
July 2023
This development could reduce reliance on traditional petrochemical-based esters, influence pricing, and encourage similar investments in green chemistry globally.
The EU-South Korea Free Trade Agreement revisions have eliminated remaining tariffs on acetic acid esters, facilitating smoother trade and increasing South Korean exports to Europe.
January 2023
South Korean exporters gain a competitive edge in the EU market, potentially increasing their global market share while challenging other suppliers.