HS Code:
The Fluorine, Chlorine, Bromine, and Iodine category (HS Code: 2801) encompasses essential halogens used in various industrial applications, including chemical manufacturing, water treatment, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Fluorine and chlorine are primarily utilized in the production of fluoropolymers and disinfectants, respectively, while bromine is crucial for flame retardants, and iodine is vital for medical and nutritional applications. Global trade in this category is driven by industrial demand, availability of raw materials, and regional production capacities.
Total Trade Volume
USD 3.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-US trade pacts)
Rising demand for chlorine in water treatment
Increased exports from major producers like China and the US to meet global sanitation needs, particularly in developing regions
2021-2022
Growth in bromine use for flame retardants
Boosted trade volumes in countries with stringent fire safety regulations, such as the EU and US
2020-2022
Shift towards sustainable production methods
Higher production costs but increased market access in eco-conscious regions like Europe
2022
The European Union introduced new environmental regulations targeting fluorine-based compounds due to their potential as greenhouse gases, affecting import and production standards.
March 2023
Likely to reduce fluorine imports into the EU while pushing exporters to adopt greener technologies.
A bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on chlorine and bromine exports between the US and China, aiming to stabilize supply chains for water treatment and industrial chemicals.
January 2023
Expected to increase trade volume between the two countries by 10-15% over the next two years.
India announced subsidies for local iodine production to reduce dependency on imports and support pharmaceutical and nutritional sectors.
July 2022
May decrease import volumes in the short term but could stabilize regional prices.