HS Code:
The Fluorides category, classified under HS Code 2826, encompasses various inorganic compounds of fluorine, including sodium fluoride, aluminum fluoride, and other fluorides used primarily in industrial applications. These compounds are critical in the production of aluminum, glass, ceramics, and as flux in metallurgy. Additionally, fluorides are used in dental products, water treatment, and chemical synthesis. The global trade of fluorides is influenced by industrial demand, raw material availability (such as fluorspar), and environmental regulations concerning fluorine emissions.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 450 million
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 120 million
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand in aluminum production
Increased trade volume due to rising aluminum demand in automotive and aerospace sectors, particularly driving exports from China and Mexico.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable practices
Stricter environmental regulations in Europe and North America are pushing for low-emission fluoride production, affecting trade patterns and favoring suppliers with green technologies.
2020-2022
Fluctuating raw material supply
Limited availability of fluorspar, a key raw material, has led to price volatility, impacting export capabilities of major producers like China.
2019-2022
China implemented stricter export controls on fluorspar to prioritize domestic industrial needs, affecting global fluoride supply chains.
March 2023
Increased prices and supply shortages in markets reliant on Chinese exports, prompting buyers to seek alternative suppliers like Mexico.
The European Union introduced new limits on fluorine emissions in industrial processes, requiring importers to comply with stricter standards.
January 2023
Higher compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant producers.
Under the USMCA framework, the US and Mexico agreed to reduce tariffs on fluoride compounds to boost regional trade.
October 2022
Strengthened North American supply chains, with Mexico emerging as a key supplier to the US market.